First if you want to learn photography, you must have the basic tool, the camera. But there are many types of camera. So decide whether you want it film or in digital form. I suggest since you’re still a beginner, choose the digital format. In this case, you can quickly see the output without undergoing the process of film developing which is very time consuming and a bit expensive. Compare to digital, you can immediately see the output and change the camera setting right there and then as you desire.

1. Borrow a camera. Before purchasing a personal camera, it would be smarter to borrow first from people you know who already know the basic how-to’s like functions and settings like a friend, relative or even your next-door neighbor. With this, you won’t need to pay them high tutorial fees compared to professional instructors. All you need is to take them into an irresistible lunch out or a beer drinking session after the shoot. So the next time your ready and knowledgeable enough to buy your own camera, you already know what you want for your dream gadget.

2. Hunt for free a location. Since this is just a practice, don’t shoot to unforbidden public areas such schools, government offices, main streets etc to avoid paying location permits. Shoot in neutral places like your own backyard, park, friend’s garden or even inside the house. But if you really want a certain place as background, then negotiate it. As they say, everything can be settled in one way or another.

3. Use of home or office supplies. In a day shoot, sun is the only free source of light. So maximize it. You can use styropor or illustration board to illuminate the subject’s face especially when against the harsh sun. Then make sure to print a schedule outline for the day with its corresponding location and time so you can check it if you’re on schedule or not.

4. Maximize the internet. Read articles containing basic camera functions especially the model that you will be using. Search pictures, photography sites, designs, layouts, famous local or international photographers and study them all. You can also develop a theme for your photoshoot and look for possible inspiration or previous works done by other photographers. Hence you can develop, innovate and create a totally different approach to the given theme. Don’t forget to check the weather forecast for your shoot.

5. Look for undiscovered models. There are always people who love to be photographed or be part of this fun activity. This way you won’t need to pay for a talent fee. So why not look for that person? She/he could be your crush, your cute bestfriend or even your hot schoolmate just waiting to be approached. Who knows that it could be a start of a beautiful relationship between the photographer and the talent?

In any other future circumstance, always think twice before spending your hard earned money because you can always come up of practical ways of minimizing the cost just being innovative. To add up don’t forget to feed the person that lends their time and talent for free like your talent and assistant. And lastly, make sure to fully charge your camera and always bring extra batteries. Have fun!