10 Lessons That Changed My Photography Forever
Photography has taught me so much more than how to take good photos. It’s shifted how I see the world, how I connect with people, and how I live my life. So today, I want to share 10 lessons that have completely changed the trajectory of my photography.
Let’s dive in.
1. Don’t Invest in Gear—Invest in Trips
Seriously. Going on an adventure—even just once in a while—can do more for your photography than the latest camera ever could. Travel inspires you. It pulls you into new environments and forces you to see with fresh eyes.
I pick up my camera far more when I’m exploring somewhere new than when I’m at home. I’ve got gear sitting on shelves gathering dust, but the memories and photos I’ve captured on trips? Priceless.
2. Shoot Different Perspectives
Don’t just shoot from eye level—get low, shoot from above, find something to shoot through, get close. Challenge yourself to see the world differently.
Photography is storytelling, and the more unique your perspective, the better your story. What we see at eye level is what everyone else sees too—so get creative and surprise your viewer.
3. Document Your Life
This one’s really personal for me. When you’re focused on improving your photography, it’s easy to forget to capture the moments that actually matter: your family, your friends, your everyday life.
After losing someone close to me, I wished I had more photos to remember them by. So don’t forget the “mundane” stuff. Those are the photos that will mean the most in the long run.
4. Surround Yourself with Good People
The creative path can feel lonely. Having people around who support your vision and understand your journey is essential.
If you share your favourite photo with someone and they barely react, it can be discouraging. You need people who get it. That’s one reason I created The Photopreneur Club—a place for photographers like you to grow, get feedback, and stay inspired.
If you're looking for community, check it out here
5. Look for Good Lighting
Photography literally means “painting with light.” Lighting is everything.
Soft light, hard light, golden hour, harsh midday shadows—it all tells a different story. As a photographer, learning to see the light is one of your most powerful tools.
6. Learn Composition Early
How you frame a shot matters. Using techniques like the rule of thirds, leading lines, and symmetry can help guide the viewer’s eye and tell a more compelling story.
Composition is one of those things that separates a decent photo from a powerful one. Mastering it early will give your work more impact.
7. Mix It Up
Once you’ve learned the rules—break them.
Combine techniques, try something weird, flip your approach completely. This is where your creativity starts to shine through. Don’t stay stuck in the same style forever—challenge yourself to evolve.
8. Share Your Work
Don’t let your photos sit on your phone or hard drive unseen. Share them with friends, family, online, in galleries—whatever feels right.
Feedback, even the tough kind, is part of the process. Sharing your work puts it out into the world and helps you grow.
9. Do It for a Long Time
You won’t be great at first—and that’s completely normal.
Photography is a craft. It takes time, practice, and patience. The longer you stick with it, the more your voice and style will emerge. Think of it as a lifelong journey, not a quick destination.
10. Learn Your Camera Inside Out
It doesn’t matter whether you shoot on a Fuji, Canon, Sony, or anything else—know your camera like the back of your hand.
Set it up so it feels intuitive. Use your custom dials. Understand its quirks. That way, when the perfect moment appears, you won’t miss it because you’re fiddling with settings.
This one was a game-changer for me. Missing a shot because of user error? That stings. So know your gear.
Final Thoughts
These are just 10 of the many lessons I’ve learned through photography, but they’ve each had a major impact on how I shoot, how I see, and how I live.
If you’re on this journey too, I hope at least one of these resonates with you. And if you want to take your photography to the next level and be part of a community that grows together, definitely check out The Photopreneur Club—it’s a space I’ve built for creatives like us.