Top 10 Questions Amateur Photographers Ask (and Simple Answers)
When you’re starting out in photography, the sheer amount of information can feel overwhelming. Do you need a “proper” camera? What’s the difference between RAW and JPEG? How do you get those dreamy blurred backgrounds?
The good news: every amateur photographer asks the same questions at some point. Below, you’ll find the ten most common beginner photography questions—answered in plain English—so you can spend less time confused and more time making photos you’re proud of. Here are my Top 10 Questions Amateur Photographers Ask (and Simple Answers).
Choosing Your First Camera and Lens
What camera should I buy?
It depends on your goals and budget. If you want to take photography seriously, a mirrorless or DSLR camera is a great option because you can change lenses. If you’re just learning, even your smartphone is powerful enough to teach you the basics of light and composition. The best camera is always the one you’ll actually carry and use.
What’s the best lens for beginners?
A 50mm f/1.8 (often called a “nifty fifty”) is a perfect starter lens—it’s affordable, sharp, and great for portraits and everyday photography. Kit zoom lenses (like 18–55mm) offer flexibility, while wide lenses suit landscapes and telephotos are perfect for wildlife or sports. Choose a lens that matches what excites you most.
Mastering Exposure and Settings
How do I shoot in low light without flash?
Low light doesn’t mean you have to ruin the mood with flash. Instead, raise your ISO, open up your aperture (choose a low f-number), and slow your shutter speed—but hold the camera steady or use a tripod. If your subject moves, use a faster shutter speed and accept some ISO grain. Modern cameras handle high ISO much better than older ones.
What do aperture, shutter speed, and ISO mean?
These three settings form the exposure triangle:
- Aperture (f-stop): Controls how much light enters and how much of the photo is in focus.
- Shutter Speed: Controls how long the sensor sees light—fast speeds freeze motion, slow speeds blur it.
- ISO: Controls how sensitive the sensor is to light—higher ISO brightens the photo but can add grain.
Learning to balance these three is the key to creative photography.
Creative Effects and Problem Solving
How do I get blurry backgrounds (bokeh)?
That creamy, soft background comes from:
- Using a wide aperture (f/1.8, f/2.8, etc.).
- Getting close to your subject.
- Keeping the background far away.
Longer lenses (like 85mm or 200mm) exaggerate this effect beautifully.
Why are my photos blurry?
Blurriness usually comes from one of three problems:
- Focus error – the camera locked onto the wrong part of the scene.
- Camera shake – shutter speed too slow to handhold.
- Subject movement – shutter speed too slow to freeze motion.
Fix this by using a faster shutter speed, holding your camera steady, and checking focus carefully.
Shooting, Editing, and Developing Style
Should I shoot in RAW or JPEG?
- RAW: Larger files, but they hold all the detail for editing—great if you want to fine-tune exposure and colour.
- JPEG: Smaller, ready-to-use straight out of the camera, but with less editing flexibility.
If you want the most control and plan to edit, choose RAW. If you prefer quick results, stick with JPEG—or use both if your camera allows.
What’s the best way to edit my photos?
Start simple. Free tools like Snapseed or Lightroom Mobile are excellent for beginners. For more serious editing, Adobe Lightroom (for global adjustments) and Photoshop (for detailed edits) are industry standards. Begin with the basics: exposure, contrast, and colour balance. Small, thoughtful edits usually look more natural than heavy-handed ones.
How do I compose better photos?
Good composition makes your photos instantly more appealing. Try these simple tips:
- Use the rule of thirds—place your subject off-centre.
- Look for leading lines that guide the viewer’s eye.
- Pay attention to the background and remove distractions.
- Experiment with filling the frame or leaving empty space for impact.
Practice slowing down and noticing the whole scene before you press the shutter.
How do I make my photos stand out?
Technical skills matter, but what really makes a photo shine is the story behind it. Capture a feeling, mood, or unique perspective rather than just recording what’s in front of you. Try unusual angles, play with light, and focus on subjects that mean something to you. Over time, your personal style will develop—and that’s what truly sets your photos apart.
Final Thoughts for Questions Amateur Photographers Ask
Every photographer begins with the same questions. The difference between frustration and progress is simply practice. Don’t worry about having the “perfect” gear or knowing every technical term—just keep shooting, experimenting, and learning.
The more photos you take, the more answers you’ll discover for yourself. So grab your camera (or even your phone) and start creating. Your journey in photography begins the moment you press the shutter.
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Stephen Paul Young
I’m Steve (Stephen Paul Young), a landscape, digital and film photographer with a deep love for capturing the beauty of nature, light, and atmosphere. Whether I’m out at dawn chasing the perfect sunrise, exploring woodland trails, or experimenting with black-and-white film, photography is my way of seeing the world. I’m drawn to the small details and the big vistas alike, always looking for that moment where light, texture, and emotion come together. For me, photography isn’t just about taking pictures—it’s about storytelling, connection, and the joy of being present in the landscape.
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