I am definitely new in photography. I joined 365 to help me to think creatively and be inspired by people who share my interest. The pictures I've seen here are all inspiring. I bought a few books about composition, exposure... the basics that I need to know to get started. I've taken some pictures but I feel like I'm not grasping much. Any books, courses or anything that I need to do to move on to the next level? Do I just keep shooting till something clicks? Any feedback will be appreciated.
My best suggestion would be to learn your camera first. Learn what each button does then go from there. Join Forums online There are a few online sites that are free and can teach you a lot of techniques. Another thing would be to follow people. Most of the people on here will tell you how they took their shot, all you have to do is ask, same with flickr. Welcome to 365! And if you have any questions just ask!
Start with the basics first. Get our your camera manual, and read it, try all the buttons so you know what they do. I've had a photo class in college, and have been taking photos for a long time, about 20 years, but I'm not a professional, just a hobbyist. I just like to take photos. Sounds like you have a good set of books to get started. I couldn't tell what camera you are using, but if you have a digital slr it has several different modes, so maybe start taking shots in the auto mode, and practice composing shots and working with lighting. Then as you become more comfortable with your camera move onto trying to use manual settings, as long as you have those. I find the discussion groups here a big help for learning specific techniques on how to accomplish different things so find something you're interested in and go from there. Then when I want more info I google it. The sky's the limit! Most of all have fun, Welcome!
@shortperson2002@lislee75 thank you so much for the input. I am using a nikon d90 and I am proud to say that all the pictures I have posted here were taken using manual mode. I guess it's the how to put everything together to get a compelling picture is the biggest challenge for me. I will definitely follow your advice and ask for tips/guidance from 365 members. Thanks again!
i go to libraries on my free time and read books 'bout photography-im also a hobbyist not a pro.I used YOUTUBE for instructional videos on how to-- and just practise-pracise and practise...Just take it easy =don't stress yourself too much..Have fun and get inspired..!!
I am quite the beginner too and there are a couple things I do... For composition/ subject ideas, I shamelessly copy... I look at what others have done, mimic it, and put my own spin...true for my grater, fire, garlic shots. If there is something I see that I like, I will go look it up and try it. Like effects, coloizing, or collages... like @jodimuli up above had a incredible "boukeh" shot the other day that I had to learn about (still not sure how it's done but I'll get there). I also have Photoshop Elements (cheaper and for casual user) that I play with (" what does this button do?")- many on here get good effects from piknic, another program that may be free. And finally, while many people don't offer how they got a shot, I sometimes ask about processing effects and then watch an eHow or YouTube video on it(not sure if it's a faux pas to ask or not...). Good luck... I look forward to following you.
It's true you have to learn and feel your Camera first. In short you have to love your camera from the very start because your camera will be your partner in life.
Then I started watching in you tube, about my camera and lots of tutorials, Then i started browsing the net with millions of tutorials too i save it and i read it as often as i can so it keep on your mind what is being thaught, then i started viewing lots of photos from amateurs to professionals and get some inspiration and its true that forum helps a lot too, just keep asking and members will definitely help you and lastly I experiment,practice, experiment, and experiment and practice.
@jodimuli thanks! i think that's what happened to me. i am just getting overwhelmed with the project that i totally forgot the reason why i joined. i think i have a better perspective of things after reading all of your postings here. and you're so right...keep practicing!
@marthashields thanks! processing is definitely a stranger to me. i will definitely use the internet to learn more about it. i've asked some of the members for tips regarding their postings and so far, they're more than willing to share.
@paulv thanks for the input! i was able to borrow that book from the library recently and even borrowed other books by bryan peterson. they were very helpful.
@vikdaddy thanks! that is definitely something i need to work on, too. i read from one photography book that you really need to familiarize yourself with your camera and it's setting so that things will just come out naturally when you shoot.
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I came accross that website a small while ago, and it looks good for a beginner.. expains, and sets a challenge at the end of each weekly article.
I've bookmarked it, hoping to go through and do it all. Not got there yet :o|
Then I started watching in you tube, about my camera and lots of tutorials, Then i started browsing the net with millions of tutorials too i save it and i read it as often as i can so it keep on your mind what is being thaught, then i started viewing lots of photos from amateurs to professionals and get some inspiration and its true that forum helps a lot too, just keep asking and members will definitely help you and lastly I experiment,practice, experiment, and experiment and practice.