Beginner's tips on photography

Starting a hobby in photography is exciting.  Of course you get to have a new toy to play with.  Discovering your passion in photography.  Exploring the wonders of capturing the moment.  I'd like to share some tips on how to improve your skills.

Read up on photography

Reading books or magazines on photography will help you understand or maybe even discover something new about the field of photography.  Though this might be expensive, but it does help improve your learning.

Photoblogs and websites

There are tons of blogs and website about photography, and your on one now. ;)  Visiting blog sites on photography will broaden your mind to new ideas and techniques.  Be sure to read the blogs and watch videos about photography.

Join online forums

When I started, I didn't have friends who were into photography.  I had a difficult time learning on my own.  I found a local online forum that had a photography forum topic.  There I found a thread about the model of camera I was using.  I joined that thread and learned a lot.  

Online forums make learning about photography easier and faster.  You can ask specific question that sometimes can't be found in search engines.  It is a means for interacting with fellow photographers online.  Try looking for local forums, someone might have an open invitation to a shoot, this way you can join.  

You can also ask for some comments and criticisms on your image.  This way you'll learn how to improve your style.  Ask for advise on the best way to improve your image.

Join in local photo walks or photo shoot

Through online forums, you may find an open invitation to join in a photo walk or a shoot.  Photo walks is a great way to practice photography.  It trains your eyes alert for possible subjects.  It keeps your mind visualizing how you would shoot the subject; how to compose the frame.

Photography workshops

If budget permits, join photo workshops.   You'll learn some tips and secrets in photography workshops; especially if the host or instructor is a famous photographer.

Shoot, shoot, and shoot

I think best way to improve your eyes and skill in photography is to shoot.  Always bring your camera with you.  If you see something that captures your attention, shoot it.  If you see a beautiful cloud formation, shoot it.  

If you keep on shooting, you'll learn how your camera works.  You'll learn how to reset the settings to different lighting conditions.  You'll learn how to look for good lighting.  You'll learn to play with light.  Just keep shooting.