Aperture
Understand Aperture
The most fundamental thing any photographer should understand is aperture. Aperture is the physical opening within your lens that lets light through to the sensor, or film in an older camera. The wider the opening, the more light gets through, and vice versa.
The size of that opening, regulated by a series of fins encroaching from the edge of the lens barrel, is measured in f-stops, written as f/2.8, f/5.9 and so on, with smaller numbers meaning wider apertures. If that inverse relationship is tricky to remember, think of it not as the size of the hole, but as how far each fin encroaches into the opening.
Filters And Lenses
What Does The ø Symbol On My Lens Mean?
Alongside the focal and aperture ranges, the other measurement you’ll see on most DSLR lenses is preceded by ø, and describes the diameter of the screw mount on the front of the lens barrel. Check this figure each time you go to buy a filter or hood, as it can vary between lenses in your collection, even when they’re all designed for the same camera.
Lighting
Invest In A Cheap Pair Of Lights
If you’re doing any kind of indoor photography, it’s worth investing in a cheap pair of lights. Buy at least two, along with tripod stands and reflectors to help direct the light. Go for continuous light rather than flash units, as they’re cheaper, easier to use, and great for beginners, since you don’t need test shots to see how the shadows fall while setting up.