Thursday, September 15, 2011

Things I Wish I Knew When I Started Being a Photographer


Here is a list of 36 things I wish I knew when I started out as a photographer.
  1. That I will be dissatisfied with 95% of all of my pictures.
  2. That no matter how big my hard drive is, it isn't big enough.
  3. It's not my camera/lens that's the problem, it's me.
  4. Fill the frame with a simple subject.
  5. Backup my backups.
  6. I need to slow down and take my time.
  7. Watch what's in the background. Lamp-posts aren't supposed to grow out of people's heads.
  8. Pay attention to the entirety of the view-finder.
  9. Don't cut off peoples feet.
  10. Shooting down at someone is a great way to make them look slimmer.
  11. Babies take a lot of time to photograph.
  12. Fake it 'til I make it.
  13. There is a right way and a wrong way to hold a camera.
  14. Comparing myself to other photographers is a great way to make myself feel bad for no reason.
  15. Photography is supposed to be fun and constantly criticizing my work without giving myself credit for my growth is dumb and counter-productive. 
  16. Running a photography business is 80% business, 15% post-processing/file management and 5% photography.
  17. Taxes.
  18. Keeping papers organized is critical. 
  19. Trust my instincts.
  20. Get closer and then get closer.
  21. At some point critical equipment will malfunction during a job, have backup equipment.
  22. Never undervalue my time & work.
  23. Geeking-out on gear isn't photography.
  24. 95% of all cameras and lenses are better than 99% of all photographers.
  25. No matter how confusing it is at first, the exposure triangle is as logical as it is essential.
  26. Reading about photography is not photography.
  27. Nothing can substitute for hours spent actually taking photos.
  28. Walking around with a camera around your neck is not photography.
  29. Only buy at a retail store if it is cheaper than Amazon, Adorama or B&H Photo.
  30. Every camera has it's faults, regardless of how expensive it is.
  31. Fan-boys (and girls) are obnoxious. Don't be one.
  32. Every brand has its strengths and weaknesses.
  33. Good lenses start at $450+. 
  34. You get what you pay for but you can sometimes find it cheaper elsewhere.
  35. Only buy from reputable online stores.
  36. All that matters is the final image.
Are there any other tips that you would have added to this list for yourself? If so, post in the comments below!

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