Photography is an art form that has captivated people for centuries. With the advancement of technology, it has become more accessible than ever before. But, starting photography with a camera can be a daunting task, especially for beginners. The world of photography can be overwhelming with so many technical terms, camera settings, and composition rules. However, with a little guidance and practice, anyone can learn the basics and start capturing stunning images. This guide aims to provide a comprehensive introduction to starting photography with a camera, covering everything from understanding the basics of camera settings to mastering composition techniques. Whether you’re a complete beginner or looking to brush up on your skills, this guide will help you take your photography to the next level.
Understanding the Fundamentals of Photography
Exposure
Exposure is one of the most fundamental concepts in photography, and it refers to the amount of light that is captured by the camera’s sensor when an image is taken. Proper exposure is essential to produce well-lit and properly exposed images. The three main elements that affect exposure are aperture, shutter speed, and ISO.
- Aperture: Aperture refers to the size of the camera’s aperture, which is the opening in the lens through which light passes. Aperture is measured in f-stops, and a larger aperture (a smaller f-stop number) allows more light to enter the camera, while a smaller aperture (a larger f-stop number) allows less light in. Aperture also has an effect on the depth of field in an image, with a larger aperture resulting in a shallower depth of field and a smaller aperture resulting in a deeper depth of field.
- Shutter Speed: Shutter speed refers to the length of time that the camera’s shutter is open, and it affects the amount of light that is captured by the sensor. A slower shutter speed allows more light to enter the camera, while a faster shutter speed allows less light in. Shutter speed also affects the motion in an image, with a slower shutter speed resulting in motion blur and a faster shutter speed freezing motion.
- ISO: ISO is a measure of the camera’s sensitivity to light, and it affects the exposure of an image. A higher ISO setting makes the camera more sensitive to light, allowing for proper exposure in low light conditions. However, a higher ISO also results in more noise in the image, which can reduce image quality. A lower ISO setting makes the camera less sensitive to light, requiring more light to be captured for proper exposure, but results in less noise in the image.
In conclusion, exposure is a crucial element in photography, and understanding how to control and adjust aperture, shutter speed, and ISO is essential for producing well-exposed images.
Focus and Composition
When it comes to photography, focus and composition are two of the most important fundamentals to master. Proper focus and composition can make a huge difference in the quality of your photographs. In this section, we will discuss the key concepts of focus and composition that every photographer should know.
Focus
Focus is the point of attention in a photograph. It is the area that the viewer’s eye is drawn to first. There are several types of focus, including manual focus, automatic focus, and zone focus. Manual focus requires the photographer to manually adjust the focus of the camera, while automatic focus uses sensors to automatically adjust the focus. Zone focus is a technique that divides the frame into three zones: foreground, midground, and background. The photographer then focuses on one of these zones based on the desired composition.
Proper focus is essential for capturing sharp images. A sharp image is one in which the subject is in focus, while the background is blurred. This technique is called shallow depth of field and is achieved by using a wide aperture. A wide aperture allows more light into the camera and creates a shallow depth of field, which blurs the background and draws attention to the subject.
Composition
Composition is the arrangement of visual elements in a photograph. It is the way in which the photographer chooses to frame the subject and the surrounding environment. Good composition is essential for creating a visually appealing photograph.
There are several composition techniques that photographers can use to improve their photographs. One of the most common techniques is the rule of thirds. This technique involves dividing the frame into thirds vertically and horizontally, and placing the subject at one of the intersections or along the lines. This creates a more dynamic and visually pleasing composition.
Another composition technique is leading lines. Leading lines are lines in the scene that lead the viewer’s eye to the subject. These can be roads, paths, or even shadows. By using leading lines, the photographer can create a sense of depth and movement in the photograph.
Depth of field is another important concept in composition. Depth of field refers to the range of distance in a photograph that appears in focus. A shallow depth of field, as mentioned earlier, can be used to create a blurred background and draw attention to the subject. A deep depth of field, on the other hand, keeps the entire scene in focus, creating a more comprehensive image.
In conclusion, focus and composition are two essential fundamentals of photography. Proper focus and composition can make a huge difference in the quality of your photographs. Understanding these concepts and practicing them will help you to create more visually appealing and technically sound photographs.
Choosing the Right Camera for Your Needs
Factors to Consider
When choosing a camera for your photography needs, there are several factors to consider. Here are some of the most important ones:
Budget
Your budget will play a significant role in determining the type of camera you can afford. Cameras can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars, depending on their features and capabilities. If you’re on a tight budget, you may want to consider a used or refurbished camera, which can often offer great value for money.
Purpose
What do you want to use your camera for? If you’re a beginner, you may want to start with a camera that’s easy to use and has basic features. If you’re a professional photographer, you’ll need a camera that can handle more advanced features and settings.
Type of Photography
The type of photography you plan to do will also influence your camera choice. For example, if you plan to take landscape photos, you’ll need a camera with a wide-angle lens. If you plan to take portraits, you’ll need a camera with a telephoto lens.
Additionally, if you plan to shoot in low light conditions, you’ll need a camera with good low-light performance or a lens with a wide aperture.
It’s important to consider these factors carefully when choosing a camera, as they will all affect the quality of your photos. By taking the time to assess your needs and preferences, you can choose a camera that will meet your requirements and help you take great photos.
DSLR vs Mirrorless Cameras
When it comes to choosing a camera for your photography journey, two popular options are DSLR (Digital Single-Lens Reflex) and mirrorless cameras. Understanding the key differences between these two types of cameras will help you make an informed decision that best suits your needs.
Key Differences
- Design: The primary difference between DSLR and mirrorless cameras lies in their design. DSLRs use a mirror to reflect light from the lens to an optical viewfinder, while mirrorless cameras don’t have a mirror or an optical viewfinder. Instead, they use an electronic viewfinder (EVF) or the rear LCD screen for composition.
- Size and Weight: Due to their mirrorless design, mirrorless cameras are generally smaller and lighter than DSLRs. This can be an advantage for those who want a more portable setup or prefer to travel light.
- Autofocus: Mirrorless cameras often have faster and more accurate autofocus systems compared to DSLRs, particularly in video recording. This is because the image sensor in mirrorless cameras can communicate more directly with the autofocus system.
- Image Quality: Both DSLR and mirrorless cameras can produce high-quality images. However, DSLRs tend to have better high-ISO performance, meaning they can capture more detail in low-light situations. Mirrorless cameras, on the other hand, often have better video capabilities and faster frame rates.
Pros and Cons
DSLRs:
- Pros: Established ecosystem, good low-light performance, and more affordable entry-level options.
- Cons: Heavier and bulkier, less silent operation, and less advanced autofocus in video mode.
Mirrorless Cameras:
- Pros: Smaller and lighter, faster autofocus, and better video capabilities.
- Cons: Often more expensive, shorter battery life, and less extensive lens selection.
By understanding the key differences and weighing the pros and cons, you can make an informed decision about which camera type is best suited for your needs and preferences.
Essential Accessories for Your Photography Kit
Tripod
- Importance of Stability
- Types of Tripods
Importance of Stability
A tripod is an essential accessory for any photographer, especially for those who are just starting out. It provides stability and allows for longer exposures, which is important when shooting in low light conditions or when capturing sharp images of moving subjects. Additionally, a tripod can help you achieve precise composition and allow for more creative freedom when experimenting with different angles and perspectives.
Types of Tripods
There are several types of tripods available, each with its own set of features and benefits. Some of the most common types include:
- Standard Tripod: This is the most basic type of tripod and is suitable for most photographers. It has three legs and a vertical center column that can be adjusted to different heights.
- Travel Tripod: This type of tripod is designed to be more compact and portable than a standard tripod. It has a smaller footprint and may have legs that can be detached for easier transport.
- Monopod: A monopod is a single-legged tripod that provides more mobility than a standard tripod. It is ideal for photographers who want to capture moving subjects or for situations where a tripod is not allowed.
- Gimbal Tripod: A gimbal tripod is a specialized type of tripod that uses motors and sensors to stabilize the camera. It is ideal for videographers who want to capture smooth and stable footage.
When choosing a tripod, it is important to consider your specific needs and the type of photography you plan to do. Consider factors such as weight, height, and compactness, as well as the type of camera and lenses you plan to use. With the right tripod, you can improve your photography skills and capture sharper, more stable images.
Lens Filters
When starting out in photography, investing in a few essential accessories can greatly enhance your image-making capabilities. One such accessory is a lens filter, which can help to protect your lens, reduce glare, and enhance the overall quality of your images. Here are three types of lens filters that every photographer should consider:
Polarizing Filter
A polarizing filter is an essential accessory for any photographer, as it can help to reduce glare and reflections, as well as increase saturation and contrast in your images. A polarizing filter works by blocking certain wavelengths of light, which can help to reduce glare and reflections on shiny surfaces. This filter is particularly useful when shooting landscapes, as it can help to bring out the vibrant colors and details in your images.
UV Filter
A UV filter is designed to protect your lens from the harmful effects of ultraviolet light. This type of filter can help to reduce the risk of lens flare and ghosting, as well as protect your lens from scratches and other types of damage. While a UV filter may not have a significant impact on the overall quality of your images, it can provide peace of mind knowing that your lens is protected.
Circular Polarizer
A circular polarizer is a type of filter that can help to reduce glare and reflections in your images, while also increasing saturation and contrast. This filter works by blocking certain wavelengths of light, which can help to reduce glare and reflections on shiny surfaces. A circular polarizer is particularly useful when shooting landscapes, as it can help to bring out the vibrant colors and details in your images. Additionally, a circular polarizer can also be used to create a unique effect known as a “circular vignette,” which can add a creative touch to your images.
Memory Cards
Memory cards are a crucial component of any photographer’s kit. They are used to store the images captured by the camera and are essential for preserving and transferring those images to other devices for editing, sharing, or backup purposes. When choosing memory cards, it is important to consider two key factors: storage capacity and write speed.
Storage Capacity
The storage capacity of a memory card refers to the amount of data it can store. It is important to consider the amount of storage you will need based on the type of photography you plan to do and the file size of the images you plan to capture. For example, if you plan to capture high-resolution images, you will need a memory card with a larger storage capacity. It is also important to consider the number of images you plan to store on the memory card, as well as any other files such as videos or GPS data.
Write Speed
The write speed of a memory card refers to the speed at which data can be written to the card. This is important because it affects the camera’s performance and the time it takes to transfer images to the card. A faster write speed means that images can be written to the card more quickly, allowing you to take more images in a shorter amount of time. It also means that you can transfer images to your computer more quickly, allowing you to review and edit them more efficiently.
When choosing a memory card, it is important to consider both the storage capacity and write speed. A good rule of thumb is to choose a card with a write speed that is at least as fast as the camera’s buffer speed. This will ensure that the camera can keep up with the rate at which images are being captured and prevent buffer overflow. Additionally, it is a good idea to choose a card with a capacity that is large enough to accommodate the number of images you plan to capture without having to swap cards frequently.
Learning the Basics of Camera Settings
Understanding Camera Modes
When it comes to starting photography with a camera, understanding the different camera modes is essential. Each mode serves a specific purpose and allows you to control different aspects of your photographs. Here’s a breakdown of the four main camera modes:
Program Mode
Program mode is the automatic mode that allows you to capture images without having to worry about any technical settings. In this mode, the camera chooses the shutter speed, aperture, and ISO based on the lighting conditions. This mode is great for beginners who are still learning the basics of photography.
Aperture Priority Mode
Aperture priority mode allows you to control the aperture while the camera automatically selects the shutter speed. This mode is ideal for controlling the depth of field in your images. By adjusting the aperture, you can control how much of the image is in focus and how much is blurred.
Shutter Priority Mode
Shutter priority mode allows you to control the shutter speed while the camera automatically selects the aperture. This mode is ideal for controlling motion in your images. By adjusting the shutter speed, you can control how much motion is captured in the image.
Manual Mode
Manual mode allows you to control all aspects of your camera settings, including aperture, shutter speed, and ISO. This mode is ideal for experienced photographers who want complete control over their images. In manual mode, you must manually adjust all settings to achieve the desired exposure.
Overall, understanding the different camera modes is essential for starting photography with a camera. By mastering these modes, you can control different aspects of your photographs and achieve the desired results.
Metering Modes
Metering modes are an essential aspect of photography, as they determine how a camera measures light. There are three primary metering modes available in most cameras: Evaluative Metering, Center-Weighted Metering, and Spot Metering.
Evaluative Metering
Evaluative metering, also known as matrix or segment metering, is the most commonly used metering mode. It measures light across multiple areas of the scene and calculates the exposure based on the overall brightness and contrast. This mode is ideal for most everyday shooting situations, as it provides a balanced exposure for a wide range of subjects.
Center-Weighted Metering
Center-weighted metering gives more weight to the light metered in the center of the frame, making it useful for portraits or other subjects that are off-center. This metering mode is particularly helpful when there is a strong light source in the scene, such as a backlight, and the subject is not in the center of the frame. It tends to preserve highlights and shadows on the subject while maintaining a balanced exposure for the rest of the scene.
Spot Metering
Spot metering measures only a very small area of the scene, typically around 1-5% of the total area. This metering mode is ideal for high-contrast scenes or when the subject is highly reflective, such as snow or water. By measuring only a small area, spot metering ensures that the exposure is precise for the subject, while the rest of the scene may be underexposed or overexposed. However, it is essential to use a tripod and carefully choose the spot to meter from to avoid unintended exposure errors.
Understanding and selecting the appropriate metering mode is a crucial step in achieving the desired exposure in various photography scenarios. Experimenting with these metering modes and learning their characteristics will help you master the basics of photography and achieve more accurate and balanced exposures.
Auto White Balance
Understanding Color Temperature
Color temperature refers to the color cast that is added to a photo and is measured in Kelvin (K). The average color temperature is around 5600K, which is close to the color temperature of daylight. Color temperature can affect the mood and atmosphere of a photo, with cooler temperatures (below 5600K) producing a blueish tint and warmer temperatures (above 5600K) producing a reddish tint.
Adjusting White Balance
Adjusting the white balance can help to correct the color cast in a photo and ensure that the colors appear natural. Most cameras have an auto white balance (AWB) setting that will automatically adjust the color temperature based on the lighting conditions. However, if the AWB setting does not produce the desired results, the white balance can be adjusted manually by selecting a preset or by using the Kelvin scale.
Setting White Balance in Different Lighting Conditions
- Daylight: Set the white balance to “Daylight” or use the Kelvin scale to set it to around 5600K.
- Shade: Set the white balance to “Shade” or use the Kelvin scale to set it to around 6500K.
- Cloudy: Set the white balance to “Cloudy” or use the Kelvin scale to set it to around 6500K.
- Tungsten: Set the white balance to “Tungsten” or use the Kelvin scale to set it to around 3200K.
- Flash: Set the white balance to “Flash” or use the Kelvin scale to set it to around 5600K.
It is important to note that the white balance settings may vary depending on the camera brand and model. Consult the camera manual or online resources for specific instructions on how to adjust the white balance on your camera.
Shooting in RAW
Benefits of Shooting in RAW
Shooting in RAW provides several benefits that can help improve the quality of your photographs. By capturing the image in its raw, unprocessed form, you have more flexibility to adjust the exposure, white balance, and other settings without losing image quality. Additionally, shooting in RAW allows you to extract maximum detail from the image, which can be especially useful in high-contrast scenes or when shooting in low light conditions.
How to Enable RAW on Your Camera
To enable RAW on your camera, you’ll need to make sure that your camera supports this feature. Many modern DSLRs and mirrorless cameras have this capability, but it’s always best to check your camera’s manual or manufacturer’s website to confirm. Once you’ve confirmed that your camera supports RAW, you’ll need to enable it in your camera’s settings. This typically involves navigating to the menu and selecting the RAW option, which may be located under the image quality or shooting settings menu. Keep in mind that shooting in RAW will require more storage space on your memory card, so you may need to purchase a larger capacity card or consider using an external hard drive to store your images.
Developing Your Photography Skills
Experimenting with Different Genres
Introduction to Different Photography Genres
Photography is a diverse field with various genres, each with its unique characteristics and techniques. Experimenting with different genres is an excellent way to expand your skill set and find your niche as a photographer. Here are some popular genres to explore:
- Landscape Photography: This genre captures the beauty of nature, including mountains, forests, oceans, and skies. Landscape photographers often use wide-angle lenses to capture sweeping vistas and dramatic lighting to create stunning images.
- Portrait Photography: Portrait photography focuses on capturing the personality and character of a subject, usually a person. It involves posing, lighting, and composition techniques to create engaging and flattering portraits.
- Street Photography: Street photography captures the essence of everyday life, showcasing people, places, and moments in public spaces. It often involves candid shots and requires the photographer to be sensitive to their surroundings and the people they’re photographing.
Benefits of Experimenting with Different Genres
Experimenting with different genres can help you:
- Develop a diverse portfolio: Showcasing your skills in various genres can make your portfolio more appealing to potential clients or employers.
- Enhance your technical skills: Each genre has its own technical challenges, such as working with natural light in landscape photography or managing low-light situations in street photography. Experimenting with different genres can help you become more proficient in various aspects of photography.
- Discover your passion: Trying different genres can help you identify which type of photography you enjoy the most, allowing you to focus on developing your skills in that area.
- Gain inspiration: Experimenting with different genres can expose you to new ideas and techniques, helping you grow as a photographer and find fresh perspectives for your work.
Tips for Experimenting with Different Genres
- Start with a specific goal: Before diving into a new genre, set a specific goal for yourself, such as capturing a certain type of landscape or creating a series of street portraits. This will help you stay focused and motivated.
- Learn the basics: Before attempting advanced techniques, make sure you understand the fundamentals of each genre. Read articles, watch tutorials, and study the work of established photographers to gain a solid understanding of the key concepts and techniques.
- Practice, practice, practice: The more you practice, the more comfortable you’ll become with different genres. Make it a habit to experiment with different techniques and subjects regularly.
- Experiment with different equipment: Different genres may require different equipment, such as specialized lenses for landscape photography or a fast prime lens for street photography. Don’t be afraid to try new gear and see how it affects your shots.
- Join photography communities: Joining online photography communities or attending local meetups can provide valuable opportunities to learn from others, share your work, and get feedback on your efforts.
By experimenting with different genres, you’ll not only broaden your skills but also discover new areas of photography that you may have never considered before. Embrace the opportunity to explore and grow as a photographer.
Understanding Light
When it comes to photography, light is one of the most important elements to master. Understanding how to work with light can make a huge difference in the quality of your photos. In this section, we will explore the different types of light and how to use them to create stunning images.
Types of Light
There are two main types of light: natural light and artificial light.
Natural Light
Natural light is the light that comes from the sun and is available outdoors. It is often considered the best type of light for photography because it is soft and diffused, which creates a natural and flattering look. The quality of natural light can vary depending on the time of day and the weather conditions.
Artificial Light
Artificial light is created by electrical sources such as bulbs, LEDs, or strobes. It can be used indoors or outdoors and is often used to supplement natural light or to create a specific mood or effect. There are several types of artificial light sources, including flash, continuous light, and LED lights.
Backlight
Backlight is light that comes from behind the subject and is often used to create a dramatic or moody effect. It can be used to separate the subject from the background or to create a sense of depth and dimension.
Using Light to Enhance Your Photos
Once you understand the different types of light, you can start to use them to enhance your photos. Here are some tips to help you get started:
- Use natural light to create soft and flattering portraits.
- Use artificial light to add contrast and drama to your photos.
- Use backlight to create a sense of depth and dimension.
- Experiment with different lighting setups to find the one that works best for your subject and the mood you want to create.
Remember, light is a powerful tool that can be used to create stunning images. By understanding the different types of light and how to use them, you can take your photography skills to the next level.
Editing Your Photos
Editing your photos is an essential part of the photography process. It allows you to enhance the images you have captured and bring out the best in them. There are two main types of editing: basic editing in camera and advanced editing in post-processing.
Basic Editing in Camera
Before you even take the photo, you can make some basic edits in camera. This includes adjusting the exposure, white balance, and other settings to ensure that you get the best possible image straight out of the camera. This can save you time and effort in post-processing.
Advanced Editing in Post-Processing
Once you have captured the image, you can use post-processing software to make more advanced edits. This includes adjusting the exposure, contrast, and color balance, as well as adding filters and effects. It also allows you to remove any unwanted elements from the image and enhance the overall quality.
Software Options
There are many software options available for editing your photos, including Adobe Photoshop, Lightroom, and GIMP. Each of these software options has its own set of features and tools, so it’s important to choose the one that best suits your needs and skill level. Some software is more advanced and may be better suited for experienced photographers, while others are more beginner-friendly.
Regardless of the software you choose, the key to successful editing is to have a good understanding of the basic principles of photography, such as exposure, contrast, and color balance. By mastering these skills, you will be able to enhance your photos and bring out the best in them.
Tips for Improving Your Photography Skills
As you begin your journey in photography, it’s important to keep in mind that developing your skills takes time and practice. Here are some tips to help you improve your photography skills:
Practice, Practice, Practice
The key to improving your photography skills is to practice regularly. The more you shoot, the more you’ll learn about composition, lighting, and other important aspects of photography. Make it a goal to take a certain number of photos each day or week, and challenge yourself to improve with each shot.
Shoot Regularly
In addition to practicing regularly, it’s important to shoot often. This will help you develop your eye for photography and give you more opportunities to experiment with different techniques and styles. Whether you’re shooting landscapes, portraits, or still life, make sure you’re always pushing yourself to improve.
Learn from Other Photographers
Another great way to improve your photography skills is to learn from other photographers. Look at the work of professionals and amateurs alike, and pay attention to the techniques they use, the composition of their shots, and the way they use light and color. You can also attend workshops and seminars, or participate in online photography communities to learn from others and get feedback on your own work.
Join Photography Communities
Finally, consider joining photography communities, either online or in person. This can be a great way to connect with other photographers, get feedback on your work, and learn from others. You can also participate in photo contests and challenges, which can help you push yourself to improve and learn new techniques.
By following these tips and practicing regularly, you’ll be well on your way to mastering the basics of photography and developing your own unique style.
FAQs
1. What type of camera should I start with for photography?
Answer: When starting out in photography, it’s best to begin with a DSLR (Digital Single-Lens Reflex) camera. DSLR cameras are versatile and offer a lot of control over settings like aperture, shutter speed, and ISO. They also have interchangeable lenses, which allow you to customize your setup for different shooting scenarios. Entry-level DSLRs are usually affordable and easy to use, making them an excellent choice for beginners.
2. How do I choose the right lens for my camera?
Answer: Choosing the right lens for your camera depends on your shooting preferences and the type of photography you want to pursue. If you’re just starting out, it’s best to invest in a standard zoom lens that covers a wide focal range, such as a 18-55mm lens. This lens can be used for everything from landscapes to portraits and is a good all-around choice for beginners. As you become more experienced, you can explore specialized lenses for specific genres, like telephoto lenses for wildlife photography or wide-angle lenses for landscape photography.
3. What are the essential camera settings I should know when starting out?
Answer: When starting out in photography, it’s essential to understand the basics of aperture, shutter speed, and ISO. Aperture controls the amount of light entering the camera and affects the depth of field in your images. A larger aperture (a smaller number) will result in a shallower depth of field, while a smaller aperture (a larger number) will produce a deeper depth of field. Shutter speed determines how long the camera’s shutter is open, and it directly affects the exposure of your images. A slower shutter speed (below 1/60s) can introduce motion blur, while a faster shutter speed (above 1/60s) will freeze motion. ISO controls the camera’s sensitivity to light, and a higher ISO setting will result in a brighter image but with more noise.
4. How do I properly hold and handle my camera?
Answer: Holding and handling your camera correctly is crucial for getting sharp, well-composed images. To hold the camera, rest it against the front of your palm, with your fingers curled around the lens and the shutter button at your right hand. Support the camera from underneath, and keep it steady by bracing it against your body or using a tripod. When taking a shot, press the shutter button gently and avoid holding your breath, as this can cause camera shake. Always be mindful of your surroundings and anticipate any movements that may affect the sharpness of your images.
5. What are some basic photography techniques I should know?
Answer: Some basic photography techniques to familiarize yourself with include the rule of thirds, leading lines, and composition. The rule of thirds involves positioning your subject at the intersection of two imaginary gridlines that divide the frame into thirds. Leading lines are lines in the scene that lead the viewer’s eye to the subject. Composition refers to the arrangement of visual elements within the frame, such as color, texture, and shape. These techniques, along with others like exposure, focus, and depth of field, will help you create well-balanced and visually appealing images.
6. How can I improve my photography skills over time?
Answer: Improving your photography skills over time requires practice, patience, and a willingness to learn from your mistakes. Start by experimenting with different shooting scenarios, genres, and techniques. Study the work of other photographers, both amateur and professional, to gain inspiration and a better understanding of the art form. Attend workshops, take online courses, and read photography books to expand your knowledge of the craft. Lastly, never stop shooting, and always be open to constructive criticism to help you grow as a photographer.
