Photography is defined as the art, practice, or occupation of taking and printing photographs. A photographer is a person who takes photographs, especially as a profession. An amateur photographer is a person who engages in the art, study, and activity as a pastime rather than as a profession. One who does not do it merily for the money and livelihood but rather for the love of photography.
If your reading this article then I assume it is because you, like me, have an honest love for photography. You may not be a professional, or have all of the fancy equipment. You may simply have come to the realization that better understanding the science and fundamentals will help you in your quest to become a better photographer. Or maybe you just bought that expensive new digital camera and now your wondering just how to use all those confusing settings. If your anything like me you know that any free information, tips, and techniques will be benificial for you to grow as a photographer.
If your thinking about making a hobby out of photography. Becoming a professional. Or you just want to simply learn the fundamentals, then please read on.
One of the most famous photographers of all time wrote; There are no rules for good photographers, there are only good photographs. Ansel Adams.
He made a very good point. It is also my opinion that photography is not just a hobby, it is an Art. It's who's behind the camera that matters. Aside from the science, those who fully love and understand what it takes to create a photo worth framing. It's called the "eye of the photographer". I'm sure you have heard the phrase. Another great quote; Photography is not about cameras, gadgets, and gismos. Photography is about photographers. A camera didn't make a great picture any more than a typewriter wrote a great novel. Peter Adams.
Please keep these quotes in mind when you are struggling with all of the sometimes complicated fundamentals of Lighting, Framing, Aperture, Shutter Speed, etc. It is great to eventually familiarize your self with these techniques. There are very informative articles and books you can read to help you better understand these elements. But in the meantime, never forget to just have fun with it. There is a reason why you love photos and never forget it. Also, As the saying goes, "practice makes perfect". You can not just go out and buy the fancy expensive equipment and assume you will create beautiful photos easily. It is not only having the nice camera but more importantly knowing what to do with it.
Photography is an Art. It captures the essence of emotions, memories, and your love for certain things. It takes passion, visions, creativity, imagination, and having a common knowledge of Lighting. Trial and error. Always being aware of what is in your viewfinder before taking a photo. These are just a few key elements to keep in mind when trying to capture a beautiful photograph. You know you have it in you to be great at it. You have to put whatever knowledge you have to good use until everything becomes like second nature.
Having an eye for photography is not something that happens overnight. You must be persistent and patient. Buy books that will teach you the basic fundamentals which will give you a great understanding of how to take Portraits, Close-ups, Macro, etc. Also, try picking a subject and taking numerous photos at different settings. This is one of the awesome advantages of digital cameras. After taking so many pictures you are bound to capture a great shot. Or even study your pictures and learn from your mistakes. Delete the ones you don't like and start over. I learned through trial and error and I know you can too.
