How Can a Beginner Start Photography?
By Jeff Walsh – Photographer, Educator, Adventurer.
When I think back to the early days of my photography journey, I can still remember the mix of excitement and confusion. I’d just bought my first “serious” camera and thought I was ready to conquer the world with my pictures. But the truth is, I had no idea where to start. If you’re feeling the same way—camera in hand and wondering what comes next—you’re not alone.
The good news? Starting photography doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Let me walk you through the steps I wish I knew when I began.
Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.
1. Start With What You Have
You don’t need the latest, fanciest gear to begin. Whether it’s a DSLR, mirrorless, or even your phone, the best camera is the one you have with you. Some of my favourite images came from times when I wasn’t carrying my “big” camera, but I still took the shot anyway. The key is to start shooting—don’t let gear stop you.
2. Learn the Basics of Light
Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.Photography is all about light. Once I realised this, my images started to improve instantly. Begin by observing how light falls at different times of day—early morning and late afternoon are golden times. Play with shadows, highlights, and angles. A simple subject can look completely different depending on the light.
3. Understand the “Exposure Triangle”
This might sound technical, but it’s just three settings that work together:
Aperture (how wide your lens opens)
Shutter speed (how long your camera takes the photo)
ISO (how sensitive your sensor is to light)
Experiment with these. Don’t be afraid of making mistakes—they’re part of the process.
4. Composition Matters
When I first started, I often filled the frame without thinking about balance or perspective. That’s when I learnt about simple composition rules like the rule of thirds, leading lines, and framing. They give structure to your photos and make your shots more visually engaging.
5. Practise, Practise, Practise
Honestly, nothing replaces time behind the camera. The more you shoot, the more natural it becomes. Pick a simple project—like photographing your neighbourhood, a favourite local park, or even everyday objects at home—and challenge yourself to see things differently.
6. Seek Feedback and Keep Learning
One of the best things I did was share my photos with others and ask for honest feedback. Sometimes it stings, but it’s the fastest way to grow. Join a photography group, take an online beginner’s course, or just connect with other people on the same journey.
How Do You Keep Learning New Photography Skills?
If you’re just starting out and feel a bit lost, I’ve created a Beginner’s Photography Online Course designed to give you the foundations without the overwhelm. It’s free and it’s the perfect first step to building your confidence behind the camera.
