How Can I Learn Photography Skills?
- Liz Wadman
- Dec 2, 2022
- 4 min read
Updated: Dec 16, 2022

I love taking photos. I've been doing it since I was a kid, but recently I've been feeling the pressure to get better at it. And because there's so much information out there on how best to learn photography skills, it can be hard to know where to start. So here are some tips for learning everything from basic techniques like composition and lighting up through more advanced topics like Photoshop editing or darkroom techniques:
Practicing everyday
Practice makes perfect. That’s what we all want to believe, but the reality is that practice can only take you so far. If you want to become a better photographer, then it's important to keep practicing your skills and improving your technique over time.
Practicing every day will help improve your photography skills in several ways:
Your brain learns how to process information faster and more efficiently (which is why we're always talking about learning as much as possible)
You'll get used to taking pictures quickly and without any struggle (this helps with self-confidence)
Get a mentor
Do some research to find someone that is best suited to teach you. Although you may find one of the best photographers, unfortunately, not everyone is a great teacher. Make sure you find the best fit.
Mentors can help you learn the basics of photography, such as lighting and composition. They will also be able to show you how to improve your technique, develop your style and get started in your career.
Mentors can help with business and marketing because they know what works well on social media platforms like Instagram or Facebook, which are used by many photographers these days!
Take a class (at your local college or community center)
Go to a local community center or college. You can find classes in your area of interest, such as photography, graphic design and more. Even some vocational high schools have courses for adults you can take, and they are usually on the cheaper side.
Check out the instructor’s background, experience and availability before signing up for a class. Ask about how long the class will be and how often it will meet.
If you don’t have access to a camera or computer with Photoshop software on hand when you need it most (like during your commute), consider purchasing one from Amazon so that you can start taking pictures right away!
Many cities have photography clubs, where you can meet other people who are passionate about taking pictures. You can also find local classes through your local community center or college. You can find classes in your area of interest, such as photography, graphic design and more. Check out the instructor’s background, experience and availability before signing up for a class. Ask about how long the class will be and how often it will meet.
Set goals and track growth
As you work toward your goals, it's important to keep track of what you're doing. You can do this by using a journal or spreadsheet program such as Microsoft Excel or Google Sheets.
If you don't know where to start, try setting some simple goals for yourself:
How many photos do I take per week?
How many new species can I find in my area?
Once these are set up, it'll be easier for you to measure how well (or poorly) they're working out for everyone involved!
Join Photography clubs
If you're looking for a local photography club, there are several places you can go. You could check out the Photography Club of America (PCA) website and find one near you or just contact the local chapter and see if they'll let you join.
For those who want to learn online, there are plenty of options as well. You can also look up websites like Skillshare or Lynda that offer courses on photography skills and techniques. Some even offer free access!
Online photography clubs can be a great way to meet other photographers and learn new skills. You'll find that many of these sites are moderated by professionals, who can answer your questions and provide feedback on your work. It's also worth noting that some people prefer face-to-face interaction over online forums. This is especially true for those who want to learn more about photography but aren't sure where to start.
Read books, magazines & articles on photography
It's important to read books, magazines and articles on photography. It will help you learn how to take better photographs, or at least get some ideas of what you can do with your camera.
You can find a lot of information online too, but there are some great resources that I've found:
Photography magazines - there are many different kinds of photography magazines out there; if you're interested in learning about specific types of cameras or lenses then these might be helpful for your learning goals! For example if someone was looking for advice about macro photography then they could check out Popular Photography magazine which has been around since the 1930s (!) so it's got lots more than just tips on taking great photos!
Articles online - there are plenty more articles floating around than just those written by professional writers (which usually means someone who makes their living writing about things like fashion trends). These days there's even been an increase in people writing their own blogs offering advice on how best use their gadgets/software etc., which makes sense since everyone wants something new every day right?
This is the book that I have been using lately to refresh my skills! There is even a coupon to get 5% off! Buy it for you, or the budding photographer in your life. https://amzn.to/3j7ugLC
Takeaway:
You can learn photography skills in a variety of ways. Some people want to go straight to a class or book, while others may prefer to simply look at photos and try to recreate them.
Whatever method you choose, the main point is that photography is a great hobby that will help you improve both your eye for detail and your ability as an artist.
The right way to learn photography is through practice and experience. You can't learn everything overnight, but with the right tools and motivation you'll soon find yourself becoming a better photographer.

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