Photography Tips For Beginners

Photography is an interesting and fun activity. It's also easier to get started now than it has ever been. And if you’re a newbie, our photography tips for beginners are a way for you to get the most out of it.

Often the hardest part is getting over the technological hurdle to photography. But the team at Orange County Photo are here to help talk you through it so you can continue to capture amazing images. 

So, here’s our list of the best photography tips for beginners that show you how to improve your photography skills without overcomplicating them.

1.   Learn how to handle your camera

Although this may seem self-evident, many beginning photographers do not hold their cameras properly, resulting in camera shake and poor photographs. Of course, the best approach to reduce camera shake is to use a tripod, however since you won't start using one unless you're shooting in low light, it's crucial to handle the camera properly to eliminate needless movement.

The closer you can hold the camera against your body, the more still it will be. If you need more stability, lean against a barrier or duck down on your knees; but, if you don't have anything to lean against, a broader stance can help. 

We have tripods available at Orange County Photo Studio that come with your booking at no extra charge. 

2.   Master the Triangle of Exposure

Aperture: Aperture is just the opening of the lens that determines how much light reaches the camera's sensors. A larger aperture allows more light to pass through, whereas a smaller aperture allows less light to pass through.

Shutter speed: While you take a photo, shutter speed determines how late the camera shutter remains open. More light gets into the camera's sensor longer its shutter is open. A faster shutter speed freezes activity, and a slower shutter speed blurs motion.

ISO: ISO regulates the camera's light sensitivity. A lower ISO indicates that the camera becomes less sensitive to light, whereas a higher ISO indicates that the camera is more sensitive to light. When photographing outdoors during the day, an ISO of 100 to 200 but in low light 400 to 800 or higher may be required.

3.   Use your on-camera flash with caution

One of the major photography tips for beginners is not using your on-camera flash at low-light conditions as it results in undesirable effects such as red eyes and sharp shadows if you're not careful. 

In general, it's best to increase the ISO and obtain noisy photographs rather than risk spoiling the shot entirely by using the on-camera flash. For better photography, additional lightings are available at Orange County photo studio for your service.

But beginning photographers might need it at times, so go into your camera's menu and find the flash settings. Reduce the brightness as much as possible.

Second, by placing anything over the flash, you can try filtering the light. For example, placing a scrap of paper or obscure adhesive tape well over flash can help diffuse and soften the light.

At Orange County Photo we have a range of flashes available at no extra charge. Check out our list of lighting options here 

4.   Know the right white balance

Colors can be captured more accurately with the help of white balance. Because different forms of lighting have distinct features, if you don't alter the white balance, your photos may have a somewhat blue, orange, or green hue or 'temperature.' Having white cyc rental will always help you here.

Of course, you can correct the white balance in post-production, but if you already have hundreds of photographs that require minor modifications, it's better to get it perfect in the camera.

All these are represented by a distinct icon, so consult your camera's handbook if you're not certain which is which. 

5.   Experiment with perspectives

Experimenting with perspective is the best approach to get even more innovative with your photos. When approaching a picture from a different perspective, it might look very different, and photographing any subject either from above or below can transform the entire atmosphere of a shot.

Of course, it's not like every angle should work with every shot, but if you don't try, you'll never know what does and what doesn't. When photographing animals or toddlers, get down on their level to see the scene through their vision.

Another great way to play with perspectives is to use an infinity cyclorama wall. Here at Orange County Photo we have a large cyc wall as well as 40+ colored backdrops. 

6.   The Rule of Thirds

The rule of thirds is founded on the premise that visuals that aren't centered are more intriguing and well-balanced. Consider putting a grid over your photographs with two vertical plus two horizontal lines which partition the image into nine equal portions. Having a cyclorama wall background can be very advantageous here.

Rather than placing your subject or essential parts of a scene in the center of the frame, you'd position them onto one of the four lines, or even at the locations where the lines meet, if you are adopting the rule of thirds. Some cameras even feature a grid option that you may activate if you're still learning how to arrange your shots.

7.   Keep your focus

Because you'll be focusing on a limited area when shooting portraits, getting a beautifully sharp image is more critical than ever. The eyes, in particular, are a prominent element of the face, and they're frequently the first thing people notice, especially in close-ups and headshots.

With everything in mind, the ultimate focus of attention should be your subject's eyes. Choose to use a singular focus point but also target it for one of the eyeballs to have both eyes clean and sharp. Keep the shutter halfway down and shift the lens gently to balance the photo and to include the second eye after the first eye is already in focus.

Final Words

Photography is a rewarding creative outlet and the more you practice and up-skill, the more you’ll get out of it. It can take some time, but you'll be glad you stuck it through in the end.

To further enhance your skills, you can also use the infinity cyclorama wall or colored paper backdrops at our studio in the heart of Orange. We also have a range of lights and studio equipment available at no extra cost. Click here to make a booking today!