Ansel Adams Critiquing students, courtesy of the Ansel Adams Gallery

Want to know how to advance your photography?

This may not be sexy or be the magic filter that you’re looking for, but honestly it boils down to:

1. Get out and shoot, no matter with what. Chase Jarvis said it best, bang the shutter!
2. Learn from the pros. That’s why I produce my shows, I aim to give you easy to digest information right from the pros. And of course, you’ve got the whole web, libraries and tons of workshops to help you with this one.
3. Get critiqued. (Hint: Notice the man himself above giving a critique.) It is vital that you put your work out there and get feedback. You can take or leave the suggestions you get back, but it’s part of the learning process for sure.
4. Make Changes. If you have suggestions that make sense to you from the critiques, make those changes or re-shoot as needed.
5. Keep looking for how others have done it: I don’t just mean other photographers, study painters (Joey L studied the painting masters to develop his unique lighting) films (Stan Musilek watches loads of movies to hone his cinematic style.) I honestly believe any exposure you have to art, music and even cooking helps you express yourself as a photographer.
6. Read Light. Really learn to see and read light. Matthew Jordan Smith gave great tips about how to use the sun, natural reflectors like sand and artificial light.)  David Hobby gave  amazing lighting tips for using your strobe or available light.
7. Continue. Keep this cycle rolling around and around!

And finally, Be Brave. Post an image and I’ll give you feedback.