1. You can become a good photographer, armed with the right equipment, mindset, and knowledge.

2. Choosing the appropriate camera — the one you will be comfortable with and use frequently — is the key to quickly gaining new photographic skills.

3. Choosing the right lens and other photographic accessories is essential. Learn how to buy lenses and other equipment you'll actually use.

4. Reference material is vital to becoming a good photographer. Find out where to find books and magazines that will help you answer your questions and address any problems.

5. Learn about light and lighting — if you understand the impact light has on all your shots, you are in control.

6. Learn the rules of good composition. They're not hard to master, and they can transform your style in no time.

7. Shutter speeds and aperture aren't hard to understand. They will be explained in terms that will make them clear, even if you are currently using a point-and-shoot camera.

8. What kind of shooter are you: Plain or artsy? Landscape or portrait? Conventional or digital? Amateur or pro? You'll soon know the answer to that question.

9. Learning to use digital technology and digital darkrooms — even if you shoot film — will strengthen your artistic endeavors. The new technology can transform your photographs.

10. Printing and exhibiting your work isn't hard, but it helps to know exactly what approach works best.