A beginner photographer's guide to Canberra
Canberra is full of beautiful places to photograph for all different styles.
Graffiti in the city, bush landscapes, art galleries, and statues -there is something for everyone.
As a beginner photographer, crowds can be daunting to compete with.
The last thing you want to feel is rushed while adjusting your settings to get the perfect shot.
We found a couple of locations that inspire creativity while encouraging your own exploration into the creative process and personal style.
NGA Sculpture Garden
Parkes Pl, Parkes ACT 2600
Behind the National Gallery of Australia, the Sculpture Garden contains many extraordinary natural and artistic subjects to photograph.
What makes the NGA Sculpture Garden beginner friendly?
It is the perfect location to leisurely take photos and it's great for a picnic.
The lush greenery and sculptures provide a peaceful and inspiring background.
With the sculptures visible from all sides, this is the perfect spot for capturing different angles and lighting effects.
Even when the gardens are busy there is plenty of room for everyone.
The location is central. A short walk will take you to Lake Burley Griffin with limitless views across the water.
Despite the central location, it is a relatively quiet and calm space.
When starting out, finding subjects to photograph can be a challenge.
In the sculpture garden, you will find many photogenic and aesthetically pleasing contents.
The various sculptures provide a natural starting point, allowing your creativity to flourish from the possibilities.
The Gardens are open 24/7.
Gold Creek Village
Nicholls, 2913
Architecture
The George Harcourt Inn and Cockington Green, have Tudor architectural designs.
This provides a unique experience to capture a type of architecture that isn't common in Canberra.
The tree-lined streets
The picturesque tree-lined streets provide natural framing for your photos.
The inviting atmosphere of this quaint village is increased in autumn, with the massive trees slowly changing colours.
Murals can be seen throughout the village.
These murals add even more visual interest, with their bright colours and interesting designs.
It provides a rustic, country town feel within Canberra.
It's the lowkey atmosphere that makes Gold Creek a wonderful place to photograph. You can take your time and get that perfect shot.
Surrounded by small shops and cafes this is a great place to have a relaxing artistic experience.
Your Local
Your local shops are a great place to hone your new skills. Many have cool graffiti and other interesting features.
It's an easy way to practice urban photography on a small scale, without having to travel far.
These photos are from the Farrer shops but there are lots of locations around Canberra.
Ultimately, the best places for a beginner to take photos is where they feel comfortable.
It's important to start with a good foundation and build on it.
Start simple, with basic shots in a familiar setting, and then as you gain more confidence try some more challenging locations.
Most importantly: have fun!
Produced by Journalism and Sports Media students;
Published by the Faculty of Arts and Design, University of Canberra
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