What I would do if I started Photography in 2025
If I were starting photography again today, I wouldn’t waste time stressing about the “perfect” gear. I’d sidestep the biggest beginner mistakes I made the first time around. I’d focus on the things that actually get results.
So here’s exactly what I’d do if I were starting fresh — and what I think every beginner should hear in 2025.
1. Don’t Obsess Over Gear
This is the most common question I get:
“What camera should I buy?”
Truthfully? It’s not that important. Most cameras made in the last five years are more than capable for almost any kind of photography. If I were choosing today, I’d look for:
Interchangeable lenses (for flexibility)
Decent autofocus
In-body image stabilization
A sensor with 25MP or more (for cropping flexibility)
But most importantly? I’d choose something I enjoy using. If you don’t enjoy using your camera, you simply won’t use it, and that defeats the point.
Pro tip: Buy second hand. Save money. Get more value. Use the extra for lenses or travel.
2. Master the Fundamentals (Forget the Fancy Stuff)
When I started, I spent way too much time trying fancy techniques like the Brenizer Method. Cool? Sure. Necessary? Not at all.
Instead, I’d focus on the three pillars of a great photo:
Composition – how you frame the shot
Light – how it shapes your scene
Subject – what you’re actually capturing
Learn the rules of composition, and when to break them. Pay attention to light throughout the day. Choose subjects that are interesting, that tell a story or spark curiosity.
And yes, get to grips with your camera settings. Learn the exposure triangle: ISO, shutter speed, aperture. But don’t rush. This stuff takes time, and every “bad” photo helps you grow. Don’t be afraid of auto mode if you are struggling with the technical aspects.
3. Stick With One Lens (For a While)
One of the best things I ever did was limit myself to a single focal length. It completely changed how I see and compose photos.
My favourites are 35mm and 40mm. Wide enough to tell immersive stories, but not so wide that the scene becomes chaotic. Try it. Learn the lens inside and out. Let it shape how you frame the world.
A fixed lens builds muscle memory, and a much sharper compositional eye.
4. Focus on What You Love to Shoot
Photography can feel overwhelming at first. So many genres. So many photographers doing amazing things.
In my first year, I tried everything: macro, landscapes, motorsport, portraits, weddings. But it left me more confused than confident.
Instead, ask yourself:
What do you already enjoy outside of photography?
Where do you feel most connected?
What subjects naturally draw your attention?
Follow that. Trust it. It’ll make your photography feel more fulfilling, and your growth more consistent.
5. Learn Video (You Won’t Regret It)
I wish I’d started learning video from day one.
Even if you never post to YouTube, filming teaches you:
Better composition
More intentional storytelling
How to document life with meaning
Plus, it adds a whole new skillset, which is incredibly valuable if you ever want to earn money with your camera. Clients love hybrid shooters.
And personally? Learning video made me a better photographer too.
6. Find a Creative Community
This might be the single best thing I did early on.
I found a small group of photographers who I could shoot with, learn from, and laugh with (there may have been A LOT of rum involved!). We met up once a year for trips and kept each other going.
If you can, find your people, online or in person. It makes a huge difference, especially on the days when you feel stuck or alone.
7. Start Building Something Early
Whether it’s YouTube, a blog, or Instagram — start documenting your journey now.
Don’t wait until you’re “good enough.” That’s not how you get good.
Your early content might not be the best, but that’s fine. It’s about building habits, getting comfortable sharing, and letting people follow your progress. Plus, if you ever want to make money from photography, this is how you’ll do it.
Start today. Share what you learn. Be open about the process. It’s the best way to grow.
8. Build a Photography Mindset
Here’s the truth: this is hard. There are no shortcuts. You need patience, consistency, and a willingness to fail. Many times.
But mindset is everything.
If you stay curious, avoid comparison, and find joy in the process, you will get better.
Stop comparing your work to the best of Instagram. That’s like playing five-a-side and wondering why you’re not Ronaldo. It doesn’t make sense.
Focus on your journey. Document it. Share it. Trust it.
Final Thoughts
If you’re starting photography in 2025, know this: you’re not behind. You’re not late. You’re exactly where you need to be.
And if you focus on the right things — mindset, fundamentals, community, and creativity — you’ll go further, faster, and have a much more meaningful experience along the way.
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