10 Tips for Anyone Just Starting Out in Photography

So you’ve picked up a camera (or maybe just your phone) and you’re ready to dive into photography? Awesome. Getting started can feel a little intimidating — all those buttons, settings, and lenses — but trust me, you don’t need to master everything at once. Here are ten easy, no-pressure tips to help you hit the ground running.

1. Learn the Big Three (Aperture, Shutter Speed, ISO)

Sounds fancy, but it’s just how your camera controls light. Aperture = how wide the lens opens, shutter speed = how long the lens stays open, and ISO = how sensitive your camera is to light. Once you play around with these, you’ll unlock way more control over your photos.

2. Use What You’ve Got

Don’t stress about owning a $3,000 camera. Your phone or a basic DSLR/mirrorless will do the job just fine. Focus on learning how to shoot first — gear can always come later.

3. Chase Good Light

Light is your best friend. Go out early in the morning or late in the afternoon (a.k.a. “golden hour”), and you’ll instantly see the difference in your shots. Harsh midday sun? Not so much.

4. Think About the Frame

The “rule of thirds” is a game changer. Imagine your photo divided into a 3x3 grid and place your subject along those lines instead of dead center. Instant upgrade.

5. Shoot Every Day (Even Boring Stuff)

Don’t wait for a vacation or “the perfect scene.” Photograph your coffee, your shoes, your dog’s nose — whatever. The more you practice, the sharper your eye gets.

6. Step Away from Auto Mode

Auto is fine to start, but if you want to grow, try Aperture Priority or Manual. At first, your photos might look worse — and that’s okay. It means you’re actually learning.

7. Watch the Background

Ever take a photo of your friend and realize later there’s a garbage can right behind their head? Yeah, backgrounds matter. Take two seconds to scan the frame before you click.

8. Move Around

Don’t just stand and shoot. Get low, climb a bench, tilt your camera — experiment. A fresh angle can turn a “meh” shot into a “wow” one.

9. Edit, But Keep It Real

A little editing goes a long way. Brighten, add contrast, fix colors… but avoid cranking every slider to the max. You want people to notice your photo, not your filter.

10. Tell a Story

A technically perfect shot can still feel flat. The best photos make people feel something — joy, curiosity, nostalgia. Think about the story you want to tell before you click.

👉 Bottom line: Don’t overthink it. Photography should be fun, not stressful. Shoot a ton, make mistakes, and figure out what excites you most. That’s how you’ll find your style.