Stuff Beginner Photographers ACTUALLY Need...

James Popsys
12 Dec 202019:19
EducationalLearning
32 Likes 10 Comments

TLDRThe video discusses recommended purchases for beginner photographers to improve their skills and enjoyment of the hobby. It emphasizes getting a camera with interchangeable lenses or that can shoot at different focal lengths to avoid boredom and frustration. Other tips include getting a standard prime lens as a versatile second option, cheap storage like an insert to make gear accessible, a comfortable camera strap, and setting goals based on parts of photos you like rather than judging entire photos or likes.

Takeaways
  • 😀 When starting photography, get a camera that can shoot different focal lengths to avoid getting bored and give yourself more chances of success
  • 👓 Consider getting a standard prime lens or telephoto as your second lens after the kit lens for more creativity or reach
  • 💰 You don't need to spend too much on your initial lenses - kit lenses are pretty good nowadays
  • 🎒 Have an easily accessible camera bag or insert to make sure you actually take your camera out with you
  • 🚶‍♂️ Get a good strap or clip to make your camera easily portable when you're out and about
  • 🎯 Set yourself goals based on parts of photos you like rather than just judging entire photos to better analyze and improve
  • 📈 Aim to continually increase the number of elements you like in your photos over time as a measure of progress
  • ⏱️ Cut down on obstacles to using your camera to increase the chances you'll keep doing photography
  • 🤳 You can start photography even with just a phone camera if it has different focal length lenses
  • 😊 Most importantly, make sure photography is enjoyable from the very beginning so you'll keep coming back
Q & A

  • What does the speaker suggest is the most important thing to look for when buying your first camera?

    -The speaker suggests looking for a camera that has interchangeable lenses or at least the ability to shoot photos at different focal lengths. This allows you to experiment with different compositions and not get bored using the same focal length.

  • Why does the speaker recommend getting a standard prime lens as a second lens?

    -The speaker recommends getting a standard prime lens as a second lens because it forces you to zoom with your feet and be more creative with compositions. Also, prime lenses are typically sharper and better in low light than kit lenses.

  • What are some advantages of kit lenses that the speaker mentions?

    -The speaker says kit lenses these days are pretty good quality and versatile in their focal range. They also represent good value compared to buying separate lenses.

  • What does the speaker say is crucial for enjoying a new hobby like photography?

    -The speaker says it's crucial that you really enjoy the first 10-15 times you do a new hobby. Getting some good photos early on will make it more likely you'll stick with photography.

  • Why does the speaker recommend using a camera insert or strap?

    -The speaker recommends using a camera insert or strap to make your gear more accessible when you're out. This removes any resistance to spontaneously taking photos when inspiration strikes.

  • What goal does the speaker suggest for improving as a beginner photographer?

    -The speaker suggests trying to identify parts of photos you like, and gradually increasing the number of those liked elements over time. This allows more nuanced progress tracking.

  • What does the speaker say is an awful way to judge your progress in photography?

    -The speaker says judging your photography progress by social media likes is an awful way to do it. It should be based on your own opinion of your photos.

  • Why does the speaker prefer filming videos outdoors?

    -The speaker says he prefers filming videos outdoors because he is an outdoors photographer, so it doesn't feel right to film indoors. However, outdoor filming can be difficult with changing weather conditions.

  • What does the speaker say is the most painful part of photography?

    -The speaker says that while it's fun looking at new gear, the most painful part is actually spending lots of money on new equipment.

  • What does the speaker recommend checking out for beginner photographers?

    -The speaker recommends checking out Skillshare, which has lots of photography classes for beginners looking to improve their skills.

Outlines
00:00
🤳 Introduction to the video and buying candles

The narrator introduces himself and mentions he bought a candle that reminds him of the Home Alone house. He also mentions this is about his 50th failed attempt at filming a video outdoors.

05:00
📷 Getting a camera with interchangeable lenses

The narrator explains the importance of getting a camera with interchangeable lenses or multiple lenses when starting photography. This allows practicing with different focal lengths and compositions.

10:00
🎒 Getting a camera bag or insert

The narrator recommends getting a cheap camera bag or insert to store gear. This makes accessing gear easier so you're more likely to take photos when opportunities arise.

15:02
📸 Setting goals and identifying parts of photos you like

The narrator suggests setting goals like identifying specific parts of photos you like, rather than judging if you like the whole photo. This can provide more focused feedback to improve.

Mindmap
Keywords
💡Interchangeable Lens Camera
An interchangeable lens camera (ILC) is a type of camera with a detachable lens, allowing the photographer to use different lenses for various photographic needs. In the script, the speaker emphasizes the importance of starting with an ILC or even a device like a smartphone that offers different focal lengths, to give beginners the flexibility to experiment with photography. This concept is crucial for beginners to understand as it opens up opportunities to explore different aspects of photography without being limited by a fixed lens system.
💡Focal Length
Focal length, measured in millimeters, determines the angle of view and magnification of a camera lens. In the script, the speaker discusses how different focal lengths can impact the composition of a photograph, suggesting that experimenting with various focal lengths can enhance a beginner's understanding of photography. This concept is essential for understanding how lens choice affects the appearance of subjects in photos, from wide landscapes to detailed close-ups.
💡Prime Lens
A prime lens has a fixed focal length, as opposed to zoom lenses that offer a range of lengths. The speaker suggests using a prime lens, like a 'nifty fifty', as it forces photographers to think more about composition and to physically move to frame their shots, thereby enhancing creativity. This advice is particularly relevant for beginners looking to develop a deeper understanding of photographic composition and the impact of lens choice on their work.
💡Kit Lens
A kit lens is a standard zoom lens included with the purchase of a camera body, often considered an entry-level option. Despite their reputation for being basic, the speaker acknowledges that modern kit lenses are quite capable and versatile for beginners. This perspective helps novices understand that starting with a kit lens is a practical and cost-effective way to begin exploring photography.
💡Bokeh
Bokeh refers to the aesthetic quality of the blur produced in the out-of-focus parts of an image. The speaker mentions bokeh as a desirable effect achievable with lenses that have a wide aperture, like many prime lenses, to create images with a sharp subject against a smoothly blurred background. This concept is valuable for beginners to understand how aperture and lens choice can be used creatively to enhance the visual appeal of photographs.
💡Photography Bags
Photography bags are specialized bags designed to protect and carry camera gear. The speaker suggests that while expensive photography bags may be excessive for beginners with minimal gear, having some form of protective and accessible storage for camera equipment is crucial. This advice is geared towards encouraging beginners to maintain their interest in photography by reducing barriers to taking their camera out and using it.
💡Goals in Photography
The speaker discusses setting personal goals in photography as a way to measure success and progress. Unlike hobbies with clear metrics for success, photography's subjective nature makes it important to establish personal benchmarks. For beginners, focusing on parts of photos they like and aiming to increase these over time is suggested as a more constructive approach than seeking validation through social media likes. This concept underlines the importance of self-reflection and personal growth in photography.
💡Composition
Composition refers to the arrangement of elements within a photograph. The script emphasizes the importance of considering composition, especially when using a prime lens, as it requires more thought and creativity due to the fixed focal length. Understanding composition is foundational for beginners, as it influences the effectiveness and visual appeal of their photographs.
💡Zoom Lens
A zoom lens offers a range of focal lengths, allowing for greater compositional flexibility without changing lenses. The speaker contrasts zoom lenses with prime lenses, highlighting their versatility and suggesting they can be equally beneficial for creative exploration. This information helps beginners understand the trade-offs between zoom and prime lenses, guiding them in making informed decisions about their first lens purchases.
💡Camera Strap
A camera strap is an accessory used to secure a camera to a person's body, preventing drops and allowing for easy access. The speaker recommends investing in a comfortable, high-quality strap to reduce the physical barrier to taking photos. This suggestion underscores the importance of considering not just the camera and lenses, but also the accessories that enhance the overall photography experience for beginners.
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Transcripts

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