Hobbies And Interests
Things You'll Need
Instructions
Buy an SLR. You need to have a dedicated camera that you will be practicing your skills on most of the time. Buy a simple camera and a lens that you can practice with; you don't have to buy the most expensive equipment just yet. By having your own SLR, you learn to master the controls after repeated uses, which is important for any beginner. An SLR camera, even a basic one like a Canon Digital Rebel, has many features, and part of knowing how to take great pictures is learning the functions of your camera.
Take a class. A class will help guide you step-by-step on how to compose a picture, play with light and adjust your lenses. It will give you hands-on experience, which helps you learn faster than by reading techniques from a book because your instructor can demonstrate proper handling in person. A digital SLR class will also teach you terminologies in digital SLR photography that you need to know, as well as help you network with fellow beginners.
Read digital photography magazines. It is important for a beginner to learn more about the industry by learning more about what other photographers are currently doing. There is a variety of magazines available that discusses trends in digital photography, as well as tutorials that will help the beginning photographer handle his SLR. Some of the prominent beginner's magazines include PhotographyBB and Photo District News (see Resources). Online forums like Photo.net also help beginners learn more about SLR because these discussions act like a workshop where advanced photographers can provide insights for the beginner.
Go out in the field to take pictures. Whenever you can, take time to explore your surroundings and brainstorm ideas of what you want to capture and compose. The beauty of digital SLR is that you can take picture after picture without wasting film because you can delete shots automatically. Partner with a friend so you can brainstorm ideas on how to take pictures and have company you as you take photographs.
Practice taking pictures with a friend or join a club. The key to mastering a hobby is being consistent with your practice and learning. By making the experience more social, you are more likely to do it consistently because of the support you receive. Camera clubs have a wide range of members with different experience levels, and by partnering with someone who's more experienced in handling digital SLR cameras, you will gain insight that will help you learn more about digital SLR as a beginner.