Advice for budding photographers

I'm asked all the time if I can offer any words of wisdom for those with a passion for photography. So, I'm going to tell you what I tell them:


1. Grab a notebook and your camera and start taking photos. Document the shots. What setting did you have your camera on? What light did you use? Did you use a reflector? Etc... Keep notes. Then once you have your photo in front of you, look at the results of the various photos. You'll learn a lot by snapping photos and then going back to see what worked and what didn't.

2. Start with a cheaper camera and work your way up as you improve. I started with a Canon Rebel and I used that poor thing till it stopped working. Then I upgraded as needed. The lenses are interchangeable, so as your camera body improves, you can keep and use the same lenses.

3. Keep your camera with you at all times. You never know where your next great photo will come from! And you'll kick yourself in the butt for not having it when something amazing is happening in front of you.

4. Mundane items and events can yield amazing shots. Photograph everything and look for what's amazing in every subject.

5. Don't be afraid to try something new... to experiment with your camera controls, with light, with costumes and subject matter, or with location. That's how you learn!

Good luck to all of you! Feel free to email me your favorite photos!