Hi,

I'm new to photography (just 1 year) and just have to say that your work is just beautiful and inspirational. You have a talented understanding of light and composition, and if I can get to that standard one day I'll be top trumps! I'm starting a creative arts degree soon with OCA when I finish my professional studies so any tips will be welcomed.

Thank you for your kind words. You already seem to have the number one factor you need, which is motivation and if you add some perseverance to the recipe then you are on a winning side.

Don't go buying lots of equipment, stick to the basics and learn them inside out. In this day an age everyone wants you to buy, don't fall into the trap.

I think at first you can learn a lot by getting experienced photographers to judge your work and getting some constructive criticism. This could be your local club, or the web. Try and put your work into competitions, or give yourself tasks to work on e.g. photographing an object or a place at different times of the day with different light and moods. Study other photographers work and go and see as many exhibitions as you can. Judging other peoples work can make you a better judge of your own.

Good luck with your studies.
All the best,
Charlie.

P.S. Don't forget to work that light.

I am also about to embark on an architectural study in Lodz, Poland (Where my wife comes from) in the next 6-8 month, just working om my photo skills and acquiring the right equipment. I understand what you say about buying too much equipment but I do need to get a sufficient lens for my D200. Can you recommend the right lens for the job?

Thanks again

Jason