Starting photography can feel overwhelming, but it’s also an exciting and creative journey. If you’ve recently gone through a divorce, photography can help you see the world in a new way, boost your confidence, and give you a sense of purpose. Whether you want to capture the beauty of nature, take photos of your kids, or express your emotions through images, photography is a hobby anyone can enjoy—even if you’ve never held a camera before.
In this guide, we’ll break down the basics of getting started with photography. We’ll also share beginner-friendly resources like websites, books, podcasts, and affordable products to make starting your photography journey super easy.
1. Why Choose Photography as a Hobby?
Photography is more than just taking pictures. It’s about learning to see the world differently and finding beauty in everyday moments. For someone navigating life after divorce, photography can be:
- Therapeutic: Taking photos helps you focus on the present moment.
- Empowering: Learning a new skill builds confidence.
- Creative: It allows you to express your feelings and tell your story visually.
2. Choosing the Right Gear
You don’t need expensive equipment to start photography. Here’s what you can begin with:
- Your Smartphone: Most modern phones have excellent cameras.
- Budget-Friendly Cameras: If you want to invest in a camera, here are some great beginner options:
- Canon EOS Rebel T7 (affiliate link)
- Nikon D3500 (affiliate link)
- Sony Alpha a6000 (affiliate link)
- Accessories:
- Tripod: Helps stabilize your shots. Check out UBeesize Tripod (affiliate link).
- Lens cleaning kit: Essential for keeping your camera in great shape.
3. Learning the Basics
Photography is all about understanding light, composition, and how your camera works. Here’s how to start learning:
- Online Guides:
- Free Courses:
- Books:
- Understanding Exposure by Bryan Peterson
- The Digital Photography Book by Scott Kelby
- YouTube Channels:
4. Practicing Photography
Here’s how you can practice photography and improve:
- Start Small: Begin by taking photos of things around your home or in your neighborhood.
- Experiment with Lighting: Try taking pictures at different times of the day to see how lighting changes the mood.
- Focus on Composition: Learn about the “rule of thirds,” which is a simple way to frame your subject for balanced photos.
5. Inspiration and Community
Photography is more fun when you find inspiration and connect with others. Here’s how:
- Magazines:
- National Geographic (for amazing nature and travel photos)
- Outdoor Photographer (for tips and inspiration)
- Podcasts:
- Online Communities:
- Join forums like PhotographyTalk to share your work and get feedback.
- Follow hashtags like #BeginnerPhotography on Instagram for ideas.
6. Turning Photography into a Routine
Once you’ve started taking pictures, make it part of your routine:
- Set Goals: Try to take 5 photos a day of something that inspires you.
- Go on Photo Walks: Spend time outdoors exploring your surroundings with your camera.
- Start a Photo Project: Document your personal journey post-divorce through photos. For example, capture moments of joy, healing, or new beginnings.
7. Advanced Learning
As you grow, you might want to explore more advanced skills:
- Editing Software: Learn to enhance your photos using tools like Adobe Lightroom or Canva.
- Workshops and Classes:
8. Exploring Photography Genres
Not sure what to photograph? Here are a few popular genres to try:
- Nature Photography: Perfect for calming the mind. Resources: Outdoor Photographer Magazine.
- Portrait Photography: Capture the beauty of human emotion.
- Street Photography: Tell stories through candid shots of people and cityscapes.
- Abstract Photography: Focus on patterns, textures, or close-up details.
Final Thoughts
Photography is a wonderful way to rediscover yourself after divorce. You don’t need to be an expert or invest a lot of money. Start with the basics, explore resources, and practice regularly. Most importantly, enjoy the process and use photography as a tool to heal, grow, and express yourself.
Remember, the journey is just as important as the destination. Take one photo at a time and celebrate your progress. Ready to start? Grab your camera—or just your phone—and begin your photography adventure today!

