Image shot by: Abrantie Sports

Speaking in an interview with a talented young creative from Ghana, Abrantie Ameyaw, we learn more about life on the field as a sports photographer, the nature of the art and the road map that beginners can adopt to get started in photography. 

Photography is an art form – a process of capturing still images and a medium of storytelling. The job of most photographers goes beyond creativity, into more a commercial means of documenting life, nature and many other events.

7 simple tips to follow as a beginner starting out in photography

Niche: A specific job suitable for a person, especially one that they enjoy! 
EX. In photography, finding your niche means focusing on one segment of the market and capitalizing on that.

1. Have passion for photography. Entering into this industry solely motivated by money will be the cause for your failure. Scaling up and monetizing on your skills as a photographer is important, however when starting out, its better to let passion be your main focus. That way you remain unshaken during the many struggles in the early stages as a photographer.

2. You need to learn the basics. These are very important in building your brand as a photographer. Learn and understand the exposure triangle, which comprises the ISO, Aperture and Shutter speed. Other important concepts you need to know are composition, editing, white balance, focus etc.

3. Pick your niche. This advice is very necessary in your journey as a beginner photographer. Having a niche allows you to experiment and maintain focus on one thing without the noise of a multiple tasks. There are quite a number of industries that require the skills of photographers, so choosing your what and how narrows down the learning process.

4. Add professionalism to your craft. That means having an up to date portfolio, being timely and exceptional with the work you secure, pitching your skills to more people and being consistent with your deliveries. 

Examples of some niche photography to consider: 
  • Film photography
  • Art Photography 
  • Sports photography 
  • Digital photography
  • Documentary photography 
  • Commercial photography 

Image source – unsplash.com

5. Be open minded  – An important skill you can have as a beginner is open mindedness. This allows you to interact with and experience people on a deeper level. It also creates space for continued learning and networking with colleagues in the industry. 

6. Be informed in all aspects. The art of photography is storytelling and so, being up to date with the trends and events happening in your environment gives you a fresh perspective on what and how to capture your images. Knowing more about the things of the industry and outside events of course shapes how you tell stories in your everyday work.

7. Always Practice – whenever you can and with whatever tool you have available, a phone or camera. Maintaining a daily ritual will surely expose you to more within your environment.

Read: Interview: On the Field with Sports Photographer Abrantie Sports

With these simple tips, we encourage you to explore your craft as a photographer. Always remember, there is nothing like a bad image. It’s a matter of idea, context and execution!

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