When you're starting out in photography, a few solid tips can shortcut your way through common frustrations. These pointers, grounded in practical experience, can change your approach and improve your results dramatically.
Coming to you from Ed Verosky, this insightful video highlights that not all lenses deliver the same performance. Verosky recalls starting his photography journey with a basic 50mm lens on his Minolta XG7, which got him through but came with limitations. Nowadays, the standard kit lenses, typically 18-55mm, offer convenience but may sacrifice sharpness and speed. Recognizing early that lenses vary widely in quality can shape your purchasing decisions significantly. Verosky’s point here can help you prioritize investing in lenses that truly enhance your capabilities.
Verosky then stresses the importance of fast lenses—those with wide apertures that let in more light. Initially working with a telephoto lens limited to an aperture of f/4.5, he struggled capturing crisp images in dim settings like sports events or night shoots. When he finally upgraded to lenses such as an 85mm f/1.8 and later a 70-200mm f/2.8, the difference was unmistakable. Faster lenses not only handle low-light situations with ease but also produce smoother, more attractive backgrounds, drastically improving the visual quality of your photos. Realizing this early saves frustration and expands your creative possibilities significantly.
Another vital insight Verosky shares is about flash photography. Initially, he found his images harsh and unappealing due to improperly used on-camera flash. Many beginners use flash straight-on, creating unflattering shadows and overly bright spots. Learning techniques to diffuse and direct flash properly can transform your portraits. Understanding flash isn't about complex setups but mastering simple, effective techniques to soften and control light direction. Verosky emphasizes that knowing how to manipulate flash effectively can distinguish your photographs from amateur snapshots.
Gear overload is another common trap discussed in the video. Verosky admits he once carried every possible piece of equipment to shoots, a habit he later recognized as stemming from insecurity. He notes that having too much gear can distract rather than support your photography. Today, he prefers a minimalist approach—using fewer lenses and lights. With fewer distractions, your focus naturally shifts toward creativity and subject interaction. Simplicity often leads to clearer ideas and stronger images, teaching you to rely more on skill than on gear. That's just the start, so check out the video above for the full rundown from Verosky.
