Amateur Photographer Resources

Photography for beginners and the amateur photographer can be confusing. It doesn’t have to be. A lot of it is confusing because of all the technical terms some amateur photographers like to use. I have concluded that the necessary skills can be effectively developed without a great deal of technical study. Much more is required to produce quality images than “just pushing the button.” But, a lot of technical study and training isn’t necessary to learn how to consistently produce quality photography.

To Be An Amateur Photographer Is Now Easier Than Ever

A number of things make it much easier for beginning photographers now. First, technology, particularly with digital cameras, will do the job for you almost as efficiently as a “technically trained” photographer, nearly all the time. Digital technology makes things easier because you can see the results right away, rather than having to wait for your films to return from processing.

Quality Photography Is Learned

You learn quality by taking pictures, learning from your experiences (your successes and, more significantly, your mistakes). Determine what your subject matter will be – then begin shooting. Critiquing your work is necessary and vital if you want to improve. Also, looking at the work of other photographers is helpful.

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The "passion" for photography shouldn't cost money! Here are helpful and free resources for photographers. Although there are plenty of free resources for the amateur photographer. All good photographers must invest a great deal of their time into their photography. So, the resources don't cost us money! But, they aren't really free! Use them as the valuable resources that they are. They work!

"Almost" Everything You Need to Know To Become An Amateur Photographer

Whether you just want to have fun and take better pictures of family and friends or you want to take photography more seriously – and perhaps even make a living through it, features here will give you s traightforward and practical advice.

Choosing and Understanding your Camera

If you haven't already got a camera, or aren't satisfied with the one that you have, here are some starting points.

• Your Camera
  An in troduction to cameras - explains the features all cameras share.
• Digital Camera Basics
  Explains simply how they work, pixels and sensors and other features.
• Digital or Film?
  Which would be best for you? If you've not already decided, this feature sets out some of the advantages and disadvantages.
• Before You Buy a Camera
  A guide to the choice of film cameras for beginners who want to get a sound foundation as well as cameras suitable for advanced photographers. Includes recommendations on SLR and Rangefinder cameras.
• Top Pro digital cameras
  Top digital cameras for professional use in studio or on location.
• Top Midrange Pro Digital Cameras
  Digital cameras that can produce professional quality images at a relatively affordable price although they lack some of the more advanced features of the leading pro models, as well as their ruggedness.

Getting Better Photos

Tips on using your camera to get better pictures.

• Getting Started With Your New Digital
  Useful advice for those with a new camera, especially if it is your first digital camera.
• Using Your New Camera
  Ten top tips and more to help you get the most out of any new camera, film or digital. ]
• Using Built-in Flash
  Flash built into cameras is handy and has its uses, but also disadvantages. Find out when you should and shouldn't use it.
• Lens Care: Cleaning and Changing
  How to keep your lenses clean, changing lenses and using lens hoods.
• Getting Better Results From Your Camera
  More tips including how to avoid camera shake and using depth in your pictures.

Understanding Your Camera

The Basics section of the site has many short features to help you understand and make better use of your camera. Among these are:

• The Lens
  All about lenses, with linked articles that explain about zooms, telephotos, wide angles - what they are and how to make the most of them.
• Exposure
  The basics about how exposure and metering work.
• Shutter Speeds
  The basics about shutter speeds.
• The Glossary
  You can look up any technical terms that are new to you, such as 'ambient light' or 'aperture'. Gives short simple definitions, with links to related terms.

Subjects and Ideas to Photograph

Many photographs are of family and friends, but there are many other subjects you can try.

• Events and Festivals
  Advice on photographing public events.
• Fireworks
  Make the most of firework displays.
• Better Vacation Pictures
  Whether you use film or digital you will find good tips for taking your camera on holiday and and suggestions on how you can improve your pictures.
• Making More of your Vacation Pictures
  Includes some tips on making a travel diary.

Some Other Features

Look in the sections of the site for features for both beginners and advanced photographers. Some of particular interest to those relatively new to photography are:

• How to become a photographer
  What area of photography would suit you best and how can you get into it? The experience photographer as well as the amateur photographer can benefit from this link.
• Photographing People 101
  The most popular subject for photography, but many find it hard to do. Advice on equipment, techniques and approaches that will take your work further.
• Starting in Portraiture 1
  Useful advice if you are starting in portraiture or want to develop your work in this area, particularly if you intend to set up a studio.
• Beginners Guide to Nude Photography
  How to get started in this challenging area of picture taking. A guide to ideas, models, sessions, studios and equipment, with links to some fine examples of nude images.

Yes, it's possible to be an amateur photographer and make your photography work available for sale. Many event photographers , pet photographers and family photographers start part-time in freelance photography.