Ok, if you’ve come this far and you’re still with me you’ve learned and accomplished a lot! So what’s next? Pretty simple … get out there and make photographs! Afterall, isn’t that what it’s all about?  You’ve developed the tools and the means to do good work. And I’m sure you have the gear. Now you need to find the time to execute the most basic of steps … make photographs!

The more you can be out there the better, especially if you’re just getting started. Yes, I know, finding the time can be a challenge. I face this problem myself. And it’s easy to get hung up thinking there isn’t much of interest nearby, but if you’ve followed along this far you know that’s just plain wrong. So just find the time and get out there! Make photographs wherever you see them. No need to plan at all.  Or start a project to work on.  Just keep at it to you finish saying what you wanted to say. Or do something in between … it doesn’t really matter. You can even keep a cheap camera in your car, loaded and ready for action if something pops up when you’re out and about. I have a really nice Olympus Stylus Zoom 140 a friend gave me that you can pick up for a song and it has more capability than you will ever need! “Cheap and cheerful” as my old Brit friend used to say!

Some people will tell you the only way to get better is to make as many pictures as possible? It certainly can’t hurt but I’m not sure I fully agree. I think the best thing is to develop a formula that allows you to get out there as much as you can without creating unnecessary stress in your life. The key is to enjoy yourself!  And while you’re out there, concentrate on becoming more aware of your surroundings. Learn to see what’s there of photographic interest to you. Trust me on this one. You won’t need to travel far to make meaningful photographs!

Stay well,

Michael