Thanks to the advancements in technology, learning photography has never been easier. Aspiring photographers can now learn the craft for free on their computers due to today’s near-unrestricted access to online education.
Without any background knowledge, it is tough to understand all of the photography-related terms and concepts, which can slow down your learning curve. That said, if you have access to the right books, lessons, videos, and can engage in tons of practice, then you will have a good handle on the principles of photography in no time.
We have compiled a list of the best photography tips and sources to help you learn photography for free. There are also some expert and novice courses available for everything from image composition and camera settings to lighting and photo editing processes.
How to Learn Photography for Free Through Different Mediums?
Photography is a skill that may be learned independently and at your own pace. There will be some trial and error, but as long as you keep you practicing, you will get better at it. The first step, of course, is to get ahold of a camera. Maybe it’s a friends, a family members, a gift or you already own one. That one is kinda hard to promise for free. But these resources sure are.
Online Courses with Media Platforms
No list would be complete without starting with the great World Wide Wide. The internet is a useful tool that can help you in this pursuit. A quick search will reveal a plethora of videos and articles available on how to use the camera you have chosen. Videos are especially helpful if you’re more of a visual or need to be more engaged. It is also helpful to browse through the comments from people who have used the camera already in the video.
Starting with YouTube channels. They are packed with easy-to-follow videos of reviews, tips, and other advice for photographers. You can also check out my list of resources here.
Get Reading Photography Books
You can also start reading a good book from your local library. They will inspire you and help you identify areas where you can try new things. That said, while you are studying, portfolios can be a source of tremendous frustration since you see what others can accomplish and strive to equal it. But don’t be disheartened; mastering photography takes time, just like learning any other good art form.
Keep Practicing as Much as Possible
Nothing will help you improve your photography skills more than practice, so bring your camera with you wherever you go and shoot anything remotely intriguing. You can take fifty photography classes, read every book on lighting and exposure, and talk about it all day long, but it is capturing photographs that will allow you to uncover your own distinct style and natural skill. You will be able to see where you need to improve and where you excel as you amass hundreds of photographs on your memory card. Keeping track of your early achievements and failures is an excellent idea so you can look back and see how far you have come.
Get Yourself a Credible Mentor
Mentorships and apprenticeships are often overlooked as a means of breaking into the photography industry. Many successful self-taught professionals cite working their way up the ladder during an internship as a method of learning the ropes.
Here is a pro tip though if you are wondering how to learn photography for free, do your homework on the company you will be working for. You need to build a friendship with someone who is willing to share their knowledge and has a positive attitude. Otherwise, you may find yourself sitting at a desk all day, filing paperwork and answering phones.
Photography Forums are a Great Way to Start
Photographers enjoy talking about their craft, but where do they vent their frustrations? Photography forums. Whether you want critical feedback on your work, want to learn more about a specific genre of photography, or have a question about your camera, forums are likely to have the answer. However, do not take anything someone says on a message board as gospel. When trying to learn photography for free, it is always a good idea to back up the claims you read on photography forums with more research.
Photograph Anything & Everything
It is worthless to have a camera if you do not have anything to take a picture of. If you do not have a subject in mind, you will waste a lot of time and energy trying to figure out what to do with the hundreds of dollars you just spent on your new camera.
The key is not to be picky here. You have got your camera; it is time to click the shutter release button and start taking pictures. Even the most mundane things can appear extraordinary at the right angle and with the right kind of lighting. That’s how it works in photography.
Conclusion
Learning and practicing photography is one of the most helpful things you can do for yourself. It, like other types of art, is an excellent tool for emotional and mental well-being. It may help you de-stress and gain perspective after a tough week at work. In addition, it will make you feel good and teach you essential life lessons like patience and endurance. Photography can also open up a whole new world to you through the lens. We hope that this article helped you in figuring out how to learn photography for free.
There are numerous fundamentals to photography, and you must follow certain rules and concepts in order to be a successful photographer. It can be overwhelming in the beginning but remember, the more you shoot, the better you will get at taking photos and gaining insight on how to improve. Good luck!
