Getting Started with Photography: The Fundamentals Every New Photographer Should Know

By: Carrie White | Carrie White Photography LLC

If you're just getting into photography, welcome to one of the most rewarding creative journeys you can take. Photography is a powerful way to tell stories, capture memories, and express your unique perspective of the world. But with all the settings, terms, and techniques, it can feel overwhelming at first. This guide from Carrie White Photography will walk you through the essential photography concepts to help you begin shooting with confidence and creativity.

Understanding Exposure: The Exposure Triangle

At the core of every great photograph is exposure—how much light reaches your camera sensor. The exposure triangle is made up of three key settings: ISO, aperture, and shutter speed. Together, they work in harmony to control the brightness and visual style of your images.

ISO - refers to your camera sensor's sensitivity to light. A lower ISO, like 100 or 200, is ideal for bright conditions and produces the cleanest images or images with low pixel grain, often called “noise”. Higher ISO settings, such as 800 or above, are better for low-light environments, though they can introduce grain or that pesky "noise" into your images.

Aperture - controls how much light enters through your lens and also affects depth of field, or how much of your image is in focus. A wide aperture (such as f/2.8) allows more light in and creates a soft, blurred background—perfect for portraits. A narrower aperture (like f/11 or f/16) lets in less light but keeps more of the scene in focus, making it ideal for landscapes.

Shutter speed - determines how long your sensor is exposed to light. A fast shutter speed, like 1/500 of a second, freezes action—great for sports or wildlife. A slow shutter speed, like 1/10 of a second or longer, can capture motion blur or light trails and is useful for night photography or creative effects.

  

Balancing these three settings is essential to achieving a properly exposed and visually interesting photo. As you gain experience, adjusting them will become second nature and open a smorgasbord of creativity in your pictures.

Getting Familiar with Your Camera Settings

Modern cameras offer a variety of shooting modes designed to give photographers more or less control depending on their skill level and shooting conditions. Understanding these modes will help you gradually transition from fully automatic shooting to manual control – manual control is where you can start adding your “taste” to what you create.

The Auto mode lets the camera make all the decisions for you—aperture, shutter speed, ISO, and even flash. It’s convenient for quick snapshots, but it limits your creative control. Program mode, often marked as "P," allows you to set some options like ISO and white balance while the camera handles the exposure. It’s a nice step up from Auto without being overwhelming.

Shutter Priority mode, labeled "S" or "Tv" on some cameras, lets you control the shutter speed while the camera selects the appropriate aperture. This mode is especially helpful when photographing movement. Aperture Priority mode, marked as "A" or "Av," gives you control over the aperture while the camera picks the correct shutter speed, which is perfect when depth of field is your priority. Finally, Manual mode, or "M," allows you to control every setting—ISO, aperture, and shutter speed. This mode offers the most creative freedom and is favored by advanced photographers.

Lighting Fundamentals

Light is one of the most important aspects of photography, and learning how to work with it will significantly improve your images. There are two primary types of light: natural and artificial.

Natural light includes sunlight, shade, and ambient daylight, and it often results in beautiful, authentic-looking photos. The quality of natural light changes throughout the day; many photographers prefer shooting during the “golden hour,” shortly after sunrise or before sunset, when the light is soft and warm. On the other hand, artificial light comes from sources like flash units, LED panels, or studio lights. It provides consistency and control, making it especially useful for indoor or product photography.

You can also enhance your photos by using available light creatively. For example, ambient light from street lamps or candles can add mood and atmosphere. Reflected light, such as bouncing sunlight off a white wall, concrete sidewalk or using a reflector, can fill in shadows and create balanced illumination. Learning to observe and shape light is a fundamental skill that will elevate your photography.

Composition and Framing

Beyond technical settings, how you frame and compose your image plays a huge role in how compelling your photo will be. One of the most well-known composition techniques is the rule of thirds. Imagine dividing your image into a 3x3 grid; placing key elements along these lines or their intersections often creates a more balanced and visually appealing photo.

 

Leading lines are another effective way to guide the viewer’s eye toward your subject. Roads, fences, or even shadows can act as visual pathways. Symmetry, where both sides of an image mirror each other, can create a strong sense of harmony and order, often found in architecture and reflections.

There are many other composition techniques worth exploring. Filling the frame with your subject can eliminate distractions and draw attention to details. Balancing elements within the frame helps to prevent one side from feeling too heavy or cluttered. Repeating patterns can create rhythm and visual interest, while using negative space—leaving part of the frame empty—can isolate and emphasize your subject. Framing your subject with natural or architectural elements, like windows or tree branches, can add depth and focus to your composition.

Final Thoughts

Photography is both an art and a science. While mastering camera settings and lighting is important, don’t be afraid to experiment, make mistakes, and develop your own style. As you practice, these foundational skills will become second nature, and your ability to capture meaningful, eye-catching images will grow. So, grab your camera, explore your surroundings, and start capturing the world as only you can see it.

If you’re unsure where to start, you can schedule a beginner’s mentoring session with a member of PPANI to get hands-on help with your gear and settings. 

As professional photographers, we spend our days crafting images for clients. We create images we love and enjoy making, but ones that are also designed to satisfy our clients' needs and desires. It's rewarding work. But while building businesses, meeting deadlines, and delivering finished work, it's easy to lose touch with the pure creative drive that brought us to photography in the first place.

That's where personal projects come in.

From an ongoing iPhone project

Exercise for your creative eye

A personal project is photography without rules. No client. No brief. No expectations beyond your own curiosity and vision. It's a space to play with your creative ideas, experiment, explore, and even fail. It's a workout for your creative muscle. Remember, it's not about marketability. It's keeping it authentic to you.

Large Format Paper Negative Portrait Project

Why it matters

You might think, "I'm already shooting all the time. Why bother?" But here's the truth: a personal project isn't a burden—it's creative fuel.

Here's Why:

• Fosters Inspiration: Routine can dull your inspiration. Your project work can remind you why you fell in love with making images in the first place.
• Develop Your Vision: Outside the structure of client work, you start to notice recurring themes, preferences, and instincts. You start discovering (or sharpening) your unique visual voice.  
• Improves Your Skills: When you're in full control, from concept to completed image, you push your boundaries and exercise your creative muscles.
• Add Depth To Your Portfolio: Your personal work can show depth and creative courage. It often leads to unexpected opportunities and communicates your commitment as an artist.
• Builds Resilience: Having a space just for you protects your joy. We can hit a lull or a down period at some point in our careers. Personal projects can be a lifeline to pull you through.
• 
  

No time like the present

Here are some ideas to get you started. But, like the project, no rules. Follow your bliss and be authentic. The first number of images may be disappointing when starting a new project. Don't give up! Work through the creative challenge. Trust the process.

• Choose a Theme or Idea That Intrigues You: Follow your curiosity. What are your interests?
• Commit to a Timeline (Even a Loose One): Are you going to take one photo per day for a year? Once a week, Once a Month. Does the project have an end date?
• Keep It Separate: For now... Let this be sacred. No pressure to monetize or perfect. This is where you get to play. Some projects may yield images for your portfolio, while other projects may be personal and never shared.
• Share It (If You Want To): Or don't. It's entirely up to you! But if you do, you may find others resonating with your work in powerful ways.

After all that I have said above, It's essential to stress that your personal project does not have to be photographic. If your interests are in other areas like painting, watercolor, writing, etc, by all means, start with what you are most interested in.

Early in my career, I attended a workshop taught by a talented and creative West Coast photographer who taught us to "commit a creative act every day." He had us all collage in our art books, which is one of my "acts of art" I still do. I love the physicality of the medium, and I can play with ideas more freely than with photography. In exchange, this play impacts how I see and what I notice when I photograph. The projects I have pursued over the years have helped me define my vision and style for my portrait and commercial portfolios.

As professional photographers, our creativity is our currency, but it's also our lifeline. Personal projects are not indulgent. They're essential. They help us discover ourselves andour artistry and make us more valuable to our clients.

Here are a few links to PPA articles on photographers who do projects.

Sandro Miller, a Chicago-based photographer:

https://www.ppa.com/ppmag/articles/its-personal-creative-side-projects-fuel-sandro-millers-success

Michael Taylor, on his project "Roadwork"  

https://www.ppa.com/ppmag/articles/bountiful-environments

Motivation and Independent Critique

I’m sure like most of us I have a pretty extensive library of books on photography. I have the usual truckload of books on technique and instruction on composition, lighting, posing, etc. You’ll also find a number of monographs from famous photographers that I look to for inspiration. But I picked up one book a couple of years ago that is unique in my collection, and it changed the way I do things.

Dawn at Rushmore : Dave Fulghum 2024

The book is “The Heart of the Photograph” by David DuChemin. Of the innumerable books out there on HOW to take a photograph, this is the only book I have ever found that explores the question of WHY we take a photograph. Why do we do what we do?

The answer to the question on motivation behind the lens is as varied as there are photographers. Some of us seek a creative outlet. Many are seeking acceptance among peers. Some enjoy the physical aspect of manipulating the gear (guilty). In most cases it’s a combination of those factors plus many, many more.

The biggest point made in the book though, the point that changed my perspective, was in regard to building an audience. In our case, being professional photographers, it relates directly to building a stable client base. How many of us, in the early days, when we received feedback from clients, would alter the way we approached our subjects to accommodate the client? In doing so, we vastly alter our processes to meet the client’s unrealistic expectations. I know I did. Yes, I made the sale, but I did not enjoy my work, and it showed in the final product. I made that sale, I gave them what they asked for, but I never saw them again as a return client.

Much of what we do flows from our creative core, from our heart. When we step away from that, in subtle ways, it shows in the final print. The point driven home in “The Heart of the Photograph” is to never let go of your creative core. Do what you do and allow your audience (or clients) to find you. Never compromise your process or vision to accommodate a client. They have seen your work, reviewed your portfolio, they hired you because they liked what they saw. Politely listen to their input and accommodate what request they have while maintaining your creative integrity.

Taking Criticism

Now, does maintaining your creative integrity mean that we can just kick back and do whatever we like. Any responsible professional knows the answer is … absolutely not!

I have been an active photographer for 50 years. I have a large photographic library, am a member of PPA and PPANI, attend conferences and meetings, serve on the PPANI board for the same reason, education. I continue to learn more and more about my craft daily. The day that dawns where I cannot learn something new, pick up a tip or tidbit that may change things for the better, is the day I need to hang up my cameras and move over for someone else.

Grand Falls : Dave Fulghum 2024

I have found that some of the hardest lessons to be learned, and some of the most beneficial for my images, come through the Image Competitions. Getting feedback from other independent professionals that work to a codified set of standards is invaluable. The judges bring a detached view to our work, unencumbered by our personal biases and experiences. They were not there when the shutter button was pressed and could not smell the fresh spring flowers, could not hear the breeze rustling the fall leaves, did not experience the laughter of the four-year-old. They only look to the technical precision you brought to the image (or didn’t). They do seek storytelling, as they should, but at this level that should be part and parcel of what we do every day. Many times, the feedback stings, but I have found that if I let that soak in for a day or two, take the messages to heart, and apply the information, my work gets better.

The merits are nice, yes, I want to get them as I’m working towards a degree, but in the biggest picture, I want my work to improve, consistently. And it has. In the March Image Comp, I submitted 8 images. Not a single one merited.  But all 8 scored in the above average category. All of my images scored between 76 and 79. I got great feedback on all of them, valuable take aways to help me grow. And the fact that all 8 scored in the same range equals… consistency.

Golden Spike : Dave Fulghum 2024

There is a tremendous amount of truth to the statement that when you score in the above average range (75-79) you are doing professional quality work. Work that is expected of us. 

Do not shy away from the Image Comp. The feedback you will receive will help you grow, help you improve, and help you grow your business.

And to all who entered the March Image Comp, congratulations to all. If you scored a merit, or won your category, Outstanding! If your scores were not what you would have liked, take the feedback and grow from it. But know that I did not see a single image in the Comp that did not belong there, all the work was wonderful. We are part of an incredibly talented community, and I for one am proud to call all of you my colleagues.

Dave Fulghum

PPANI Technology Chair : CPP

How PPANI Transformed My Photography Journey: Community, Education & Competition

Let’s be real—being a solopreneur can feel a little like being on an island. A very busy island, where you wear all the hats (photographer, editor, marketer, admin—you name it). When I left Bella Baby Photography after 12 years to go all-in on my own business, I knew I had the passion, but I had no idea how much I needed a community. Enter: PPANI (Professional Photographers Association of Northern Illinois), and let me tell you—it changed everything.

A Crew of Like-Minded Photographers

From day one, PPANI welcomed me in like an old friend. It’s not just a group—it’s a tight-knit family of photographers who genuinely want to see each other succeed. The monthly education meetings and quarterly meetups? Total game-changers. Whether it’s lighting techniques, business strategies, or just talking shop, I always walk away with something new to level up my work.

Growth Through Education and Networking

PPANI is committed to helping photographers grow—and I’m living proof. The workshops, seminars, and casual chats over coffee have directly impacted my business. I’ve learned how to streamline my workflow, connect with dream clients, and hone my style. And let’s not forget the power of networking—so many of my favorite gigs have come from connections I made right here.

Image Competition: The Best (and Scariest) Thing I Ever Did

Let’s talk about image competition—because wow, has it changed me. Twice a year, PPANI hosts competitions where photographers submit their work to be judged by certified professionals. Sounds terrifying, right? I won’t lie—at first, it was! Putting my heart (and my art) on the line for critique? Yikes.

But here’s what I learned: the judges aren’t emotionally attached to my work like I am. They see technical excellence, storytelling, and impact. And that feedback? It’s gold (even when it stings). Thanks to these competitions, I’ve sharpened my skills, improved my client work, and pushed myself creatively in ways I never thought possible.

And guess what? That dedication paid off BIG—I earned a GOLD award at IPC (Imaging USA 2025)! Would I have gotten there without PPANI’s local image competitions? Nope. Not a chance.

So if you’re a newbie considering entering but you’re scared—DO IT. The first time is nerve-wracking, but I promise it’s worth it. Take the critique, learn from it, and don’t take it personally. It’ll make you a better photographer (and maybe even win you some awards ).

From Member to Speaker at Imaging USA 2024

One of the most surreal moments of my career happened this past year—I became a speaker at Imaging USA 2024! My platform class, Crafting the Perfect Family Photo Experience, was all about family photography and how I create seamless, stress-free sessions.

I still remember when Beth and Maria told me, back when I first joined PPANI, that I’d be on that big stage one day. I laughed. Me? No way! But through the confidence I gained as a PPANI board member and active participant, I got there.

Standing in front of 300+ photographers, sharing my process for 75 minutes, was hands-down the scariest thing I’ve ever done. But also? One of the most rewarding. You can check out my feature in PPA Magazine here where I break down my platform talk, or grab my presentation slides here.

Why You Need a Photography Community

As photographers, we’re usually solo operators, but that doesn’t mean we have to do this alone. PPANI has given me education, friendships, motivation, and accountability. It’s where I’ve found my people—those who get it, who cheer me on, and who push me to be better every single day.

If you’re out here trying to figure it all out on your own—stop. Join a community. Join PPANI. It’ll change your business, your art, and maybe even your life.

“Your first 10,000 photographs are your worst.” - Henri Cartier-Bresson

Allow yourself to be a beginner.  No one starts off being excellent.  As is probably common within any profession, throughout the early years of my career there were many struggles and failures, and the thought of giving up frequently came to mind - sometimes almost daily.  In the most frustrating and self-loathing moments, I had the urge to head down to the icy waters of Lake Michigan to the very tip of Montrose Harbor and chuck every piece of my gear into the abyss.  Sometimes these moments were inspired by genuine mistakes I made, some were the result of an unhappy client - and yet others were simply due to being human: self-doubt, imposter syndrome, etc.  I’ve earned a few credentials over the years, have enjoyed my share of success, and yet there is still the occasional thought in my mind that PPA will one day realize their mistake and someone from Atlanta is going to knock on my door to ask for their awards back.

The antidote may simply be to pick up and carry on.  One thing that has worked for me is to continually strive to improve the art, craft, and business of my photography.  PPANI has been a perfect place to learn, grow, and become part of a professional community through which I and many others have thrived.  In the years that I’ve been involved with this group, my business has grown exponentially, and my colleagues within PPANI have been a part of that success.  In what can be a highly competitive industry, it’s been a remarkable experience to work and grow with such welcoming, supportive, and talented people.

I hope in the coming year you will make PPANI part of your career development.  We have an amazing lineup of workshops, competitions, and we’re starting off on January 21 with one of our very popular Quarterly Meetups - the theme of which will be setting goals and getting motivated for 2025.  The Quarterly Meetups are free but are for members only - more information about events and membership can be found on our website.

Lastly, consider the story of Ernest Shackleton, who, despite numerous spectacular failures, is considered one of the greatest explorers of the modern age and is still revered for his leadership skills.  He is best known for the 1914 first attempt to cross the Antarctic continent, where his ship, The Endurance, became trapped in pack ice, sank, and he and his team of 28 were stranded for more than two years.  Despite incredible hardship, terrible odds, and a grim outlook, he never gave up hope and eventually was able to get his crew home safely.  Shackleton had a reputation for having a positive mental attitude and an unwavering focus on the task at hand.  He kept a diary during the expedition of The Endurance, and one entry in particular may be helpful to keep in mind: “Perhaps in the quiet hours of the night you will feel the little snakes of doubt twisting in your heart. I have known them. Put them aside.”

- Michael Lee, President, PPANI , M. Photog., Cr., CPP, F-PPANI

Photo Credits: Henri Cartier-Bresson/Magnum Photos; Frank Hurley/Scott Polar Research Institute, University of Cambridge/Getty Images

July 14, 2021      Digital Image Competition

      We had 99 entries from 16 makers. The breakdown is as follows:

56 Portraits

            14 Illustrative

            9 Wedding

            10 Reportage

            1 Creative Open

            9 Artist

            14 B&W from the above categories.

The judges discussed many of the images as Challenges. This was followed by a short critique of all images.

We had 47 that scored 80 or above (President’s Award) 47%.

We had 9 that scored 85 – 89.

I want to thank John Tulipano for running the online session and to Michael Novo for helping with the sorting process.

Thanks to the judges. They were Bob Coates (AZ), Kristi Steeves (OH), and Dan Thornton (IL).

Sincerely,

Bruce Van Pelt, Chairman

 

Awards

Best of Show

“A Sunday Ride” by Megan Drane

 

Best Black & White

“My Fathers End of Life Portrait” by Travis Patenaude

Honorable Mention

“My Three Boys” by Kerri Weiss

“True to Form” by Jerry Alt

Best Artist

“A Sunday Ride” by Megan Drane

Honorable Mention

“Created by Man” by Sarah Johnston

“Snowy Lift Off” by Peggy Sue Seehafer

Best Portrait

“Can't Take My Eyes Off You” by Travis Patenaude

Honorable Mention

“Fallen from Grace” by Scott Detweiler

“I Will Always Be Here For You” by Travis Patenaude

Best Illustrative

“Purple Coneflower’s Attraction” by Peggy Sue Seehafer

Honorable Mention

“Leader of the Pack” by Kerri Weiss

“Perfectly Imperfect” by Sonya Gilbert

“Family Formation” by Sarah Johnston

Best Wedding

“Endearing” by Carrie White

Best Reportage

“A Chinchilla's Best Friend” by John Tulipano

AIM Award

“Can't Take My Eyes Off You” by Travis Patenaude

PPANI

February 10, 2021      Digital Image Competition

      We had 123 entries from 17 makers. The breakdown is as follows:

70 Portraits

            27 Illustrative

            7 Wedding

            10 Commercial

            2 Creative Open

            8 Artist

            12 B&W from the above categories.

The judges discussed many of the images as Challenges. This is where we learn the most from the judges’ opinions.

We had 38 that scored 80 or above (President’s Award) 31%.

We had 4 that scored 85 – 89, and 3 scored 90 - 95.

I want to thank John Tulipano, Julie Monacella and Brandi Orlando for running the online session and to Michael Novo for helping with the sorting process.

Thanks to the judges. They were Robert Hawkins (Iowa), Carl Caylor (Wis), Ella Carlson (MA), Toni Harryman (Iowa) and Mark Sweeney (NY).

Sincerely,

Bruce Van Pelt, Chairman

Awards

Best of Show

“Pas De Deux” by Jerry Alt

Best Black & White

“Pas De Deux” by Jerry Alt

Runner’s Up

“The Two of Hearts” by Michael Novo

“Sweeping Cirrus and Sand” by Michael Lee

Best Artist

“Angst in Acrylic” by Scott Detweiler

Runner Up

“The Changeling” by Kerri Weiss

Best Portrait

“Pas De Deux” by Jerry Alt

Runner’s Up

“Explosive” by Megan Drane

“Face of an Angel, but not the Rest” by Scott Detweiler

Best Illustrative

“Jonathan Livingston” by Kerri Weiss

Runners up

“Sweeping Cirrus and Sand” by Michael Lee

“The Devil’s other Tower” by Michael Lee

Best Wedding

“The Two of Hearts” by Michael Novo

Runner’s Up

“The Corn Cob” by Michael Novo

“Amsterdam Wedding” by Michael Novo

Judges Choice

Carl Caylor

“Explosive” by Megan Drane

Ella Carlson

“Angst in Acrylic” by Scott Detweiler

Bob Hawkins

“Jonathan Livingston” by Kerri Weiss

Mark Sweeney

“Bring it on” by Kerri Weiss

Toni Harryman

“Comfort” by Julie Monacella

ASP Award

“Jonathan Livingston” by Kerri Weiss

Print State Photography Competitions.

Why should I compete?

Hi PPANI - I miss our in person meetings and am looking forward to the day we can be together and encourage each other to learn and grow. I just want to reach out and encourage all of us to compete in Print Competition in 2021.

First I want to apologize for letting myself get lazy and not entering print competition (note to self)

Ok, let’s move on. A little bit about me: I joined PPANI in 2007 but didn’t enter print competition until 2012. I heard over and over it would make me a better photographer. One day I woke up and said to myself ‘oh my gracious Kerri, you're not going to die - just do it’ lol. Since then I’ve failed and succeeded.

Always learning.

I’ve enjoyed earning Bronze, Silver, Gold & Diamond awards at PPA’s International Print Competition. I’ve been the recipient of a Fuji Masterpiece Award & nominated for a GIA.

None of this would have happened if I would not have put myself out there. I’m not special just persistent.

Last year I didn’t compete at all and so this year I know that I need to get back in the saddle and to help others grow and be encouraged.

To make a long story short - knowing the 12 elements of a merit print helps me in all of my photography. It helps me focus and see things in a way I might not have seen before. It helps me take risks. It helps me desire to grow and learn. It keeps me humble.

One of the best pieces of advice I was given was: “don’t go for merit, go for 100” Let’s make this February the best PPANI print competition ever. And this year we have the ASP award for the highest scoring print for those of you are a an ASP member. 

Kerri Weiss Master Photog., Craftsman, CPP

12 Elements of a Merit/Loan Print

What does it take to get your photograph into the prestigious Loan Collection? Images in PPA’s International Photographic Competition are judged on 12 criteria. Master these and you win not only PPA merits but a spot in the Loan Collection exhibit.

1. Impact Viewing an image for the first time always evokes some kind of feeling. Sometimes they can make us sad, happy or angry. Sometimes they force us to look inward at ourselves. That’s called an impact, and the more powerful the image, the more powerful the emotional response of the viewer.

2. Technical Excellence This is the print quality of the actual image itself as it’s presented for viewing. There are a lot of aspects that speak to the qualities of the physical print. These can include: • Retouching • Manipulation • Sharpness • Exposure • Printing • Mounting • Color correction

3. Creativity Your point of view is exactly that– yours. And it’s unlike anyone else’s. This element speaks directly to that perspective. It shows your imagination and how you used the medium to convey an idea, a message or a thought to the viewer. This is how you differentiate yourself from others.

4. Style There are many, many ways to apply this element to your work. Maybe you use light in a specific way on a subject, or maybe you make a technical decision for the express purpose of underscoring desired impact. When subject matter and style come together in an appropriate manner, the effects on an image can be spectacular. But remember, when subject matter and style don’t work together, the results can be, well, less-than-spectacular.

5. Composition When all the visual elements of an image come together to express intent, that’s when the magic of composition happens. Good composition captures a viewer’s attention and directs it where you, the artist, want it to be. Depending on your intent, you can make something that pleases the viewer– or disturbs them.

6. Presentation 12 Elements of a Merit/Loan Print How you showcase an image is just as important as how you compose it. Everything in the presentation should work to enhance your image and not distract from it. Keep this in mind when choosing mats, borders and everything in between.

7. Color Balance Proper color balance can bring a sense of harmony to an image. When the tones all work together to support an image, the emotional appeal is that much greater. But color balance doesn’t have to be used to bring harmony to an image. You can use color balance to evoke any number of feelings from a viewer. The choice in how to take advantage is entirely up to you, but no matter what, be sure your choice enhances rather than distracts.

8. Center of Interest This is where an image’s creator wants a viewer’s attention focused. Sometimes there can be a primary and a secondary center of interest. Sometimes everything in an image will work together to create that center of interest.

9. Lighting The use and control of light has an effect on every aspect of an image. It informs dimensions and shape, it sets tone and mood, and, like every other technique, proper lighting can be used to enhance your image while improper lighting can detract from it.

10. Subject Matter Even though it lacks words, your image is still telling a story, and your subject matter is central to that. So make sure that your subject matter is right for the story that you’re trying to tell.

11. Technique How you choose to execute your image is key. It’s also a holistic decision. Technique informs everything in the creation of your image. From lighting and posing to printing and presentation, it all works to show off the techniques that you’ve mastered and applied to your craft.

12. Story Telling What does your image evoke in a viewer’s imagination? What do you want your image to evoke in a viewer’s imagination? Keep in mind: You are creating art. And while the act of creating is a personal thing, so too is the act of viewing. Your image is a story, and the one it tells your viewer may be one you never knew you were telling

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Chicagoland area photograph restoration studio has an immediate opening for an Experienced Photograph Restoration Artist. MUST be proficient in Photoshop, have drawing skills that include human features, objects, backgrounds, foregrounds, and buildings to work on restoring old damaged photographs. Working remotely is an option. Please feel free to forward this listing to anyone you feel is qualified and interested. Applicants: email sample of work or link & resume to photographoffice@gmail.com

Creating a Community in a Covid Era

by Beth Genengels, M.Photog, CR, CPP

When I sat down to write this article, the intention was to clarify the degree program offered through the Professional Photographers of Northern Illinois. Our degree program consists of several degrees offered that honor our members for their service to Northern. Points are gained by performing various duties and getting involved in our organization. (A full list of how to get involved is listed under member resources on the website.) Some of the easiest and most fun points to obtain are gained simply by attending our monthly meetings, or volunteering to help out in print comp. Wow, have times changed. If you’d like to know more about this program, I would be happy to talk to you on the side.

A great advantage of “Northern,” is our community. Being forced to separate for a bit has sure been tough, and we miss you! In coping with the lack of a physical community, here are 5 ways to be part of the Covid Era community at PPANI:

Lunch With Northern 

We have opened up a Monday Lunch hour. All are welcomed to join us (even if you aren’t currently a member of PPANI.) It has been a great opportunity to reconnect a bit and feel that sense of community again. Topics have included anything from well being checks to bonus items and outsourcing. Being a part of a PPA affiliate has always had its unique advantages. Sure, there is online learning all over the place, but we want to be here here for our members. Monday Lunch hours have been a support group of sorts, to vent, research and just be friendly with our fellow photographers.

Write an Article fo our Hi-lites Blog

Have you noticed the articles being posted since the beginning of this year? You can catch up on them here.The Professional Photographers of Northern Illinois have a long and rich history. We have boxes of articles written by our past members. In recent years, those publications have fallen off. 

Mainly due to technology, we no longer have a print newsletter, however there certainly is no shortage of talent among our members. We hope you take the time to read some (including this one) of these articles, but we also invite you to write an article on something you might want to share, or are passionate about. Some great ideas would be, “How I found my Photography Niche,” or “How to run Successful Mini Sessions” (Julie Mettler, I’m looking at you.) Maybe you’d like to share a pullback and description of a shot you took. You will earn the gratitude of a wonderful group of people for your efforts and receive points towards your degree.

Jump in on a Zoom Class

While we can’t actually meet up in person, we have had a wonderful set of speakers quickly adapt and offer exceptional online programs for PPANI. Join us for one of these classes while the state has restrictions in place. As a bonus, all of the classes are being recorded, so if you can’t join us the day of, you will receive a link to the recording and you can watch it at your leisure or revisit it whenever you’d like a refresh! 

Find an Accountability Partner

If sessions are slow use this time to work on your business and your marketing. Find an accountability partner in the group. You can use the Facebook page to ask for one! Having someone else to keep you on track makes progression easier. As an added bonus, you get to make a new friend.  

Host a Live Video

We love live feeds! Don’t be shy to pop up in the Facebook group and show us what you’re working on. I see some amazing things coming out of this group and I’m sure we would all love to know more. Some ideas for a live video would be a studio tour or a video from a great location you’re about to shoot in. Are you trying a new piece of equipment, or unboxing a new product? Hop on and share it with the group!

Hopefully the world will seem a bit more normal in the future. Hopefully that day comes soon. Until then, friends, come take part in our virtual community!