I have been taking photos for many years. But only in recent years have I sought to build on this by improving my photography skills, finding out what is needed to take good pictures and actually attempting to use the bells and whistles that even relatively cheap DSLRs, mirrorless cameras and software come with.
Leaving your camera on ‘auto” all the time certainly limits you. To get the most out of the great hobby that is photography means you have to venture further. You then find that your picture making really takes off and the adventure begins. Dabbling is no longer enough, you have to dive in.
The Institute of Photography ‘Diploma in Photography’ course is a great help, I wouldn’t be without it. An essential, structured, means of improving your photography. Much better than randomly trying to make sense of the bewildering array of information and advice available online and expensive magazines. A great way of learning from and taking further the encouraging compliments about your images you get from social media friends. Importantly, with the IoP you can do this in your own time.
I find photography exciting and absorbing. Capturing the moment and above all, attempting to make the best of the literally wonderful light that even the most mundane scenes can be illuminated by. For me, photography is a life-enhancing and productive way of using my time. I wouldn’t be without it. It is a great way of engaging with the world around you, of seeing – and capturing – things you would otherwise miss. It gives life-affirming purpose to every day. But to get the most out of it, you need help. I certainly do. That is why the Institute of Photography is so useful, a real benefit to the aspiring, but often clueless, photographer.
So far, I most like photography that takes me outdoors; wildlife – birds mostly – and most recently landscapes. I found it a great way of making good, productive, use of Covid lockdowns. I would like to do more street photography. But I am also looking forward to doing some portrait photography as part of my Institute of Photography studies. I also need to improve the photos I try to take of my fast-moving small grandchildren.
A great benefit of IOP teaching is that it stretches you, taking you beyond your limited comfort zones. Providing opportunities to try new skills in a guided, structured way, in your own time.
You can find some of my images at https://www.instagram.com/stevegpreston/
Steve Preston, student, Diploma in Photography course
