How To… Get Into Photography
Decades ago, taking a photo was a luxury most could not afford. Today, it is a large part of many people’s lifestyle. Learn how to start or upgrade your photography in 2023.
1. Understanding Photography
Photography is drawing with light. To create a good photograph, it is essential to understand the three most important elements of photography known as the exposure triangle:
- Shutter Speed
- Aperture
- ISO
Shutter Speed: The speed at which your camera’s shutter closes to take a single image. The faster the shutter speed, the shorter the exposure. The slower the shutter speed, the longer the exposure. Exposure is the amount of light the camera takes at a time.
Aperture: The opening in the lens of your camera. In simple terms, the larger the opening of the aperture ring, the more light enters the camera, making your images brighter. The smaller of the hole, the less light enters, making your images darker. Aperture is measured in f-stops (also referred to as f-numbers).
ISO: The amount of light that your camera lets in. Lower values such as ISO 100 are best for outdoor shoots. Whereas, higher values such as ISO 800 or higher as used for indoor shoots or night photography. It is important to remember that higher ISO values create Grain/Photographic Noise, therefore it’s preferrable to keep the ISO as low as possible.
2. Investing in Gear
Whether you’re pursuing photography as a career or a hobby, you probably already know that it is expensive. The camera is 10% of the equation, your mind is 90%, you make the photo so you don’t need the most expensive cameras and lenses. However, you do require a camera if you truly are invested in taking up photography. As great as smartphones are, they can’t replicate what a camera can do. Here’s a few DSLRs to Check Out.
3. Understanding Post-Production
Once you have made your photographs, it’s important to know how to edit/retouch them. Your unique Post-Production is essential to your photographic style.
4. Experiment, Explore & Practice
Take an online class. Watch tutorials. Read How To… articles. Pick up your camera and have fun. There are many rules in photography, but when you’re starting out, it’s best to explore as much as you can, then learn the rules and find new ways to bend them to create the image you have envisioned.