Improving photography

Just before Bean was born we bought a new camera, a digital SLR. Both M and I had every intention of learning how to use it; to become capable photographers and take beautiful pictures of our growing family. Somehow time slipped away from us and now here we are near three years later and we are both just as clueless about the art of taking (and editing) beautiful photos.

One of things I have missed about blogging has been the incentive to pick up the camera. To document the little things, the seemingly insignificant things that you realise later are the things that made your day beautiful, the toothy grin, the paint covered fingers, the buds of your childs first home grown sunflower. The little things that really matter. That push to overcome my fear of looking like a bit of a dork with this lovely camera and no idea how to take lovely looking photographs. But like all things, without pushing yourself or risks everything becomes stagnant. That is where my photography lies, in a stagnant, murky pool of I wish. But not for long.

So today I am setting a new intention. I am packing our camera in my bag and there it will stay, to be puled out every time I see something is beautiful or interesting, to catch those little moments of magic. I am sure many photos will be duds, but over time and with practice these will become less and less.

As for most things the pinterest and the internet in general are invaluable tools. I have been scouring different articles and sites and have found that the same few areas pop up...

Lighting - One of the most recurrent tips is lighting, stay away from flash. Natural lighting is your friend, learn how to utilise it, the times of day the light is best, angles, shadows.

Get to know your camera - This one is a little bit more complicated. First off read your manual, know what the different buttons and settings do; how to navigate your camera quickly and with ease. Ditch auto mode auto mode and get to grips with the basics of ISO, shutter speed and exposure. Experiment and see what works best for you.

Inspiration - Look at other peoples photos, what are you drawn to? What is it about the lighting/composition/content that inspires you?

Hmm. Sounds like I have a lot of work to do. Hopefully you will start to see the results on here soon...

Are you a lover of photography? What camera do you use? Do you have any tips and tricks that might help me and others on the way to successful photography?

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