Important tips on how to start photo walk ~ Photography Blog for Beginners

Photography defines inner you. Photography always creates a story that you wanted to share with the universe. Sometimes it’s reminding me how much you have to keep patience in your life the same theory applies to photography.

I remember it was a heavily rainy day I couldn't find a single bird to capture. I was full of hope that after a long wait will get something. You don't believe actually the same thing happened. I have captured the beautiful bird with drizzled rain.

Before you go out for photography don’t forget to carry the following:

Your camera (Any camera of any make is fine)
Carry fully charged batteries for your camera/flash
Carry backup memory cards in case you run short of space
This involves considerable walking, physical fitness is essential
Carry your personal medications if you are on medication
Carry a water bottle, hat, and some dry snacks/chocolates
Carry Mosquito repellent cream to keep you protected from mosquito bites
Carry a pair of good binoculars if you have one.
Wear dull-colored clothes, avoid bright colours
Carry umbrella and raincoat and prepare for rain.
A good pair of shoes.

Please make sure to also bring with you essential photography gear. However, since you will be moving around a lot, you should not bring too much. In lenses you should carry one or two, if possible take one telephoto lenses with you. Using a tripod is the most important for a lot of photographers, It might not be a good idea as carrying it around can wear you down – unless it is a smaller more portable tripod. If you really want something that can somehow help with the stability of your camera, try going for what’s popular nowadays – the monopod. Bring only your flash when you’re sure to shoot in a light-challenged area. Lastly, make sure that you have enough storage for all the photos that you will be taking. Prepare an extra battery or two.

Before heading out, check weather updates. It’s your choice whether to proceed with the activity if the weather is too hot or too cold.

Wear comfortable clothes. Just keep in mind Photowalk is an outdoor adventure – so you should dress appropriately. Your shoes should be comfortable and sturdy. Your clothes should protect you from the heat or the cold, depending on what the weather is. If you choose to wear pants, choose one with a lot of pockets so you can stuff some of your things inside them. Wear sunblock if the sun is high.

Whether you are going on a Photowalk alone or with a group, it is important to plan your route before a day. Drawing up a plan will help you save time and effort since you know where you will be going next. You don’t need to be specific about the places you’re going to, just the route.

Planning your route becomes easy if you know your surroundings. Thus, it is important for you to check out the places online days before the scheduled Photowalk.

Hint: Use Map / Google Earth and enable/check some Layers options (such as Places and Photos).

A Photowalk will bring you closer to nature. It will also give you the chance to discover scenes you used to just pass by on your way to work, to the Church or while you’re walking to the park. You’ll find a lot of interesting things you’ve never noticed before. Thus, it is important to not only take wide shots but also to take a few close-ups possible all types of shots. This will be especially useful if you come across patterns or if you find something you are interested in but cannot really get close to it. An example is a photo of a mother carrying her child outside their home, which is located under the bridge.

If you want to take photos with a good balance of exposure, do not forget to bring your filters but it depends on you. Again, bring only the essential ones. An ND filter and a polarizing filter will help you come up with good photos.

Taking photos during a Photowalk is as random as it can be. Therefore, you should always leave your camera on. This way, you won’t miss any interesting opportunity, scene or image the minute you see one.

The best way to take the most interesting photos is to find a spot where you can stand and then look in every direction of the place. Find an area that’s slightly elevated so it will be easy for you to take in the whole surroundings. A good 360° view of your Photowalk location will open up windows of opportunity.

Be aware. Take notice of your surroundings; don’t focus you're all on your camera. Look around; look at the activity around you. Immerse yourself in what’s happening around you. Don’t get lost in your viewfinder. In order to take good photos, you have to have an understanding of the subject/s you are trying to capture.