Five key takeaways from my photography journey

Hey guys, Smiley here, Director of Photography and Videography here at Another Corporate Dropout Agency. Over the past 8 months, I've really taken the dive into my photography and videography career, working with clients from the food service industry, to the health and wellness industry, and many new clients in between. If you're a photographer that's just starting out, or interested in learning more about photography, here are 5 notes that I've gathered so far in my journey.

Start with the Gear you already have

You don’t need a $5,000 camera to create stunning images. Whether you have a DSLR, a mirrorless camera, or even just a smartphone, focus on learning the fundamentals: light, composition, and storytelling. As you grow, you’ll naturally learn what gear will elevate your work, but your vision matters more than the equipment.

Learn to use light

Photography essentially is painting with light. Notice how light changes throughout the day: the soft golden tones at sunrise, the harsh midday sun, or the dramatic shadows at dusk. Train your eye to recognize how light shapes your subject, creates mood, and add depth to your images.

Practice, Practice, Practice the basic compositions

Great photos guide the viewer’s eye and tell a story. Start with simple techniques like the rule of thirds, leading lines, and framing. Once you understand the basics, you can break the rules intentionally to create more dynamic and expressive shots.

Shoot with Purpose ALWAYS

Photography is a skill that develops with practice. Take your camera (or phone) everywhere and commit to shooting regularly, even if it’s just 10 minutes a day. Each session is an opportunity to refine your eye, experiment with angles, and push your creativity.

Continue to learn, especially from others

One of the fastest ways to grow is by surrounding yourself with other photographers. Share your work, ask for feedback, and learn from others’ perspectives. Join local photo walks, online forums, or workshops to connect with like-minded creatives.

Starting my photography journey was definitely a difficult path with some struggles I had to endure. One key note that I hope you take away from this article is that your creative eye matters. That is going to be what sets you apart from the rest of the other photographers out there. I do shoots with photographers that shoot for Ferrari, people who shoot films and cinematography, and there are STILL people who want to work with me and trust my creative eye because they value the vision I bring to the table. Rest assured, YOU will find those clients too.