As an amatuer photographer, how can i really get started?

Question: As an amatuer photographer, how can i really get started!?

Someone suggested to me that i should go to schools and offer to take the pictures of the kids but dont you have to be a professional to do that!? Is there any other way i can really get jump started!? I've made business cards and passed them out but havent got any real response yet!.Www@QuestionHome@Com

Best Answer - Chosen by Asker:

You're correct, to get into most schools you will have to win a contract bid and be able to provide them with certain professional services!. Try local daycare and nursery schools instead!.

Jen, why not have an exhibit in your local library or coffee shop to get your name out there!?

To exhibit you'll need a quantity of 8 x 10 or 11 x 14 at least, matted and framed!. Speak to your local library or coffee shop owner!.!.!.perhaps even a doctor's office, hospital, etc!. A showing is generally for one month, you have an opening, set prices and put your cards and flyers on the table in order to drum up business!.Www@QuestionHome@Com

If you're getting serious about taking photos get an account on flickr!.com and browse the pics others have a taken for good ideas!. Remember that LIGHTING IS EVERYTHING, and you may want to invest in a tripod for serious types of portraits or landscapes!. I also recommend joining a site called lomography!.com!. The cameras are all film, but they do some trippy and cool stuff and can get you to have more fun with your photo -taking!. It's always good to be experienced with film photography as well as digital!. It's also fun to browse the community photos here, too!. You may not have the budget for a digital SLR camera or a 35mm SLR- but once you get one you'll never go back to point and shoot!. You may also want to find out about some local art centers or art classes that teach photography if you want more experience and guidance!. For altering your film images you may want to get a photo scanner!. It's okay to use a normal one too- but in order to alter them get some photo editing software and I strongly recommend Adobe Photoshop!.Www@QuestionHome@Com