Getting started with photography

Black Film Guild

This website is the main source that I use to communicate with Black Film Guild members. The mailing list will let you know when workshops will be held and when there are upcoming photography and filmmaking job opportunities in Oakland. We have videos from our YouTube channel listed under “tutorials,” that teach some of the technical skills you’ll need, and we also offer in-person and online training courses. As a developing beginner and artist, you’ll find a ton to tap into here.

The Beginner Photography Podcast

The Beginner Photography Podcast is a free weekly podcast where professional photographers share tips and tricks that will save you a ton of time on your photography journey. They give advice on different gear that you should use based on your photography interests, and make it entertaining along the way!

Digital Photography Review

Everyone should belong to at least one online forum. In this case, I consider the Digital Photography Review an old faithful. When I was a beginner, I used this forum to ask questions and would get answers from more experienced photographers that were incredibly helpful.

Start With Why

This is a great book for those who may be interested in photography but aren’t sure how to turn it into a future they can monetize off of. Although this book is not specific to photography, the themes and topics will help you think differently about how you navigate society and ask better questions to get answers about problems we all face.

215 Photography Tips

This webpage is full of tips that you should keep in your back pocket. There’s so much to refer to, from basic camera functions to creative advice. I recommend using a search function in your browser to explore the different topics. These are quick and super accessible so you can gain insight on anything photo-related fast.

Photography Equipment List for Beginners

A question I’m always asked is “what camera gear should I get?” This is a great list to get you started. The items listed on this page are all good suggestions for what you should purchase as a beginner, and to accompany your camera. Accessories are vital to making sure you are able to capture good photos, and this list will point you in the right direction.

Film Guild E-Book

This Ebook is a one-stop-shop for all things beginner photography. It offers a user-friendly way to understand cameras and accessories that many photographers are unfamiliar with. I offer this resource to all Black Film Guild members as a tool to help with their photography journey.