Like anything worthwhile in life, learning how to become a better photographer can be a time consuming process.  Anyone can pick up a camera and take a photo but this does not automatically make you a photographer.  I have heard comments many times such as “That’s a great photo, you must have an expensive camera”.  That makes about as much sense as complementing a chef on a meal because of the quality of his pots and pans.

Sure, in the right hands a good good quality  camera (or more importantly a good quality lens) will assist a photographer in making a good image great.  But first you must have a vision and the technical aptitude to understand how to setup your camera and lighting for the conditions and subject matter and the way in which you wish to capture it.

Achieving consistent repeatable results under different lighting conditions, subject matter and locations (and understanding why) is a rewarding journey.  The more effort that you put into it the better and quicker the results.

I’m not just talking about putting the camera in P Mode or one of the other scene modes and pushing the button.  After all your camera does not know what you are trying to achieve - only you know that.

A great tool for learning and growing as a photographer is a photoblog.  This will allow you to measure and improve your creativity, photographic and post processing skills over time.  You will get a snapshot of your progress at a point in time and see how you have improved.  With the right approach you should also receive constructive criticism from more experienced photographers who visit your site. But remember, you need to make a conscious decision to post images on a regular basis.

• Visit: Shaun's Photoblog