Taking the first steps in a new occupation, everyone will certainly face difficulties. It seems that you are doing everything as it should, but the result is still not the one you expect. So, how to become a professional if you don’t even know where to start? 

• Start learning from the basics

The main problem is the lack of knowledge or the necessary information. Go to classes where a professional will give the necessary base. You can ask questions that interest you. If it’s not possible to attend classes, don’t be discouraged. Start exploring the art of photography on your own by buying special literature or using the Internet. Don’t be afraid of the amount of information that seems huge. Stick to the training plan and you will come to the result in small steps.

• Don’t chase newfangled equipment

Simple cameras and professional cameras are different things, there is nothing to argue. But don’t try to get the coolest camera and think that the pictures will be of high quality. In skillful hands, even photographs taken on a simple camera will look beautiful. And, on the contrary, a good professional camera in the hands of a beginner will not make spectacular shots. It all depends not on the pixels and other parameters of the camera but on the ability to take pictures. 

• Shoot for yourself, not for others

If you shoot in order to create something similar to other popular images, get likes or comments, then you are not in the right way. This applies to all types of art, especially when you are a beginner. Your main viewer is you yourself. Shoot what you love. Focus on the things that inspire you. This should bring joy to you first. People will notice and appreciate your creativity.

• Join the community

Choose your favorite community and join groups on Facebook or Google+ or others. Joining a group of amateur photographers has undeniable advantages. They will most likely point you to the mistakes you make or offer interesting perspectives.

• Practice

Musicians practice, athletes practice, and you have to practice. By and large, no matter what you do, you will have to practice to succeed. If you want the finger on the shutter to synchronize with the course of your thoughts, you have to work. Also, ask those who know more than you to criticize your photos. Perhaps they will indicate mistakes that you don’t see. But be patient and prepared for the fact that your work can be criticized.

• Don’t stop taking pictures even if you don’t like them

Do you think well-known photographers get everything right with the first press of a camera button? You are deeply mistaken. Analyze your pictures and don’t worry. Try to understand why the shot failed, what is wrong? Working on mistakes is a normal process. Nobody succeeds in making everything perfect for the first time. We all make mistakes and learn. Don’t be discouraged if the pictures are not as beautiful as you would like. If you are unhappy with what happened, don’t rush to throw the camera in the far corner. And next time, you will not make the same mistake.