Three Investments For New Photographers
When you are just beginning photography and playing with the idea of making it a career or at least investing it in as a hobby, there are countless of things you can do or can buy to help you get there. Call me simple but I think most of the techy suggestions or gear bits and bobs are quite useless and a waste of money for a beginner photographer. Simple is best in my mind when it comes to investing in your camera kit. Staying up-to-date with the latest gear or putting yourself in debt just trying to buy the most expensive camera on the market isn’t necessary to create a well-rounded portfolio let alone call yourself “photographer.” Gear is wildly expensive, especially if you don’t have any income coming in from your photography. It can be a very expensive hobby, to say the least! There’s nothing wrong with that if you can afford it, but I think what’s most important is that you are out there shooting, developing your eye, nurturing your sensitivity and skills. There are three things that I think are wise investments to make if you are just starting or looking to take your photography to the next level.
1. A decent lens, the best you can afford
That may be a 24-70mm 2.8 F or a 50mm or 35 mm 1.4 f prime to start. I think those are essential focal lengths for any photographer, regardless of ability. There really is no comparison between a kit lens and a high-quality lens. These will cost you a pretty penny but you will have them for a lifetime. Your camera really is only as good as the glass you use. My I bought my first camera used for $600 and it was a workhorse paired with an amazing lens like my 50mm 1.4 f. Camera bodies change year after year with new technologies but lenses rarely change in technology or make so lens will retain their value years after you buy them. A good lens will not only produce breathtaking images but also help you define your style and will be able to handle shooting in low light with a large aperture. When choosing your lens, I suggest investing in one with an aperture of at least 2.8 f.
2. Education
2. Invest in your education whether that’s an online course, in-person workshop, or mentorship program. I wish I had done this sooner, it dramatically improved my photography. There are countless courses and workshops on a variety of photography topics out there. I prefer in-person workshops as you can learn in a hands-on approach and meet wonderful fellow photographers, but everyone learns differently. In addition, a mentor who is there by your side, coaching and advising you is priceless. I have a mentor myself, and it’s the one decision I wish I had made sooner. Someone who can nurture your growth and help you navigate tricky business decisions can help you achieve your dreams and fast-track your success.
3. Travel
You may not have expected this one but I think travel is one of the best ways to improve your photography and build a portfolio. I would invest any extra money that I possibly have for a new lens into a trip instead. Traveling expands your soul and exposes you to so many different scenes, scenarios, people, and places that you wouldn’t otherwise experience. I always come back home so inspired and craving for more. It could be a weekend getaway or somewhere you’d always wanted to visit; it doesn’t need to cost thousands of dollars. My solo travel photo trips have been some of my best memories and produced my best work. Travel forces you to get out of your comfort zone and experiment. There’s nothing quite like igniting your creativity and joy for photography like exposing yourself to new situations and places that inspire you.
No matter what you choose for your camera body, the best camera is the one that you have with you. These three investments are what I would suggest to any beginner photographer and my younger self. The one thing they have in common is that they will continually reward you time and time again for years to come. They aren’t one-time gear purchases that you use just once and throw in the closet to collect dust. These will be with you for life, whether it’s one beautiful lens, an investment in your growth, or memories from a life-changing, inspiring trip.