So you just picked up a camera (or your phone) and you’re ready to dive in. You want your shots to look pro.. moody, sharp, emotional but you’ve got no idea where to start. Don’t stress. Everyone starts somewhere, and honestly, gear matters way less than ya think.
Here’s a little no bullshit guide to leveling up fast without losing your style in the process.
1. Don’t Obsess Over Gear (Yet)
You do not need the latest camera body or a $2,000 lens to create bangers. Some of my favorite shots were taken on a beat up Nikon with super glue holding the grip together. Learn to master whatever you’ve got. You don't have to go into the deep depths of camera settings, find the sweet spot of what works for you.. focus on light, emotion, and composition first those are the real game changers.
Pro tip: If you’re gonna invest in anything early, make it a prime lens (like a 35mm or 50mm). Relatively cheap, sharp, and forces you to think about your framing more.
2. Shoot Constantly, Shoot Everything
Your eye is a muscle.. use it. Photograph your mates, your dog, your coffee, that random alley with cool shadows you see on you way to work / school. The more you shoot, the more you’ll start to see the world like a photographer. Don’t wait for “the perfect moment.” Just start shooting. You’ll learn more by doing than by watching 10,000 YouTube tutorials.
Make those mistakes because it the best way to learn and improve your skills.
3. Light is Everything
You could have the best camera in the world, but if the lighting’s shit house, the photo’s probably gonna be… well, shit.
Pay attention to:
• Golden hour (an hour after sunrise or before sunset)
• Shadows and contrast, little light pockets.
• Soft, diffused light on cloudy days (sooo underrated)
Start learning how to see light, not just use it.
4. Stop Copying. Start Remixing.
It’s fine to be inspired, but don’t just try to copy and paste someone’s shot. Ask yourself: What do I love about this photo? Is it the color? The vibe? The mood?
Take that and smack it around a bit.. twist it into your own style. The goal isn’t to be a clone.. It’s to create work that feels like you.
5. Learn How to Edit Without Overediting
Yes, presets help heaps.. but if you don’t know how to tweak white balance, shadows, or skin tones, your photos will come out looking like Kanye dropping a new song.. confusing, chaotic, and guaranteed to piss someone off.
.
Start with:
• Lightroom (mobile or desktop)
• Learning basic color grading
• Playing with textures, overlays, or grain for character
Need a shortcut? Use my preset packs designed to give that gritty, editorial, emotional feel—but always adjust for your image.
6. Photograph People. It’s Harder (and Way More Rewarding)
Photographing people teaches you about connection, emotion, angles, and storytelling. It’s not just about how they look, it’s about how they feel as well. Whether it’s a portrait of your best mate or a candid street shot.. start paying attention to expression and energy.
7. Your Shit Will Suck at First. Keep Going Anyways.
No one starts out with a banger portfolio. You’ll take thousands of bad shots. That’s the point.
Take the Ls. Learn from them. Then level up.
Final Thoughts
You don’t need permission to call yourself a photographer. You just need passion, consistency, and a bit of grit. Don’t overthink it. Don’t wait till you’ve “made it.” Get out there, start shooting, and fuck around until you find your style.
You’re a pro the moment you decide to back yourself <3