Late last year I wrote about tips I shared with photography students. The post was pretty popular, so I thought I'd share a few more pointers I've learned along the way.
5. Use diagonal lines
Look for ways to incorporate diagonal lines into your work. Using diagonal, or leading lines, draws the viewer in and creates points of visual interest. Diagonal lines can also be used to create depth, movement, strength, and balance.
6. Practice makes perfect
Mastering any art is a process. It takes time and practice to learn the right skill and find your specific style. Photography is no different. It’s important to get in as much practice as you can.
A trick I’ve found tremendously helpful is to simply go on a walk--and bring your camera along. Take photos of anything that interests you and try using multiple settings on one subject. If you can find a partner or buddy who’s also interested in photography, even better. Use each walk as a learning tool; discuss which angles, settings, light sources you used and why.
5. Use diagonal lines
Look for ways to incorporate diagonal lines into your work. Using diagonal, or leading lines, draws the viewer in and creates points of visual interest. Diagonal lines can also be used to create depth, movement, strength, and balance.
6. Practice makes perfect
Mastering any art is a process. It takes time and practice to learn the right skill and find your specific style. Photography is no different. It’s important to get in as much practice as you can.
A trick I’ve found tremendously helpful is to simply go on a walk--and bring your camera along. Take photos of anything that interests you and try using multiple settings on one subject. If you can find a partner or buddy who’s also interested in photography, even better. Use each walk as a learning tool; discuss which angles, settings, light sources you used and why.
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These are all examples of photos taken on photo walks. I haven't shared them publicly until now.
7. Be inspired by others
It’s easy to compare your photos, style, and technique to more experienced photographers and come away feeling intimidated or sub-par.
Instead of comparing yourself to others, draw inspiration from photographers you admire. Study their photos for composition, lighting, color, and style. Read their blogs. Ask yourself why you like their photos and try to apply those same techniques to your own work.
Below are some photographer's blogs I read regularly.
It’s easy to compare your photos, style, and technique to more experienced photographers and come away feeling intimidated or sub-par.
Instead of comparing yourself to others, draw inspiration from photographers you admire. Study their photos for composition, lighting, color, and style. Read their blogs. Ask yourself why you like their photos and try to apply those same techniques to your own work.
Below are some photographer's blogs I read regularly.
Katie photographed a coworker's wedding and since seeing the photos, I've been hooked. What sets Katie's blog apart from the rest is the fact that she blogs about more than just her work. She lets readers into her life by telling stories, posting about her favorite things, and her relationship with her husband. Of course, I'm partial to the stories about her cat, Lucy.
Eric and Karen are a husband and wife team that Cliff and I have known for years. They live in Aimes, Iowa and their work is heartfelt and beautiful. In addition to family and senior portraits, this duo also specializes in wedding videography.
I came across Natalie's blog after doing some research about maternity photos. She has written a number of articles offering her own tips and tricks, and she does so with a friendly flair and down-to-earth sense of humor. She keeps things simple. Her blog focuses on her photos and the interactions she has with the people she photographs. She also recently delved into philosophy by starting a series on happiness. She asks what is happiness, what is joy, and reflects upon ways to bring these feelings into one's life.
8. Have fun
Regardless of whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, it's important to have fun when you're behind the camera. Take pictures and make art for yourself, not anyone else. When you focus on what you love, the rest -- including success -- will follow.
Regardless of whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, it's important to have fun when you're behind the camera. Take pictures and make art for yourself, not anyone else. When you focus on what you love, the rest -- including success -- will follow.
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