Any photographer willing to help(multiple questions)!

[BrentGambrell]

Hi, I'm new to this forum and not so new to photography but new to the whole idea of actually going somewhere with it.

I'm only 17 and I'm ready to begin my career. I know a lot of people say photography is one of the riskiest careers and I should keep it as a hobby. I know that once I begin, nothing will stand in my way. (my motivation)

Anyway, this is what I needed help on.

I'm new to photography(obviously), but I need help. I'm purchasing a Nikon D40 at the end of December. I've seen a lot of posts made about the Nikon D40 99.1% positive. Since I was 12, I played with Digital Compact cameras that were Nikon. I'm used to Nikon and I only trust Nikon.

Question 1. Can anyone tell me what lens are compatible with the D40. I know that some of the Nikon/Nikkor (whatever) lenses won't work with the Nikon D40. Please explain and give me details =].

Question 2. Since I'm new and I don't plan on making a lot of money as of right now, should I do the whole sell to stock photo websites. I know I'm pretty great at taking portraits and landscaping but I wonder if Stock Photo websites would really benefit an amateur.

Question 3. I know I shouldn't be asking anyone this and I should only be asking myself but I have to share this day to day question. Will I eventually get bored with this. The reason I ask myself that is because I know I'll be using the D40 for a VERY long time, will I get bored with it? I'm flowing with creativity and I'm ready to unleash it into pictures but, will it last forever? Please, someone who shares the same question and experience please let me know.

Question 4. I want to be Freelance for quite a while. What should I do? I don't want to go corporate until a little while from now, until I get somewhere in my 20's. Then I want to open my own indoor/outdoor type studio in California. I guess I'm just a small town country boy with big dreams. I know I can make it, I just need a little help a long the way.

Anyway, I know this was a very long post. As my drama teacher says, "You are not very laconic, need to work on it" Haha.

Thank you each and everyone who reads this!
I know you guys are very welcoming and are very willing to help beginners.
I can't wait to start posting here!

[ab2650]

Question 1. Can anyone tell me what lens are compatible with the D40. I know that some of the Nikon/Nikkor (whatever) lenses won't work with the Nikon D40. Please explain and give me details =].
Every lens Nikon has made since the mid-70's.... However, unless it's an "AF-S" lens, you will have to manually focus. The D40 lacks a camera-based motor to focus lenses. Since you're more serious about photography you should consider Nikon's 2nd tier bodies (D60/70/80/90) which include a motor for AF inside the camera.

So the short answer really is: The D40 is fully compatible with AF-S lenses, and only partially compatible with all Nikon lenses.

Question 2. Since I'm new and I don't plan on making a lot of money as of right now, should I do the whole sell to stock photo websites. I know I'm pretty great at taking portraits and landscaping but I wonder if Stock Photo websites would really benefit an amateur.

I'm a non-professional photographer, meaning my income doesn't come entirely from photography. I would suggest "selling your soul" and try to get some event gigs; Weddings, events, etc. If you do a great job it's really shocking how busy you can become.

Question 3. I know I shouldn't be asking anyone this and I should only be asking myself but I have to share this day to day question. Will I eventually get bored with this. The reason I ask myself that is because I know I'll be using the D40 for a VERY long time, will I get bored with it? I'm flowing with creativity and I'm ready to unleash it into pictures but, will it last forever? Please, someone who shares the same question and experience please let me know.
IMHO the D40 is a great little camera, but I think it's not quite up-to-snuff for being used in a professional fashion. The lack of the second (top) LCD makes it hard to adjust settings, the control dial is tuned more for an amateur with "easy settings." For this reason, I don't think of the D40 as a way to really express your creativity, but a tool to capture really good looking memories. Don't forget that you can get some really fabulous used/older gear for cheap. I use a D200 (after retiring a D1X and a D70) and it's perfect for my work. Lots of pro-minded features and configuration, lets me adjust everything quickly.

Question 4. I want to be Freelance for quite a while. What should I do? I don't want to go corporate until a little while from now, until I get somewhere in my 20's. Then I want to open my own indoor/outdoor type studio in California. I guess I'm just a small town country boy with big dreams. I know I can make it, I just need a little help a long the way.
My only suggestion is get some experience under your belt. It never hurts to take some classes in traditional (non-digital) photography from a local community or junior college. Do some "starter" gigs and take your camera everywhere. Photography is using your camera to express your vision. Besides the technique, art isn't really something you can learn other than by experience and growth. Good Luck!

[BrentGambrell]

Thank you for replying and giving me your insight.
I think the D40 as of right now would be a great camera for me. It will be my first DSLR and it will be my first camera other than a compact digital camera. We'll see how it turns out. I'm not ready to pay for a D80 or above. I've checked all prices. One day I will get the D3.

I also have another question I forgot to mention.
Printing. I will be doing a lot of printing. I plan to be doing a lot of 2010 senior pictures. I was advised to just get them printed at wal*mart. I really wanted my own photo printer. I know it's a great hassle, but what would be best? Take out the transportation of the comment and give me the details about the printing.

[compuwar]

I'm new to photography(obviously), but I need help. I'm purchasing a Nikon D40 at the end of December. I've seen a lot of posts made about the Nikon D40 99.1% positive. Since I was 12, I played with Digital Compact cameras that were Nikon. I'm used to Nikon and I only trust Nikon.


This is silly- the camera is a tool and there are many tools- not all good for every job and every manufacturer makes a range of products. I shoot Nikon, but I'm not blinded by a single company- I'll evaluate what's right for me each time I look at purchasing a new body *despite* thousands of dollars tied up in lenses. If you aim to be a professional, learn to think like a professional.


Question 1. Can anyone tell me what lens are compatible with the D40. I know that some of the Nikon/Nikkor (whatever) lenses won't work with the Nikon D40. Please explain and give me details =].


Nikon publishes a lens compatibility section for each of their bodies, you should use it.



Question 2. Since I'm new and I don't plan on making a lot of money as of right now, should I do the whole sell to stock photo websites. I know I'm pretty great at taking portraits and landscaping but I wonder if Stock Photo websites would really benefit an amateur.



Stock is a dying industry (How many of photos of the Statue of Liberty does the world need?) and microstock does nothing for photographers and everything for microstock agencies. There is no benefit for taking minimal profit for your work, and less benefit in conditioning yourself to do so. Learn to write and sell illustrated articles, do portraits, pet pictures, or anything that brings in real income from your work and you'll be much, much better off. Also, any stock site that's taking amateur submissions really won't help you grow, as they'll take most anything that's well exposed and won't give you constructive assistance.


Question 3. I know I shouldn't be asking anyone this and I should only be asking myself but I have to share this day to day question. Will I eventually get bored with this. The reason I ask myself that is because I know I'll be using the D40 for a VERY long time, will I get bored with it? I'm flowing with creativity and I'm ready to unleash it into pictures but, will it last forever? Please, someone who shares the same question and experience please let me know.


Will you run out of imagination? Will you be too inflexible to learn new things? Can you spend the time and effort necessary to learn to light scenes with multiple lights well? Can you imagine interesting things to photograph?


Question 4. I want to be Freelance for quite a while. What should I do? I don't want to go corporate until a little while from now, until I get somewhere in my 20's. Then I want to open my own indoor/outdoor type studio in California. I guess I'm just a small town country boy with big dreams. I know I can make it, I just need a little help a long the way.


Write a business plan, track your jobs, give yourself assignments, work against the plan-- it doesn't matter if it's sports, portraits, eBay shots for kids from school- treat it like a business and learn to budget and advertise accordingly. Never give anything away- never be the lowest bidder- both of those set low expectations that can take years to dig away from. It's easier to give a one-time discount from a high price than to repeatedly try to get more money from the same clients.

[Doylem]

Question 3. I know I shouldn't be asking anyone this and I should only be asking myself but I have to share this day to day question. Will I eventually get bored with this. The reason I ask myself that is because I know I'll be using the D40 for a VERY long time, will I get bored with it? I'm flowing with creativity and I'm ready to unleash it into pictures but, will it last forever? Please, someone who shares the same question and experience please let me know.

Despite what you may read on forums, professional photography isn't 'about' the camera. Get what you need (or what you can afford), then think pictures, pictures, pictures. I used a pair of Nikon FE film cameras for about 20 years, and didn't change them for the latest model because they had become so familiar to me that I really didn't have to think about the 'nuts and bolts'... just about the image.

The camera manufacturers want to keep their customers lusting after the next model. Obsessing about cameras takes up time and energy. Don't play their game...

Getting to know your equipment well shouldn't be boring; it should increase your creativity and productivity. Good luck with your new hobby (or profession)...

Also, any stock site that's taking amateur submissions really won't help you grow, as they'll take most anything that's well exposed and won't give you constructive assistance.

I sell images through Alamy, an agency which treats pro and am the same... as long as they can reach the required quality threshold. And, no, Alamy don't give me - or any other contributor - any assistance, constructive or otherwise. The 'growing' is something we have to do for ourselves; the assumption is that stock photographers already know their craft pretty well.

[BrentGambrell]

Hm. Very assertive, yet very informative. The meaning behind my statement of "I only trust nikon" was because that's all I've had! I don't know of anything else. I know of a lot of cameras but specifications and etc. is rather different. I'm new, I'll learn either by advice or mistakes. Hopefully both.

I live in a very small town with amateur photographers running around, and I myself am one to. There is a lot of competition. I not only want to express myself through my photographs but I want to give other people a chance to express themselves through my camera.

[snberk103]

Hello Brent (making an assumption about the name)

You have so many good questions....

I have a couple of observations. I'm a pro-photographer, though now I mostly live on the "fine-art" side.

If you can afford the Nikon D40 and some decent lenses, then start with that. You will find out the the expensive part of the camera system are the lenses. If/when you decide the D40 if no longer fitting your needs (and that will happen as Nikon continues innovate its cameras) you will still have the lenses that will fit the new Nikon. And the D40 will become your back-up camera.

Another observation is that the only difference, technically, between a pro photographer and an amateur is whether or not they make their living at photography. Skill often makes no difference. I know several amateur photographers who can shoot circles 'round most pros (but have great non-photo jobs), and several pro photographers who are fantastic at sales and marketing, but couldn't shoot their way out of a wet paper bag. My point is this.... being a pro photographer means that you also have to be in business. Without access to figures, I would guess that 95% of pros are basically self-employed. So, get some business courses under your belt.

Take some courses. There is a lot of "teach yourself" material out there, but there is nothing like learning from someone who is actually doing it.

Get a job as an assistant to an established photographer. Most of the job is gopher-type stuff, but you have fabulous opportunities to watch and learn. Often, its your skills other than photography that will get you an assistant's job. Make sure you have a driver's license, perhaps some carpentry skills, electrical skills. When the photographer is in the middle of a big shoot with a dozen or more people waiting around, and then runs out of power sockets - the assistant who can have an extra power box up and running will have job security.

Regarding Printing. That is one of the chores of being in business. You get to analyze the cost/benefits of sending stuff out vs printing in-house. There are equipment costs, supply costs, repair costs in-house to balance out vs the Walmart costs. Also, turn-around times need to be factored in. And, we've not even talked about tax advantages.

Just jump in, start reading, look at and take lots of photos, and find some pros who have some time to work with you.

Good luck, eh!

[BrentGambrell]

Thanks!
I actually did apply for a job at a local photography studio.
I wasn't hired, even though the owner knows me. Competition is a big thing in this town(dealing with photography and basically everything else). Anyone who is going to interrupt your business or "steal" your costumers is a threat. It's quite ridiculous but I guess that's how it is everywhere. I actually want to stay in my location as for right now. As for the photographers that are in my town, they focus mainly on taking pictures of people and advertising it on myspace, or any form of advertising profiles and websites. I actually want to capture the beauty in these hills. Kentucky is known for a lot of negative "hillbilly" things. I'm not really wanting to change peoples mind, but I want them to focus on the beauty that won't be here forever. Blah, I'm weird.

It's actually quite great to talk about photography. Absolutely none of my friends care for photography as with my family. My theatre teacher at school is a photographer but there is no time to bring up any photography questions or anything with her. It's fast paced, so it's great to have a place to escape to and talk about something you love with other people who love the same thing.

I feel as though I am in the presence of a lot of great makers of art.

[termina3]

I'm only 17 and I'm ready to begin my career. I know a lot of people say photography is one of the riskiest careers and I should keep it as a hobby.
I'm one of those people. Enough said on that point.

I'm used to Nikon and I only trust Nikon.

Please look into at least Canon as well, if not Sony and Olympus too. The latter two will give you more bang for your buck. I shoot Nikon, I think it's the best system, but I also recognize that it's not the best system for everyone…

Question 2. Since I'm new and I don't plan on making a lot of money as of right now, should I do the whole sell to stock photo websites. I know I'm pretty great at taking portraits and landscaping but I wonder if Stock Photo websites would really benefit an amateur.
Skip stock photos, if you want to shoot speculatively look into something that's more likely to produce prints (I'm thinking sports, which is my stomping ground).

Question 3. I know I shouldn't be asking anyone this and I should only be asking myself but I have to share this day to day question. Will I eventually get bored with this. The reason I ask myself that is because I know I'll be using the D40 for a VERY long time, will I get bored with it? I'm flowing with creativity and I'm ready to unleash it into pictures but, will it last forever? Please, someone who shares the same question and experience please let me know.
I've gotten bored at times... there are certain shoots that you "have" to do to make the bottom line in order to do the fun stuff. If you can be a photographer who enjoys the shoots that I'm lukewarm towards, then you'll be golden.

Question 4. I want to be Freelance for quite a while. What should I do? I don't want to go corporate until a little while from now, until I get somewhere in my 20's. Then I want to open my own indoor/outdoor type studio in California. I guess I'm just a small town country boy with big dreams. I know I can make it, I just need a little help a long the way.

Photography is best learned by apprenticeship. As others have suggested, try to get an apprenticeship with a full-time pro (or even a part-time pro). I know you applied to one place, but aren't there more?

I wish you the best of luck, but... ummm... if you're so new to photography, how can you be so positive that you want to pursue it as your only career?

[BrentGambrell]

I know Nikon and Canon are one of the best of the best to purchase, if I'm mistaken please correct me.

Sports are covered by our news paper or the owner of a studio in town. If you captured a photo of a sporting event and it was spectacular, it wouldn't matter. They would shoot you down. They want credit for all themselves.

Despite the negative reviews over selling stock photos, I still want to give it a try. Even my mom said that is a waste, I still want to try.

I know at times I will get to the point where I won't want to shoot someone or something but I'll have to if I want not only the money but the experience. I know each shoot will be a interesting experience. I know I'll learn something new every time.

A local store here (wal*mart-that's all we have, ugh) has a photography studio, but to work there you have to be out of school and 18. And the job is already occupied by my brothers girlfriend.

I'm no where near "new" to photography. I'm only new to making my pictures seen and actually taking this a giant leap forward.

As of right now, the only experience I have is with my sisters camera. It isn't a DSLR it's only a full size digital canon. It's ok, but it's not great. I've practiced with that for a while and I've progressed.

Thank You for your suggestions :)

[snberk103]

Thanks!
I actually did apply for a job at a local photography studio.
I wasn't hired, even though the owner knows me. Competition is a big thing in this town(dealing with photography and basically everything else). Anyone who is going to interrupt your business or "steal" your costumers is a threat. It's quite ridiculous but I guess that's how it is everywhere.

There are always more opportunities (and problems) in a larger community. I don't know your situation, obviously - so treat the following as an example. Is there any skill or ability that you can bring to this photography studio that they don't have. For instance..... if the owner doesn't have a lot of Photoshop experience, perhaps you could convince the owner that you have the skills necessary to restore old and damaged photographs. If people started to bring their old family photos into the shop, they would potentially be new customers needing photo services as well. Can you build webpages? A service club could get their annual meeting plus board members photographed, and have these photos added to the website, all in one transaction.

I actually want to stay in my location as for right now. As for the photographers that are in my town, they focus mainly on taking pictures of people and advertising it on myspace, or any form of advertising profiles and websites. I actually want to capture the beauty in these hills. Kentucky is known for a lot of negative "hillbilly" things. I'm not really wanting to change peoples mind, but I want them to focus on the beauty that won't be here forever. Blah, I'm weird.

Not so weird. And some fine photographs have come out of that part of the world. Someone else said it earlier. Think about selling the photographs with the stories to a magazine. Usually you need to "pitch" the idea to a publication. Start with a small local one. You won't get paid much (if anything) but their standards aren't so high. Prepare yourself for rejection letters, but you say your motivation is high! Once you get a few items into print you will have a portfolio that will help open doors to the bigger publications (the ones that pay something). As you look around at all those other photographers, you need to have something they don't have. Its not just vision - its "professionalism". And a professional has a portfolio of published work. So do what you can get some images published.

It's actually quite great to talk about photography. Absolutely none of my friends care for photography as with my family. My theatre teacher at school is a photographer but there is no time to bring up any photography questions or anything with her. It's fast paced, so it's great to have a place to escape to and talk about something you love with other people who love the same thing.

I feel as though I am in the presence of a lot of great makers of art.

I am lucky enough to live in a community that is crawling with photographers - over 1% are "serious amateurs" or professionals. Talk about competition! However, they are almost all very generous with their time and experience. And it is a great thing to be able to talk photography with your peers.

If you are ever travelling to the west coast of Canada, drop me a PM.

Cheers

[SayCheese]

I'm only 17 and I'm ready to begin my career. I know a lot of people say photography is one of the riskiest careers and I should keep it as a hobby. I know that once I begin, nothing will stand in my way. (my motivation)


I think that this is a great attitude and one that will stand you in good stead for the coming years. Trust me you will need motivation, you WILL have those weeks and even months when you have no work and thus no money. If you have no motivation then you may as well give up now. I've known people who take up photography as a career because it looks easy. They last about a year (if that) and then give up because of the lack of money.


I'm new to photography(obviously), but I need help. I'm purchasing a Nikon D40 at the end of December. I've seen a lot of posts made about the Nikon D40 99.1% positive. Since I was 12, I played with Digital Compact cameras that were Nikon. I'm used to Nikon and I only trust Nikon.


As a previous poster said, If you aim to be a professional, learn to think like one. Nikon may or may not be the best system for you. Be prepared to change and don't be afraid to think differently.


Question 1. Can anyone tell me what lens are compatible with the D40. I know that some of the Nikon/Nikkor (whatever) lenses won't work with the Nikon D40. Please explain and give me details =].


Sorry never really got into Nikon. Had a D1 on hire for a couple of shoots a few years ago and just didn't get on with it.


Question 2. Since I'm new and I don't plan on making a lot of money as of right now, should I do the whole sell to stock photo websites. I know I'm pretty great at taking portraits and landscaping but I wonder if Stock Photo websites would really benefit an amateur.


I would avoid stock websites as there is not an awful lot of cash in it unless you are submitting a huge amount of images to them.

However I would find things going on in the local area and then go and take pictures of them. Carnivals, fetes all that sort of stuff. Then as soon as the pictures are on your computer and you know you have some good shots ring the local paper. Ask them if they are interested in the photos and then email them in. Get yourself a contact at the paper and build up a really good rapport with them. Tell them they can have the photos for free (you can start charging when you have a name for yourself) in exchange for a photo credit (a tag line under the photo that says "Picture by........). When the paper publish your shots and they will eventually if you keep submitting really good shots, buy the paper and then cut out the whole article. Put these into a portfolio and build that up. Add personal work to your portfolio. However make sure that your personal work is superb, if it's not quite right then bin it. This way when another assistants job comes up or someone wants to see some work by you before you they get you to do some pictures you can show them a good portfolio.


Question 3. I know I shouldn't be asking anyone this and I should only be asking myself but I have to share this day to day question. Will I eventually get bored with this. The reason I ask myself that is because I know I'll be using the D40 for a VERY long time, will I get bored with it? I'm flowing with creativity and I'm ready to unleash it into pictures but, will it last forever? Please, someone who shares the same question and experience please let me know.


As you say only you can answer this. Only you know if you will ever get bored. Some people are born to take photos, others aren't. Which are you?
I would say that if you can get up in the morning and the first thing you think about is what are you going to photograph today and how can you make it stand out and be unique. How can you put your own personal slant on it and make it earth shatteringly brilliant, then you will get far. If however you get up and think "Uh, more pictures to shoot, I can't really be bothered today", then I would suggest that you are maybe not looking at the right profession.


Question 4. I want to be Freelance for quite a while. What should I do? I don't want to go corporate until a little while from now, until I get somewhere in my 20's. Then I want to open my own indoor/outdoor type studio in California. I guess I'm just a small town country boy with big dreams. I know I can make it, I just need a little help a long the way.



Refer to my answer to question 2.




All in all, good luck. Take loads of photos and make it work for you. Be creative, be inspired and most of all have fun. If it ever turns from being enjoyable to being a chore, look at another career.

[BrentGambrell]

Photoshop/Re-touch is already done in studios. I've already looked. I don't use photoshop but I use Corel Paint Shop Pro XI. Although, I do know how to use photoshop fairly well.


There aren't many opportunities for photographers here in my area. The mountains and color are the motivation for me.

"Professionalism" is not used in my town. It's rather hilarious how photographers here act. Even 30-40 year old photographers show less maturity levels than a 15 year old girl!

I want to capture MY Kentucky, where I'M from, and LEAVE.

To: SayCheese



I actually think letting a local news paper have the picture(s) for free in exchange for credit is a wonderful starter idea. It would also be a great way for me to build up a reputation.

A portfolio is something I will begin the second UPS gets here with my camera!:p


Thank You!

[snberk103]

Photoshop/Re-touch is already done in studios. I've already looked. I don't use photoshop but I use Corel Paint Shop Pro XI. Although, I do know how to use photoshop fairly well.


There aren't many opportunities for photographers here in my area. The mountains and color are the motivation for me.



It was an example.... you need to give them a reason to hire you. That reason is that they will make more money paying you. Otherwise you are just an expense. What that reason is, I don't know. You will need to find it. Lots of good advice above. I may not agree with all of it, but there is IMHO no bad advice offered. Best of luck.

[BrentGambrell]

Thank you! I appreciate everyones advice. Very Very encouraging words that will stay with me and help me progress my photography!

[djbahdow01]

Go to school for business, minor in photography. Photography isn't just about the photo side, but how well you run your business as well.

I went to school for Graphic Design, and picked up photography after I injured myself in sports. I have run with it and networked and made lots of photographer friends/clients around the country. I'd say one of the reasons the pro in your area didn't hire you was that you don't have a portfolio. In assisting, granted you will most likely just grabbing coffee, finishing edits, sending out client DVD/CDs. But in that one chance you get he/she is going to want to trust you have the creativity to get the shot.

I worked full-time for a number of places not in my degree or photography for a few years. I picked up some little jobs here and there, and worked on my portfolio. After a while I sent my portfolio out to a few places and got picked up to freelance for them. I have been doing this for a few years and still working my way up on the chain.

You really need to love what you are doing. As for prints, any place really will do. I would suggest not printing them on your own as it will cost more than going to a lab.

I am doing photography full time for over a year now and have been enjoying it as much as it was when it was a hobby. I have traveled the country and will continue to do so as I love what I do.

One more thing, DO NOT DO ANYTHING FOR FREE!

[BrentGambrell]

Thank you!
I don't know how to do a portfolio but I will learn!
From the overwhelming support and advice from this forum, it's boosted my motivation and self confidence even higher.
I hope one day, I will get to work beside a few of you great photographers.

[NintendoChick]

This is quite an interesting thread to follow, I recently chose to keep photography as a hobby :)

I'm gust curious, but you said you have used a PnS for a number of years. Can I see some of your photos?

[BrentGambrell]

None of which included any "photography" pictures, such as: landscaping, portraits, & etc.

I actually began with a tiny very old HP camera, possible in 2002, then after that it was Nikon all the way lol.

[shecky]

as a designer i know little about the actual business of photography (how to art direct photo shoots and negotiating fees mostly) but i know a lot about making a living as a creative professional. and my advice is this:

step 1) put aside all thoughts of how to make a living as a photographer.
step 2) learn how to be an exceptional photographer.
step 3) once you are an exceptional photographer, figure out a way to make a living at it.

my point is, as someone who is a new photographer, you need to be good before you can make money at it. (and by "need" i mean should - there are exceptions to everything)

should you freelance? yes. should you try to make money at it if you can? yes. but you should spend most (and by most i mean 90%) of your time just learning to be good. once you are good the money part will come easier.

if i were you i would find whatever job i could that is easy and low stress that will cover my expenses and spend as much time as possible taking photos, going to classes, talking to other pros, learning any way you can. as mentioned above, an apprenticeship is extremely valuable. try and find a mentor. look at who lives near you who has work you like, email them, explain your story and see if they will let you tag along. do not expect to be paid for this.

i think you have a good mindset and i have no doubt you can be successful, but your time now is better spent learning than selling.

[gwuMACaddict]

I'd love to see some of your images

[BrentGambrell]

Once I get my camera that's all I will be doing is taking practice shots of anything of everything.
I'm so excited to get it.
I've wanted this camera for 2 years and I'm finally getting it.

I'm going to apply for a job Wednesday. Nothing to do with photography, but at least I'll have my own income towards my camera etc.

I'd love to see some of your images


I don't have any recent ones. The only pictures I have are the ones I took of my sister with her canon. I'll post them.

Once I get my Nikon D40 I will show everyone my pictures! I can't wait! EEK! lol.

The pictures are rather blurry and of low quality, they are with her camera but it's my vision.

[66217]

Nice to see you have such high motivation. As with every relationship, things just keep better with time when you get a dSLR (and also, as in any relationship, your wallet gets emptier by the second:)).

I've had my camera for a year and a half, and have learned much by self-dedication and some minor classes. Currently I'm also wanting to give a further step and do some money from the hobby, but I really don't know were to start. I'll try and contact a local magazine and offer my services for anything they might need, hopefully they'll want some help.

As for Microstock, don't bother with it. You don't loose much by giving it a try, but don't invest much time.

EDIT: You wallet gets emptier by the second when it is a hobby. Hopefully it won't be the case for you. ;)

[BrentGambrell]

Haha, that's understandable.
I don't expect for me to reach a high reputation in the photography industry and be WONDERFUL within a day.

But one day, I will expect to reach such greatness :)

[anubis]

Another observation is that the only difference, technically, between a pro photographer and an amateur is whether or not they make their living at photography. Skill often makes no difference. I know several amateur photographers who can shoot circles 'round most pros (but have great non-photo jobs), and several pro photographers who are fantastic at sales and marketing, but couldn't shoot their way out of a wet paper bag. My point is this.... being a pro photographer means that you also have to be in business. Without access to figures, I would guess that 95% of pros are basically self-employed. So, get some business courses under your belt.


I think snberk103 has probably the most valuable piece of advice here but no one else has really said anything about it.

It's absolutely true. I know a guy in my town who gets booked for over 200 weddings a year at $5k-$10k a pop after fees, prints, etc. But he is literally one of the worst photographers I've ever seen - all of his shots are barely above beginner level. Just about everyone could have hired Uncle Bob to shoot the wedding with his point-and-shoot and gotten about the same results, and saved a lot of money in the process. What allows this guy to run a multi-million-dollar-a-year business is that he has incredible business savvy, including a great advertising engine and a HUGE professional network of other vendors, venues, wedding planners, etc.

Anyway, just want to add in my own 2 cents: if your only plan for getting money when you leave the house is to be a photographer, you're setting yourself up for disaster. Almost all of the successful professionals I know had other full time jobs to support themselves while spending their free time learning and polishing their photography. It can take years and years of hard work for little to no pay to make it in photography. And again, in the end, it doesn't have as much to do with your photography skills as it does your marketing skills and business savvy. My advice: learn what it takes to run your own business.

Finally, unless you're making huge numbers of prints in bulk, or have a genuine NEED to have hard prints RIGHT AWAY, you will find that sending your prints off is SIGNIFICANTLY cheaper than trying to do them yourself. I use Smugmug and I know they did a huge scientific study of all of the online photo developers involving thousands of observers and millions of photos. They settled on using ezprints.com for having the most consistently high quality for a variety of subjects. I can say that I've ordered tons of prints from there and have been very impressed with the cost and quality.

[chriscorbin]

i havent heard anyone say it yet so ill chime in: Community service, no, not because you have to work off a crime, but to get exposure. way back in the day, when i first started my mother knew i could hold a camera and she told me to photograph a american cancer society event so she would have some photos to remember it by, i shot it, threw together a slide show in iphoto. a week later the american cancer society called and asked if i would give them permession to use the images, then the chair of the event called to see if i could do photos for her rotary club, and so on and so forth, the moral of the story here is if you have to do a charity event for free, it wont hurt you, its completely different than shooting a senior session for free.

as for printing look into White House Custom Color its a amazing print lab, they ship to everywhere amazingly quickly, they are extremely reasonable, but mostly for you, THEY DONT ASK FOR A BUSINESS TAX ID, the only bad thing i can think about them is that their price list is public but you do have to really look for it

find a niche, for me it was trying to get in with moms, very few local photographers(at least in my area) offer newborn sessions, and thus the theory that has made me a ton of money: Pregnant Women travel in packs, crazy but true, shoot one good newborn session and she tells at least 3 friends, and if you are lucky you get 2 more clients

a lot of people say apprenticeship is the way to go, i however think it depends on the photographer you are working with, i took a assistant job right out of high school and it was a complete waste of time, after working for 3 months with a incredibly tight-lipped photographer, who only would answer questions with the phrase "its a trade secret" i found out he knew nothing after asking what f-stop do you shoot this scene at? his reply was i shoot at f-100 with the little lens and f-2 with the big one, so make sure you know who you are working for

as much as it might suck, get a holiday job with walmart or sears or jc penny as a photographer, you will learn NOTHING ABOUT PHOTOGRAPHY, but you will learn how to work with difficult subjects, and how to work quickly and efficiently

last thing ill leave you with is Invest in knowledge, get some books, take some classes go to a seminar, that is after you get a camera and a few usable lenses

[BrentGambrell]

I've absorbed and appreciate(d) each snit bit of advice that I have been given. I really appreciate the time you guys take to write out a huge page full of needful and very informative information. I feel extremely welcome here and that's a huge, huge, plus. :)


I think the community service idea is actually a wonderful idea for not only exposure but to practice and experience different opportunities.

I also agree with your rebuttal dealing with the apprenticeship. If the photographer your working with isn't willing to cooperate to your standards of wanting knowledge and information dealing with photography, then it's useless.

I probably 99% agree with what everyone has said to me in this post.
Thank you so much!

P.S. If you have anything else to ask me or say, then please ask or say away!

[ChrisA]

About that D40...

Think about which lenses you want. If you are on a tight budget then you might want to buy used lenses. Look what is available. You may find the lenses you want most are NOT "AF-S". Maybe you might want an 80-200 f/2.8 zoom and you find the used non AF-S version is $1000 less then the new 70--200. If only you have spent another $200 for a body with a focus motor you could save $1,000 on a lens. So, plan ahead.

But you don't need to spend more money. You can spend less. Look for a good used D50. They go for about $350 and have features the D40 lacks, like a motor.

Your best bet, all the that said is just to shoot many images. Give yourself some assignments, shoot them edit the files and becritical and then do that again, a few hundred times.

You might want to get an education in art and business.

And do make a business plan, just to see how hard t is. First figure out how much money you need to support a middle class lifestyle, figure expenses, taxes, insurance and so on. How much will a client pay? how many clients would you need?

[BrentGambrell]

I'm actually dead set on the D40.
I've read reviews over the D40x and D50 and I have been highly advised to stay with the D40.

I know I'll have lens' restrictions going with the D40 but that's understandable.

I'm a beginner, if this is a mistake then I'll always learn from each mistake I make.

I appreciate your input but, I gotta say, I want that d40 lol.

Right now, I'm not getting ahead of myself.
Although I'm only 17 and I'm wanting the world handed to me for me to shoot, I know it's not going to happen just yet.
One Day, it will.

Once I gain exposure and my knowledge over nikon and photography itself, I'll consider someone who advised me to purchase a D80.
I'll look into that and study that, and that might be my next choice.

Thank you once again for your input =], I do appreciate all.

[compuwar]

Although I'm only 17 and I'm wanting the world handed to me for me to shoot, I know it's not going to happen just yet.


As far as I know all of the armed forces still have photographer career fields, and they tend to hand you a good-sized chunk of the world. One of the guys I went to HS with ended up doing a couple of years as the Thunderbirds' photographer.

[BrentGambrell]

Lol, that is nothing I would want to venture in.

[jake-g]

As far as I know all of the armed forces still have photographer career fields, and they tend to hand you a good-sized chunk of the world. One of the guys I went to HS with ended up doing a couple of years as the Thunderbirds' photographer.

If I had been interested in photography at your age I would have jumped at such an opportunity. But to each his own ;p

[rpaloalto]

Slow down
Their are a few posts suggesting not to go with the D40. Follow that advice.

If you buy that D40 you will be very limited with what lenses you can use.
Sure you can use any nikor f mount lenses but you will loose AF. Spend just a little more for nikon with a AF motor used or new.

[BrentGambrell]

I do agree as to the advice given to me upon not purchasing the Nikon D40 but as you say that camera is limited lens' wise, I too am limited.

The only way I am getting this Nikon, is because I'm getting a fairly reasonable discount on it.

I really cannot afford a D80 and I'm not going to waste money on a D50 or D60.

[rpaloalto]

The lens is the most important part of the camera. A D50 or D60 with a good lens will take way better pictures. Than the D40 with the kit lens you get.
If you have such inspiration and motivation to start a career in photography. Wait till you can get a good starter camera, even buy one used. Even if you have to wait 6 months to get a few extra hundred dollars.

[luminosity]

I strongly suggest avoiding the D40.

Remember: The poor man pays twice. If you get a D40, you're most likely going to end up getting something else, and that something else is probably going to have an in-body autofocus motor. I wish I'd skipped the D40 and gone straight to the D300, which is what I have now. More camera than you need at first, but obviously you are intent on growing as a photographer, and any good camera like the D50, 70, 200, 300, etc. will be able to help you do that. Having built-in autofocus opens you up to a wide range of cheap lenses that you would otherwise be forced to manually focus with.

Manual focus is nice in theory, but most people prefer autofocus for a reason. I know I do, at least.

[Digital Skunk]

step 0) GO TO COLLEGE for photography, graphic design, videography.
step 1) put aside all thoughts of how to make a living as a photographer.
step 2) learn how to be an exceptional photographer.
step 3) once you are an exceptional photographer, figure out a way to make a living at it.

Keep the passion, get the education, experience, training, and cultivate it with others at your level, slightly above it, and way ahead of it.

Please don't be like many of the "Digital Photography for Dummies" learners who skimp on the important aspects of a college education and have trouble toning images on a glossy display.

The images below are a great example of why college and refining your craft NOT ONLY by apprenticeship is necessary.

Be eager, have a passion, be patient, do it the right way, and don't go over the top.

p.s. Yes, college may not be an option, but you should seriously be shooting for it. It may just be a piece of paper, but it's usually the difference between a Pro shooter that is starving, or a Pro shooter that is eating well. Also, learn videography and video editing since that's where a lot of freelance is going.

[shecky]

i totally agree with skunk's post, IF college is an option. which, while it should be, it may not be for the OP.

but i would highly recommend it.

[seenew]

Shecky and Skunk hit it on the head.


I don't know if you're more into making money or making images. You'll have to decide that for yourself. As for being 17 and having all this ambition to take on the world-- it's great, and don't let anyone tell you that you can't. However, you should calm down a bit and LEARN. You are talking about selling a product that you don't have the tools or know-how to even create.

College. College. College.
Research schools that offer classes and degrees in areas you're interested in, and go. There are a lot of people that say college might not be an option. It is. You just have to be willing to invest in it. You can get loans and assistance from a number of state, federal, and private institutions to fund your education. Scholarships are not out of the question, provided you follow others' advice and build a portfolio to give the school a reason to invest in you.
You say you're in Kentucky. There are a lot of good art schools on the east coast. If that's what you're into (more than the business side), there's RISD, NYU, SCAD (Savannah and Atlanta) among others. Speaking from personal and current experience, the faculty and facility at SCAD-Savannah's photography department is top notch. The community and city is excellent, too.

Keep that ambition and you'll go far, so long as you take the right route. Work hard in school and at small jobs, get an internship or two and learn the ropes, and you'll get it.

[BrentGambrell]

It seems like a lot to take in, but nothing that I cannot manage. College is a must for me. I already know that. I obviously have a lot more to learn than I already know. But I'm ready for it.

And NYU was a big thing I've been thinking of the past 4 months. I really would love to attend there.

Jobs & Colleges. My passion for photography has not only grown over the past months but has advanced into much more. Since I've fallen in love with photography, I will see something and I'll be like, "I have to shoot that" or something like that. I know I'm at the very bottom, but thanks to all of you, I'll be one step up very soon.

Having faith is a must. I'm not cocky, nor am I conceited. I just have faith in myself and I know I can reach great things in the photography industry.

A lot of you have said, "You might have to do a certain photography job that you wouldn't want to do in the first place, but you need money, so suck it up." Not in the exact words, but exactly what they were meaning. I actually agree with that, and I really appreciate that statement most.


As for the D40, I don't know. We'll see when the time comes. I know you guys are discouraging me greatly not to get it, FOR A REASON, I know... but, all I can say is we'll see when the time comes. The order hasn't been placed just yet ;)

[gwuMACaddict]

As for the D40, I don't know. We'll see when the time comes. I know you guys are discouraging me greatly not to get it, FOR A REASON, I know... but, all I can say is we'll see when the time comes. The order hasn't been placed just yet ;)

How long are we going to have to listen to you talking about buying a camera? Is this going to be a Christmas gift?

These threads are more fun with actual pictures.

And Seriously, the D40 isn't what you want

[BrentGambrell]

I have pictures to show, but no one has requested any. I'll post some if you would like.

Yes, the camera is going to be a gift.

You don't have to read my threads if you feel so annoyed towards me speaking about buying a camera.

[gwuMACaddict]

I have pictures to show, but no one has requested any. I'll post some if you would like.

I asked earlier. You posted two tiny, blurred, blown out pictures. All the talk about wanting to be a photographer- there are plenty of people here who often offer legit C&C. You don't need to wait to have a DSLR to learn about composing a photograph.

Yes, the camera is going to be a gift.

Sweet.

You don't have to read my threads if you feel so annoyed towards me speaking about buying a camera.

They keep showing up near the top and I keep hoping that you've finally got the camera already. :p

[BrentGambrell]

lol, I wish I got a camera already. I have to wait, nonsense!


"I asked earlier. You posted two tiny, blurred, blown out pictures. All the talk about wanting to be a photographer- there are plenty of people here who often offer legit C&C. You don't need to wait to have a DSLR to learn about composing a photograph."

What do you mean by this?

[gwuMACaddict]

I mean that a better use of your time (and ours) would be to post some of your images. Let people look at them. Let people critique them.

Everyone learns something this way. Looking at images, whether you shot them or not, and reading critiques can help you grow as an artist. Much more useful than asking what brand of camera people prefer. ;)

[BrentGambrell]

I will post pictures now!
pictures I took of my sister.
That's the most recent ones I have.

and the thread about the brand of cameras was just to draw people in and see other peoples preconceived ideas upon other leading popular camera brands. Bringing a little more interaction and knowledge of how people feel within those certain brands.


Anyway, what do you think about these, how can I improve?

[gwuMACaddict]

Were these pictures processed with any type of software? Or are they straight from the camera?

The two pictures on the right have blown-out highlights in hair. Maybe underexpose by a third of a stop. The composition is good though, I enjoy how you've filled the screen with the subject.

The picture on the top left doesn't seem to have an obvious focal point- my eye isn't drawn to anything.

Maybe some other posters will chime in. I don't pretend to be the expert around here. :D

[rpaloalto]

Nice pictures,
Did you have fun taking them? Are you proud of them? do you like the way they look. If so then thats all that counts. Thats what it's all about.

Now back to the D40:(
Like I have said as well as others. Don't get it. If it is a gift talk to the person. Tell them you rely want something different. Even if it means waiting till your birthday. Or giving you time to help save and chip in. If you want nikon, get any nikon. That has a built in motor for AF. Even a used one. will be better than the D40 for your needs. And yes even from the start. The D40 is not for you.

You sound very stubborn about listening to advice on why you should stay away from the D40. You are here asking for advice and help. On how to start your life as a professional photographer. Don't get it..............
Yule be sorry.

[-hh]

Now back to the D40:(
Like I have said as well as others. Don't get it. If it is a gift talk to the person....You sound very stubborn about listening to advice on why you should stay away from the D40. You are here asking for advice and help. On how to start your life as a professional photographer. Don't get it..............
Yule be sorry.

The D40 advice might be water under the bridge (too late)?

I believe there was a comment along the lines of 'waiting for the UPS truck' which suggests that the camera has already been purchased and is en route.

Granted, returning it before it has been opened & used is an option, but a harder one to exercise...the old "bird in hand"...


-hh

[compuwar]

As for the D40, I don't know. We'll see when the time comes. I know you guys are discouraging me greatly not to get it, FOR A REASON, I know... but, all I can say is we'll see when the time comes. The order hasn't been placed just yet ;)

Don't sweat it, you can take millions of great photographs with a D40 and kit lens- while you'll miss out on some bargain lenses limiting your lens selection may help you grow photographically.

The portraits are pretty good, but you need some fill flash to provide catchlights in the eyes in the better of them.

[seenew]

Nice pictures,
Did you have fun taking them? Are you proud of them? do you like the way they look. If so then thats all that counts. Thats what it's all about.


Not true. That is all important, yes, but when people get stuck in that mindset, they leave little room for learning or improving. I can't count how many people I've had classes with that refuse to take criticism because "It's art, it's all subjective, and I like it, so that's all that matters!"

If that's how you feel, then you have no business at an art school or anywhere showing work to the public.

[66217]

Now back to the D40:(
Like I have said as well as others. Don't get it. If it is a gift talk to the person. Tell them you rely want something different. Even if it means waiting till your birthday. Or giving you time to help save and chip in. If you want nikon, get any nikon. That has a built in motor for AF. Even a used one. will be better than the D40 for your needs. And yes even from the start. The D40 is not for you.


You also seem very stubborn in not recommending the D40.;)

It's true you are limited to only some lenses if you want AF, but then, if you got any of those lenses that do AF, you'll get excellent photos. I would much rather save for a good lens than for a better camera. Now, if the person who is buying you the camera, agrees on buying a D80, then go for it. But don't think you'll be disappointed with the D40.

As for image quality, the D40 is on par with the D80 and the D200. Now, the D300 or D90 have much better low-light performance, but are quite more expensive than the D40. A D80 goes around $750 USD with it's kit lens (18-135) as for now, so consider if you can afford it.

[BrentGambrell]

Were these pictures processed with any type of software? Or are they straight from the camera?

The two pictures on the right have blown-out highlights in hair. Maybe underexpose by a third of a stop. The composition is good though, I enjoy how you've filled the screen with the subject.

The picture on the top left doesn't seem to have an obvious focal point- my eye isn't drawn to anything.

Maybe some other posters will chime in. I don't pretend to be the expert around here. :D

Only the Grey and White picture had been processed in any way, only contrast has been added. The rest are straight from the camera.

Nice pictures,
Did you have fun taking them? Are you proud of them? do you like the way they look. If so then thats all that counts. Thats what it's all about.

Now back to the D40
Like I have said as well as others. Don't get it. If it is a gift talk to the person. Tell them you rely want something different. Even if it means waiting till your birthday. Or giving you time to help save and chip in. If you want nikon, get any nikon. That has a built in motor for AF. Even a used one. will be better than the D40 for your needs. And yes even from the start. The D40 is not for you.

You sound very stubborn about listening to advice on why you should stay away from the D40. You are here asking for advice and help. On how to start your life as a professional photographer. Don't get it..............
Yule be sorry.

Like I said once again. The nikon D40 is a gift and It's being discounted GREATLY. I can't wait.

The D40 advice might be water under the bridge (too late)?

I believe there was a comment along the lines of 'waiting for the UPS truck' which suggests that the camera has already been purchased and is en route.

Granted, returning it before it has been opened & used is an option, but a harder one to exercise...the old "bird in hand"...


-hh

Wow, someone has been paying attention! =]


Don't sweat it, you can take millions of great photographs with a D40 and kit lens- while you'll miss out on some bargain lenses limiting your lens selection may help you grow photographically.

The portraits are pretty good, but you need some fill flash to provide catchlights in the eyes in the better of them.

Thank you very much. All the lighting is natural sun light, no flash was included(obviously).

[BrentGambrell]

Nice pictures,
Did you have fun taking them? Are you proud of them? do you like the way they look. If so then thats all that counts. Thats what it's all about.

I had a lot of fun taking them. The person in the portraits is my sister, anytime I'm with her we always have fun.
No, I'm not proud of them, I can always improve greatly.

Not true. That is all important, yes, but when people get stuck in that mindset, they leave little room for learning or improving. I can't count how many people I've had classes with that refuse to take criticism because "It's art, it's all subjective, and I like it, so that's all that matters!"

If that's how you feel, then you have no business at an art school or anywhere showing work to the public.

Completely agree with you. Criticism is one of the greatest things!

You also seem very stubborn in not recommending the D40.

It's true you are limited to only some lenses if you want AF, but then, if you got any of those lenses that do AF, you'll get excellent photos. I would much rather save for a good lens than for a better camera. Now, if the person who is buying you the camera, agrees on buying a D80, then go for it. But don't think you'll be disappointed with the D40.

As for image quality, the D40 is on par with the D80 and the D200. Now, the D300 or D90 have much better low-light performance, but are quite more expensive than the D40. A D80 goes around $750 USD with it's kit lens (18-135) as for now, so consider if you can afford it.

Again, the camera isn't coming out of my pocket ;)
Thanks again everyone for your advice.

[compuwar]

Thank you very much. All the lighting is natural sun light, no flash was included(obviously).

That's the thing you can change that will have the biggest immediate impact in your photos. Even though there's a lot of repetition, please read the following URLs then start experimenting both indoors and outdoors and learn to adjust your flash power- even with in-camera flash, you'll be able to see the difference almost at once.

http://planetneil.com/tangents/flash-photography-techniques/1-natural-looking-flash/
http://planetneil.com/tangents/flash-photography-techniques/2-flash-ambient-light/
http://planetneil.com/tangents/flash-photography-techniques/3-dragging-the-shutter/
http://planetneil.com/tangents/2008/02/29/dragging-the-shutter-revisited/
http://planetneil.com/tangents/flash-photography-techniques/6-flash-outdoors/
http://planetneil.com/tangents/flash-photography-techniques/7-metering-techniques/
http://planetneil.com/tangents/flash-photography-techniques/8-flash-exposure-comp/

"I only shoot natural light" is picture-taker for "I don't know how to light well." We all start there, convince ourselves that it's "purist" then some of us overcome it and others don't. I don't know a single photographer who knows how to light well who only shoots natural light- but I know lots of picture-takers who think flash has to be harsh, blown out and overdone.

*After* you read the links *and play around*, spend some time on strobist.blogspot.com- you're probably on enough of a budget that his techniques will be useful at this stage. Budget for a Safe-sync to glue on top of the D40 just in case you go with the high-voltage Vivitars.

[BrentGambrell]

Hmm, thank you very much. I will observe them soon!