What should I practice?

[dan_yorkshire]

Hi Guys.

People and portraits is what I love doing and having already progressed lots in the couple of years since owning a DSLR. Next year I want to take things a bit further and start selling myself a bit more, but there is lots more work to be done until then. (Upgrading some kit for one)

I have done a few shoots here and there when asked which has helped build knowledge and start on a portfolio but when I start doing things a bit more serious I want to gain a set of skills that will enable me to cope with whatever is thrown at me.

What I need is a list of things to work on. Not looking for vague suggestions (such as managing light) but more detailed things to work on (such as fill flash, focus techniques, metering specifics, gels when indoors) and what ways you would recommend physically practising them. I'm confident in the basics, just want to know them inside out.

Anything to keep me learning.

Cheers, Dan

 

[Danzaroonie]

sounds like an interesting thread.....not sure how many people are going to divulge their secrets.

 

[dan_yorkshire]

sounds like an interesting thread.....not sure how many people are going to divulge their secrets.

Not many from the looks of it.

 

[Phil V]

It's not the divulging of secrets - You've asked for specific answers to very vague questions.

Try some baby steps, think about one thing where you can admit to us and yourself that you're lacking knowledge. Post a specific question about that and watch the knowledge roll in. - Rinse - repeat.


This question looks a lot like 'I'm sure I know almost everything that I need to know, but I'm scared there may be some insider secrets I don't know about - so come on guy's - let's have em'

 

[big soft moose]

The single most useful area i'd suggest isnt photographic per se , but people skills - you can be the best photographer in the world but if you can't manage people then you arent going to make it

could you position a family where dad didnt really want to be there, little jonny is bored, and baby josie is going to start screaming if you don't get the shots and wrap in the next five minuites

could you handle 30 rugby players who've been drinking for the last three hours and would far rather arse about than pose

what would you say to a woman who's practically circular but wants you to "make her look thin" ("sorry love , i'm a photographer not a 'king magician" isnt an option )

Etc