Photography- beginner tips :)

After a hearty breakfast this morning I sat down and wanted to blog about my latest set of images, but quite honestly my mind was blank. Just as I was about to shut the laptop and go find some inspiration to write, I chanced upon an email from a friend. Apart from the usual talk about work and his two dogs he had written to mention that he had considered learning photography and wanted some pointers on where and how to start. 

Naturally I thought this was a great idea for a post.

As a budding photographer you can find all sorts of information on the internet but the process of filtering it according to your needs can be a slightly daunting task. I'm going to list some of the processes that I adapted as well as followed in my journey, such that it would help any of you interested in following the path of my friend.

• Start simple - Almost every beginner out there wants to buy the best camera, own a plethora of lenses, stuff them all in a massive bag and walk around like Al Pacino in the 'God Father'. Unfortunately at the end of the day all you're left with is your inflated ego and a sore shoulder. Remember, at this stage in your learning curve, less is more. You do not need an advanced camera for this. A decent point & shoot camera should be enough to master the basics.

• Read, read and re-read - Having the tool and not the technique will get you no where, so find the time to do your research via the internet or the hundreds of photography books available. 

• Walk your camera - Not literally of course, but what I mean is to never leave it behind. Opportunities come when you least expect it so you should have your camera with you to capture those elusive moments.

• Stability is not optional - We have all taken that one particular picture which we really liked, but upon closer inspection, it was in shambles. Slight, unintentional blur can be a disaster. Buy a tripod, and most importantly use it wherever possible.

• Practice makes perfect - I have learnt a lot through reading, be it books or the world wide web, but I can honestly say that nothing works better than actually getting behind that camera and pressing the shutter button. In the last half a decade that I've been shooting I've taken a whole load of crappy pictures. The great thing about these pictures is that it helps you critique yourself and improve as you go along.

• Patience is key- Remember, Rome wasn't built in a day. Apply this to yourself and you will be able to learn well, and most importantly enjoy what you're learning. 

• Experimentation is expected - One of the best ways to learn this art is to keep experimenting. Think outside the box, play with your camera settings and you might be pleasantly surprised with your new images. 

• Get creative- You don't have to hike over the weekend to get that awesome shot. All along it could have been waiting for you in your back yard. Nobody can put a lid on how creative a person can get. Look around you, find inspiration amongst the simplest of things. Start doing that and soon you will be limitless. 

Well, there you go. I really hope this helps anyone wanting to delve into the wondrous world of photography. Do feel free to share your thoughts on this. Any additional information is always welcome.