Online Courses and New Cameras

texashorses · Jul 18, 2011

I am a stay at home mom of 3 and I have been wanting to get into photography and take portraits for a little side income. My problem is that I don't know where the best online courses are that don't cost too much. I live in TX....cannot go to a class because my parents aren't close by to help with the baby and the inlaws....well....aint happenin.
So, any info would be greatly appreciated on how to get started and what all things are a must to get where I want to be. Also need input on what camera(s) would be best to get started as well as printers. Not sure how it all works...amateur! LOL

Matt24138 · Jul 18, 2011

If you have pawn shops nearby check them out. I got a canon xt with kit lens for 100.00. Also understanding exposure by Bryan Peterson is the standard for beginning photography. I would buy a used xt and invest in lenses. I plan to build my lenses than upgrade to a better canon body once I get the basics down. It's a lot cheaper to buy a camera body only. Petersons book you can find for under 10.00 on amazon and has enough info to get you going.

Trever1t · Jul 18, 2011

so you have no experience, no camera gear and want to go pro? Welcome to the forum, you'll fit right in!

Malone · Jul 18, 2011

I'm not sure about online courses, but there is a lot of FREE information out there. You just have to be willing to read it and sort thru the crap.

If you know absolutely nothing, here is a good place to start.

A couple other useful sites:

http://www.photographymad.com/

[URL]http://www.freephotocourse.com/index.html[/URL]

Gaerek · Jul 18, 2011

I'm going to second (or third) the suggestion of staying away from online classes. Everything that's taught in those classes you can find online with a little work. Like was mentioned, Understanding Exposure is a great book to start learning with. Used cameras can be found on eBay, Craigslist, etc.

I don't want to shoot down any of your hopes here, but don't expect to be able to learn a few things, pick up a camera and start making money. It's a field already flooded with people who've been shooting for a long time, know the business, and have (in many cases) tens of thousands of dollars invested in gear. That would be your competition. My suggestion is to first just take it up as a hobby, and have fun with it. That makes it easier to learn. Practice on your kids. Shoot things that interest you. See if "going pro" is really what you want to do.

texashorses · Jul 18, 2011

Thanks for the help!

texashorses · Jul 18, 2011

I created my own website about 4 years ago and went to work for myself from home and sold horses, tack, equipment, vehicles, etc.... on commission. Used my small digital cameras and programs to edit pics of everything I had for sale. Loved to play with the software and photos. Only takes a couple pics to post an add but would end up with around 50 pics of everything!
Anyhow, yes, I don't have experience as a "photographer" and do not own an expensive camera but have been interested in photography for a long time. Just never new where to start. I know it will take time and a lot of trial and error but am ready to see what potential I have.

texashorses · Jul 18, 2011

Thanks for the website Malone! I will check them out!

texashorses · Jul 18, 2011

Thanks Gaerek! Not expecting to get rich quick by no means...just a hobby for a little side income after I get the knowledge to do so!

Gaerek · Jul 18, 2011

texashorses said:
Thanks Gaerek! Not expecting to get rich quick by no means...just a hobby for a little side income after I get the knowledge to do so!

I understand.

I just want to make sure your expectations are in line. Many people go out spend a couple grand on a camera, with no experience or knowledge and wonder why they can't sell a photo to save their life. Like I said before, take it as a hobby. Have fun with it while you learn. Your kids will make great guinea pigs for your practice. Don't worry about spending a ton of money on the best gear. Get a good used DSLR, and practice with it. That's about the best advice I can give.

texashorses · Jul 18, 2011

LOL! OK...don't laugh or throw things but.... what is a DLSR? LOL!

Malone · Jul 18, 2011

What is a DSLR?

texashorses · Jul 18, 2011

LOL!! Ya! I know it is a digital camera but what is the SLR....

Matt24138 · Jul 18, 2011

Single lens reflex. If you want to have a range of options you need an slr as you can have more control over settings and lenses to chose from depending on the distance and type of shot.