Introduction
I’ve created this page based on my own journey in learning photography.
Over the years, I navigated the challenges of mastering photography on my own, often learning the hard way. But through experience, I discovered that there’s a clear sequence to creating stunning images.
My goal is to share that process with you—helping you not only master photography but also tell compelling stories and preserve memories that last a lifetime.
Table of Contents
1. Start with Light
Learn why light is the key element that defines every great photograph.
2. Learn The Basics
Understanding Camera Settings
To take control of your photos, you need to understand how your camera works. Mastering these settings will help you capture images with the right exposure and creative effects.
- Aperture (f/stop) – Controls depth of field (background blur vs. sharpness).
- Shutter Speed – Controls motion (freeze action or create motion blur).
- ISO – Adjusts sensitivity to light (low ISO for clarity, high ISO for low-light).
- Exposure Triangle – How aperture, shutter speed, and ISO work together.
Composition Techniques
A great photo isn’t just about technical settings—it’s also about how you frame your shot. These composition techniques will help you create visually appealing images.
- Rule of Thirds
- Leading Lines
- Framing
- Symmetry & Patterns
- Negative Space
Lighting Fundamentals
Light is everything in photography. Understanding how to use natural and artificial light will make a huge difference in the quality of your images.
- Natural vs. Artificial Light
- Golden Hour vs. Harsh Midday Light
- Shadows & Highlights
- Using Reflectors & Diffusers
Focusing & Depth of Field
A blurry subject or distracting background can ruin a shot. Learning how to control focus and depth of field ensures your subject stands out.
- Autofocus vs. Manual Focus
- Selecting the Right Focus Mode
- Controlling Depth of Field with Aperture
Basic Post-Processing
Editing can enhance your photos and correct minor mistakes. These simple post-processing techniques will improve the final look of your images.
- Adjusting Exposure, Contrast, and Colors
- Cropping & Straightening
- Removing Distractions (Basic Retouching)
Types of Photography (Knowing What Interests You)
Photography is a vast field. Exploring different styles will help you find your passion and refine your skills in the area you enjoy most.
- Portrait, Landscape, Street, Product, Wildlife, etc.
3. Discover Top Photographers
Discover the art of photography through the unique perspectives of these distinguished masters, each specializing in a distinct genre to guide your creative journey.
Paul Nicklen – Wildlife Photography
National Geographic photographer and conservationist Paul Nicklen offers an in-depth masterclass focusing on nature photography. With over 20 years of experience, Paul shares his techniques for creating evocative images that inspire environmental change. His course covers essential skills such as composition, storytelling, and ethical wildlife interaction, providing invaluable insights for aspiring nature photographers.
Joel Meyerowitz – Street and Portrait Photography
Renowned for his pioneering work in street photography, Joel Meyerowitz’s masterclass delves into capturing the essence of everyday life. Filmed in Tuscany and New York, the course explores his approaches to street scenes, portraiture, and still life, offering a comprehensive look into his creative process and philosophy.
Cristina Mittermeier – Conservation Photography
Cristina Mittermeier’s masterclass emphasizes “photography with a purpose,” focusing on conservation and cultural storytelling. With over eight hours of content, she teaches the essential skills for creating impactful images that advocate for environmental and social change, highlighting the importance of collaboration with local communities and ethical storytelling.
Steve McCurry – Travel and Cultural Photography
Best known for his iconic “Afghan Girl” photograph, Steve McCurry’s masterclass centers on the art of photographic storytelling. Over 25 lessons, he shares insights into capturing compelling travel and cultural images, discussing composition, lighting, and the patience required to seize the perfect moment.
Albert Watson – Portrait and Fashion Photography
Albert Watson, one of the most influential photographers in the world, offers a masterclass that delves into portrait and fashion photography. With 54 lessons spanning 6.5 hours, he shares his techniques and thought processes behind creating striking images, providing study sheets to complement the learning experience.
David Yarrow – Fine Art Wildlife Photography
David Yarrow’s masterclass focuses on black and white fine art photography, particularly in the context of wildlife. Through 58 lessons over seven hours, he teaches the art of creating powerful monochromatic images, discussing composition, lighting, and the narratives behind his work.
Nick Danziger – Documentary and Photojournalism
Acclaimed photojournalist Nick Danziger provides a comprehensive masterclass on using photography for advocacy. With 54 lessons totaling 8.8 hours, he shares his experiences and techniques in documentary photography, emphasizing storytelling and the ethical considerations of capturing real-life events.
Each of these masterclasses offers a unique opportunity to learn from the best in the field, tailored to various interests and styles within photography.
4. Buy Their Books
Explore the captivating works of these renowned photographers through their published books, each offering a unique perspective on their specialized genres.
Travel Photography Books
Street Photography Books
Documentary and Environmental Photography Books
Lanscape Photography Books
Portrait Photography Books
Wedding Photography Books
Sports Photography Books
5. Read Photography Magazines
Photography magazines are a great resource for photographers at all levels, offering expert insights, gear reviews, and stunning visual storytelling.
Whether you’re into wildlife, fashion, street, or fine art photography, these publications provide a window into the latest trends, techniques, and industry news. Here are ten of the best photography magazines to explore:
National Geographic (Documentary & Nature Photography)
https://www.nationalgeographic.com/
One of the most iconic photography magazines, National Geographic is renowned for its breathtaking photojournalism, covering wildlife, landscapes, and cultural stories worldwide. It’s a must-read for photographers interested in storytelling through imagery.
Aperture (Fine Art & Conceptual Photography)
Founded by the Aperture Foundation, this magazine explores fine art photography, featuring in-depth essays, interviews, and curated photo series from some of the world’s most influential photographers.
British Journal of Photography (BJP) (Industry & Emerging Trends)
One of the oldest photography magazines, BJP focuses on contemporary photography, featuring emerging talents, industry trends, and thought-provoking visual narratives.
Black & White Photography (Monochrome & Fine Art Photography)
Dedicated to the art of black-and-white photography, this magazine showcases stunning monochrome images, creative techniques, and artist interviews, perfect for those who love classic and timeless photography.
Outdoor Photographer (Landscape & Adventure Photography)
https://www.outdoorphotographer.com/
For nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, Outdoor Photographer provides tips, gear reviews, and expert advice on capturing stunning landscapes, wildlife, and adventure photography.
Foam Magazine (Experimental & Artistic Photography)
Published by the Foam Photography Museum in Amsterdam, Foam focuses on contemporary and experimental photography, offering a visually striking and thought-provoking perspective.
LensCulture (Global Photography & Emerging Talent)
LensCulture highlights innovative photographers from around the world, offering portfolio reviews, competitions, and editorial features that push the boundaries of modern photography.
Bonus Days Magazine (Pages for the Resilient).
Bonus Days Magazine is a publication dedicated to resilience and storytelling, founded by Alison Conklin, a lifelong storyteller and photographer. The magazine aims to inspire readers by showcasing the beauty of life, even in challenging circumstances. Alison collaborates with Art Director Taylor Van Kooten, who brings her expertise in design and creative storytelling to the project. Together, they craft a space for meaningful narratives.
6. Attend Workshops
Artica-Studios (Wildlife)
Artica Studios, founded by Chase and Jenni Teron, offers ethical wildlife photography workshops, tours, and courses. With a strong focus on conservation, they emphasize sustainable travel, small group sizes, and working with local communities. Their workshops are designed to provide immersive experiences in remote locations, allowing photographers to capture wildlife ethically while learning from experts. The team also integrates plant-based nutrition into their tours and ensures responsible wildlife interactions.
Photour Adventures (Travel and Adventure)
Photour Adventures, founded by photographer Susan Magnano, offers immersive photography workshops designed for both amateur and professional photographers. With a focus on exploration, creativity, and hands-on learning, the workshops take participants to stunning landscapes, from red rock canyons to bustling city streets. Susan, an award-winning photographer, is known for her expertise in light painting and night photography. She collaborates with industry professionals like Clifford Pickett to provide a unique learning experience.
7. Go to Festivals
Oslo Street Photography Festival 2025
The Oslo Street Photography Festival (OSPF) is an annual event celebrating street photography, bringing together photographers from around the world for exhibitions, talks, and workshops. The 2025 festival will continue its tradition of showcasing compelling urban storytelling through photography.
I had the privilege of attending their first festival in 2024, and it was an incredible experience—I met amazing photographers and learned so much from the presentations. Sean Tucker was also there as a speaker, sharing valuable insights.