Photography is a unique form of art in which reality and imagination overlaps. Photographers are like painters; they use the tools around them to create an image that appeals emotionally to the observer. Every one can take photographs, but a true photographer will make them feel real, that looking at the photograph will be a way to experience what’s in it, rather than just seeing it.

Beginners usually find the process of creating a good photograph pretty overwhelming. It doesn’t have to be this way though, as you should take an easier approach to the learning process. Even if you read many resources about photography, you will still have to experience it, as this is the best way to remember what you are learning.

First, you should try to improve the way you compose your photos. That’s because a deliberate composition is the difference between an artistic photograph and a snapshot. Try to look at the things around you , and make them look more interesting in photos. Be creative, use unusual angles and fill your frame. It doesn’t matter if your subject is your baby, or you cup of coffee, everything can look interesting from a certain point of view.

While taking your first photographs, get to know your camera well. Any compact camera is good enough at this stage, as they maybe less complicated than DSLRs. Know your camera’s limitations and embrace them. Take the same photographs with different settings, in order to know their effects. When you are done, you will have better control on your photographs, and you will use your camera more efficiently.

In photography, never let the environment be your enemy. Shooting in sunny days will create very harsh shadows that don’t look pleasant in most photographs, but if you know how to employ these shadows in your composition, your photos will be very interesting. Cloudy days provide open shades which are considered among the best light sources for portraits. You may also consider taking more spontaneous photographs of your  human subjects, in which the focus is on the moment rather than the scene. This is perfect for street photography, but works very well with portraits too.

Always try different subjects and different techniques. You may find it tempting to focus on one branch of photography, but at this early stage, it is better to give yourself a chance to learn new things.

The most annoying problem for new photographers is blurriness, so for a start, avoid bad lighting conditions. This is because most cameras compensate for the bad lighting with longer exposure, which, with your shaky hand, will always yield blurred photos. If better lighting is not available, buy a tripod, or a monopod, or simply put your camera on a steady area.

If your camera allows autofocusing, use it to focus on your subjects, maintain this focus, and maintain the exposure of your photograph. This is especially important for many compact digital cameras owner who don’t have other tools to manually control their settings.

Most importantly, always keep a camera with you, as you may never know when something interesting will show up. This way, you will be able to enrich your photographs and become a better photographer.

 

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