9 Mistakes Every DSLR Photographer Makes

Now that you have blown off your savings and invested in a good DSLR camera and accessories, you must learn how to use it properly as well. DSLR is short for Digital Single Lens Reflector Camera and is the first step any amateur takes towards becoming a professional photographer.

Here are some mistakes which every photographer has made and it is time to learn from theirs rather than making your own.

1. Though it might seem silly, not reading the camera manual is one of the most common mistakes committed by new DSLR owners. You see your friends handling a camera, learn a few tricks and start feeling well equipped to use a DSLR, but that is where you are wrong. Every camera can be different, there must new features in your camera which might not be there in others. Read and use.

2. Shooting in automatic mode all the time when there are so many other methods you can use is another common mistake. It shows your reluctance in taking risks. Get adventurous, shoot in Program mode and turn the Auto-Focus off once in a while to experiment.

3. How often has it happened that in the display screen of the camera, the photo looked sharp but turns out all blurry on the computer screen? That is because you are not using the correct shutter speed.

4. If you are confident of getting the exposure and white balance correct, then go ahead and shoot in JPEG format. But if you do manage to ruin a photo then don’t curse yourself. Simply start shooting in RAW, which gives you greater freedom while editing.

5. If you need to shoot with different lenses in a dusty setting, then we suggest carrying two different cameras. Changing lens in dusty conditions will ruin the camera’s sensor.

6. Many photographers don’t know the use of ISO and when to apply which ISO settings. ISO settings help you shoot better in different light conditions and always double check the ISO settings before shooting. You might have forgotten to change the ISO from the previous photo shoot, which could potentially ruin this one.

7. If you are using wide angle lens or telephoto lens to shoot humans, they will most likely appear distorted in the image. To prevent your family and friends from looking like an alien in such photos, use appropriate lens like the 18-55mm lens.

8. Flare is caused by light that bounce around inside the lens which in turn compromises with the contrast and sharpness. This happens most often in wide angle lenses How to avoid them you ask? Well, just change your shooting angle or use a simple lens hood which will block the light causing flare.

9. Failing to keep your gear and equipment clean is next to blasphemy in photographic terms. Keeping them spic and span will not only increase their life but will also not be a cause for you to run to the nearest service centre. If you have spent so much on quality equipment, then do keep it in good shape.