5 Biggest challenges facing beginner photographers
Do you know what the five biggest challenges facing new photographers are? I am sure you have already faced them or if you are new, are facing them now.
Being original, finding your voice
Often as a newbie, we are drawn to images of photographers we like. And while it is easy to try and emulate what they have done, it is often easy said than done. They have been at it a lot longer than you and have more experience. But you can still learn from them. Just don’t copy them. Don’t shoot the exact same subject, in the same style, same angle etc. Try to be instead, inspired by their shot. Create something with your own voice.
Working with what you have
I have been here and done this one. If only I had better lights, a better lens, a better camera I could take better photos. NO! Not true. Sure having the gear helps, but you need to learn your craft first. Know the difference between your ISO and your aperture, learn the depth of field, light and shadow etc. You need to practice with what you have. You don’t need to travel far either. Learn to be creative in your own backyard. Take portraits or still life in your own home, find the light that works. You don’t need a fancy studio and all the fancy stuff. You also don’t need to travel far to take great landscapes. Explore your own area.
Not having ALL the gear
You don’t need everything to start out, work with what you have learned WHAT your lenses and camera can do. I’ve bought loads of stuff which ended up being a waste of money as I didn’t really need them, I just WANTED them. Gradually over time, you can figure out what you need. Learn what genres you want to shoot, that helps too.
Don't shoot what everyone else is
Don’t shoot what everyone else is shooting, just because it is trendy or in vogue. Learn to craft your own voice. Shoot what you are passionate about. Shoot what interests you. It doesn’t matter if it’s not popular. If you go to a popular tourist spot, it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement and try to take the same shot as everyone else does. But perhaps, look for different angles or vantage points, tell a little more of the story?
Knowing when and where to shoot
I guess the other problem is knowing when and where to shoot. The where can literally be anywhere, it depends on your genre. When? Well again it depends on your genre, but if you are using natural light (and why not - it’s free!) shoot in the early morning or late afternoon, especially with portraits and landscapes. Sometimes it’s difficult to shoot at the right time of day, so learn to harness different types of light.
The most important thing you can do is practice, practice often. Watch YouTube videos, attend workshops, do online classes. Find someone who you gel with. You like their style, their images, you like the way to work and teach. Learn from different people.
Visit my website for more info on online learning and workshops…
