Congratulations

Congratulations on completing the Learn Digital Photography course. You have taken another step on an exciting and creative journey, one that can last a lifetime. The key to progressing further is practise and using your camera as often as possible (Partially so that you become very familiar with how your camera works, but also to develop your eye for composition.) It is also worthwhile to look at the work of other photographers for inspiration and ideas. Online resources, such as photographers’ websites,  are a good start but nothing beats looking at a well-printed book of photographs.

As you progress you will make mistakes. But this is nothing to worry about! Every photographer makes mistakes – to err is human after all. When you do make mistakes do not be downhearted, but look at the mistakes as objectively as possible. Try to work out what went wrong and how you can avoid the same errors in the future. 

If you can, show your photos to others and ask for fair and balanced criticism. Social media is one way to do this, though people can be too polite at times. Look for and join photography groups on your social media platform of choice, rather than relying on the comments of family and friends. (Too much gushing praise is almost as bad as crushing disapproval!) Consider joining a local camera club too, where you can meet like-minded people. If it is a good group – and most of them are – you should be able to call on the members’ experience to help improve your photography.

Above all have fun. Photography will help you see the world in a new way. And that is by far its biggest benefit.