Photography Resources

During our family vacation I was asked a few times about how to take better pictures and what resources do I use or recommend. Before you read the starting list below, know two things. First, don't assume the resources will make you a better photographer. You need to get out and shoot lots, everyday if you can, applying the things you learn. Practice, practice, practice! Second, always have your camera with you. Your models (aka family and friends) get used to you having a camera, and in turn, become less self-conscious of having their picture taken. Also, you may miss "the shot". This morning I missed a great shot on my way to work because I was more concerned about my coffee. Sigh.

Books and Magazines:

1. Go to your local library, sign out and read books and magazines on photography.
2. Scott Kelby's The Digital Photography Volumes 1-3.
3. Bryan Peterson's Understanding Exposure, 3rd Edition: How to Shoot Great Photographs with Any Camera and any other book by Bryan Peterson
4. Chris Orwig's Visual Poetry.
5. Practical Photography Magazine. This magazine is from the UK and expensive, but well worth it. It is chock full of information for both beginners and pros. I read mine from cover to cover and often try out ideas and suggestions from the various authors and contributors.

Internet:

1. Look up videos on photography on YouTube or other video sites. There are great tidbits of info out there, such as found here.
2. Find photographer websites and blogs where you can read about their photoshoots and how they took their pictures. Look at their pictures for inspiration.
3. Check out DTown TV (another Scott Kelby resource). Each webisode covers a wide variety of topics for various skill levels.
4. Subscribe to an email resource. I get an email every week from Digital Photography School that gives me information about cameras, ideas on how to take different types of pictures, how to use various processing programs, and so on. Update: see an example here.

On last tip: find people with whom to shoot. During my vacation I had the pleasure of shooting with a fellow photographer friend one early morning. It's great to spend time with other photographers, share ideas and get new perspectives.

What resources do you recommend? Post them in the comments. Thanks!