Since I get questions often about photography, I thought I’d write about some photography tips!

Getting Started is harder than you think

I love helping folks who are getting started with photography – finding that perfect starter camera, lenses and learning what software you need to get started, etc. So I am dedicating this blog post to those who are passionate about photography. You might have a digital camera sitting around (collecting dust maybe?). And You might want to learn how to use it! I will say that taking classes doesn’t have to be labor-intensive or a burden on the budget. And in today’s world, there are so many wonderful opportunities to learn online!

Tip #1 online support

For starters, I found that Cole’s Classroom is amazing! You can find almost any topic there about lenses or editing or working with your first portrait sessions. Also – another great resource is Clickin’ Moms. Many moms would like to take pictures of their kiddos every season just to document life together.  And oh my – our kids grow so fast so we have to take those photos before they are just all grown up!

So many of the online resources have Facebook Communities and free videos on Youtube or offer free webinars from time to time. I am also a huge fan of Amy & Jordan (Shooting and Editing/ Business Course) and Katelyn James (Posing Course as well as her Lighting and Location and her Virtual 3rd Shooter option). It’s amazing to have a community of support with their facebook groups! A few other options I’ve found – believe it or not – Linkedin Learning and UDEMY. I have found that video-based learning is a great format for diving into all the photography tips.

Tip #2 Let’s talk gear!

My most FAQ is what camera should I buy? So let’s start there for photography tips!

My first camera was a Canon Rebel and honestly, it’s a great camera! With the right lenses, you can go far with this camera. I prefer Canon over Nikon just because I’m more comfortable with the settings and options menu. For lenses, you don’t have to spend an arm and a leg. In fact, my best advice is to get a used Canon Rebel (look on eBay for a seller with a 100% rating). And then, invest in lenses. You can get a Canon 50mm 1.8 Portrait lens *used for ~$75 on eBay. Consequently, I wish someone had told me that when I was first starting. And honestly, the off-brands for the 50mm and 35mm work great at 1.8! (Huge fan of saving money).

If you feel you’d like to do photography as a business then I’d say consider the Canon 6D Mark II and a Canon 50mm 1.4. I have 2  Sigma lenses that I use all the time – an 85mm 1.4 and a 35mm 1.4. But, I am partial to fixed lenses (no zooming option) rather than the zoom lens. However, if someone could afford a zoom lens, my favorite so far is Canon L Series 24-70mm 2.8. This lens is a versatile lens that you will find you use on nearly every session! It’s great with kids who move fast especially and for some sports/events.

I also love my Canon 100mm Macro lens and I use it for details on engagements, weddings, newborns, and even for headshots. It doubles as my “zoom” lens on wedding ceremonies as well. Clarity and focus are huge for this lens!

Recently, I upgraded my 50 mm to a Canon 50mm 1.2 L-series and it’s the best lens I’ve ever used! So in love!

Tip #3 – the personal touch

Well, there you have it, my own photography tips! Some great information (all my opinion!) about how you might get started with photography as a hobby or as a business. If you’d like to discuss anything in further detail, please head over to my Business Creatives page and click to contact me to set up a free 15-minute consultation. I offer occasional workshops, classes for homeschoolers, coaching for launching a business and coaching for creatives. I’d love to be able to get to know you and your goals better! Let’s connect!