Photography is more than pointing and clicking. It's about capturing memories and emotions and sharing perspectives. Starting any new journey can feel like an uphill battle. But learning a few basic skills will provide a rapid boost to your confidence behind the camera. Photographic technology is evolving fast. So, whether you use a DSLR, a mirrorless camera, film, or a smartphone, let's explore some key skills. They will help you start your photography journey.
Get to know Your camera
The first step is getting comfortable with your camera. Today's digital cameras are full of buttons, dials, and settings. It can be intimidating to look at them. Spending a little time getting to know your camera can make a huge difference.
Most cameras have modes that vary from fully automatic to fully manual, including several options in between. Automatic modes are helpful. But, as you gain confidence, use manual modes. They let you take control. Experiment. Take notes on how different settings change your images. Soon, you'll feel less like you're guessing and more like you're creating.
Composition and importance of the viewfinder
Most digital cameras now have a live view mode so the scene can be viewed on the screen. It's often overlooked. But if your camera has a viewfinder, always use it. Immerse yourself in the scene. Consider everything from the frame's edges to the centre. Use the viewfinder to decide what to include and what to eliminate from the scene. The way these elements are arranged in a shot can either grab attention or lose it.
A traditional way to start with composition is the "Rule of Thirds." Imagine dividing your photo into a grid of nine equal parts. Place your subject along the grid lines. You’ll find that a small adjustment in framing can make an ordinary shot look extraordinary. Don’t be afraid to break the rule either. Try framing your subject in ways that draw attention or create a story. Using leading lines, patterns, and negative space can greatly improve your photos. Leading lines are roads or lines that guide your eyes to a focal point.
Don't photograph everything from your eye level. Move around your subject. Bend your knees, lie down, or get up high. Find different perspectives. But most importantly, keep looking through the camera's viewfinder.
Lighting: the essence of photography
Photography is all about light. It is the essence of any photographic process from the start to the end. Natural light, like the warm glow of "golden hour" after sunrise or before sunset, adds depth and richness to photos.
On the other hand, midday sun can create harsh shadows. In harsh light, use it to create abstract images. Or move your subject to the shade for a softer look. Use a tree or an umbrella to diffuse the strong light.
For those low-light or indoor shots, artificial light can come in handy. Photographing in low light offers a range of challenges, but it also provides fertile ground to explore more of a creative expression in long exposure photography. Using the camera to capture imagery that isn’t visible to the human eye. Experimenting with lamps, flashes, or your phone's flashlight can open up new possibilities. You can play with mood and brightness.
Studio lighting gives photographers more creative options. It lets them express their visions with total control. The studio offers a space for the photographer to create and evolve their work, from portraits to still life to artistic pieces.
Photography is all about light. So, whether you are on location or in the studio, learn to understand it. If you can harness it through your lens, you'll be one step closer to becoming a master.
Playing with exposure
Good exposure is about getting that perfect balance of light in your shot. Or is it? Sometimes you may wish to capture an image as you see it in front of you. A technique that many documentary photographers consider the holy grail. They seek "truth" in their images. At times, you may want to overexpose or underexpose an image to show or hide elements in your frame.
You can decide this by using the exposure triangle, a simple guide for creating the type of exposure you wish to achieve. It has three main ingredients: lens light (aperture), exposure time (shutter speed), and film or sensor sensitivity (ISO).
When you’re starting, you don’t have to know all the technical details. Remember that if a photo is too dark for what you wanted to achieve, letting in more light can help, and if it’s too bright, you’ll want to cut back. Adjust these elements little-by-little to see how they work together, and with practice, exposure will start to feel like second nature. And then you’ll be able to play with and manipulate the light coming into your exposure.
Take a photograph. Make a photograph
Since the invention of film negatives, photographers have used the darkroom to better share their vision. From basic darkening (spotting) or lightening (burning) to cropping, enlarging, or heavy retouching, such as eliminating, adding, or colouring elements. These have always been possible in the analogue darkroom. This space has now transitioned into the digital realm through software such as Adobe Lightroom, Capture One, or Affinity.
Adjust brightness, contrast, and sharpness. This will polish your photos and make them more vibrant. Subtlety is the key here. The most impactful edits often go unnoticed, so take your time and experiment with small changes. The more you practice, the more you’ll develop a style that reflects your vision.
Finding and evolving your style
Photography is an ever-expanding medium, with countless styles and subjects. The more we learn, the more we photograph, the more we evolve. Start off by photographing subjects that interest you. Portrait photography captures intimate connections. So, friends and family are great for practice in capturing emotions and expressions.
For a taste of nature, try landscape photography. You'll use natural light and wide-angle views in harsh weather. Street photography is the jazz of photography. It captures the humour, emotion, excitement, and insights of everyday life. Explore the world of studio photography for the ultimate in control of light, achieving your vision of your subject. Or, if you love extreme details, experiment with macro photography of tiny objects for a fresh, unseen perspective.
The more you photograph, the clearer your personal style will become. And it will evolve.
Build a portfolio
Once you have a collection of shots you're proud of, consider putting together a portfolio. This is your chance to show off your favourite work. If you want to attract clients, showcase your unique perspective. Choose images that show your style. Keep them organised to tell a story. Your portfolio doesn't need to be fancy. An online gallery, an Instagram page, or a printed photo book can be perfect.
Sharing your portfolio lets you get feedback. It's a great way to improve.
Learn from your peers
Experience comes in all shapes and sizes. Joining a group of people with a shared interest fosters a common ground for creativity. A photography course or workshop can help you. It will give you structure and hands-on practice. This will build your confidence. A mentor or expert instructor can teach you new techniques and ideas you might not have found on your own. Plus, they’ll help you fine-tune your skills in ways that books or YouTube videos can’t quite match. Seeing the work of others is both inspiring and educational. It shows you what's possible and encourages you to stretch your creativity.
So, what's next?
Photography is about memories, self-expression, and storytelling. As you start or continue your journey, don’t worry too much about technicalities. Focus on experimenting, learning, and enjoying the process. As you practice these basics, you'll capture moments that speak to you. These are your unique views of the world. Understand your camera. Experiment with composition, lighting, and exposure.
If you want to go further, a photography course can help. It offers support from experienced photographers. So, grab your camera, get out there, and remember - every shot is a step forward.
Study Photography at City Lit
At City Lit, we have a variety of photography courses on offer from complete beginners introducing technical and essential skills in how to operate a camera, to specialist workshops and subject based courses.
