#DSLR photography for beginners

[megaseverebelieverstudentme]

Cat Photography: Pet Photography Tips and Camera Settings for Better Cat Portraits

‘Until one has loved an animal, a part of one’s soul remains unawakened’ ~ Anatole France They say, the experience of loving and caring for an animal awakens a deep and essential part of our being, enriching our lives in ways that are difficult to describe. I didn’t realise this until I met my friend’s pet, the cute kitten ‘Cheeku’! Pets are great companions with whom we can converse and share…

[oceanandspring]

pulling out my old canon eos rebel t1i camera and knowing it is more than 10 years old hurts me. it was brand new and exiting when i got it one year for my birthday. the thought makes me feel like an old man.

[techdriveplay]

What Is the Best Type of Camera for General Photography?

Choosing the right camera can be daunting, especially with the variety of options available today. Whether you’re a budding enthusiast or a seasoned photographer, understanding what is the best type of camera for general photography is essential to capturing stunning images that resonate with your artistic vision. This guide will delve into the different types of cameras, their features, and…

[ezzybrownmedia]

Best Camera for Photography and Videos

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[bachatgadgets]

Top 5 Best Cameras for Professional and Amateur Photography

When it comes to finding the best camera for photograpgy , there are many options to choose from. Whether you’re a professional photographer or an amateur, you want to find a camera that will help you take stunning photos and videos. In this article, we’ll be discussing the top 5 cameras that offer the best features and capabilities for photographers of all skill levels. 1. Sony Alpha 7R IV Full…

[stopdoomscrolling-cafe]

photography

hey there! welcome back to our cozy cafe! photography is an excellent way to capture and preserve memories, express creativity, and see the world from different perspectives. it helps you notice the beauty in everyday moments and improves your attention to detail. plus, it's a wonderful way to relax and connect with nature or your surroundings.

let’s explore why photography is an amazing hobby and how you can get started. 🍵✨

why photography is a great hobby:

creative expression: photography allows you to capture the world from your unique perspective. it’s a fantastic way to express your creativity and tell stories through images.

mindfulness: it encourages you to be present and notice the beauty in everyday moments. this can be incredibly calming and therapeutic.

learning and growth: there’s always something new to learn in photography, from mastering your camera settings to exploring different styles and technique.

social connection: sharing your photos can help you connect with others who have similar interests, whether through social media or photography clubs.

step-by-step guide to start photography:

choose your camera:

start with what you have, even if it’s just a smartphone. as you get more into photography, you might want to invest in a DSLR or mirrorless camera.

check out this video on choosing your first camera.

learn the basics:

familiarize yourself with basic photography concepts like exposure, aperture, shutter speed, and ISO.

this tutorial covers the basics of photography.

practice composition:

learn about composition techniques such as the rule of thirds, leading lines, and framing to make your photos more visually appealing.

watch this video on composition tips for beginners.

experiment with lighting:

lighting is crucial in photography. try shooting in different lighting conditions to see how it affects your photos.

here’s a guide to understanding natural light in photography.

edit your photos:

editing can enhance your photos and bring out the best in them. start with basic editing software like lightroom or free apps like snapseed.

this video provides a beginner’s guide to photo editing.

join a community:

connect with other photographers to share your work, get feedback, and learn from others. online forums, social media groups, and local clubs are great places to start.

so, grab your camera, step outside, and start capturing the world around you. happy snapping! 📸☕🌿

[sirfrogsworth]

This article gets rewritten about every 3 months by someone who thinks they are writing it for the first time.

Also, no chance I am going into that comment section.

I'll make it very simple. Pretty much all cameras are great now. Most smartphone cameras are great.

So you can get great photos with *any* sensor size.

You just have to assess your needs and decide which system will help you achieve your photographic goals.

Full frame sensors make it much easier to...

Shoot in cramped spaces. Get background blur. Shoot a scene with bright brights and dark darks. (dynamic range) Shoot in low light with less noise.

APS-C sensors...

Slightly harder to get background blur. Not as good in cramped spaces. Slightly less dynamic range. Slightly more noise in low light. Give you near full frame quality at a lower price point.

Micro 4/3 sensors...

Give you lightweight and portable gear while maintaining the advantage of using different lenses. Can be more expensive. Great for beginner videography. Can do decent background blur with a speedbooster and fast lens. Give you a nice bump in quality over smartphones in challenging circumstances.

Smartphone sensors...

Are always in your pocket.

If you have the money and want to make getting good photos in challenging circumstances easier, get a full frame. Used full frame DSLRs are cheaper than they have ever been.

If you are on a tight budget and want everything a full frame does but don't mind it being about 1.5x harder to do so, get APS-C. If you go with Canon or Nikon, you can choose your lenses in a way that allows you to upgrade to full frame later on.

If you want to use a proper camera with interchangeable lenses but you don't feel like carrying a heavy camera bag with you everywhere, get a micro 4/3. Be warned, these cameras are usually more expensive than APS-C. They often have cool retro styling and try to give you a more fun photography experience. Panasonic M4/3 can be a great entry level videography camera. Fuji has some neat retro film emulation. Speedbooster accessories can allow you to retain some reasonable background blur.

For everything else, just use your phone because phones are great at everything except indoor low light situations.

[libraford]

What is a good beginning camera for someone? I want to be able to take my own photos to paint and draw.

For what you're doing, anything within your budget is a good camera.

Point and shoots are good! I still use my Nikon Coolpix and my dad uses Canon Powershot. These ones are more for people who are playing around with it and don't necessarily need to shoot in Manual, but the Powershots on the high-end do have manual settings if you're interested in learning how to use it.

(I like cameras with Manual options because now that I know how to shoot in Manual mode it gives me a lot of creative freedom that auto and presets do not have. But if you don't know Manual and want to learn, there is a rather frustrating learning curve that a lot of people struggle to get over. Just be prepared for that.)

If you're interested in learning photography and want something a little above the point and shoots, my first DSLR was a Canon Rebel (I think it was a Rebel 3). It still has presets and auto functions, but its the middle ground between beginner and pro.

You might get a good deal on DSLR cameras soon because most companies are going mirrorless and the mirrored cameras are becoming obsolete.

I'm going to tell you this: the cheaper the camera, the worse it will be at shooting dark scenes. That's pretty much where most of the money goes towards in development.

So if you're looking to take pictures outside or in well-lit places or with an built-in flash, then you may be happy with a point and shoot.

If you're looking to be in more challenging places, like indoor places that aren't terribly well lit, then a DSLR might be a good place to start. The Rebel I used to use was great for doing candids inside schools. You can also use an external flash with DSLR cameras, if you're feeling ambitious.

Anything priced higher than that is going to be able to do all of these things AND be able to take photos in poorly lit bars. My Canon Mark II just about struggles in dark places, but you can still get some cool looks if you know how to work your exposure settings (-grumbles in photographer-)

[viktortittiforov]

✨ help a queer disabled creature out ✨

hiii! this is my first time making one of these so i don't really know what i'm doing but please bear with me!!

my name is neptune and i'm queer and disabled. i have ADHD, depression+anxiety and a chronic eye condition that leaves me with only one seeing eye (and with high eye pressure in my blind eye, which is occasionally painful and gives me headaches). i am also trans and currently pursuing HRT, which where i'm from means i first have to travel all over the country to a bunch of different specialists who need to determine whether i am Transsexual™ enough (which costs money).

i am employed, but i work at an NGO, which, coupled with the fact that i can't work there full-time due to my disabilities, means i'm basically making a little above my country's minimum wage (converted to USD – i'm from central-eastern europe – i make roughly $810/month after tax). nearly half of my monthly income goes towards my rent, and this makes it very hard for me to save up money, especially given the so-called ADHD tax (look it up if you haven't heard of it).

as you can probably imagine, this is very stressful. i am privileged in that i am not in an immediately dire financial situation and have a solid support network, unlike a lot of other people on here. however, i live with constant financial anxiety. i have no safety cushion with which to cover longer periods of potential illness/recovery (e.g. after top surgery, which i might want), potential health emergencies of my two beloved cats (one of whom is a senior cat), or unexpected household expenses. i also have very little disposable income, which is not immediately a disaster, but which has gotten me into a difficult situation.

you see, one of the ways i can sustainably supplement my income is freelance photography and i would really benefit from making that a more regular thing. currently, however, the only camera i have at my disposal is a second-hand beginner level DSLR i got back in 2019, which is really beginning to struggle to keep up. this means i could really use a new camera so that i can take better photos and increase the chance of someone wanting to hire me. but cameras are expensive and there's no way i could comfortably afford even another second-hand one (the cost of a decent second-hand camera would be around $850).

sooo. i thought i could try my luck here? i'm not asking for any specific target amount and i will be happy for any help, no matter how small. i understand if you'd rather help out those who need it more urgently though! i know many of us hardly have the means to help even those.

if you do happen to have some spare change, though, here is my paypal. i'll be forever grateful!

thanks for reading 💜 adding a photo of me and my cats so you know i'm a real person i guess?

[frostyfin]

First post so I guess I should introduce myself ヾ(☆▽☆) I am Frosty, a 22 year old Uni student from Finland. (He/Him) Quick bulletpoints for my interests since I'm bad at introductions Things that I like (๑•́ ω •̀๑) - Cars - Anime - Heavy Metal / Rhythm Game / Hardstyle music - Photography...obviously ( ≧ᗜ≦) - Red / Black are my favorite colors I am a Virtual Photographer. I've been doing VP for ~4/5 years now. Started with racing games, then I found Cyberpunk and I've been stuck to it ever since 2022. I've had cameras since I was a little kid, so I guess it surprises no one that I got into photography in games aswell. Bought my own Canon DSLR in 2023, so I am still a beginner when it comes to shooting photos IRL 😅 Main OC you're most likely to see in my photos is my cute little cyberpsycho - Rosie ♥(ˆ⌣ˆԅ) (as seen in the photo above :P)

[andmaybegayer]

new camera (Canon R6) is a colossal upgrade, to the point where the way you are meant to use it is completely different from my old mid-range DSLR. Went out to do some photography in the park and I am going to have to spend a while fidgeting with the settings so that I can switch between the useful options faster. Menuing in higher end cameras has always been a big deal and I've used high-end cameras briefly but never for long enough to see how much.

It is really nice to use a piece of equipment that is this well made. My old 600D was a "nice beginner camera" when it came out in 2011. The R6 is a professional full-frame optimized for serious work. You actually have enough dials to realistically run full manual under pressure! You have enough focus points that moving them around actually makes sense! To say absolutely nothing of the huge leaps in image processing that have happened in the decade between these two cameras.

I'm adapting my old 24-105 f/4 lens, which is even older than the 600D but optics age better than bodies, it feels great to finally use all of this lens. On APS-C it gets seriously cropped to the point where it can feel kind of awkward, on full-frame you can really see why everyone loves it so much.

I still need some time to get used to the controls, a lot of these were shot with far too slow a shutter speed because I was not quick on the ISO draw. It'll get there.

[istandonsnowpiles]

I've been inspired (in no small part due to your photos) to get a camera and start doing some photography. Do you have any tips for a beginner? Good cameras to get, things you wish you had known, that kind of thing? Your photos look so good!

Heyo! Welcome to the photography world! I'd glad I could inspire you a bit.

A few tips I've learned recently:

For buying gear, the actual camera doesn't really matter for beginners. Any camera will take good photos, even old ones.

If you're feeling sociable, go to a local camera store and try out some used camera. Pick one that feels good and fits your budget. Brand doesn't matter.

Last, if you get a camera with interchangeable lenses, spend more on a lens than the body. High quality lenses will continue to be great on newer, better camera bodies & make cheap bodies take amazing photos.

I've got two posts for more tips, check 'em out!

Okay, we've made it to the bottom of the post. My starter camera recommendation has always been a Panasonic G or GX body (GX1, GX7, G7, GX85, or even a G9 or GX9 if you're feeling very spendy) + a Panasonic 25mm f/1.7 lens, which is still one of my favorite lenses of all time.

Prefer a mirrorless camera over a DSLR. DSLRs are cheaper, but harder to learn. You can adapt DSLR lenses to mirrorless if you like using cheaper DSLR lenses.

[oceanandspring]

getting back into photography and relieving the moment all baby photographers experience in which you realize camera settings are entirely just you fucking around and finding out

[allyanaleizel]

Hello, internet!

I have a confession to make. I find Instagram too overwhelming now with all the reels and the algorithm. Twitter (now named X) feels like a graveyard. I feel a bit uncomfortable to put my life on TikTok. I don’t think I have the following to start a newsletter. I know I’m not eloquent enough to write amazing things on Medium or Substack. So, where do I go?

Here I am, in the platform where I basically started and learned how to express my creativity. The good ‘ol Tumblr blog. A lot of things have definitely changed and there’s a bit of learning curve into navigating the interface again. I do, however, find some comfort in feeling like I’m just talking to myself. No number of real-time views, no algorithm, and not a single care whether or not I gain followers.

It’s been almost a decade since I last used Tumblr seriously. I know it’s dramatic to say, but this place is truly where I discovered my skills and passion. There was a time when doodles were a thing and I became that girl in high school who would just doodle during math class. I would get scolded by my teachers but it never really bothered me. I also remember getting into coding my own Tumblr themes, that’s why until now some basic CSS/HTML is ingrained into my brain. I learned how to use Photoshop, Paint Tool SAI, etc. I got into digital photography because everyone else on my feed was doing it. Even though I had the most beginner friendly DSLR, I treasured it the most up until college. Basically, I was a sponge. Anything that piques my creative interest, I would always try my best to learn something about it.

10 years later.

Sometimes when we look at our current self and where we are now, we tend to overlook the progress we’ve made throughout the years. Writing this somehow makes me smile. Because even though I know deep down that I’m not a hundred percent satisfied with who I am at the moment, I know that the person I described in my last paragraph is extremely proud of our progress. I wish I could tell her that we graduated at our dream university with flying colors and best solo thesis award. I wish I could tell her about the projects we’ve done and that we have a published children’s book locally. Lastly, I wish I could tell her that the things that made her feel “weird” in high school is now her part of her career that funds her bills, little travels, and dates with self & friends.

I am, by no means, saying that I am successful by society’s standard. There are boxes in my artist career checklist written 5 years ago that I no longer what to pursue. I am the kind of person who believes that success is defined by one’s self, and it’s not only limited to career but your life as a whole.

The shift.

If you’ve been following me on Instagram, you might’ve read a couple of stories I’ve shared about struggling with burnout and finding motivation to create personal art again. At first I was convinced that it was just a creative burnout. But, a burnout can’t possibly last for years, right? 😅 My second theory is that maybe deep down I wanted to just prioritize having a creative day job, since it brings in money to pay the bills. My last theory is how I feel like I’ve associated my creativity to my emotions, and that I could only create when I’m really going through something. (Like a heartbreak or during the peak of the panini.) And since I’m at my happiest state, I no longer feel the need to escape through art.

Whether it’s a burnout or something else, I do believe that I’m just taking my time. Quoting Ursula from Kiki’s Delivery Service, "Stop trying. Take long walks. Look at scenery. Doze off at noon. Don’t even think about flying. And then, pretty soon, you’ll be flying again.”

I don’t want to put myself in a box.

When you have a lot of interests, it’s kind of difficult to find an outlet for all the things that you want do. The internet advice always seem to tell you to “find a niche and stick with it.” But…what if I don’t want to? I really thought my dream was to become an independent illustrator, but somehow I found myself enjoying design too. As I described earlier, I am the kind of person who likes to explore anything that piques her creative interest — and this took me a while to fully embrace. Throughout the years, I also learned that I have non-creative skills that can thrive in a workplace such as team & project management. So why put myself in a box when there’s so much more out there that I can try out?

I still have a lot to figure out, but I’m slowly trying to get back to things I enjoy doing. I’m just really calm and happy right now being the most basic adult with her day job on weekdays and doing her silly little chores on weekends.

Whew, this is one lengthy post. Maybe I am a yapper, after all. Haha! But I do hope to share more of my life and thoughts here. If you’re still reading this, thank you and I hope you have a great rest of your day!

All love and sunshine,

Allyana

[transhuman-priestess]

I LIKE YOUR PHOTOS

how long have you been doing film photography? Any tips for beginners? I really want to get a film camera but the decision paralysis is toooouuuugh.

i uhhh

about two weeks?

as for recommendations: do you have a DSLR already? if so, get a body compaitble with the lenses you have. Shoot black and white first, developing is simpler.

[jace-snaps]

Life and Pictures: Entry #1

Starting as a Beginner: Exploring Photography Gear

In our first entry, we’re focusing on a crucial aspect for beginners: choosing and using the right gear. Whether you’re intrigued by the convenience of smartphones or the versatility of a DSLR, understanding your options can help you get started on the right foot. Let’s break down some popular choices and tips for getting the most out of your equipment.

1. Smartphones: Your Everyday Camera

Description:

Type: Point-and-shoot camera Characteristics: Light, convenient, user-friendly Suitable for: Casual users, beginners, and anyone who wants to capture spontaneous moments without carrying additional equipment.

Why Start with a Smartphone?

Always With You: Smartphones are incredibly convenient, making it easy to capture moments on the go. User-Friendly: Modern smartphones come with automatic settings that adjust for lighting and focus, making them perfect for beginners. Built-In Editing Tools: Many smartphones have robust editing features and apps, allowing you to tweak your photos directly on your device.

Tips for Smartphone Photography:

Use Grid Lines: Enable grid lines on your camera app to help you apply the rule of thirds, enhancing the composition of your shots. Tap to Focus: Tap the screen to focus on your subject. You can also adjust the exposure by sliding your finger up or down. Explore Apps: Play around with different photography apps to enhance your photos. Apps like Snapseed, VSCO, or Adobe Lightroom Mobile offer powerful editing tools.

Smartphones are equipped with built-in cameras that are perfect for everyday use. They are designed to be simple and intuitive, making them ideal for capturing quick and spontaneous shots. With the added benefit of editing apps, you can enhance your photos directly on your device.

Beginner Guide to Smartphone Photography:

2. Compact Cameras: Simple and Versatile

Description:

Type: Point-and-shoot camera Characteristics: Light, versatile, higher image quality than smartphones, better zoom capabilities Suitable for: Beginners and enthusiasts who want better image quality and more control over settings without the bulk of larger cameras.

Why Choose a Compact Camera?

Better Quality: Higher resolution and image quality than most smartphones. Zoom Capabilities: Optical zoom allows for better quality images than digital zoom. Manual Controls: More control over settings like aperture, shutter speed, and ISO.

Getting Started with Compact Cameras:

Learn the Basics: Familiarize yourself with aperture, shutter speed, and ISO. Use Auto Mode: Start with auto mode and gradually experiment with manual settings. Keep It Simple: Begin with the built-in lens; as you gain experience, you can explore more advanced settings.

Compact cameras, also known as point-and-shoot cameras, are lightweight and easy to carry. They offer better image quality than smartphones and come with manual control options, making them a great choice for those looking to improve their photography skills.

Beginner Guide to Compact Camera Photography:

3. DSLR Cameras: A Step Up in Quality

Description:

Type: Professional camera Characteristics: Larger, heavier, interchangeable lenses, superior image quality, advanced features Suitable for: Serious enthusiasts and professional photographers who require high performance, versatility, and superior image quality.

Why Choose a DSLR?

Exceptional Image Quality: DSLRs feature larger sensors, resulting in superior image quality, especially in low light. Interchangeable Lenses: The ability to switch lenses allows you to tailor your gear to your specific needs, from wide-angle shots to macro photography. Advanced Features: DSLRs offer advanced features like fast autofocus, multiple focus points, and high burst rates, making them ideal for capturing fast-moving subjects.

Tips for DSLR Beginners:

Learn Your Camera: Take time to understand the different settings and how they affect your photos. Manuals and online tutorials can be incredibly helpful. Practice with Different Lenses: Start with the standard kit lens, but explore other lenses as you become more comfortable. A prime lens can be a great way to experiment with depth of field. Join a Photography Community: Engaging with other photographers can provide valuable insights and feedback. Consider joining local clubs or online forums to share your work and learn from others.

DSLR cameras are known for their excellent image quality and flexibility due to their interchangeable lenses. They offer a wide range of manual controls and advanced features, making them suitable for various types of photography, from portraits to landscapes.

Beginner Guide to DSLR Camera Photography:

4. Mirrorless Cameras: The Modern Alternative

Description:

Type: Professional camera Characteristics: Light, compact, interchangeable lenses, electronic viewfinder, silent shooting Suitable for: Enthusiasts and professionals who want high performance and quality in a more portable package compared to DSLRs.

Why Go for a Mirrorless Camera?

Compact and Lightweight: Mirrorless cameras are smaller and lighter than DSLRs, making them more portable without sacrificing performance. High-Quality Images: They offer similar image quality to DSLRs, thanks to their large sensors and advanced technology. Electronic Viewfinder: Many mirrorless cameras feature an electronic viewfinder that displays your settings in real time, helping you visualize the final image.

Tips for Using Mirrorless Cameras:

Explore the Features: Mirrorless cameras often come with innovative features like 4K video recording and high-speed continuous shooting. Take time to explore these functions. Invest in Good Lenses: The quality of your lenses significantly impacts your photos. Start with a versatile zoom lens and consider adding prime lenses as you progress. Stay Updated: The technology in mirrorless cameras is continually evolving. Keep an eye on new models and firmware updates to make the most of your gear.

Mirrorless cameras combine the image quality and flexibility of DSLRs with a more compact and lightweight design. They use electronic viewfinders, allowing you to see exposure adjustments in real-time, and are known for their silent shooting capabilities.

Beginner Guide to Mirrorless Camera Photography:

5. Vintage Film Cameras: The Nostalgic Touch

Description:

Type: Professional camera (vintage/analog) Characteristics: Heavy, manual settings, unique aesthetic, requires film Suitable for: Enthusiasts and professionals who appreciate the classic film photography process and aesthetic, and those who want to learn the fundamentals of photography.

Why Try a Vintage Film Camera?

Unique Aesthetic: Film cameras offer a distinct look and feel, with a unique color rendition and grain structure that digital cameras often lack. Learning Experience: Shooting with film encourages a deeper understanding of exposure and composition, as you have fewer chances to correct mistakes. Tactile Experience: The process of loading film, taking pictures, and developing prints adds a tactile, hands-on dimension to photography.

Tips for Shooting with Film Cameras:

Choose the Right Film: Different films have different characteristics. Start with a versatile ISO 400 film, and explore different types as you gain experience. Develop Your Own Film: If you’re up for a challenge, try developing your own film at home. It’s a rewarding process that enhances your connection to the art. Embrace the Learning Curve: Film photography has a steeper learning curve, but the rewards are worth it. Take your time and enjoy the process of discovering what works best for you.

Vintage film cameras offer a nostalgic feel and a unique aesthetic that digital cameras can’t replicate. They require manual settings and film, which teaches discipline and a deeper understanding of photography basics. These cameras are appreciated by those who enjoy the tactile process and classic look of film photography.

Beginner Guide to Using Vintage Film Cameras:

Starting with photography gear can be both exciting and daunting, but remember, the best camera is the one you have with you. Whether you begin with a smartphone, compact digital camera, DSLR camera, mirrorless camera, or vintage film camera, the key is to explore, experiment, and find what inspires you.

Happy shooting, and may your journey through the world of photography be as fulfilling and creative as possible!