How to be a good photographer in 23 bitesize tips

To be a good photographer, you need creativity, imagination, and an eye for detail. But that’s just scratching the surface. You must also understand your equipment, obsess over your images, and push yourself to learn. Beyond that, you must handle your business well by creating professional:

• contract templates
• quotations
• invoice templates

This article is a good place to start expanding your skills. Here we share a mix of tips for beginners and more advanced photographers alike.

Qualities of a photographer to take better photos

Let’s talk settings and gear.

1. Understand your ISO settings and when to change them

The ISO settings brighten or darken photos. The higher the number, the brighter the photo. If you routinely switch from shooting at day to night, or vice-versa, you could spoil an otherwise great photo by having your ISO number set too high (or too low).

2. Get the measure of your meter

Your camera’s built-in metering sensor will adjust shutter speed, aperture, and ISO sensitivity to optimize exposure. Do you want a balance between light and dark? Or to select a focal point (e.g. for a portrait)? Choose the metering method to match your scene and creative vision.

3. Understand the differences between your lenses (and when to use them)

Certain lenses will produce certain effects. Wide-angle lenses distort the image, while telephoto lenses compress it. To become a good photographer, you don’t just need to know the difference between your lenses, you need to know when it’s the appropriate time and place to use it.

4. Don’t let your camera take the lead

Modern cameras are smart, but they don’t always know best. Take the autofocus mode, for example. You should understand what your camera’s trying to do when it autofocuses on a particular part of the frame -- but you should also know how to overrule it if it’s not the type of photograph that you want to take.

5. Remember: A great camera doesn’t make you a great photographer

The most expensive, feature-laden camera will still take bad photographs if used incorrectly. Likewise, if you place a run-of-the-mill smartphone camera in the right hands, it can be used to produce jaw-dropping visuals. The hardware at your disposal will not make or break you as a photographer.

Qualities of a photographer for tips to take better photos and stay safe

6. Always be aware of your surroundings

Looking at the world through your camera’s viewfinder can often make you oblivious to your surroundings. Don’t put yourself or others in danger for the sake of the “perfect” shot.

7. Plan for night shoots

If you’re heading out into the darkness for your next photography job, you should have a grasp of what’s going on above you. Knowing when and where certain celestial bodies will appear in the night’s sky can take your photographs from good to great.

8. Plan for the weather, too

Likewise, capturing certain weather events (snow, lightning, cloud cover, etc.) can add depth and drama to your photographs. But don’t step outside with your fingers crossed. Keep an eye on weather reports and plan meticulously for every eventuality.

9. Be patient

Shooting outdoors is often all about giving yourself over to the unpredictability of nature. It’s not like working in a studio where you have control over every little detail. Take your time, be patient, and let the elements come together.

What does a photographer wear?

10. Pack light

A sore back or neck from lugging around way too much gear can really spoil an outside shoot. Pack only what you need and enjoy yourself. And don’t worry about leaving stuff behind -- it can often force you to be more creative in the moment.

11. Make sure your camera is accessible

The best camera is the one you have on you when you need it. But the last thing you want is your camera swinging around your neck and getting in the way as you hike to your next location.

Scottish adventure photographer, Martin Carrera, has the answer: “My favourite solution for putting my camera at my fingertips is the peak design capture clip. Able to fit on almost every backpack strap or belt, it allows you to grab your camera and have it ready in seconds.”

12. Dress for your own adventure

Before you venture into the great outdoors, consider what you want your shoot to look like.

Are you planning on locating a spot, framing your shot, and then waiting for the sunrise? Think about additional layers for when you stop and start to cool down.

And what does a photographer wear if they’re tackling a mountain, or aiming to catch multiple locations on the ascent? “Choose lighter clothing that you can layer up,” says Martin, “and don’t forget pockets for those smaller items. You don’t want to stop every time to go through your backpack looking for a spare battery or a cleaning cloth.”

13. Get your gloves on

Winter offers a new dynamic for outdoor shoots. But you won’t get that perfect photo if your hands are too numb to hold the camera. Invest in a quality pair of gloves, and keep their dual purpose in mind when you do.

“Remember that you’re going to want to operate your camera controls while wearing the gloves, so don’t just opt for the thickest,” explains Martin. “Also, many cameras have touchscreen capabilities, so choosing compatible gloves is highly recommended.”

How to take better photos

Try putting your camera down.

14. Read your manual

It’s not the most fun bedtime reading, but taking the time to flip through your camera’s manual could save you from multiple headaches further down the line.

15. Spend time reviewing your old images

Think about what worked, and what didn’t with your old photos. If you had the chance to take that photograph again, what would you do differently?

16. Study the photos of photographers you admire

What do you like about them? What do you dislike? What would you change? Do you understand how they produced a certain effect? If not, learn the technique. Even better, reach out to them on social media (if possible) and ask questions.

17. See light everywhere you go

Get into the habit of looking at the light, even when you don’t have a camera to hand. Reflections, sunbeams, shadows; artificial or natural. Look at how it interacts with its surroundings. Understand it and internalize it.

18. Read a photography book or two

Find inspiration, insight, and advice in your downtime by thumbing through a few photography books. And do it with an open mind. Even if you don’t particularly like a certain style, there could be an underlying technique or approach worth adopting for your own work.

19. Go to a museum

And sit in front of a few paintings. Look at how the artist has used light, color, and shadow. Examine the composition of the piece. Think about how it makes you feel. All of this can be applied to your photography.

Qualities of a photographer

20. Passion for your craft

You can have all the skill in the world, but if you don’t feel that burning desire to grab your camera and create, you’ll never reach the next level.

21. The ability to tell a story

A picture is worth a thousand words, and learning to weave a story with a still image is something that sets good photographers apart from the rest. Try starting a photo project built around one concept to develop this skill.

Use project management software, such as Bonsai, to keep tabs on your tasks and files. It also helps you create rock-solid photography contract templates.

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22. Good people skills

Becoming a professional photographer requires the ability to work effectively with other people. Be it models, clients, editors, or other photographers, you need good people skills to grow your network and build our reputation.

23. The ability to take criticism

If you can’t open yourself up to critique, you’ll never grow and progress as a photographer. Good photographers know how to listen to feedback without taking it personally.

Patience and flexibility in photography work

Why patience is essential for photographers

Patience is essential for photographers because capturing the perfect shot often requires waiting for the right moment. Whether you’re shooting outdoor portraits or wildlife, conditions like lighting, weather, and subject behavior can be unpredictable. For example, a wedding photographer may need to wait calmly for a candid expression or the ideal natural light during golden hour to create memorable images.

Being patient also helps in managing client expectations and handling unexpected delays without stress. If a client is running late or the venue setup takes longer than planned, staying composed allows you to adapt your schedule without compromising quality. Tools like StudioBinder or HoneyBook can help freelancers organize timelines and communicate delays proactively, enhancing professionalism.

To build patience, practice mindfulness techniques such as deep breathing or short breaks during shoots. This helps maintain focus and creativity even during long sessions. Remember, patience directly influences your ability to deliver high-quality photos and a positive client experience.

How flexibility improves photography outcomes

Flexibility improves photography outcomes by enabling you to adjust quickly to changing conditions and client needs. For instance, if the weather suddenly shifts from sunny to overcast, a flexible photographer can modify camera settings, switch lenses, or change locations to maintain image quality. This adaptability is crucial in 2024, as clients increasingly expect photographers to handle diverse scenarios efficiently.

Freelancers can enhance flexibility by preparing backup equipment such as:

• Extra batteries
• Memory cards
• Lighting gear

Additionally, using cloud-based editing software like Adobe Lightroom CC allows you to work remotely and meet tight deadlines. Flexibility also means being open to client feedback and revising shots or concepts without frustration, which strengthens client relationships and referrals.

To cultivate flexibility, create contingency plans for each shoot and practice problem-solving in different environments. This proactive approach helps you stay calm and resourceful, turning challenges into creative opportunities that set your work apart.

Balancing patience and flexibility for freelance success

Balancing patience and flexibility is key to thriving as a freelance photographer. Patience allows you to wait for the perfect moment, while flexibility ensures you can pivot when things don’t go as planned. For example, during a 2024 outdoor event, you might patiently wait for ideal lighting but remain flexible to move indoors if weather conditions worsen.

Using project management tools like Trello or Asana can help you schedule shoots with built-in buffer times, reducing stress and allowing room for adjustments.

Communicating clearly with clients about potential delays or changes fosters trust and sets realistic expectations. This balance ultimately leads to smoother workflows and higher client satisfaction.

Start by reviewing your past shoots to identify moments where patience or flexibility could have improved outcomes. Then, implement small changes such as adjusting your workflow or investing in versatile gear. These steps will enhance your professionalism and reputation in the competitive 2024 photography market.

Creativity and imagination as key qualities of a photographer

How creativity shapes a photographer’s work

Creativity is essential for photographers to produce unique and compelling images. It allows them to see ordinary scenes from fresh perspectives, transforming everyday moments into captivating stories. For example, a photographer might use unusual angles or lighting to highlight details others might overlook.

In 2024, many photographers leverage creative tools like Adobe Lightroom and Photoshop to enhance their vision further. These platforms enable adjustments that bring out colors, textures, and moods, helping photographers express their artistic ideas more vividly. Creativity also helps in problem-solving on shoots, such as adapting to poor lighting or unexpected weather conditions.

To develop creativity, photographers should regularly experiment with different styles and subjects. Setting challenges, like shooting only in black and white or focusing on reflections, can spark new ideas. This practice not only enriches their portfolio but also attracts clients looking for distinctive imagery.

Why imagination drives innovation in photography

Imagination enables photographers to envision scenes before capturing them, pushing the boundaries of traditional photography. It encourages thinking beyond what is visible, imagining how elements like composition, color, and emotion will come together in the final image. This foresight is crucial for creating photos that resonate deeply with viewers.

For instance, wedding photographers often imagine the perfect moment to capture a couple’s emotions, anticipating interactions rather than just reacting. Imagination also plays a role in conceptual photography, where the photographer creates a narrative or abstract idea through staged scenes or digital manipulation.

Photographers can nurture their imagination by studying other art forms such as painting and film, which provide new ways to interpret light and storytelling. Keeping a visual journal or mood board with inspiring images and ideas can also help translate imaginative concepts into practical shoots.

Practical ways to enhance creativity and imagination

Enhancing creativity and imagination requires intentional practice and exposure to diverse experiences. Photographers should explore different genres like street photography, macro, or portraiture to challenge their usual approach. This variety broadens their creative toolkit and sparks new ideas.

Joining photography communities such as Flickr groups or Instagram challenges can provide feedback and inspiration from peers. Additionally, using apps like VSCO or Snapseed for mobile editing encourages experimentation on the go, allowing photographers to test creative concepts quickly.

Setting aside time for personal projects without client constraints is another effective method. These projects allow photographers to take risks and develop their unique style, which can later attract clients seeking originality. Ultimately, consistent practice combined with curiosity fuels growth in these key qualities.

How to make a living from your passion

These tips will help you learn how to get into photography. When you’re ready to sell your services, have your photography invoice templates and photography contract samples ready. Take advantage of all tax deductions available for photographers to lower your taxable income and increase your profit.

Sign up for a free trial and use Bonsai to manage your freelance photography projects.