So, we really can't change the sunrises and sunsets, but that's about the only thing that isn't changing.

• New light sources - BIG changes here!
• Capturing Exposure - BIG changes here for both camera bodies and glass! (Does Moore’s Law apply?)
• New Coding Technology (read AI, more later...)
• What is “Computational Photography”?

It’s not just the Rule of Thirds, Leading Lines and a few other Compositional methods anymore. A majority of images are now exhibited digitally and that means they don’t have to be composed for a 3x2, 4x5 or other traditional (print) presentation.

• What is the subject of your image & how do you display that in the best way.
• Old Standards vrs Free Cropping
• Does genre drive composition?
• Are Smart phones driving composition?
• How much of social media drives composition?

Ansel Adams said “There are no rules for good photographs, there are only good photographs.” A good photograph has to have what’s called the capture of a moment or some sort of impact.

• How much does new gear affect capturing of a moment or creating impact?
• Drones, Fast Shutters, Hi Res, iTriggers, Better Sensors/Higher ISO’s
• Again, how much impact does social media impact this?
• Is the new generation of photographers driving this, or is the “old guard” standard still true?

Here technique is still probably driven by imagination and technology. A good photographer needs a mentor. Someone to challenge them and pat them on the back as well. Why, because it’s too easy to just go in search of a nice image rather than CREATE one PURPOSEFULLY.

In my opinion, Technique is driven by the constant desire to get better, try something new.  Work, work, work until it’s perfect!

• You don’t need the newest gear to learn a new technique, or better your skill.
• Online classes are PLENTIFUL to help develop new skills and techniques.
• This is the largest area of improvement for many photographers today.

I can’t tell you how many photographers I meet who push back on post processing and editing because:

• I only use “Elements” because I don’t want a subscription plan
• I don’t like Adobe
• I’m a “true” artist.  I let the picture speak for itself.
• Learning Lightroom and Photoshop is too hard and time consuming.

I have several answers.

• Stop complaining about not placing in exhibitions
• Take Baby Steps
• One1, Topaz are out there waiting for you!

MENTORSHIP -
I always tell camera clubs, students (and anyone who will listen) that one of the best ways to improve your photography is to find a mentor.  You can find helpful people everywhere!  I've mentored people (for free) for over a decade.  I host a mentorship program called The Portfolio Project.

GEAR - 
Buy the best gear you can afford.  Don't go into debt, but better gear will usually yield better images.  BUT you'd better know how to use what you buy and be willing to work through about a 6 month learning curve.