The Biggest Photography Secret

Ever look at a photo and thought wow, why don't my photos look like that?

I know you've thought this before! Perhaps, like me, you even bought a fancy camera thinking that the big, expensive camera was what you needed to create amazing photos.

The biggest secret is that it actually takes a lot of thought to create a stunning photo. Nobody gets there overnight and it certainly doesn't happen just from purchasing an expensive camera.

If you've ever worked with a professional photographer before, you know they tell you where they want you to stand. That's because they have analyzed the light and location to find the best spot for you. They probably even have a creative vision in mind that they are trying to create. It's also common for you to receive guidance on what to wear and how to pose. All those things have been carefully thought about.

Photographers make it look so easy but they are constantly thinking about a thousand things during your photoshoot! There's the light, background, camera settings, depth, angles, distance, composition, focus, white balance, clothing choices, location, posing, and how on earth they are going to get your toddler to stay still! But don't let that scare you!

There are some things you can do right now no matter where you are in your journey:

1) Explore composition rules. These rules are more like guidelines but help you to think about all the elements that make up your photo. There's actually a lot of science behind why it works too.

2) Understand light. Light is literally the most important element of any photo. There is easy light to work with and more difficult light to work with. Knowing which kind of light you have and how to use it to your advantage will make a significant impact on your photos.

3) Take creative control of settings. Perhaps you are still shooting in auto mode. Once you learn how to shoot in manual mode, you will be able to take more creative control over your photos. Or perhaps you may already be shooting in manual mode but are just randomly choosing settings. Having a process for deciding settings will help tremendously to create the vision you have in your head.

4) Pick up your camera. You've heard practice makes perfect. Picking your camera up

is the only way you are going to learn. I suggest picking it up with a purpose and reflecting on your photos.

I know that this process is not easy because it can feel so overwhelming with all that there is to learn. Remember that it doesn't happen overnight. Take one step at a time and as long as you are moving forward, you are moving in the right direction!

If you'd like support in your journey, I created Beyond the Snapshot just for you!! It's a monthly educational photography membership for moms. Each month, we deep dive into one topic and practice it all month that way it starts to become second nature. You'll receive video trainings, guided photo projects and challenges, live chats, and a chance to watch a professional photographer edit your photos.

Join today to get lifetime founding member pricing.

https://membership.valerieschoenfeld.com

And don't forget to follow me on Instagram for tips and tricks and join the private Facebook group for moms.