5 Essential Skills Every New Photographer Should Learn

Are you just starting out in photography? Here are 5 essential skills that will set you apart from the crowd and take your photography to the next level. Don't fall into the trap of following the herd; always aim for unique and creative shots. Let's dive into some tips that can help you stand out in the world of photography.

1. Look Beyond the Obvious

Don't take the shot that everybody else takes. When visiting a well-known landmark, like the Eiffel Tower, avoid the temptation to capture just another angle. Instead, think creatively. Perhaps a reflection in a puddle, a unique angle, or a close-up of a intricate design on the statue can make your photo stand out. As famous photographer Ansel Adams once said, “Give your pictures a chance to express what you really felt when you pressed the shutter button.”

2. Quality Equipment Isn't Always Necessary

You don’t need to break the bank to take great photos. Many new photographers tend to overlook the fact that you don’t need the priciest camera to achieve stunning results. For instance, my Nikon D3500, priced around $500, takes excellent quality photos. Link to Nikon D3500*

Of course, investing in some high-quality gear can always help, but don't let a lack of funds be a barrier to starting your photography journey. Focus on learning the basics and honing your craft with whatever equipment you have available.

3. Master Your Camera Settings

Know your equipment well. While it’s tempting to use camera auto modes, it’s essential to learn how to use your camera settings. I’ve personally found that helping others with their Nikon cameras to switch between modes can be challenging. This skill is crucial, especially if you want to capture the perfect shot every time.

For instance, understanding ISO, aperture, and shutter speed is vital for controlling light and creating the desired effect in your photos. Once you master these basic settings, you can start experimenting with advanced techniques.

4. Develop Your Eye for Composition

Composition is key in photography. Understanding how to frame your shots can greatly enhance the impact of your photos. While it’s important to be aware of rules like the rule of thirds, it’s equally crucial to break them when needed to achieve a unique effect. Pay attention to lines, shapes, and textures in your environment and experiment with different angles and perspectives.

5. Learn to Draw (Even If You Don't Think You Can)

Learn to draw! The objects you photograph are three-dimensional, so getting a sense of their form and structure through drawing can greatly enhance your photographic skills. Even if your drawings are not perfect, learning to translate a three-dimensional object into a two-dimensional image will give you a deeper understanding of composition, lines, shadows, and mass.

Moreover, these drawing skills can be incredibly useful in post-processing. With tools like Adobe Lightroom, you can use the adjustment brush and stylus to achieve precise retouching tasks. These skills will make your post-processing work more efficient and help you achieve a polished final product.

By focusing on these essential skills, you can start building a strong foundation in photography. Remember, the key is to practice consistently and be open to experimenting with different techniques. Happy shooting!

*Note: The camera model and link provided are examples and may not reflect the exact model and pricing at the time of reading. This is a hypothetical example provided for illustrative purposes.