1. Education First, Gear Second

Famed National Geographic photographer Jim Richardson once said “If you want to be a better photographer, stand in front of more interesting stuff.”

2. Shoot for Yourself, Not Everyone Else

To that end, if you’re shooting for Shares—or likes, or +1s, or comments, or whatever—you're doing it wrong 

3. Limit Yourself on Purpose

Setting limitations on yourself—whether it’s gear or time of day you’re ‘allowed’ to shoot or even limiting yourself to ONLY black-and-white for a month—is one of the best ways to grow. Master one at a time

4. Find Your Niche

You can’t master adventure, travel, street, and wildlife all at once… or possibly ever. It’s always better to go narrow and deep than wide and shallow.

5. Slow Down

Shoot as if you only have 36 photos at your disposal.