Exploring Photography: How to Start

Person holding a camera, taking a photo of a sunset over a calm lake, symbolizing the start of a photography journey post-divorce.

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:
  • 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:


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:


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:


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!