2018 has officially begun! While 2017 was definitely not the greatest year of my life (or for the world),  it was a year of many lessons. I pushed my limits, dove more into Lightroom and Photoshop, took more photos, and learned new techniques that I want to share. Here’s a compiled list of tips and lessons to think of for 2018. 

Photography Tips 

• It doesn’t matter if someone has a more expensive camera or gear than you. You can create amazing quality photos with cheaper gear.
• Do your research before buying. Watch videos, tutorials, and go to a DSLR seller (Best Buy) and play with their cameras before picking a new one. 
• Lenses are more important than camera bodies (In my opinion)
• Know how to use the Rule of Thirds
• Move around your subject when you find a pose you like vs moving them. Crop photos below/above joints. It’s more flattering.
• Always edit your photos to where the subject POPS
• Presets are awesome, but you do not want to rely on them. A good way to learn about editing is to set a preset on a photo and try to go backwards and make the photo look like it did in the original shot. You will learn ALOT about your editing software.
• Don’t compare yourself to other photographers. You can be inspired by their work, but it’s not a competition. Compete with yourself to be better than you were yesterday. 
• Aim to inspire others. Share your work and encourage/support fellow photographers in the field.
• Be open to new ideas. I started shooting concert photos and evolved into some portrait photography. Be creative with ugly locations.
• And lastly, don’t give up. It’s not always easy. With some drive and confidence, you can go anywhere.

Here’s to 2018 and all the new lessons I will learn this year.