Top 5 Beginner Photographer Mistakes - Mike Browne

[@jeoffreyseballos6294]

Love this guy, discusses more on photography and not so much on gears. Love from the Philippines!

[@MikeBrowne]

Thanks Jeoffrey... MIKE :-)

[@TheWooloomoolloo]

Yes, this master keeps it simple because it is simple: exposure time + aperture + ISO (the sunny f16 rule, if you like). Just take any manual film camera to see how it works (in part, because developing also plays a role). However, there's a new trend for smartphone manufacturers (those devices contain a camera,. too) as well as dSLR manufacturers to stress the ability to take pictures (for the happy consumer) when there is little or no ambient light left. In the context of this video, I find it somewhat alarming. Some people will have to unlearn bad habits in the end.

[@MikeBrowne]

Salamat Jeoffrey, nood po kayo lagi - Melissa pp Mike :)

[@leehargreaves7473]

"Great cameras make great image files" - I like that (especially as I just bought a 13 year old Canon 5D).

[@skakdosmer]

I'm not quite a beginner, but anyway: Here's my top five: 5: Forgetting where I put a particular piece of photographic equipment. 4: Believing that my autofocus is dead because I forget that the camera is set to "rear button focus". 3: Forgetting to set my white balance back to auto after a shoot. 2: Forgetting to reset the exposure compensation (or flash compensation) after a shoot. 1: Forgetting to charge the batteries before an important event.

[@MikeBrowne]

Ha ha - I think they go for all of us Lau... MIKE :-)

[@davewolfy2906]

4

[@Humpflicks]

Thanks Mike. Have been following you for years now and your right. It is easy to get confused with all the information out there. It wasn't until I discovered your site, went back to the beginning and worked through the videos that I began to understand all the little things that make up the whole gamut of skills needed to become accomplished. I have since purchased your latest courses, including the latest Lightroom 7 Steps to Perfect Pictures. Have been using Lightroom for a number of years now and was amazed at just how much I didn't know. I have a sister that was interested in photography, so purchased the beginners courses for her. I learned from them as well. My biggest mistake was not taking time in the beginning to methodically learn the basics and practice them until it was second nature. And to fully understand all aspects of not only the camera buttons, settings etc, but also composition, lighting and all the little things that go into making a picture I would be proud to print. Still learning after all these years. Doug Humphries Toronto, Canada

[@MikeBrowne]

thank you doug for the kind words and for liking our courses! hustle! - Melissa pp Mike

[@stevestrickland446]

Great video. A suggestion for practice or other video: Go on an outing with lots of potential. You can only take five or ten shots, no more. Back in the film days we paid for the film, had a definitive number of shots, say a roll of 24, then had to pay to get the film developed and wait. Cameras were not so automated. It forced me to slow down and think about the shot - composition, shutter speed, and depth of field. ISO was set by the film. I needed to get it as right in camera as I could. I have purchased several of your courses and love them. I found by doing this challenge my shots are better and my time processing them is shorter. Keep up the awesome work! Never thought sausages and photography would be in the same video, but you pulled it off!

[@MikeBrowne]

Ha ha - thank you Steve. I think learning on film was a huge benefit for all the reasons you said... MIKE :-)

[@thosyoung373]

There are few watershed events I’ve experienced in my life - and seeing this video was one of them. The sausages illustration made most of my photography and creative issues suddenly “click” for me - and a great deal fell into place, all at once. With just a few well-spent minutes, I stopped being a camera technician/operator and began being a creative photographer. Thank you, Mike! Well done. Well done.

[@MikeBrowne]

glad to help :) - Melissa pp Mike

[@salahoua1]

"The sausage guide" should have been the first thing to start with, Mike. I am putting it from a teacher's perspective. Always quality content and knowhow. My deepest respects

[@pimbech]

Finally a classic tutorial video. I really miss these type of videos on this channel. Just simple and practicle tips in the field where you just show around stuff in the real world. Please more of these videos. Thanks!

[@meshackgaolathe6492]

Very very helpful. Keep up the good work. Straight to the point. No distracting comedy. Thanks

[@MikeBrowne]

I couldn't be funny if I tried 😉

[@tabercreativeproductions5732]

Great instruction and self-deprecating levity? Yes! Thank you for providing these great videos!

[@ruggieromanente4855]

Mike, your apparently simple videos contain so much effective information for the beginner photographers... just great. Curiosity: Did you recover your camera or got a new one?

[@MikeBrowne]

Thanks Ruggiero Manente. Sadly no so I'll be doing a vid sometime soon about choosing a new camera.... MIKE

[@northof50now]

Having used the X100s and the XT-1 for several years now [myself], I'd love to hear some of your parting thoughts and compare them to my own. I've never had such a love/hate relationship with any other camera. There are definitely some very positive, but equally negative things about the Fuji.

[@philipkitchen5375]

A really useful video. for me one area that was majorly confusing was flash photography. I don't take great photos now with flash but they are a lot better now that i have learnt more and strung the ideas together in a useful way. Possibly the one notion that was a personal help was that in certain regards you take two images - with one flash photo.

[@sibangjack]

Thanks for the videos Mike. I think you're one of the best photography teacher, especially for beginners. I learned so much about photography from you. Thanks to you for very easy understanding explanation.

[@MikeBrowne]

Thank you sibangjack . Please continue helping me make more like it by sharing them with other photographers on forums, Facebook, ClickASnap, Flickr etc. - MIKE

[@tectorama]

(Alan) All good info Mike. I think a lot of beginners get disheartened when they see some of the great images taken by those with more experience. Not realising that they are very often looking at the best of the best, which have been well post processed. They might be surprised at how many pictures the pro's take to get to that one great image. If I go out photographing a hockey game, I will typically take around 200 pictures, ending up with maybe 70 which I will keep, and I am still very much an amateur.

[@MikeLikesChannel]

When you keep 5, you're probably in the ballpark of quality photos :)

[@peterchisholm2115]

tectorama b

[@hkrgautham]

Every time I watch your videos .. You inspire me a lot about photograph Thank you Mark :)

[@MikeBrowne]

thank you for the kind words :) - Melissa pp Mike

[@GabrielKnightz]

I find the thing i struggle with is composition, specifically the disparity between 'what I like' and what I know 'most people will like'. I'm not a professional photographer by any means and I know I shouldn't be bothered by it but knowing that a picture I took that has a personal resonance won't reach someone else does bother me, that I can't share that moment, that mood, that it would just fall flat. (is it all just for me to look at?) Have you had to struggle with anything that Mike? Or am i just being silly. Is there really a "right way" is it always a compromise? or is it all just subjective, I guess what I would request is a "Mike's philosophy on photography" video. Thanks for these as always :)

[@airjaff]

GabrielKnightz hello, a video that really helped me with composition is a video on youtube called understanding composition, by blender guru. He explains the rules of composition, once you learn these you will see what makes a good picture when you walk around

[@GabrielKnightz]

airjaff I will check that out, although like I said it's not so much the rules of composition or applying them that I have issue with but how it often differs from what I personally find pleasing. Thank you for the reference :)

[@jjcornwell4495]

You are not alone in that struggle I also struggle with that. I have yet to find a good answer. In my mind, unless I am taking a picture for someone else, it all comes down to what looks good to me or whatever mood I may be in at that time. I always feel like I am missing something.

[@GabrielKnightz]

JJcornwell It's good to know that there are others who understand. Thanks :)

[@avs4365]

Just a small point if I may - a professional photographer has clients to please and believe me they rarely pick the shot that you like - ie a stunning shot of a brides dress against a difficult light - can be, in your view, technically the best shot of a shoot, but the client won't necessarily see it as such because of a myriad of reasons, so as a unprofessional, go for what you desire to shoot. You bought the gear and it's your time, so enjoy learning. I remember a quote from David Bailey when asked what was his favourite photo over the decades he'd been working - his reply was ' the next one!' And if ever I get to the point where I think I've taken a perfect photo someone, somewhere will always so pleased to tell me I haven't. So enjoy and remember we are all in a place of uncertainty - for me that's what makes photography interesting and worthwhile doing for nigh on 60 years.

[@johngarroch]

Your explanation and examples always make it easy to understand. Thank you

[@MikeBrowne]

thank you John, please do share our video's so we can make more ! - Melissa pp Mike

[@JennerationLife]

Of the 300hrs of photography videos I’ve watched in bulk within the last few months, this has been more helpful than all the others combined. 👌🏻

[@MikeBrowne]

Thanks JennerationLife. happy to help. Please help me make more like it by sharing it around... MIKE :-)

[@paullaw9237]

Once again your video has hit the nail on the head. As a newbie very amateur photographer I scratch my head at what I need to do in certain weather circumstances. Over expose, under expose, speed of shutter, aperture etc, or even other circumstances. You are quite right there are hundred of utube videos giving all manner of explanations but having so many just confuse me. I have seen everyone of your vids, which are truly excellent from content to presentation. To the point I feel I know you personally. So much so that I think the time is right to purchase your course and learn from someone I have total faith in and will give me the required knowledge that I am looking for. That and hard work of course! Thanks again Mike for your inspiration and online friendship through your excellent videos.

[@MikeBrowne]

thank you for the lovely comment Paul! would love to invite you to take a free sample today! www.photographycourses.biz/ubc - Melissa pp Mike

[@MikeBrowne]

Just want to add my thanks for your kind words to Melissa's Paul. Funny we were talking about you in our meeting this morning because you were having an issue with buying it. I believe Mel has emailed you and suggested trying a different browser. Don't worry, we'll get you sorted... Best wishes... MIKE :-)

[@whitedovenc]

Hello Mike I'm just a beginner with a Nikon D3200. I have been taking pictures for yrs now but never really knew what to look for and didn't know most of the settings. I really enjoy listening to your videos.

[@MikeBrowne]

Hi Sonja Perry . It doesn't matter what camera you have, a camera's a camera' a camera. They all do the same thing. Learning to see and find the photo and how to use the settings to capture it the way you want it captured is much more important. If you're struggling with these things please look to my Beginners Course because like I said in the video, you need a guide. Imagine trying to build a house if you didn't know what order to do it... Up go beautifully painted walls with attractive window frames - then you realise you forgot to put in the foundations and pipes for drainage water etc... MIKE You can check out a free sample here... www.photographycourses.biz/UBC

[@richardleney9932]

Also adding I've investind in both of Mike's courses over the last 4 years starting with the beginning course then after a couple of years practice moved up to to 7 building blocks. I would whole heartedly recommend these courses. Yes the 7 blocks was tough for me with my memory problems and lack of imagination or forward thinking of a shot. But a great resource to refer back to again and again. One day I will achieve 😁

[@MikeBrowne]

thank you so muchRichard for the kind words! - Melissa pp Mike

[@S.tebban]

I started photography using you as my freebee tutor a few years ago. You were a bit more + size (as they call it nowadays) and had some more curls on your lawn. But I've learned more from those free bees then from reading tech stuff in books. Of course I had to try it all out. The only thing I am still not getting right is my composition. And yes I did watch the vid about comp and leadinglines. And I do see those leading lines when I am looking for a shoot. But most of the times those leading lines tend to look the wrong way :) They lead the eyes out of the picture, not into it. And If they do look the right way, there is always some house, or car, or a trafficsign in the way. I am really starting to hope that this is a bug known to the country of Belgium and I wonder if any known travel or landscape photographers would feel the same about this.

[@jssff8]

I took your beginners course found it excellent. I enjoy your videos. In this video is what i struggle with from time to time is stringing everything together. After this video it makes sense to me. Thank you again for clarity on this.

[@MikeBrowne]

thank you Jeff, glad the course helped! - Melissa pp Mike

[@MikeBrowne]

Hi Jeff. Want to add my thanks to Melissa's. I'm delighted you were delighted with the Beginners Course. Good to know this video helped too, though this is only a tiny part of the overall 'picture' [Pun intended]. If you've completed the UBC keep practising the techniques and exercises from it and get them nailed down so you can do them automatically. The next step for you would then be the 7 Building Blocks of Photography which takes the concepts of this video to a whole other level. It's the bridge between knowing the camera and photographic techniques and then combining them effectively for any image. This is a 7 step thought process or check list of powerful questions you need to ask yourself when shooting an image. These will lead you to exactly the correct settings for light, composition, focal length, depth of field and exposure to maximise the potential of any situation. Please try a free sample at the link below. If you found the UBC to be 'excellent' I think you'll find the 7 Blocks even better... Best wishes... MIKE :-) www.photographycourses.biz/7blocks

[@mafinnen666]

Hello Mike and thank you once again for all your advice! A good idea for a topic would be "tips on how to shoot action". Moving cars, people, children etc. I often find myself in trouble trying to keep things in focus, even though I set the camera at "optimal" settings. So one of your guides would be helpful. Regards!

[@thosyoung373]

Truly, the best advice! When a photo doesn’t come out as I thought it would, it’s back to the sausages! (I’ve written those steps down in my book of notes as an inspiration to me.)

[@MikeBrowne]

Ha ha ha.. "Back To The Sausage" ... MIKE :-)

[@noelleperrotta4944]

Thank you , Mike. I appreciate your videos

[@MikeBrowne]

Thank you Noelle, maybe you should check out my PLD group on Facebook, you can start here www.photographycourses.biz/photography-locked-down

[@oc2phish07]

Nice to see another of your excellent videos Mike.

[@petermoeller5901]

Good video, Mike! The mistakes you mention are very common, no question. I am at the stage that, when I have a clear idea of what my image is supposed to be, I know enough about photography to make it happen... but sometimes I struggle to have that clear idea. There are also situations, where I see light, an interesting texture, or geometry and try to capture that... and sometimes I just cannot make it happen.

[@MikeBrowne]

Thanks Peter. "sometimes I just cannot make it happen". It happens to all of us. Something might get our interest and the photo radar pings like mad but on deeper investigation we just find there simply isn't an image there after all... The important thing is to try it and think about it and try again and if still nothng... Move on... MIKE

[@garyclaytonphotography5708]

Great demonstration, Always willing to take on the more in depth problems.

[@airjaff]

Thanks, I have found your KZbin videos way more helpful than the course I bought from you. Your KZbin videos have definitely made me better at taking photos

[@MikeBrowne]

Hmm that's interesting airjaff The feedback we get suggests otherwise. if you'd like to drop me an email through the website I'm happy to have a chat with you about it... Link below... MIKE www.photographycourses.biz/contact

[@airjaff]

Mike Browne hello Mike, thanks for the response, I did a while ago. I think your colleague wanted to see pics, but I ended up forgetting

[@duanestarmer2963]

Mike , best informative photography for beginners bar none . please keep putting them out . I just subscribed.

[@MikeBrowne]

Thanks Duane Starmer. Please help us keep 'em coming by sharing them around too... MIKE :-)

[@duanestarmer2963]

Thanks Mike will do . about a month ago I bought a canon 80D. I think I am in over my head . I am not a tech person I don't even own a computer and I can't even really work my smart phone and or camera phone either . So what do I do , I buy an 80D Hahahah lol . Why I don't know I just did . I have watched other instructional videos to no avail. Then I came across yours, Wow ! what a difference I have learned so much in just a short time . You have an easy way about you your teaching is clear,simple,concise. I will be ordering your beginner teaching videos . I can't wait to see how much more those videos have to offer. Thank again Mike fo your unselfishness in teaching photography for free on youtube.

[@MikeBrowne]

Hey thanks Duane. The big benefit of the course is having me to lead you through each step one at a time so you learn things in the correct order. There are lots of things in photography that seem to contradict themselves and cause mega confusions if they're not learned in sequence. Look forward to seeing your name on the list buddy... BUT I have to ask.. How will you do an online course if you don't have a computer? You'll need one to access and log into your account in our training centre. Content can be copied to a smartphone after you've accessed it... MIKE

[@duanestarmer2963]

Mike,Hahahah exactly I will have a laptop top or a tablet in a few days . And if all goes well joining your courses by mid July . I'm jumping in deep never owned a camera or a computer and taking your courses? Hahahah I hope I am not biting off more than I can chew. But I will never know if I do not try. Your enthusiasm for teaching is infectious . And so it seems anyone can learn from you . Thanks Mike have a wonderful day.

[@norgerichard]

I really like your videoes Mike. You give me the knowledge im after

[@iaingeoghan2548]

For me it is down to practice, acceptance (lots of soft crumby pictures at first, which is why so many people give up. I was too curios as to how the sharp lovely compositions came to life), and a truck load of passion to keep me going. By that last bit, I really mean: do you truly love to produce images with a camera more complex than using your little smart-phone? Thought about this as my WORK day unfolded itself on a friday. I felt knackered and confused when I got home, which is the time I had to ask myself a very life changing question. After I get out of the shower, getting any grime off of me, do I get dressed for bed, or do I get dressed to shoot with my tired head? I chose to challenge the living bollocks out of myself and shoot for a new friend of mine as she and her jazz trio were playin' in a small dark hole in the wall. No flash and no tripod. I thought this was it, I am done, this is too hard and too tired. As I stared at my very old looking camera. big heavy DSLR body compared to fuji cameras or phone cameras etc; self-servingly thinking "I can snatch a better composition than any smartphone in the place! I am going to show 'em who has some real photography skills, and f*** all your camera phones! you can't shoot without flash! I have the real gear, (literally pointing at my skull) photography brain. I am going to tell my beefy DSLR what to do, hold it in the right place and come home with some awesome raw files for my friends!" . And after that I have not stopped. I love shootin'. Practicing like a madman. Like an infantryman in Soho almost rolling into dog-crap on the cobbled street dodging a car street shooting. photography is great fun. But may not be for everyone. make sure you really enjoy it enough, to burn time and energy to practice.

[@MikeBrowne]

"For me it is down to practice, acceptance (lots of soft crumby pictures at first," Agreed 110% Iain... MIKE

[@iaingeoghan2548]

sifting through thousands and thousands of my beginner shots, all shot when I was in Santiago and Valparaiso, Chile. Each time I go about this task, I am laughing at myself, just tearing up. I still have over seven thousand frames to go through. Almost half a year went by where everything was rotten and almost always pillow-soft! Then I can watch as the images are sharper and sharper! and I smile:)

[@northof50now]

Absolutely spot on with respect to the wealth of information available. I've been using KZbin to learn guitar for the past few years. The wealth of information is "KZbin-learning's" greatest benefit as well as its greatest drawback. Lack of a continuum, required to actually teach something is missing. It's a great place to pick up bits and bobs on a variety of subjects. But, as a complete learning tool, it lacks the progressive intervals of real teaching. Like having a neighbor who can show you how to change a spark plug on a motorcycle, but can't teach you to be a mechanic.

[@MikeBrowne]

Thank you northof50now. I love your analogy ... "As a complete learning tool, Free KZbin videos lack the progressive intervals of real teaching. Like having a neighbor who can show you how to change a spark plug on a motorcycle, but can't teach you to be a mechanic." Please may I quote you?.... MIKE :-)

[@gwapster13]

Nice that you always take us to these nice places in your videos apart from sharing knowledge on photography.

[@MikeBrowne]

Glad you like this - Melissa pp Mike

[@michael-lt2lf]

More great, informative stuff Mike, that is so pertinant to the vast majority of us Photographers that don't ever want/expect to get invited via a frantic phone call after midnight to jet off to ' LA' the next morning to do a shoot for some fashion mag!!!

[@agyato]

Demonstrations are always more helpful than mere lectures! Your videos are very helpful to the people like us who cannot afford photography courses.

[@MikeBrowne]

You are welcome! Thank you... MIKE

[@T3hJones]

The number one mistake people do is taking no pictures!

[@MikeBrowne]

YES T3hJones. They spend too much time thinking about whether or not they have the 'best' lens or the 'right' camera when what they should be doing is learning and practising... MIKE

[@TheWooloomoolloo]

I don't think this is true. People take and even publish millions of pictures each day. The problem is that many have not learned to address the process in a systematic way. They (the average man in the street) never sort the pictures they took, they never print them, and in the end they sometimes lose years of photographic experience even if it's family pictures only (some of which may actually be very good). Digital devices induce bad habits for too many.

[@martinkemp9397]

Sausage time... Brilliant As someone who is colour blind I love colour popping What are your thoughts

[@OctavianDumitriu]

Thank's for sharing your valuable knowledge. In my opinion, everybody can take pictures, we can improve ourselves but making art from photography ... it's a gift of a few.

[@rayfoster9827]

Great video Mike as always easy to understand and so helpfull when put into practice

[@gabrielchavarria22]

He's the uncle I need!

[@Stampajoey]

You hit the nail on the head again...one question, can you use a grey card for the shot of the building and get same or better results in post?

[@mnbprophoto1733]

Good stuff Mike! It's this type of content that continues to motivate all of us.

[@danielcj13]

Thank you so much for this video!!!!

[@MikeBrowne]

Any time!

[@averynichols8035]

Fantastic video Mike. Thanks.

[@MikeBrowne]

Thanks Avery.. MIKE

[@jonsummers9302]

Great . Topical and loads of questions answered for many . And you were not annoying hanging out of a campervan and advertising a crap tripod on a hill . Good one mike.

[@MikeBrowne]

Thanks John. But have I missed something? "And you were not annoying hanging out of a campervan and advertising a crap tripod on a hill" ??? MIKE

[@jonsummers9302]

Sorry mike , ha no that was a dig at the vloggers now at 80 % all about the gear and tech funded by advertising. Your vids are the best , honest to the point .

[@brianhvactech]

I enjoy all your videos thanks for making them

[@diego_perez]

personally I love the night long-exposure photography, I like to do it and find the perfect setting to capture what i'm seeing in the moment, anyway, I have some years of experience (I have been practicing photography like a hobby on my free-time and also make my own adjustments on lightroom) but I always have troubles with this setting, because I get a little lost on what ISO is better for this photography, what numeric apperture, an where i have to focus to get a sharp phtograph (specially this point). By the way, my equipment is a canon t2i with a 18-55 kit lens. Your videos are fantastic to learn photography, since I begin (I think) that I see your videos to get some guide!

[@andrewpierce5826]

Another informative fun video, another video hit for 6. Looking forward to my training day in May!

[@MikeBrowne]

Thank you Andrew. Me too buddy... MIKE :-)

[@yujinlandscapephotography.7787]

I like this tutorial for a professional photographer. I find to be it. Thank! Mike.

[@pauldrew610]

Great Vid Mike !! Very well explained 👍🏼😊

[@PhilipGwilliam]

Your videos helped me so much when I was starting to learn the basics. You explain the jargon very well. I didn't start using different metering modes for some time and can see how they can be confusing to a novice. 😊👍

[@MikeBrowne]

Thanks Phillip. Photography is confusing to begin with as it's full of contradictions. but then everything we do is confusing when we start out. ... MIKE :-)

[@SKSK-rz7br]

i'm not a beginner but do enjoy watching your content ... great manner -

[@MikeBrowne]

Thanks SK 👍

[@adriataylor7534]

good stuff. i had using T.V setting instead of using manual. i was at a concert just last week Friday and used T.V, but was still coming out with blurry photos, others better than others. i probably have to understand this setting more in order to get better shots.

[@MikeBrowne]

Thanks Adria. Yes i think you're right. The settings don't give you photos - the photos you want or can visualise in your mind will give you the settings needed to make it happen. But first you have to understand what they do visually as well as technically. Please take a look at my Beginners course which will take you through this one step at a time. There aren't many controls and settings you even need, but you do need to know how to combine them to make the shot work. You can check out a free sample at the link below... MIKE :-) www.photographycourses.biz/ubc

[@adriataylor7534]

welcome. yes. it is the photographer that captures the images, but it is the settings that help make the photograph. i think that's where i fall short, i know the photo i want to capture and/if i need a fast shutter speed, but don't know how to "know the settings" in order to capture the photo and all the math involved. i have seen many concerts enough to know i will need a fast shutter speed to capture the shots, but i fall short in not knowing what settings i need to capture the photograph without loosing the character of the photograph. Why does photography have to involve math? math is not my subject.

[@grismejia3147]

Thank you sir for your video. I went from a Nikon D3200 to a Nikon D7200. What you said that the camera is not so much the problem you are so right. ITS ME lol. The D7200 pictures are more nicer BUT if i don't know what I'm doing then both cameras do the same job. Thank you for clearing up some mistakes i was doing. And I diffidently need to take a course of photography.

[@MikeBrowne]

Hi Gris, So true! it all boils down to learning slowly to absorb all the info step by step, please do check our beginners course here www.photographycourses.biz/courses/ubc-free-sample - Melissa pp Mike

[@iaingeoghan2548]

Yeah, Mike's courses are fantastic!!! Combine that with going out and practicing I would say one will excel extremely fast. Courses and forums are one thing, and they all involve sitting in front of a computer. Now we all like to sit down, it's comfortable. But try skipping the looking it up on line thing, and try to figure it out yourself with your camera and camera's manual (hand-book). Practice means getting up off your ass. Instead of shooting great pictures of a computer screen, go "out" and practice, have fun shooting pictures trying different apertures and shutter speeds and come home and sit down to look at all the soft pictures you have shot and see how you could change them. Slice up the pillow-soft images with the sharper images that come along.

[@MikeBrowne]

Hey thanks Iain... MIKE :-)

[@iaingeoghan2548]

Mike Browne well, it is true, gotta build them blocks to create the images we crave:) and you have done a lot of hard work to make your fantastic online courses. One2one training days are superb as well. I salute you sir! :)

[@chevyvantravel9735]

i learn best when you show The Setting, take a pic and show the results. For instance i realized your glasses needed cleaning LOL but you skipped what setting you had the camera on . bc i am a very beginner i ask silly stuff like that hahah. thanks great videos i like your teaching style.!

[@MikeBrowne]

hi Chevy, perhaps you want to check our free sample for begginer, as we know sometimes it can be overwhelming on which comes first www.photographycourses.biz/courses/ubc-free-sample - Melissa pp Mike

[@234cheech]

top info you explain things very clearly

[@MartinRoelofsen]

Hey Mike ... Great video's ... A musician all my life but now i discovered a small year ago the fun of photography and since i started to watch your tutorials, my way of making photo's are indeed improving (even pointed the garden hose at my daughter when she doubted the story about the way the light finds his way hahaha). I did make a blur picture (with a tin plated car instead of a real one) and got it right in one shot. Me happy! :-) Greets from Holland.

[@MartinRoelofsen]

Yes Mike ... i really did ... you trained me well with that tutorail! By the way ... my daughter hates you hahahahaha😁

[@MikeBrowne]

Good Man - MIKE :-)

[@chrismwhite]

Mike, thanks for another great video. While I'm not a beginner, I do sometimes struggle to get shots. In a busy environment, such as an event or party, I'd set my focus point for a composition and something unexpected presents itself. In such situations, knowing there's a picture to be had, I often go into a mild panic and miss the opportunity because I can't reposition the focus point in time. I tend not rely on multi-point autofocus because it ends up focusing on the nearest thing to the lens, which sometimes isn't what you want.

[@MikeBrowne]

Thanks Chris. Why not focus and re-compose with single point? It's what i do. Shot a video yesterday at a nightmare PR shoot. It was freezing cold, pouring with rain very crowded and there was no time and no opportunity to re-shoot. Hope to put the video online in 2 weeks.... MIKE :-)

[@chrismwhite]

Mike Browne Thanks for taking the time to reply. I’ve been a bit wary of focus and recompose because sometimes the focal plane changes slightly between focus point and subject when I reframe, but I’ll be sure to practise it more often from now on. :-)

[@Csoery]

I'm not a total beginner but exposure is still quite a pickle for me. Yes, I know the things that impact it, I'm using Aperture priority mode most of the time, sometimes full manual, I check the histrogram... But I find I still have to pay attention to it in post, to make sure I have the desired highlights/shadows balance. E.g. in an image like the one you took of the house and bridge, I would focus (and thus meter) on the house, bc I want it to be sharp. I'd make sure my shutter speed is OK for a handheld shot, and let the camera adjust the A accordingly. I'd then check the histogram and use exp compensation if needed. 2nd/3rd triy works but it I feel I'm fumbling with this a lot. And it's not really a settings issue - I sometimes find I can't tell what the right exposure would be, even when I have the slider at hand when editing. Weird I know ^^

[@MikeBrowne]

Hi Csoery. I think you need to take more control. Just because the camera says histogram / exposure is right, doesn't mean it is. It's 'right' when it is what you want so you often have to move away from what the camera tells you to do. Think of what the camera says is right as the starting point. If the camera is exposing for where you focus yu have metering set to spot - which i never ever use for the very reason you stated... I agree you're not a complete beginner but you have some areas of confusion about the camera and how to make it work for you, not against you. I promise I can help you end the 'fumbling' with the beginners course which covers and explains all you mentioned and more besides. There are exercises for you to do so you get practical experience along the way. You can see a free sample at the link below... MIKE www.photographycourses.biz/ubc

[@Csoery]

Thanks, I'll check it out!

[@OllieHstock]

A big decision making problem I have is when photographing indoor sports with no flash allowed. It's mostly judo, which require a fastish shutter speed. The decision is whether to under expose slightly with an ISO around 800 and then bring exposure up in post. Or, to up the ISO to +- 3200 for better exposure. The main issue seem to be noise and sharpness that I am worried about. I have a good 80-200mm F2.8 lens, so that is not the issue

[@MikeBrowne]

hi Ollie, since you have a 2.8 lens that should be really good in low light situation, use the widest - 2.8 and play around the iso from 800-3200, check the shutter speed to compliment the movements. Normally if you have 2.8 ISO around 800-1600 is fine, try it out :) - Melissa pp Mike

[@BillBooz]

Once again great info, Mike! Much appreciated!

[@AnVoPhotography]

Mike, I just love your videos and I have learned so much from you. Now I have the technical stuff in place, but I still struggle with slowing down to find an interesting composition. Knowing all the rules of composition doesn’t help me much, if I don’t even take the time to consider them as I’m standing in front of something I want to photograph. So maybe this could be an idea for a future video?: how to apply different rules of composition to the same subject or scene. Thank you ever so much for sharing your knowledge. You are an excellent teacher and photographer.

[@MikeBrowne]

Hi An. I've made loads of composition videos. I think you answered your own question though. "I don’t even take the time to consider them as I’m standing in front of something I want to photograph." So do the opposite and TAKE the time to consider composition before you shoot it. But it's probably more than just composition. How are you with seeing the different qualities of light and matching them to appropriate scenes and subjects. I know my Ultimate Beginner Course will certainly help you with both of these things and more so please try a free sample at the link below ... MIKE www.photographycourses.biz/ubc

[@AnVoPhotography]

Thank you Mike. I truly appreciate it. 👍👍👍😀

[@damp6067]

Hi Mike! Do you do micro adjustment with all your lenses or calibrating it? Is it really needed? Thank you!

[@robari2410]

Mike, I love your videos but I wish you will give us some side by side comparison and perhaps 2 or 3 more seconds to study the differences, it would facilitate the learning for folks like me, just an enthusiast photographer.Thank you much for taking the time to teach us all that we are the photographer not the camera. Thanks a bunch!!

[@MikeBrowne]

Thanks @Reb C. Well, you can always pause the video if you'd like a little longer. If you're an enthusiast looking to improve, please take a look at my 5 week online UBC course which has many examples, lessons about all aspects such as these, notes you can take out on shoots with you and weekly exercises to give you experience. Please take a look at the link below where you can try a free sample too if you like... MIKE bit.ly/U_B_C

[@robari2410]

Thank you Mike. You Da' Man!

[@danielpelletier3834]

Hope you're still making video's. Thanks for what you do.

[@MikeBrowne]

I certainly am Daniel 😊

[@DameEdnaBrown]

Very easy to understand your message

[@MikeBrowne]

Thank you Bob 🙏

[@DS-kn4bs]

I'm 3 months late watching this but I finally got to it 😁

[@simonroberts6898]

That was an amazing video.. I've been doing photography a while now but its hit and miss on my final images. The biggest confusion to me is. Looking at a certain scene . Thinking it would make a good picture. But not really knowing what focal length or composition I actually want. Then get home and looks boring, un interesting and completely the wrong lens used. I mainly do landscape, waterfalls. Rivers etc.. but they're never consistent..

[@MikeBrowne]

Hey thanks Simon. Photography is a creative blend of creativity and technical know how and it's annoying and confusing because there are few rules. I can't say use 80mm focal length is this situation or a 250th f11 in that situation. It's all fluid and to begin with confusing. There some great free tutorials available but the problem is knowing which you need and in what order. I know you've been doing photography for a while now, but you're still confused and I know I can help -un-confuse you, so please come take a look at my online beginners course (link below). It costs less than a cheap used lens, has 100% refund guarantee and you can try a sample if you like... Google Mike Browne Photography Course Reviews and see what others said about my training... MIKE :-) www.photographycourses.biz/ubc

[@anthonyhazlewood5788]

Good video as usual, simple and informative... Now, was it sausage for tea then Mike?

[@catbalooboy]

Really appreciate your tutorials. Shared to Mauritius Photography page with 54k members.

[@MikeBrowne]

Thank you Jay. Appreciate that... MIKE :-)

[@dougdavies1089]

excellent as always

[@jallenr.6311]

thanks very useful info mate cheer

[@sulphuricacid16]

Great teacher .

[@supranomicon]

Thanks Mike!- really useful

[@wanneske1969]

Learning to deliberately under- or overexpose was the best thing I ever learned in photography and it took me years to find out for myself !

[@kandc6242]

johan bauwens slim for kids Qq

[@wanneske1969]

????

[@MikeBrowne]

Me too johan... MIKE :-)

[@brandonprescott5753]

Great video. Thanks

[@MikeBrowne]

Thank you Brandon 🙏

[@BigRich110]

Great video mike first one i have watched in a while due to little one taking alot of my time however this video i thought made a few things clearer in my head for when i have my days at airshows this year. Which brings me on to my question. Have you ever had any experience with airshow/aviation photography and what tips would you give as i think its an under explored area all though quite niche area. Thanks Richie A

[@MikeBrowne]

Thanks BigRich110. I have done some but can't claim to be an expert. Might try making a vid at one some day.. Of the top of my head I'd suggest making sure the exposure is correct before the action happens, if light is constant set it manually so you don't have to fiddle when the time comes. Possibly multi point AF continuous shooting AF when planes are airborne ... MIKE

[@BigRich110]

Mike Browne cheers for the advice, i dont seem to be too bad the only thing i really struggle with is the exposure due to being aimed skyward and either getting the aircraft roughly right but the sky is blown out or sky not too bad but the aircraft under. I suppose its a very fine balance that takes a bit of skill

[@oldgrumpyjim5003]

As always Mike great video. I have benefited from two of your courses. lifesavers!! so would recommend them to anyone who wants to learn with a no nonsense approach. I'm gonna be nosey but I see you got your XT-1 back or did you have to splash out? Jim

[@MikeBrowne]

Thank you Jim. Delighted you loved the courses and they complimented the free stuff. No sadly the XT-1 is gone. This was filmed before the Lanzarote workshop. I'll have to choose a replacement and will make a video about it and the reasons behind my choice... MIKE

[@oldgrumpyjim5003]

Sorry to hear that Mike. I am now using the XT-2 & Two lenses before had the Nikon D800e but as Im an old git struggled to carry it about with the weight plus lenses. Looked into all makes did the side by side full frame versus apsc (not much in it nowadays) and settled with Fuji now back out doing pics which is the point of the whole thing :-). Jim

[@RewDowns]

0:30 This is just a great overall message for learning in the digital age

[@MikeBrowne]

Thanks RewDowns. I appreciate your comment. The digital ages is amazing in that we can get info about anything in seconds. The problem is it's too much, from too many different viewpoints and piecing it together in the right order can be overwhelming... MIKE :-/

[@christopherpape4823]

Yes! This is what I'm struggling with the most right now.

[@dangernba]

My greatest beginners mistake was ignoring the crop factor. Many nice pictures spoiled by light diffraction. Greetings from Brazil.

[@luismpg]

My prefered KZbin Chanel. Thanks Mike

[@MikeBrowne]

Thank you luismpg. Please continue helping me make more like it by sharing them with other photographers on forums, Facebook, ClickASnap, Flickr etc. - MIKE

[@allankostyk5035]

This was a huge help.

[@MikeBrowne]

Thanks Allen, happy it helped. Please help me make more videos like it by sharing it with other photographers on forums, Facebook, ClickASnap, Flickr etc... MIKE

[@johncantrell614]

Love your videos mike. One of these days you and Gary Gough should get together and do a combined workshop or video together, you are both such talented KZbin photographers. I think your two styles compliment each other well.

[@MikeBrowne]

Thanks John. Gary makes lovely videos and shares his knowledge beautifully. However he's a true landscape man and I'm more interested in life and people - which is why I do workshops along those lines in Vietnam and Cambodia where no one minds being photographed. Landscapes are a part of them but it's not just landscape... I only do one full on Landscape workshop which is the Iceland one because it is amazing... MIKE

[@rokacsapda]

I’m always watching your videos and I love them I did not miss any of them! I have 2 questions! 1. How effect the pictures and angle or anything the lens of diameter? 2. If i have a crop sensor camera and a lens is performed for crop camera, still i have to multiply by x1.6 crop this is more confusing for me! Thank you in advance!!!

[@MikeBrowne]

Thanks Norbert... 1. How effect the pictures and angle or anything the lens of diameter? - it makes little or no noticeable difference in my experience 2. If i have a crop sensor camera and a lens is performed for crop camera, still i have to multiply by x1.6 crop? - why does comparing the focal length equivalent between a crop and FF sensor matter? Just choose the focal length / zoom you need yo make the photo what you want then shoot it. Because all the time you're thinking about cameras and crop ratios - you're NOT THINKING ABOUT PHOTOGRAPHY - where to stand, when to click, what the light is doing - shapes - people - reflections and how best to capture them in an exciting way. These have nothing to do with lens diameter or crop factors... MIKE

[@cmtworker]

Hey mike , damn good videos and i would like to take courses. Is it possible here in belgium, or is it all online? Do you still do trips with people to learn more like the trip to cambodja? I would like to learn more about the difficult light moments, like evening, sunsets, dark places. I life at the coast so u have some beautiful sunsets to capture....

[@MikeBrowne]

Thanks Christophe vander stichele . The courses are online so you can be anywhere in the world. Yes I do workshops like Cambodia and if you're able to come there are places available for Vietnam end of September. I've put a couple of links below... MIKE Online Courses: www.photographycourses.biz/courses Photo Workshops: www.photographycourses.biz/workshops

[@deepoteet7626]

You are so interesting to watch and learn.

[@Lordovhate]

I have problems with dynamic range when shooting landscapes at shallower apertures. (F9-f11) I use ND filters occasionally and am usually pretty good at making sure my exposure is correct within my manual settings. I've done a good deal of research trying to understand and see light better but I feel as if I'm coming up short. Is there any information you might suggest that would get me in the right direction? I've followed your work for a few years now, I've learned most of what I know from your videos and my own "get out and do it" mind set. Thank you for being so informative and well spoken in your videos.

[@MikeBrowne]

Hi Justin. Dynamic range is not connected with the aperture you choose to shoot with. It's the sensor's ability to capture very dark and bright areas in a single shot. So it's a camera thing - not a lens thing. I think you are confused by the massive amount of information overload that bombards us about such things and suggest you take a look at my Ultimate Beginners Course which breaks these down into simple steps - in the correct order. The UBC is designed to replace confusion with clarity. You can check out a free sample at the link below... Best wishes... MIKE www.photographycourses.biz/UBC

[@Lordovhate]

Mike Browne now that you say that I remember I've learned this already. Don't know why I thought differently. I've been wanting to take your course for years now. My only concern is my schedule. Is the course available at all times after payment or do the courses expire over time? Thanks for the reply and the reminder. I think I'm mainly uninspired by my area and the weather we have been having. It's been very gloomy, which I find value in but I haven't brought much satisfaction home with. Maybe I'll change some aspects and look at things differently.

[@simplyconfused4ever]

Thanks Mike for these tips. So as i understand light meter isn't always right. Because when i take shots, it shows properly exposed but histogram doesn't speak the same language.

[@MikeBrowne]

Glad you find it helpful, cheers! - Melissa pp Mike :)

[@simplyconfused4ever]

Mike Browne so how to care take care of that. What should be the reference point?

[@MikeBrowne]

Hi Jaggs. The light meter will be a good starting point before you shoot. The histogram is a record of what it actually is. If the histogram shows an image is brighter or darker than what you want it to be you just need to change the exposure and make what you want. Here's a very old vid of mine that explains how cameras can get it wrong... MIKE www.photographycourses.biz/videos/technical/exposure/wrong_exposure.html

[@simplyconfused4ever]

Thanks Mike, will go through the link

[@candilo5563]

Thanks Mike. So, when you point the camera at the bright side the camera adjusts the color and make the picture darker, and vice versa, then where exactly should one point the camera at to get the correct exposure?

[@MikeBrowne]

HI Candi, you need to point the camera on what you want to expose, the metering modes does all the trick, please do see our metering mode video here, www.photographycourses.biz/videos/technical/exposure/metering-modes-1 - Melissa pp Mike

[@DaleAHooley]

Awesome content as always. But a quick question.....I have the Canon 600D 18.0mp, however I have been torn between upgrading my body to the 80D 24.0mp, or getting an 85mm 1.2 L lens for the 600D body I already have. Glass seems to be the answer all the time I ask this question. But what would YOU do? I primarily work with portraits and studio photography.

[@MikeBrowne]

Hi Dale. I never change cameras unless I break it, lose it or wear it out. Why do you want to upgrade? What difference do you hope to see in your portraiture with a different camera? ... MIKE

[@DaleAHooley]

@@MikeBrowne Thanks for your time to reply, much appreciated. I've always known "glass before body" in most circumstances, however my reason for "wanting" to upgrade is probably greater than my reason for "needing" to upgrade, but it should be the other way around.....I have been recommended the 80D as a great step up in quality (by way of not entering the FF market), and after seeing this camera in action, it's envy more than anything, the quality it gives is immense. But I have seen a youtube comparison whereby an expensive lens in a cheaper body gives FAR better results than a cheaper lens in an expensive body....so I think an art lens is the way forward for my 600D, by the looks of it.

[@MikeBrowne]

Got It Dale - looks like you've answered your own question. If you feel it'll make a difference go for it, but don't get another camera / lens unless you can see a clear benefit before you buy it... MIKE

[@jjccllgg]

You have to keep the settings longer in the picture. SO that we can write them down. Thank you!

[@paulhinchliffe7601]

Informative vlog good to look at these things even if you not quite a new to photography 👍🤓

[@MikeBrowne]

Thanks Paul... MIKE

[@dawnpenso9609]

Regarding metering, I hardly ever use the meter after the first reading. I look at the screen and if the image is too dark or too light for the look I’m after I use exposure compensation to adjust the exposure. This works for me....

[@MikeBrowne]

Good method Dawn - though watch out for sunny days because screen can llok dark and trick you into over exposing... MIKE :-)

[@scentopink]

I love my small little tiny Nikon 1, takes great pictures for me and and more than happy whit them/it. As a beginner I stick with one lenses for more than a month, in order to adapt and learn with it. I struggle however with prime lenses. Do you have a course/video on that?

[@MikeBrowne]

hi, yes we do have a course dedicated for different lenses - www.photographycourses.biz/courses/understanding-camera-lenses - Melissa pp Mike

[@Ralissa108]

Great video, but what I need to know is where to stand, which way to point the camera and when to press the button!

[@MikeBrowne]

Thanks John Reid. That means you need to improve your observational skills. So practise taking photos in your head without a camera. Take time to look around you and imagine photos. Look at things from different angles, lay on the floor, climb on a wall, walk round them, look at them from above and below at different times of day in different light. On days with a few scattered clouds watch the light move across the landscape and think where you'd place a highlight on a lake, tree, house... Then wait for it to happen... I do this ALL THE TIME. Stop thinking about cameras, settings and what other people think and do and start thinking about photography.. MIKE

[@roberthambly9926]

love your videos you make it sound as if it's possible for a normal person to understand the involvement of using the camera and its abilities to capture the shot. I always was under the assumption it was the most expensive camera that won in the end. By the way you resemble Robert Plant.

[@MikeBrowne]

Thanks @Robert Hambly. Robert P;ant - that's a new one but I'll happily take it 😎. The most expensive camera certainly does not take the best photo. I know many who've spent £1000s and they're photos are nothing against someone with a phone who understands where to stand, light and composition. If you're dtruggling with the relationship between camera and human please enrol on my Masterclass course. It's guaranteed, costs a lot less than a used lens and hundreds of 5* Trustpilot reviews. Link below ... MIKE🙏😊 www.photographycourses.biz/courses/online-photography-course

[@stevepegleg]

I have trouble understanding the metering and focusing together, if i have it on spot metering and want to focus on a dark area, will my photo be over exposed, if i use the 51 metering points in my camera can i still pick the point i want to focus on, this is what is pulling my hair out. do you understand what i am on about. I wish i brought this up on our one to one day (which was one of the best days, everyone should do it, Mike is so good at teaching and is very patient .) it is confusing for me metering and focusing hope it did not make it to confusing for you. thanks for all your videos Mike i have learned so much, cos of you i have advanced so far thanks so much Steve bray

[@MikeBrowne]

Thank you for the super duper lovely words and feedback - Melissa pp Mike

[@smarsh599]

Hi Mike. Great videos. I'm a D90 user. Gone off auto setting now on to aperture priority (sometimes manual) but keep wondering whether or not to use auto the ISO setting (after all, I didn't have that with film cameras). I tend to default to ISO 200. What do you think?

[@MikeBrowne]

Thanks Steve. Semi auto and manual modes are just 2 different ways to reach the same destination. The only issue with any auto mode is that the camera will change exposure according to compositin. If you have a lot of something bright in your shot it'll darken it and vice versa. So you have to keep on top of that by using exposure compensation. Manual measns you choose the exposure and once set you don't need to change it unless the light itself changes. Personally I avoid auto ISO because on some cameras it will over ride your choice of exposure and default to what the light meter 'thinks' is correct. Just use whatever iso gives you the exposure you need. 200 is better quality but most cameras are fine at 1000 or more. If you'd like me to clarify more please try my Masterclass online course. It has over 100 lessons, weekly exercises and hundreds of 5* trustpilot reviews. link below where you can even try a free sample... MIKE www.photographycourses.biz/masterclass

[@smarsh599]

Thanks Mike. I totally agree with you so I will set the ISO manually. I will sign up for your course because I think more than anything, I am inspired by your selection and composition of shots. I also love your Thunderbird. Steve