12 tips for boosting your photography skill without even touching your camera

Ever wondered if you could improve your photography skills without even picking up your camera? The answer is: of course! In fact, there are plenty of ways to do it even when your camera is not with you. In his recent video, peter forsgårds shares his top 12 tips (and a bonus tip) on how to hone your craft without even bringing your camera along.

1. Master the art of composition: When you don’t have the camera on you, practice composition with your fingers. While walking, use your fingers to frame scenes, simulating different compositional techniques. This exercise helps you identify strong compositions in everyday life.

2. Become a light observer: Pay attention to shadows and how the scenes change throughout the day. Notice how light shapes objects and creates different moods, compare lighting conditions, as well as the same scenes in different weather. For me, this is a perfect exercise while on a train.

3. Visualize your images: Imagine the shot. Before taking a photo, envision the final image in your mind. This helps you plan your composition and exposure, whether during a shoot – or for some next time.

4. Study the masters: Analyze the work of famous photographers and learn their techniques and styles. Visit exhibitions to find inspiration, and from my experience – they don’t even have to be photography exhibitions. This lets you experience art in person, from another perspective, giving you a deeper understanding.

5. Read, read, read: When you’re not shooting, read photography books and articles. Gain insights into different genres and techniques, read biographies, learn about the lives and inspirations of renowned photographers. Sean Tucker’s The Meaning in the Making is a book I can’t recommend enough, and you can read a review here.

6. Join online classes: Cold weather’s coming (at least in the northern hemisphere), and it’s the perfect time to enroll in online courses. Take courses on storytelling, post-processing, or specific photography genres. Other than courses, you can participate in online communities and share your work for constructive criticism and feedback.

7. Describe scenes: Practice verbalizing your vision. Describe potential photographs in detail, including lighting, composition, and subject matter. Another great exercise for those moments while you’re on a train, or hanging out on a bench waiting for your friend who’s always late.

8. Learn post-processing techniques: When we’re not taking photos, most of us are editing them. While you may not enjoy it as much as shooting, at least if you’re like me, editing gives a whole different dimension to your images. So, spend some time learning it and experimenting with different editing tools and techniques.

9. Understand technical aspects: the technical aspect involves several things. Most obviously, familiarize yourself with camera settings and controls. But it also involves learning photography theory. Understand concepts like exposure, aperture, depth of field, and shutter speed – to name just a few. You’ll find our in-depth guides on this link.

10. Develop your artistic vision: Think about what sets your photography apart and strive to maintain consistency. This will help you develop your own style and create recognizable images.

11. Critique other photographers: Learn what constructive criticism is and analyze the work of other photographers. Evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of their images and learn from feedback. Then, apply the insights you gain to your own photography.

12. Study the history of photography: You know how they say that “history is the teacher of life?” Well, as photographers, we can learn a lot from the past. Understand the evolution of photography and the techniques used by early pioneers. It’s not only useful – it’s fun to explore as well! I recommend 50 Photo Icons: The Story Behind the Pictures, at least for starters. I love this book so much, and I’ve read it and flipped through it dozens of times.

Bonus tip: create a portfolio: Collect your favorite images and display them in a portfolio to showcase your best work. Reflect on your progress, and analyze your portfolio to identify areas for improvement.

“Go out and shoot” is the most common tip you’ll hear when it comes to practicing and improving your photography. But I still find Peter’s tips incredibly useful. First of all, my camera isn’t with me at all times (including my smartphone camera – I often walk without my phone). Then, for example, you might be on a train or bus and can’t just stop where you want and take photos. It’s good to know that, even in situations like this, you can still hone your craft even without that essential piece of gear.

[Photography Secrets: Learn Without Making a Single Shot! via FStoppers]