3 of my Favorite Resources for New Photographers
When I was starting out in photography I had an encourager (my Yearbook advisor, Mr. Bartlett), a mentor (Tim from Patrick Photography) who helped me with my Senior project when I started my business, and a teacher.
My teacher was Jessica Cudzilo. She had a business called 503 Photography and back in 2009 I won a spot in her photography class. And I learned more about photography from her than I had ever learned before. She helped me make the jump to using my camera on Manual, she helped me understand proper exposure, and she made me feel confidant with the camera in my hands.
She doesn't have that business anymore, but she still teaches. In fact, she is the founder of an incredible online photography school called The Define School. This is the first of 3 of my favorite resources for new photographers.
Jessica has brought together some of the most talented and influential photographers in the industry to teach classes like: Wedding - Booking Out Your Year, Client Interaction, and the one that I recommend From Auto to Manual that Jessica herself teaches. Incredible classes, incredible teachers. I am a firm believer in being a life-long learner. This is a great resource for you to do just that.
Jasmine Star has been a HUGE influence on my photography. Her style is so distinct, and she is so giving. She teaches, shares her 'secrets' and encourages other photographers so much. One of the biggest ways she's done this in the past is through her self-published magazine called "Exposed." It chronicles her journey in the industry, sharing her struggles, mistakes, victories and the things she's learned along the way. Her style of writing really moves and inspires me. This magazine made me feel less alone in my own journey. I'm sure it will do the same for any photographer in any stage of their business. Its honest, real and beautiful to look at too! I would add to it any new photographer's "must buy" list.
3. Pinterest
This resource might seem kind of obvious... yeah, of course Pinterest is going to be full of inspiration. But I believe that one of the best ways to learn and grow and find your own style as a photographer is to try as many different things as you can! Practice, experiment, make mistakes, try again, ask for help and suggestions, give something new a try. That is why Pinterest is included in my list of favorite resources for new photographers. It has helped me grow immensely in discovering my style of shooting. This picture above is one of my favorite boards I have on Pinterest: my Portrait Inspiration board. I look for poses to try, props to use, lighting styles. It blows me away and inspires me to know that there are so many other creative photographers out there. And they share. And we get to learn from them. Such a gift! Pinterest is also full of business tips, blogging tips, help for creating smooth customer relationships. I think its becoming the "new Google." I always go here first when I need to know something.
