8 Years of Photography Advice
Eight years ago, my friend and I had just turned 18 and decided to start a production company. We were incredibly naive, but that journey led me to explore photography in depth. Over the past eight years, I have learned valuable lessons—not just about taking pictures, but about creativity, vision, and the deeper meaning of photography. In this post, I will share eight photography lessons, one for each year, that go beyond the usual tips and tricks. This is 8 years of photography advice packed into one post!
Lesson 1: Learn the Rules—Then Break Them
Photography is filled with rules, from the rule of thirds to leading lines and golden ratios. While these are great tools to help you compose better images, they are just that—tools. They are not strict laws you must always follow. As you progress, you’ll realize that knowing when to break these rules is just as important as knowing how to use them. Instead of rigidly following guidelines, think of them as methods that you can apply when appropriate. Experiment, explore, and develop your own style.
Lesson 2: Don’t Chase Gear, Chase Your Vision
When I first started photography, I was obsessed with upgrading my gear. I thought the next camera, lens, or accessory would make me a better photographer. While new gear is exciting, it only takes you so far. After a while, you’ll realize that the best camera is the one you have with you, and what truly matters is your vision. Ask yourself: Why do I love photography? If the answer is only about the gear, you may lose interest over time. Instead, focus on refining your creative vision and storytelling.
Lesson 3: Light is Everything
Photography, at its core, is about capturing light. Understanding how light works—its direction, quality, and intensity—will make a bigger difference in your photography than any camera upgrade. Learn to observe light in everyday situations, experiment with natural and artificial lighting, and see how it shapes your images. The best photographers know how to manipulate light to create mood and emotion in their photos.
Lesson 4: Consistency Beats Inspiration
Waiting for inspiration is a trap. The best photographers don’t rely on feeling motivated; they rely on discipline. Show up consistently, shoot regularly, and put in the work even when you don’t feel like it. Your skills improve through repetition, not through waiting for the perfect moment.
Lesson 5: Editing is an Art in Itself
Taking the photo is only half the process; editing is where you refine your vision. Learn to edit your images with intention rather than just applying random presets. Your editing style should enhance your photography, not overpower it. A well-edited photo can turn a good shot into something extraordinary.
Lesson 6: Tell a Story, Not Just Take a Photo
A technically perfect photo without a story often feels empty. Think beyond just composition and lighting—what is the emotion, the message, or the experience behind the image? The best photos make people feel something.
Lesson 7: Failure is Part of the Process
Not every shot will be great, and that’s okay. In fact, failure is necessary for growth. The sooner you embrace mistakes and learn from them, the faster you’ll improve. Don’t be afraid to take bad photos—it’s all part of the journey.
Lesson 8: Your Unique Perspective is Your Superpower
In a world filled with photographers, your perspective is what sets you apart. Focus on what excites you, what moves you, and what makes your work unique. Trends come and go, but authenticity lasts.
This was 8 years of photography advice packed into one post!
Photography is more than just taking pictures—it’s a lifelong journey of seeing the world differently. Keep learning, keep experimenting, and most importantly, keep shooting.
Which of these lessons resonates with you the most?
FAQ: 8 Years of Photography Advices
Some of the most important lessons for beginners include:
– Learning the rules of photography and knowing when to break them.
– Understanding that gear is secondary to creative vision.
– Mastering light and how it affects your images.
– Staying consistent rather than waiting for inspiration.
Rules like the rule of thirds and leading lines are great guidelines, but they shouldn’t limit your creativity. Once you understand them, breaking these rules can help you develop a unique style and create more compelling images. Photography is about storytelling and emotion, not just perfect compositions.
Instead of upgrading your camera, focus on:
– Understanding light and how to manipulate it.
– Practicing composition and storytelling.
– Learning editing techniques to refine your images.
– Shooting regularly to develop your skills.
Mastering light is the most critical skill in photography. Light affects mood, depth, and the overall impact of an image. Learning to see and control light—whether natural or artificial—will improve your photography more than any piece of equipment.
Don’t wait for inspiration—build a habit. Some ways to stay consistent include:
– Setting small challenges for yourself (e.g., a daily or weekly photo project).
– Experimenting with different styles and techniques.
– Engaging with a photography community for feedback and motivation.
– Focusing on progress rather than perfection.
Editing allows you to refine your vision and enhance your images. It’s not about applying filters but about adjusting colors, contrast, and composition to bring out the best in your photo. A well-edited image can turn a good shot into an extraordinary one.
Failure is a natural part of growth. Every photographer takes bad photos—it’s how you learn. Instead of getting discouraged, analyze what went wrong, adjust, and keep shooting. The more you experiment, the better you’ll become.
Your unique perspective is your superpower. To develop your style:
– Shoot what genuinely interests you.
– Experiment with different techniques and editing styles.
– Look at a lot of photography but don’t just copy trends.
– Reflect on what makes your work feel authentic to you.
– Trends come and go, but your personal vision is what makes your work stand out.
Photography is more than just taking pictures—it’s about seeing the world differently. Keep learning, experimenting, and most importantly, keep shooting. The journey is just as important as the final image.
