[Photo courtesy of the DPP Website]

Another way to learn about this craft is to read up. There are many photography magazines out there that provide tips and tricks of the trade. Often, they feature professional photographers who willingly share some secrets to their captivating photos.

The cost of the magazines is something to consider though. They do not come cheap. In our local bookstores, I’ve seen digital photography magazines from the US and the UK that are way beyond what I would be willing to pay for a magazine. They do often come with CDs of software that you can use for post-processing so I guess in a way that balances the cost.

Here in the Philippines, the Digital Photographer Philippines or DPP is probably the leading magazine for photography enthusiasts. The boyfriend and I recently bought four issues. We were lucky that there were ‘back issues’ being sold at this magazine stand. They were offered at full prize though. You see, there really are no back issues for the mag. I guess they don’t print too many of those so there’s a big demand for them. Years after the first few issues of the ‘zine have been sold out, people (like me) are still looking for copies. We once bought an issue, but the great flood damaged it greatly.

A copy costs 295 pesos, or USD6.50 by current exchange rates. Not cheap. Is it worth it? I think so. One thing to take note though is that more often than not, you need to have some knowledge of the craft already for you to fully appreciate the tips that you provide. I must admit, I need to reread their articles and really give it some effort before I can take it all in. I guess then, it’s not exactly for the newbie photographer. I suggest reading online magazines (run a search on “photography magazine” and you’ll see results for online versions of those in print) first and reading blogs on photography to grasp the basics. This way you don’t spend a dime.

In time, these magazines will turn out to be good investments. I know mine already are.