Starting as a new photographer

I remember getting my first digital camera. It was a Nikon D40, and I was excited to learn more about this new technology. Getting started in photography can be both exciting and overwhelming. Below are some steps to help you decide if you want to do it as a hobby or turn it into a career.

1) Define your purpose - why are you pursuing photography? Do you want to tell stories through images or create art through your eyes? Defining your purpose will help you choose the right path—whether it’s portrait photography, macro, landscapes, events, or wildlife.

2) Get the best gear you can afford - you don’t need expensive gear to start. You can start with purchasing used equipment. The basic essentials include a camera, lens, tripod, memory card, and camera bag. While a zoom lens offers flexibility, a prime lens offers higher quality images at the cost of versatility. It’s important to know what you want to accomplish so you don’t waste money on gear you don’t need.

3) Learn the basics - understanding the fundamentals will help you grow. Exposure, composition, and lighting are all core basics you should learn more about.

4) Practice makes perfect - photography is a skill like any other sport or hobby. It takes practice to master. Experiment with different subjects, settings, and techniques. Take on different challenges to help improve consistently.

5) Learn post-processing - editing is a crucial part of photography. I would say it is equally important as capturing images. Editing tools allow you to enhance your images and bring your photos to life.

Photography is a rewarding journey that requires patience, practice, and passion. Focus on building a strong foundation, stay consistent, and enjoy the process of creating art through your lens. Remember, every expert was once a beginner, so embrace your learning curve and let your creativity shine.