How to use a SLR camera. Just about the complex. Tips for beginner photographers

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Have you just bought or been given a digital camera and don't know how to approach it? Start with us from the first lesson! (This page contains ALL eight lessons of the World of Digital Photography school.)

By the end of the photography course, you may not become a Photographer with a capital letter with your own photo studio filled with professional expensive light, but you can definitely take a competent photo. To study if not all the facets of photography, but its basics, basic principles and now everyone can realize their hidden potential as a photographer!

Photography from scratch Lesson #1. Digital camera device

In this lesson you will learn: The principle of operation of the camera. What are the basic elements of a camera?

This will be our first lesson...

(The article is very detailed, long and voluminous, therefore it is placed on a separate page of the site)

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Hello readers of my blog! I'm in touch with you, Timur Mustaev. So, you have decided to master the art of photography? Maybe you want to read something from the theory first, or maybe immediately turn to practice? Both options are not bad, and the main thing here is to start! I suggest that you start learning photography from scratch in the form of several stages. In principle, some of them can be interchanged, if desired, however, it is important to follow the plan. It is consistency and focus that will help you not only when studying photography, but in any other business, if you take it seriously.

Do you have a festival of colors Holi? This is an Indian holiday where all people smear each other with food, dry paints, different color. In our city, it is already in its 4th year. And only this year, I managed to get on this interesting show. As you probably know, I studied in India for one year, received a master's degree, you can read about this in the "About the Author" section, and so, there I got acquainted with this holiday, one might say from head to toe.

Did you like the holiday? Would you like to participate in such an event? What do you think about it?

Let's continue our topic of the article.

Several large blocks can be distinguished:

Technical block. Aperture, shutter speed and light sensitivity are the most important parameters, which you need to master to understand the system for creating a photo image. There is a lot of information about them on the Internet, on my blog, you can also find the necessary information, and everything is written in plain language. In addition, take the trouble to study the internal mechanisms of your camera.
Aesthetics. When you look at your own or someone else's photo creation, does something catch you? Yes, it happens. A feeling of peace may arise, a photograph may cause awe, tenderness, or, conversely, excitement, anxiety. This is the subjective experience when perceiving a photograph. The picture gives us certain emotions, we like to look at the moment captured on it, especially if it is original enough, it looks harmonious. Better yet, tell a story. This is achieved by pictorial and expressive means, which are also worth reading about separately: this is perspective, a combination of colors, and the proportions of objects, etc.
Composition. Everything that photography does can be expressed in one phrase - it carries meaning. And all of the above is aimed precisely at expressing your thought. It is the semantic orientation of the frame that makes it truly valuable. main idea can be concluded in a certain social message, admiration for an image or view, an unusual lighting solution, etc. It is also important to learn how to see the frame - interesting moments, shooting point, light, and so on.

How often do you purposefully look at and curiously study the pictures of professional photographers? I can say that this is a great way to learn photography, as you learn from a specific well-known example. I advise you to pay more attention to the pictures of specialists, to actively analyze your own photos. Do not be afraid of criticism from the outside! In most cases, it is useful.

Two important tips.

Very detailed and not one or even two, but 3 and 4 times, read the instructions for your SLR camera. Remember everything key points that are written in it.
After in-depth study instructions, I would recommend you a course " Digital SLR for beginners 2.0". Very great video course. In which all the basics of photography are explained in a simple and understandable language. The course will be very helpful for beginners.

Camera selection

There are a lot of camera models now. There are also kenon, nikon, sony ... On initial stage not so important company, each of them has advantages and disadvantages. In principle, you can learn the basics of photography on the “soap box”. But I advise you to immediately take a mirror, not too expensive. And choose a lens called “universal”, for example, usually with SLR cameras entry level, whale lenses are sold, 18-55 mm. or 55-105 mm., it is better to take the second one. If money allows, you can buy, even more versatile, 18-200 mm. It is suitable for many shooting situations, be it landscape, portrait or subject photography, and will give you the opportunity to experiment while you learn photography. Budget DSLR and versatile lens - optimal combination for those who are just starting to dive into the world of photography.

The above lenses are available from both Nikon and Canon.

Simple rules for good shots

At the end of the article, I put together a few points that will make it easier and easier to create interesting photos. Especially for beginners, they should be studied carefully. So:

Metering - very useful thing. You can see a scale in your viewfinder in your camera. So this is it. If you are already familiar with the various modes of the device, but are not sure whether you are setting the shooting parameters correctly, contact it for help. The metering value should be around 0, then the picture will turn out to be well lit - and not dark, and not overexposed.
Use the built-in flash as a last resort - it gives a bright, but absolutely flat and ugly image, especially when shooting people, it unpleasantly hits the light directly into the eyes. Consider purchasing an external flash - it will help you more than once in the future.
Photographed objects (people) can be different shapes and be in a different position. The main rule here is: if the object is pulled up (a glass, a tower, a tree, standing man), then select a vertical frame if it is extended to the side (building, car, road), therefore, it is horizontal.
My favorite theme is the horizon, that is, the line between the earth (water surface) and the sky. With rare exceptions, it should always be straight! Keep an eye on it, don't shoot mindlessly. If, when viewing, there is a feeling that you are falling, this is clearly a bad impression that will remain from your photographic work.
If your hands are not yet accustomed to holding the camera tightly, take a tripod with you if possible. It will stabilize the camera, and the pictures will be clearer. And it's better to always use tripods, I do that.
Master graphic editor. For example, you can start with a simple and functional Lightroom utility. It is very powerful for photo processing. Personally, I have been using it for a long time. Even a little photo processing in it will greatly improve your picture. 95 percent of all frames need some retouching! There are many courses on lightroom, but not all of them are of high quality. I would recommend watching the course Lightroom wizard. Secrets of high-speed photo processing". It is very simple and understandable.

I hope you already have something clear in your head? Read my articles, starting with the very first. Consistent reading of them will form the correct thinking and concept of photography in your head, and you will begin to understand the basics of photography.

See you soon, my dear readers! On my blog, we have already dealt with many important concepts. useful information more and more, and I again encourage you to read my blog, comment and subscribe to it. Don't forget to share with your friends on social media. Don't miss any important information! See you soon!

All the best to you, Timur Mustaev.

Photography has become an art, a fashion hobby and a daily practice. Most take pictures for social networks on smartphones, many take pictures with professional and semi-professional cameras. Modern high-quality shooting requires special knowledge and skills.

We have selected the best free online photography video tutorials for beginners for self-study from scratch at home. Master classes and advice from practicing masters.

How easy it is to learn photography

The success of the shot depends on the photographer, not the high cost of the camera and related equipment. The path to the perfect shot lies through the search for an interesting plot, beautiful light, creativity, the ability to properly set up the camera and equipment.

Which camera to choose. detailed instructions

The first step on the way to quality work is choosing a camera. The world of megapixels, sensors, apertures, shutter speeds and lenses seems confusing and complex at first. A storm hits the newbie specifications in which it is difficult to navigate independently. What to pay attention to first of all? A short video about the types of cameras, the principles of operation and the advantages of models will help you to choose equipment consciously.

Manual shooting mode. Photography for beginners

Having decided to become a professional, it's time to move beyond the automatic shooting mode and master the manual one. An idea about the device of the camera and the processes of work helps to quickly understand the intricacies of manual settings. We offer detailed video lesson, where for clarity and memorization internal structure the camera and its operation are compared to the human eye. No complicated terms at the intersection of anatomy and photography. The video shows examples of settings and the result.

Composition in photography

The success of a shot is 80% dependent on the composition. Knowledge and application of special rules create depth, space and volume in photography. With the help of compositional techniques, the pros are able to manipulate the viewer's gaze, draw attention to the desired object and create a certain mood. Remember the law of linear perspective from the drawing course at school? The master class will complement school knowledge two more types of perspectives: aerial and tonal, and will also demonstrate other ways to get a balanced shot.

Focusing. Master class for beginners

Knowledge of the basics of composition for a good composition of the frame is not enough. Due to camera and hand shake, incorrect focusing, the image is blurry. Masters prefer manual setting, the frame is as clear as possible. The author of the video notes more than fifty focus points. Which method to choose - each photographer decides individually and experimentally.

The main mistakes of working with light

Proper lighting guarantees bright shots. Before each click of the shutter, it is recommended to monitor the light sources and its quality. The results of errors with light are sharp shadows on the face, “dirty light”, greenish or faded skin color, “black holes” instead of body parts, smeared silhouettes. Lesson about correct location light sources and objects in the frame will help to increase the level and quality of work.

How to use an external flash

The design of modern flashes and their functionality are quite complex and hardly amenable to intuitive mastery. In the master class, blog host Mark Rybak talks about flash control, modes and buttons, reflectors and light diffusers, ways to shoot "through the ceiling", "through the walls" and "head on". After watching the video, you will be able to adjust the flash depending on the lens width and focal length, the height and width of the room, and weather conditions. Learn how to avoid overexposure, eye flare, and other professional effects.

Studio photography

When shooting in the studio, you can immediately see what the photographer really is: an amateur or a professional. A real specialist is well acquainted with studio equipment and knows how to use it competently. There are several lighting schemes with single and multiple light sources that help to get harmonious shots. The main thing is to place light sources and reflectors on correct distance and steer in the right direction. The result is diffused light and soft shadows. The tutorial video shows a set of lighting schemes for different types filming.

Shooting a portrait on the street

Natural light footage can look bright and professional even without post-processing. A few minutes spent learning the secrets of street photography can save you hours of Photoshop work. The pro talks about the need to switch attention from place to light when choosing a location for shooting. How to learn to see the light? What hours are prohibited for outdoor photography? How to position the model relative to the incident light? Learn the answers from short video with an example of a successful portrait photograph taken on the street.

macro photography lesson

The genre of macro photography allows you to consider the invisible world of nature. Plants and insects enlarged many times seem fabulous, and the frame catches the eye for a long time. A master class on shooting the macro universe is given by master Ilya Gomyranov: he teaches how to create interesting color patterns and dynamics, shows the equipment and the necessary items for such a photo walk.

Being able to seek advice from professional photographer or to a photography tutor, most beginners ask about the “right” camera or the “best” lens or the “top tip” on how to become 50 times better in one moment. Such questions seem quite logical when you pick up a camera for the first time.

But the aspiring amateur photographer should stay away from these questions... at least for a while. Photographic equipment is important and you will learn a lot from the pros useful tips, but it is necessary to keep paramount things in priority.

Follow these seven tips and start your photography journey with the right steps.

First train ride. Photo credit: Spragues

1. Education is primary, technology is secondary

You know what they say, "spend money on experiences, not things." Scientific research support this statement. The fact is that even a fleeting experience will remain a part of your personality, and not just an object that you own.

This is not only great advice for life, but also a completely underrated recommendation for photographers. Choosing between a brand new camera or lens and a seminar or a trip to amazing place, most beginners will prefer technique. Don't make this mistake.

Attend good seminars or go on photo tours to unfamiliar places. Famed National Geographic photographer Jim Richardson once said, “If you want to be the best photographer, be where something interesting happens.”

The Canon EOS-1D X won't do you any good if you don't know how to use it...and unless you have something in your backyard that needs to be photographed at 14 fps. Spend money on education, gain experience, forget about photographic equipment for a while.

New profile photo. Author of the photo: Valentin Kouba

2. Shoot for yourself, not for others

If you are shooting with the goal of creating something similar to other popular images, collecting likes or comments, then you are not on the right track. This applies to all art forms, especially when you are a beginner. Your main audience is yourself.

Shoot what you love. Focus on the things that inspire you. It should bring joy first of all to you. People will notice and appreciate your creativity and individuality.

Little photographer. Photo by: Jaromir Chalabala

3. Create artificial limits for yourself

One of better ways for a beginner to improve skills is to limit yourself. It is possible in the genre, but now we are talking about technology.

Try shooting exclusively with your smartphone for a month and see how your ability to visualize composition changes when you stop thinking about image quality. Or limit yourself to one lens for two or three months, and you will notice how your understanding of focal length grows by leaps and bounds.

Constraints are one of the best ways to grow. Intentional boundaries in the use of equipment, shooting only at certain times of the day, black and white photography for a month are great options for artificial boundaries.

An effective way to develop mastery in yourself is to master new facets of the craft by setting limits for yourself.

Take me, photographer! Author of the photo: Vadim Trunov

4. Find your niche

This is the first piece of advice I give to every newbie, although they rarely listen to it.

Every aspiring photographer dreams that Jimmy Chin, Steve McCurry, Henri Cartier-Bresson and Paul Nicklen will simultaneously be embodied in his face. But you can't become a master of street and travel photography, portraiture and photography at the same time. wildlife... or you can, but sometime later, not right away.

Experiment with various directions photography, you do not need to make a choice momentarily. But once you find what you like best, focus on that. You will be surprised how much faster your growth will be when you get rid of the compulsive need to do everything.

Define your specialization. Find your own niche and focus on it. Get to know the depth of your genre instead of covering everything superficially.

Nothing to lose. Photo by: Pedro Quintela

5. Slow down

One of the things we've lost with the explosion of digital photography is the value of time spent. With up to 1,000 RAW images on a memory card, why not set it to burst mode and record at 14 frames per second, right? No, not right.

Yes, speed does sometimes help to capture a great shot, but this is reminiscent of the saying: “Even a blind squirrel can accidentally find an acorn.” Don't be a blind squirrel. Learn to breathe calmly, scout the area, carefully compose the frame, patiently shoot.

Pressing the shutter should be the culmination of thought and preparation. Are you planning a composition that you would like to capture? Scout the area in advance and determine best time days or even a season to take a picture? Do you evaluate the filming potential of the scene you see, even without being on the set?

Digital photography has brought with it a lot of opportunities and we do not propose to refuse it. Just start shooting as if your camera were loaded with a 36-frame roll of film. Slow down, it's worth it.

Young Buddhist Monks. Author of the photo: Saravut Intarob

6. Join the community

Choose the community you like and join 500px or Facebook or Google+ or whatever.

Joining a group of amateur photographers has undeniable advantages. You are more likely to be pointed out to the mistakes that you made, or offered interesting perspectives that you yourself might not have guessed.

It's also incredibly rewarding to share your love of photography with other photographers and the whole world. Don't get bogged down in popularity competitions, keep shooting for yourself. But in the community, your professionalism will begin to grow faster.

This article will be of interest primarily to those who have purchased a SLR camera, shoot in automatic mode, but want to move on.

Let's consider the exposure compensation mode. There are a lot of questions about depth of field and what affects it. When you focus, objects become sharp at a certain distance from the camera. That is, there is a certain plane in which all objects are seen sharply. But this is in the ideal case, in fact this plane has some assumptions that depend on . The smaller the aperture, the greater these assumptions (the wider the area where objects are sharp) and vice versa, the larger the aperture, the smaller these assumptions.

For greater clarity, I will give examples of photographs from different meaning and which clearly show how the depth of field changes from its value.

Note how much the depth of field depends on the f-number, which indicates how open the aperture is. I want to mention two things right away: the first picture is not photoshop. This really happens when the aperture is fully open. And the fact that the second photo is strongly "stretched" in Photoshop. Don't be embarrassed by the fact that with the same settings and shutter speed it changes, and the photo is not much darker.

A few words about the choice of shooting parameters. To begin with, you must decide for yourself what is more important for you to "freeze / smudge" the movement or the depth of field. In the first case, priority is for you, in the second. For example from personal experience I can say that shutter speeds of 1/60 second when shooting slow moving or stationary objects (portrait, landscape, walking person, still life, etc.) are enough to get rid of movement and motion blur. If you are shooting something faster, for example, cars, a race of athletes or a flying bird, then the shutter speed should be reduced to 1/100 second, and if you have a goal to photograph a drop in flight or a falling object, then the exposure time should be set to less than 1 /500 seconds to freeze movement.

Also, based on my own experience, I can say that an aperture smaller than f5.6 often leads to the fact that only the object that is focused on is sharp, and everything else is blurred, and such an effect is not needed in all cases.

A few examples for which frames, which is more important.

The same story
f11.0, ISO 100, Exp 1/250

It was necessary to narrow the depth of field as much as possible, that is, to open the aperture as much as possible.
f1.8, ISO 100, Exp 1/80

The same requirements as for the previous photo.
f1.8, ISO 400, Exp 1/80

Pay attention to the ISO setting for the last two photos. It varies a lot, and everything else is completely the same, however, both photos came out "normal" this is due to the fact that in the first picture there was much more light illuminating the paper than in the second.