tips and advice for better photography from professional photographer Lynn Keddie.

Falling off the tightrope-tips for better photography

27/6/2015

rigs

A few years ago I went to a seminar by Andy Rouse, the award winning wildlife photographer.

I don't want to be a wildlife photographer I specialise in horticulture, so why did I go?

I went because

I can use some of his tips and techniques for my own photography.
he enthusiastic and passionate about his photography; this is infectious
he is inspiring and a great presenter

I photograph people so I took a course by Boo Beaumont, also an award winning portrait photographer. The opposite in character to Andy. Boo is quietly spoken. She too is passionate and inspirational.

If you want to make it in this business you need to get out there.

You may find yourself in situations that may feel difficult, or,

Photograph in less than ideal conditions.

After 15 years in the business here are my tips to keep your work fresh and get even better:

Observe. Watch the world around you.

photograph at different times of the day
photograph in different weather conditions
photograph inside and out
photograph at night

Experiment. Get out of your comfort zone.

photograph subjects you wouldn't normally choose
use a different lens
set up your camera differently
process your shots a different way

Read, look, research images

check out books, magazines, blogs (like this one!)
take yourself off to an exhibition
get onto Pinterest or Instagram to see what the world is doing
try and shoot a subject differently
accept failures
be current, use styles of photography that are happening now, or
develop your own, you never know, it might catch on!

Enjoy yourself. Don't be tough on yourself if things don't work out

ask for advice from professionals-you can even ask me!
get feedback from friends-hey one of my best selling images was going to go in the bin.
if you lose your confidence, and it happens, relax and remember a time when you really enjoyed your photography and get back into that zone. It works.