Sunday, April 1, 2018

By Sandra Ross


Pictures are worth a thousand words. Since the drawings on cave walls, man has been trying to capture moments for eons. Mary Wray photography has since advanced to include digital images. It is an art form. There are professional photographers who have trained for years to be able to manipulate lighting and balance image composition for the best results. Some of this information is available to amateur photographers.

The market is laden with affordable cameras and equipment. The cost of reproduction is also quite cheap. This has led to the prevalence of amateur photographers. Mobile phones also come with good cameras. One can easily take a picture then edit it. However, there is still more one can do to move further from amateur and closer to pro.

One must know the different forms. Everything from underwater to black and white requires a different approach. A different attitude. It is important that one understand how to approach each form.

This form of art must be approached with the highest degree of open-mindedness. To truly get the essence of the subject, one must clear their mind of all judgment. It is no use looking at something as good or bad then expect that not to be evident in the image. All subjects have energy. This energy is what makes for a great and revealing image. Some professionals advice one to stop using their eyes. One is advised to listen. Not listen with the ears but with the soul. How does one connect with the subject? What about the subject makes it worth a picture? What is that intrinsic quality that one just has to capture? See the story, not the object.

Art is not art without a human element. A machine would not see the essence of a subject. A camera would not see a story in the eyes of a person. One should endeavor to fully engage the subject. To sense the element with their soul rather than their senses. The subject will usually reveal itself. It does not need to be sought.

Often after the session is over. One has to choose the best and most appropriate images to use. Those that are worthy. Images that tell a story. Images that capture the essence with all its glory. Images that reveal the true identity of a subject. One will not be able to understand these from looking at one image. There is a need for several shots to peruse before arriving at one that fits just right. Having so many shots also reveals flaws in the technique and approach.

A natural setting is always best. Any amateur must endeavor to use natural lighting as much as possible. It provides the best foundation before one can move on to learning how to use artificial lighting. The same applies to smiles, facial expressions, and poses. One should aim for the most natural ones. Maybe take shots between poses? Catch the subject in the natural element rather than a plastic forced stance.

Moving from amateur to professional can be done. Once one has grasped the quintessence of this art, the technicalities are an easy bridge to cross. Learning how to use equipment and play with picture composition is mastered with time. The points mentioned above require the most effort because they can make or break a picture regardless of equipment knowledge.




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