Photography is the art and science of capturing light to create images. It starts with understanding how a camera works, particularly how the lens, sensor, and shutter interact. The lens focuses light onto the camera sensor, while the shutter controls the time light is exposed to the sensor, influencing the image’s brightness.

One of the most fundamental aspects of photography is exposure, which determines how light or dark an image appears. Exposure is controlled by three elements: aperture, shutter speed, and ISO, collectively known as the exposure triangle. Aperture refers to the size of the opening in the lens through which light enters the camera. It also affects depth of field, or how much of the scene is in focus. A wide aperture (low f-number) allows more light and creates a shallow depth of field, while a narrow aperture (high f-number) lets in less light and produces a deeper focus. Shutter speed controls how long the camera’s sensor is exposed to light.

Another key concept is composition, which refers to how elements are arranged within the frame. A popular rule is the rule of thirds, where an image is divided into nine equal parts, and placing the subject along these lines creates a more balanced and visually appealing shot. Other important compositional techniques include leading lines, symmetry, framing, and contrast.