Just starting photography - advice

Hi I`m just starting out with photography & was wondering if anybody could help me with some tips. The camera I have is a Canon IXUS 80 IS but if I'm with dad I can use a DSLR too.

I don't know what sort of things I would like to take pictures of yet so any help would be nice.

Thanks

Hannah

To begin with take pics of everything and anything - you'll soon find things you'll keep levitating towards, and it won't be long before you see for yourself which type of photography you like.

Also, have a look at other people's photos and see why ones makes you think 'wish I took that!'

Have you looked at the tutorials? I found them a great starting point.
Things like the 'rule of thirds' will be useful which ever camera you are using.

10:03 PM ! Early nights Hannah - I swear by them and they will help your photography too

Knowing where you're at - I'd agree with Azz - photograph anything you feel the urge to photograph and if your looking at photographs on the computer try to remember any pictures you like the look of.

Look through magazines too - They're full of images - I could buy you a scrap book and you could cut stuff out that you like and stick into it for ideas.

As for the camera you have - I'd stick with your point and shoot. There's far less settings to worry about allowing you the freedom to just concentrate on what you can see through the camera.

LOL! Busted!

Your Dad is right!(they are sometimes )

Go look through magazines,for inspiration and get an ideas book/journal, I have one, it's full of scribblings and ideas, that pop into my head.

Also, you are lucky to have three very photogenic dogs and a gorgeous little sister to practice on. Set yourself a little mini project,say a picture a week of a chosen subject Fiona,or one of the dogs, or the cats,parents,flowers etc, and watch how you improve each week,by practising again and again. Get yourself a scrapbook, and get your Dad to print each weeks fave shot, you will be amazed how quickly you can see a progression, you will start to notice things like composition, light, and backgrounds,and how you can improve.

Flowers are great subjects, and you could create some lovely artwork to go on your bedroom wall.

Most important thing, is to have fun! XXXXX

Thanks everyone great advice - I'll be sure to use it, I like the sound of the ideas book. Dad could say it to my face though.

Hannah
xxxxx