Where do I start?

[Steffanyace]

I am a complete novice when it comes to photography, and I'd like to be better at having my pictures turn out like the image/idea I have in my head if that makes sense without having to spend a lot of time in photoshop. I'm really interested in nature/animal photography especially insects, action, and long distance shots. I'm currently working with a (okay don't laugh) Canon Optura 60 digital camera (camcorder and regular camera all in one). I would really like to get to the point that I could move up to a more professional camera to get the shots I want but want to wait until I'm more knowledgable to know what would be the best fit. So . . . Is there an online course, DVD's, etc. that you would recommend? Thanks!

[jprime84]

In my opinion there is no need for a formal course. In fact, DPS has plenty of articles to get you started.

At some point you will hit a gear barrier with wildlife photography, as those critters are almost always far away and quick. Therefor, you will need some expensive gear to get the good shots.

That said, plenty of learning can be done at little or no cost in the meantime online.

[palerider]

Read all that's on this page. It helped me a great deal and it's free...

http://digital-photography-school.co...-for-beginners

[Steffanyace]

I guess what I'm saying is I could use a roadmap to learning the foundation stuff. I like the information on this site, but some of it is hard to remember or apply since I don't yet have a good foundation to base the knowledge on.

[Palladius]

First thing to concentrate on (I reckon) is composition... sorry if this is a bit patronising, but I'm going for really basic

• Don't put your subject in the centre of the frame. You want the most interesting bit a third of the way from one edge (preferably two)
• Change your angle. Don't just put your camera up to your face and shoot. Get low, get high*, find an angle that's different from what you'd normally see
• Strong lines are good in a shot, especially if they draw your eye across the frame
• Look at your backgrounds, make sure they're not distracting from the subject
• Look at the edges of the frame, not just the subject

Most importantly, make sure you know what your subject is. What are you trying to shoot.


* No pun intended.... although, you never know. It might help!

[mfreg]

I think the best way to build a foundation is by doing...get involved in this site, post some of your photos, get some opinions, try some different things. At least for me, things stick a little better through trial and error. Don't get me wrong, reading and viewing other peoples work is also very important....have fun, welcome to the forum.

regards,
mike