I know nothing, help

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Al
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I know absolutely nothing about taking pictures, my skill is all by luck.

What are some of the most important tips that I should instill in my mind when shooting?
 
To read a basic 'How to' book on photography would be a great starting point

Visit a library - 2 weeks later you'll know tons of stuff, and it is actually quicker that way than asking incredibly open questions on a forum

At least that'll give you some grounding to base questions & help requirement on

Have fun

DD
 
I've actually read a how to book on digital photography, I say about 25% I did not know. I was actually just looking for peoples personal tips that they use.

Thanks MacMike
 
Also read "Understanding Exposure" by Bryan Peterson.
 
have a beer first!!!! only kidding, my advice would be to keep taking shots and learn from your mistakes, its the only way
 
I used to do that but I have missed some good shots because of that.

Well you have to start somewhere!

Speed comes with practice and practice takes time!

Personally I found being more methodical and creating a mental check list helps me. Focus, exposure, DOF, composition and many others....the more you practice the less you will have to think and the faster you will shoot!

One of the best things I have ever read was think to yourself "what am I trying to show?" This will dictate alot of your thinking!
 
learn your camera controls inside out, front to back, so they are second nature even when blindfolded.
 
I was in the same dilema when i first started, making it worse was the fact i was so young! As time go'es by and you upgrade your kit, take more photos and visit more locations and your knowledge will slowly build.

Trust me, it's like this for everyone.
 
Don't listen to these guys. Here's what you need to do.

* Drink a sambuca. Make it a double if you're feeling saucy.
* Find a waterfall.
* Drink another sambuca.
* Consult your copy of "Understanding Exposure". Drop it in the waterfall.
* Drink a sambuca.
* Take a photo of your copy of "Understanding Exposure". Make sure you make the water look all misty.
* Drink a sambuca.
* Go home, take the card out of your camera and put it in the computer. PROTIP: Don't leave your sambuca at the waterfall - there's still plenty left, and you'll need it later.
* Open the file in photoshop and process it as a HDR, even though it isn't a proper one.
* Drink some more sambuca.
* Post the results on several photography forums. PROTIP: When someone says they it's not proper HDR, make sure you tell them that although you know nothing, they know less.
* Engage in a few flamewars while you finish the sambuca. PROTIP: Culminate this by claiming you're actually David LaChapelle and that's egg on their faces isn't it?
* Post another copy of the picture, using a selective colour technique. Because it's dead arty.
* Give up on photography for the day and go to bed.

I mean, that's not going to work for everyone, but I feel it's a good solid workflow to really get you started in the world of photography.
 
Don't listen to these guys. Here's what you need to do.

*snip*

I mean, that's not going to work for everyone, but I feel it's a good solid workflow to really get you started in the world of photography.
You been watching me? other than the processing and posting of them thats how I got my 1/12,000 good picture :lol:
 
I agree with psifox. I myself am new to photography and have purchsed this book fantastic read :):canon:
 
Thanks, all sounds like valuable information.

Now I gotta find out what a sambuca is. lol
 
Little clear drink with coffee beans at the bottom and set alight to warm through.

And on a serious point try not to become someone who shoots hundereds of shots hoping that one will be the shot that works.

Learn to understand light and how your camera/lens combo can play with it.

Find a subject (non living items are good and practise changing settings to see the difference.
 
Skill is knowing how to use your camera to capture images.
Luck is being in the right place at the right time to use your skill.

The more opportunities you create to use your skill the luckier you will be :)

WAY GOOD POINT!
 
As mentioned, only real way I've found is to get out there and do it - now actually finding time to do it is the hard part! Oh and try not to be scared of taking your camera, even though they tend to be quite bulky and expensive you'll only see something and wish you had it!
 
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