Getting Better

What is involved in getting better at photography? What is needed and how does one go about reaching the next level?

Finding the answer to these questions is unique for each photographer and is dependent on what the photographer is trying to accomplish and the level of work they are currently at.

I believe there are a number of general principles that apply to most of us much of the time. There are many elements that affect the photographic process especially as we think about moving beyond the snap shot stage. I think it is useful for discussion to divide the photographic process into two main categories: in camera work and post processing.

I see in camera work as the foundation of excellent photography so it makes sense to look at in camera first and make sure we have a strong foundation.


Some basics to think about for in camera work:

Exposure, focus, DOF, lighting, framing, seeing/observing/composition, concept of image before shooting, interesting subject, working the shot (different settings, angles, framing, concepts).

ISO, shutter speed, aperture relationship.


If you shoot using the auto setting most of the time how does this affect your in camera work?


One approach to getting better:


Study the work of a photographer(s) you admire.

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Select a photographer(s) you admire to learn from as you study their work.

Is your work technically excellent?

Are your compositions as strong and dramatic?

Are your subjects as interesting and compelling?

Are the backgrounds in your images complementary to the subject or do they create distraction from the subject?

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1. Is the photo properly exposed?

2. Is there too much contrast -- i.e. highlights blown, shadows black?

3. Is the focus sharp?

4. Is the background cluttered or distracting? The background is as important as the subject.

5. Is the subject boring or compelling? Be honest. Boring subjects don't make great pictures. Great subjects make great pictures.

6. Is the lighting attractive?

7. Do I have enough depth of field, or are parts of the image soft when they should be sharp? Out of focus foregrounds should usually be avoided.

8. Is the shooting angle good, or could I have done something more dynamic?

9. Did I use a shutter speed that was too slow, resulting in a less-than-sharp picture? Should you have used a tripod due to low light conditions?

10. Is the composition attractive? Did I use the Rule of Thirds, or have I successfully broken the 'rule' and created a dynamic or intriguing graphic design?