Painting with pixels

A few years back, photography was an expensive hobby. The allied support system for a photographer was elaborate and tedious. But the digital camera has made development rooms and long rolls of films obsolete. Though a few pros still love experimenting with the old film camera, its digital counterpart has made photography affordable for almost everyone. Film rolls have been replaced by memory cards and the result is instantly available and erasable.

Quite a few youngsters are experimenting with the art of photography while making a few quick bucks during the process. There are also several self-taught photographers who have made it their profession, raking in big bucks. For all those who believe they have what it takes to be skilled photographers, a plethora of options is available- from starter kits to online tutorials. Young Hans spoke to a few novices and hard core enthusiasts who found their best friends in their kit lenses.

Micheal Monterio, a mentor at Nikon School of Photography, says a photographer should have the eye of a painter. He is a freelance photographer and has made a living out of his passion. Most acclaimed photographers and cinematographers are infact excellent painters too. Mohit, who adopted his father’s hobby and turned into a paying profession, is now a wedding and candid photographer.

“Anyone can start by taking the help of books like Better Photography or Smart Photography”, suggests Mohit. He adds that there are quite a few Youtube videos to help amateurs out with their craft. But while many enthusiastically buy digital cameras and click away to glory, they do not pay heed to the much important fundamentals of photography.

Shubhangi Singh, a professional photographer and cinematographer says that one should be well acquainted with basics of lighting, frame, focus and composition. “Even the way you hold a camera goes a long way in making a good photograph”, says Beig Farhatullah, a professional photographer.

While the available range of digital cameras has the auto mode, in which these devices intelligently judge the crucial parameters and automatically present the best picture under the given circumstances, experts suggest that one should opt for the manual mode while learning. Noel Sudhir, a freelance photographer says, “The output should portray the creative eye of the photographer.

The manual mode would require the user to master all the parameters like available light, aperture and speed.” The best way to master the art is to frequently go for what are called ‘Photography Walks’. All one needs to do is take a camera and walk along a road or in a park looking for potential subjects. “Make sure you carry an extra battery and a memory card. Also have raincoats or umbrellas on a rainy day”, suggests Noel.

Network, network and network Gone are the days when novices would go knocking door to door in search of work. Social networks like Instagram, Facebook and Twitter have made it easier than ever before for photographers to showcase their work and develop contacts. Budding photographers initially work for free till they have enough samples to showcase their talent. And the best place to garner appreciation is their online networking profiles. It is simple and doesn’t cost a cent.

Potential clients also use Facebook to post their requirements and assignments. Those looking for work should keep a tab on such listings and grab the first opportunity. All one needs is passion, patience and perseverance. And as they say, the world is your oyster!

By:Priya Ratnam