Advice & things I have learnt so far

Well the 1 year mark is coming up pretty quick for me...This year has been amazing, I have met so many awesome people and learnt so much, I cant wait to see where this next year takes me!..Throughout this year I have learnt a few things..I have also got emails from beginner photographers asking for advice.. Heres a bit more personal post..And what I have to say...


1.) Have the proper equipment/programs: I myself have learnt this the hard way, You spend so much money on the cheaper stuff but in the end have to end up buying the one you actually need. For example the 50mm. I thought I would settle for the 1.8, Realized later on that it was inexpensive for a reason...And ended up having to get the 1.2. In the end it is a waste of money and that money I spent on the 1.8 could have just been put towards the 1.2, put your money towards stuff you actually need!!!! I have said this so many times, you see way too many “photographers” out there shooting with their one step up from point and shoot cannon rebel..You need a full frame!!! This is your job..Get the right stuff!!!!! Spend the money if you are taking this seriously!


2.) Know your camera: Once again you see so many people out there that have a nice camera but don’t know how to use it! Always, always, always shoot RAW and take that camera off of auto and learn how to use it! This includes features such as focus, and white balance.

3.) Say NO to sessions: When you are first starting out of course all you want to do is shoot, shoot shoot..Thats the best way to learn and i’m totally all for it! But...When you have a family you want to be able to separate work from family. When I first got into photography I was always on the computer touching up photos or out at shoots...I still always catch myself doing it every now and then. Even if your just sitting on the couch doing nothing, ALWAYS make time for your loved ones!
Also if you are not comfortable with doing a shoot or have any doubts about it don't do it! Educate yourself more about it before you just take it on, especially if its something huge, you always want to make your clients happy and if their is any doubt you wont then say NO! (in the nicest way possible of course) Its not a competition with other photographers who can take on the most shoots!


4.) Don’t over edit: Clean cut photos are how you want them. period. When i first got into it I was looking up every photoshop action I could... Now I barley use them. Those actions are for your own photos to make fun! DONT give those to clients!

5.) Don't keep copying others: Sure..You see other photographers and get some ideas what you wanna try and ones ...But try it maybe a different way...Lots of work is similar and certain things you see everyone do..but part of your job is to actually come up with your own ideas and try them out...When you don't know what to do and have to look at other peoples work all the time to get ideas what does that say about yourself as an artist?


6.) Spend money on workshops: Don't assume you know everything, cause you don't. The world of photography is always changing..


7) Ignore rude comments: You always get those people who sit there and judge you on your photos, And yes you look back on some of your photos and ask yourself “what was I thinking” But in all honesty.. Remember that you gotta start somewhere, When that person who is judging you started their job im sure they weren't fantastic at it either. You can only get better at your work, keep your head up high and ignore those nasty comments people make behind your back, or even to your face. NEVER give up what you love doing just because a jerk is putting you down. Those people will eventually get over it and look for another style they actually do like. Don't take it to heart if someone simply doesn't like your style...We are artists.. We are all different and have a different eye! NEVER GIVE UP!