How do I get started?

[cookieluvr2005]

Ok, i'm completely new to this website. I'm a high schooler and I've decided I want to go into photography. It has always been an interest of mine and was my dream at one point. but i got sidetracked and decided I wanted to be a journalist. However i've poo-pooed the idea and am back to photography for good. Journalism was never a good fit.
There's so much to learn with photography and so much equipment! It's a lot to take in when you're beginning. I've done some research and it's a headache. I was thinking i should go to the people who are already in photography for a good starting place. This site seemed pretty decent so here I am!
Any tips, pieces of advice, etc. are welcome. Stories of how and when you started too! Anything and everything
I figured General Discussion was a safe place to post this because I didn't know where else to put this. Well besides the n00b thread because I didn't know if anyone who has experience looks at that haha.
If I'm wrong please tell me!

[oldwolf]

take a photography class while you're still in HS.

start reading the tutorials here.

gl with it.

[PhotoRebel4]

Hey, while I may not be able to offer many tips, I can relate to your story a bit. I'm also a high schooler, but not planning on going into photography (just a hobby). I just bought my first DLSR (a Canon Rebel XSi), and I love it so far.

What helped me a lot was what you're already doing. Research. If its about something you love, it shouldn't be a headache. I know it wasn't for me.

Anyways, I'm sure you'll get some better tips than mine. Good Luck

[oldwolf]

Originally Posted by PhotoRebel4

If its about something you love, it shouldn't be a headache.

This is a very good point. If it's something you love then it shouldn't be a headache. There is not easy way to achieve or attain the things you love. If it's a headache then you have to ask yourself if you really love what you're trying to achieve? It shouldn't be a problem for you to research and learn all you can about something you love or want to do.

[J. r. Weems]

Cookie~ I am new here as well, but just an old film guy. Take any course in HS you can. For us old folks, we cut our teeth on film, which is still around, and can teach you a lot. Many of us had our own darkroom at one time or the other. You can learn loads there as well. You have the world at your door these days with a computer in hand. Your tools are only limited by your budget. Camera bodies come and go, but funds spent on QUALITY lenses will last a lifetime, barring a problem. With my D700 I can use lenses from my F2A (Nikon film) from 1975. Learn lighting---in every form you can. The bottom line, you can have the best equipment, etc., but if you don't have light, you have nothing. Can you make a living at photography? Many do, but more don't. It can be a rough field to break into, but learn to love what you do, and believe in yourself. I got in to digital about 5 years ago when I got a little sure shot as a gift. The more I did, the more I wanted to do. First move was to a D 80, then last spring to a D 700. So, I am new at this, but still want to learn all I can to improve, which is why I am here. I do mostly outdoor work, but am now moving into using a flash, and some indoor stuff. Have to as my Granddaughter is now 5 and now in the area. Ask all the questions you can or care to, and do not be put off by the know it all purist -- everyone has to start somewhere. For us old guys, it keeps our minds active.
Best of luck to you, and feel free to PM me anytime, if I can help with a question.
Best,
J. R.

[cookieluvr2005]

Originally Posted by oldwolf

This is a very good point. If it's something you love then it shouldn't be a headache. There is not easy way to achieve or attain the things you love. If it's a headache then you have to ask yourself if you really love what you're trying to achieve? It shouldn't be a problem for you to research and learn all you can about something you love or want to do.

Sorry I wasn't very clear. The research has been fantastically fun! It's just a headache trying to figure out what to do with all the information that I have now. And I already plan on dropping newspaper next school year to take photography.

J. r. Weems: Thank you so much! I just might end up PMing u

PhotoRebel4- Oo thanks for the camera I'll look into it.It's just the sorting through the info thats a headache. thanks again!!

[Quo Fan]

The short answer is to take a lot of pictures.

The long answer is to learn. Start with composition, since bad composition can't be fixed in post. Learn lighting, both on camera and off. Photoshop is NOT cheating. It is the equivalent of the dark room in film. Take more photos. Ask for CONSTRUCTIVE criticism. Don't take any criticism personally, consider the source. Don't be afraid to try different things. Take more photos. If you don't understand something, ASK. The only stupid question is the one you don't ask.

[PnwGuy]

I too had always wanted to get into photography and just like you I got sidetracked. Unlike you, next thing I know I'm 45 and realizing life goes by damn fast and I finally started photography, so you are way ahead of the game.

Why not be a photojournalist?

As for a starting point, you already have one. Don't worry so much about the equipment until you have the basic skills down. Take a class, find a mentor, be an intern, and most of all just shoot. 90% of what I've learned about photography has been through reading books and finding information on the Internet, especially DPS. Also find a local photo meetup group or photo club.

You seem smart and focused so be patient and keep at it and you'll be fine.

[Agata]

I really like the newsletter from DPS. The forum always has some great tips and ideas and we have so many nice and talented photographers of different levels, it's a blessing!

So research, read and make notes! ;-) I have a small journal going from the last year with tips, techniques and anything that I found interesting.

Most importantly remember that there are aways good days and bad days - never give up! If you're not happy with your photos just give yourself a little rest and try again.

I remember when I was starting out, there were days I was just so unhappy with my photos that I wanted to list my camera for sale and then a week later I came up with something I really liked. It's always a learning process. :-P While I am still sometimes unhappy with my photos I know that it's just a learning process.