Photography isn’t just about pressing a button, it’s about how you see the world. Over the years, I’ve learned that it’s not about having the latest gear or visiting famous locations, it’s about connection. Your connection to light, the scene, and the moment.
Here are five lessons that completely changed the way I approach photography. They might just change the way you see it too.
1. Light is Everything, Not the Camera
Most people think upgrading their camera will make them a better photographer. I used to believe that too. But the truth? Light makes or breaks an image.
It doesn’t matter if you have the most expensive camera, if the light is bad, your photo will be bad. But even a basic camera in beautiful light can create something incredible.
What to do: Pay attention to how light changes throughout the day. Watch how shadows fall, how soft vs. harsh light affects a scene, and use golden hour or side lighting to add depth and mood.
Master light, and you’ll master photography.
2. A Great Photo is Made Before You Press the Shutter
Once you understand that light is everything, the next step is realising that great images happen before you even press the shutter.
Great photographers don’t just react to moments, they see the shot before it happens. Positioning yourself well, waiting for the right moment, and removing distractions before taking the shot can make all the difference.
What to do: Before taking a photo, scan the scene. What’s adding to the composition? What’s distracting? Can you change your angle to improve the shot? Sometimes, waiting just a few seconds will transform the image.
The difference between a snapshot and a masterpiece is often just a little extra thought.
3. A Photo’s Impact is Emotional, Not Technical
Some of the most unforgettable images aren’t perfectly sharp or technically flawless, but they make you feel something.
If you don’t connect with the scene, neither will the viewer. If you rush, the image might feel empty. But if you take time to observe, feel, and understand the place, your image will reflect that deeper connection.
What to do: Spend time in a location before shooting. Notice how the light moves, the atmosphere shifts, and how it makes you feel. Instead of just taking a photo, experience the moment first.
The best images aren’t just seen, they’re felt.
4. Every Image is a Result of What You Choose to Exclude
A strong photo isn’t just about what’s in the frame, it’s about what you leave out.
Unnecessary clutter, busy backgrounds, or too many elements weaken an image. A simple, intentional composition guides the viewer’s eye and strengthens the impact.
What to do: Before pressing the shutter, ask yourself: Is there anything distracting in my frame? Can you move, reframe, or simplify the scene? Keeping it clean makes the story clearer.
A great photograph isn’t just about what you include, it’s about what you remove.
5. Your Vision Shapes the Photo, But Time and Place Deepen It
A skilled photographer can capture something beautiful anywhere, but spending time in a place allows you to see more deeply.
It’s one thing to take a quick shot and move on. It’s another to stay longer, watch how the light shifts, notice the details, and refine your composition. The more time you spend immersed in a place, the better your images become.
What to do: Challenge yourself to revisit the same location at different times of day. Slow down, observe, and connect with the scene before taking the shot.
A great photograph isn’t just taken, it’s felt, experienced, and crafted over time.
Final Thoughts
Photography isn’t about expensive gear or faraway destinations, it’s about how you see, feel, and connect with the world around you.
If you focus on light, composition, emotion, and taking time to immerse yourself in your surroundings, your photography will grow in ways you never expected.
