When you’re just getting started with photography, it’s easy to think better photos come from better gear. But the truth is, the fastest way to improve is by shooting with intention.

The best photographers didn’t become great by reading about photography—they became great by picking up a camera and practicing.

These photography assignments are designed to help you build real-world skills, whether you’re taking your first photography class, building your portfolio, or simply looking for creative inspiration. Each challenge focuses on a different fundamental skill, and you don’t need expensive equipment to complete them. A KEH Certified™ pre-owned camera and a willingness to experiment are all you need.

What You’ll Learn

By completing these assignments, you’ll learn how to:

• Improve composition and framing
• Understand how light shapes an image
• Build confidence shooting in different conditions
• Develop stronger storytelling skills
• Think more intentionally before pressing the shutter

Assignment 1: One Camera, One Lens Challenge

The Challenge

Choose one camera and one focal length—35mm, 50mm, 85mm, or whatever lens you have—and commit to using only that setup for the entire day. No switching lenses. No zooming. If you’re using a zoom lens, pick one focal length and tape the zoom ring if needed.

Why It Works

It’s tempting to think another lens will solve every problem. This assignment teaches you that great photography starts with perspective, not equipment.

Instead of zooming with your lens, you’ll zoom with your feet. You’ll quickly learn:

• How your chosen focal length sees the world
• Better composition
• When to move closer or farther away
• How to simplify a scene

By the end of the day, that focal length will feel second nature.

Gear That Can Help

You don’t need a bag full of lenses for this challenge—in fact, that’s the point. A single-prime lens encourages you to slow down, move your feet, and become more intentional about composition.

A few favorites include:

• 35mm: A versatile focal length that’s great for street photography, environmental portraits, and everyday life.
• 50mm: Often called the “nifty fifty,” this lens closely matches the natural field of view of the human eye and is one of the best tools for learning composition.
• 85mm: Perfect if you enjoy portraits and want to learn how compression and subject separation affect your images.

Recommended Lenses:

• Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM
• Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 50mm f/1.8G
• Sony FE 50mm f/1.8
• Fujifilm XF 35mm f/2 R WR

These affordable prime lenses are lightweight, sharp, and perfect for learning how a single focal length shapes the way we see the world.

Assignment 2: Black & White Only

The Challenge

Spend an entire day shooting in black and white.

If your camera has a monochrome picture profile, use it. Otherwise, convert your images to black and white during editing.

Why It Works

Without color, every photo depends on light.

This challenge trains your eye to notice:

• Contrast
• Texture
• Shapes
• Shadows
• Emotion

You’ll begin to see scenes differently and recognize strong light before you ever press the shutter.

Gear That Can Help

Any camera can complete this assignment, but mirrorless cameras with electronic viewfinders let you preview your scene in black and white before you even press the shutter, making it easier to see light, contrast, and texture.

Recommended Cameras:

• Fujifilm X-T2
• Sony Alpha a6400
• Canon EOS R10
• OM System OM-D E-M10 Mark IV

Assignment 3: Night Photography Challenge

The Challenge

Once the sun goes down, grab your camera and head out for a nighttime photo walk.

Your mission: create interesting images using only the light available around you. Look for sources like streetlights, neon signs, car headlights, storefronts, windows, and reflections.

Experiment with different settings and techniques:

• Slow shutter speeds: Capture motion from passing cars, moving people, or flowing water.
• Long exposures: Turn ordinary scenes into dramatic images by letting in more light over a longer period.
• Wide apertures: Use a lens with a wide maximum aperture to create brighter images and a shallow depth of field.
• Available light: Challenge yourself to work with the light you find instead of adding your own.

Try photographing the same scene with different settings and compare how each change affects the final image.

Why It Works

Night photography pushes you outside your comfort zone and teaches you how your camera really works.

When light is limited, you’ll start to understand the relationship between the three parts of the exposure triangle:

• Shutter speed: Controls how motion appears in your image. A slower shutter speed can create intentional blur, while a faster shutter speed freezes action.
• Aperture: Controls how much light enters your camera and how much of your image is in focus.
• ISO: Controls your camera’s sensitivity to light and helps you capture images in darker environments.

You’ll also learn creative techniques that aren’t possible in bright daylight, like capturing light trails, silhouettes, reflections, and dramatic shadows.

Gear That Can Help

A sturdy tripod is one of the biggest upgrades for night photography. Pair it with a fast lens (like an f/1.8 prime) to make the most of available light. 

Recommended Lenses:

• Canon RF 35mm f/1.8 Macro IS STM
• Sony FE 35mm f/1.8
• Sigma 30mm f/1.4 DC DN Contemporary
• Nikon Z 40mm f/2

Assignment 4: Light Hunting

The Challenge

Forget about finding interesting subjects. Instead, spend the day looking for interesting light.

Photograph only scenes where the light grabs your attention—whether it’s window light pouring into a classroom, golden hour across campus, or dramatic shadows cast by buildings.

Why It Works

Experienced photographers often say they chase light before they chase subjects.

This assignment helps you recognize:

• Soft versus harsh light
• Directional light
• Backlighting
• Golden hour
• Natural contrast

Once you learn to see great light, almost any subject becomes interesting.

Gear That Can Help

A camera with good dynamic range can help preserve details in bright highlights and deep shadows, but the most important tool is simply paying attention to the light around you. Choose a camera with an excellent electronic viewfinder and strong dynamic range.

Recommended Cameras:

• Sony Alpha a7 III
• Nikon Z6
• Fujifilm X-S10

Pair with:

• Sigma 18-50mm f/2.8 DC DN Contemporary
• Tamron 28-75mm f/2.8 Di III RXD

Assignment 5: Day in the Life

Your camera is a storytelling tool. This assignment is all about learning how to find interesting moments in your everyday routine.

For one full day, carry your camera with you and document your life as it happens. Don’t wait for a big event or a perfect photo opportunity. Instead, challenge yourself to find the small moments that make up your day.

Photograph your ordinary routine:

• Your breakfast
• Walking to class
• Your roommates
• Your coffee run
• Your backpack
• Your study session
• Your pet
• Campus life

Don’t wait for something exciting to happen.

Why It Works

Storytelling isn’t about extraordinary moments.

It’s about noticing the meaningful moments that everyone else walks past.

This assignment strengthens:

• Visual storytelling
• Consistency
• Observation
• Sequencing
• Personal style

At the end of the day, arrange your favorite images into a photo story. You’ll be surprised how compelling everyday life can become.

Gear That Can Help

A lightweight mirrorless camera or compact point-and-shoot makes it much easier to carry your camera all day, increasing the chances you’ll capture moments you might otherwise miss. 

Recommended Cameras:

• Fujifilm X-T30 II
• Canon EOS R50
• Sony Alpha a6100
• Olympus PEN E-PL10

Don’t Forget:

• A spare battery
• A 128GB SDXC UHS-I memory card
• A comfortable camera strap like the Peak Design Slide Lite

Extra Credit Homework

Want to push yourself even further? Try these bonus assignments once you’ve completed the first five.

Self-Portrait Challenge

The Challenge

Step out from behind the camera and make yourself the subject.

Create a self-portrait without simply holding your camera at arm’s length. Use a tripod, self-timer, remote shutter, or your camera’s companion app to capture an image where you’re intentionally part of the story. 

Think beyond a traditional portrait. Use your surroundings, lighting, wardrobe, and personal interests to create an image that says something about who you are.

Why It Works

Being both the photographer and the subject challenges you to think differently. You’ll gain a better understanding of posing, composition, lighting, and storytelling while developing more empathy for the people you photograph.

Shoot Like Film

The Challenge

Slow down and photograph like you’re shooting a roll of film. Before you start, choose a limit: either 24 or 36 photos for the entire challenge. Your goal is to make every frame count.

Do not review your images after every shot. Instead, wait until you’ve completed the challenge before looking through your photos. Pretend every click has a cost.

Why It Works

Digital photography makes it easy to hold down the shutter. Film teaches restraint.

Limiting yourself forces you to slow down, evaluate the scene, and make every frame count. Over time, you’ll become more intentional and confident with every shutter press.

Progress Beats Perfection

Photography isn’t about completing assignments perfectly. It’s about showing up consistently and learning something every time you pick up your camera. The more you challenge yourself, the faster your skills—and your confidence—will grow.

Whether you’re shooting with your first camera or upgrading with KEH Certified™ pre-owned camera gear, remember: the best camera is the one you’re willing to take out and use. If you’re a student or educator, don’t forget you can also save an extra 5% with the KEH student discount.

So pick an assignment, grab your camera, and start shooting. Your next favorite photo might be the very next frame. And be sure to tag @KEHCamera on Instagram for a chance to be featured!

Want a chance to win a $500 KEH gift card? Enter our sweepstakes. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an expensive camera to start?

Nope. The best camera is the one you’ll actually use. These challenges work with any camera, from a smartphone to a KEH Certified™ pre-owned setup.

What camera is best for a photography student?

A camera that gives you room to learn. Beginner-friendly mirrorless cameras are a great place to start because they’re lightweight, versatile, and let you experiment with different lenses.

How can I improve my photography skills faster?

Shoot often, experiment, and challenge yourself. The more you practice with intention, the faster you’ll learn composition, lighting, and storytelling.

Should I shoot in manual mode?

Eventually, yes. But don’t worry about mastering it on day one. Start by learning how aperture, shutter speed, and ISO affect your photos, then build from there.

Is buying pre-owned camera gear worth it?

Absolutely. KEH Certified™ pre-owned gear helps students access quality cameras and lenses at a better value, backed by expert inspection and a 180-day warranty.

What lens should I start with?

A 50mm prime lens is a classic beginner choice because it’s affordable, versatile, and great for learning composition. A 35mm lens is another great option for everyday photography and storytelling.

What should I photograph when I run out of ideas?

Start with what’s around you. Your campus, friends, daily routine, and everyday moments can all become great photos when you focus on finding interesting light and telling a story.