When I first picked up a camera, I thought, “How hard can this be?” Spoiler alert: very. Here are a few things I wish someone told me when I was a bright-eyed newbie with my kit lens and a dream:

📸 1. It’s Not About the Gear

I spent way too long drooling over expensive lenses when I should’ve been learning how to use the gear I already had. A fancy camera won’t save a bad photo. Knowing how to use light, pose people, and edit properly will.

😅 2. Manual Mode Isn’t a Badge of Honour

I used to think shooting in Manual made me a “real photographer”. Honestly? It just made me sweat more. Learn AV mode, understand your settings, and ease into Manual when you’re ready. Your sanity will thank you.

🫣 3. Editing Isn’t About Fixing Mistakes

Editing should enhance your photos, not fix them. If your image is underexposed, blurry, and crooked… Lightroom can only do so much, my friend.

💡 4. It’s Okay to Ask People to Move

I thought I had to work around people. Nope. Direct them. Move them into better light, tweak their pose, adjust their hair. They’ll be grateful when they see the final result. It also makes them feel confident you know what you are doing.

💪 5. Your Confidence Will Grow – Promise

The first paid shoot is terrifying. The tenth is still nerve-wracking. But one day you’ll walk in, camera in hand, and think, “I’ve got this.” Until then, keep practising, keep learning, and be kind to yourself.

🫶 6. Learn To Receive Criticism Gracefully

When you’re starting out, criticism feels like someone’s telling you your baby is ugly.

When I started out I received some brutal feedback and I carried around that hurt for about a year. I could of gained that year back (and my bruised dignity) if only I realised sooner...... criticism is not personal, it’s growth.

Receiving feedback gracefully is a superpower. Instead of curling up in a ball of heartbreak, take what’s helpful, leave what isn’t, and remember: even Beyoncé has critics. You’re just getting started – let their words refine you, not define you. And if someone points out an issue, fix it as soon as you can – even if you feel it was unwarranted. It shows professionalism and keeps your reputation sparkling.

✨ Final Thoughts

Photography isn’t just about beautiful images. It’s about connection, growth, and learning to see the world differently. And that’s pretty bloody special.

Britt is a photographer based in Brisbane she specialises in headshot photography, personal brand photography and family photograpy