I’m not a photographer, but I’ve worked with pros. These are their constants/universal truths:
- it’s not about the camera, it’s about the photographer and the subject
- think before you click, but move quickly
- composition: the closer, the better; rule of thirds
- good light good light good light
- not every photo should be in landscape
- not every photo should be shown
- do what you like and develop your own style, but also be critical of your work
- do not waste space, time or energy on empty subjects
- know your gear (read: use flash properly) and keep your gear clean
- don’t stop shooting - this is meant in the general “don’t be discouraged” sense
There are people who think that having a super expensive camera and talking specs all the time makes them better photographers. Uh, no. What I noticed about real pros is that they grew with their gear, and they shut up and shoot.
Photography is really about how a person sees and captures what he sees. So if you don’t know how to see, nothing will help.
*and if you have a sort of expensive camera, get insurance (this saved my ass when my camera died in the himalayas)