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Profiled Photographers – Ben McKechnie

Pro-photographer Ben McKechnie’s introduction to photography came when he received a camera as a birthday present when he was a child. He started taking it everywhere he went on family holidays in France and Italy. But despite the early start with cameras, before becoming a photographer, he was a writer. In fact, he didn’t truly start taking photography seriously until 12 years ago when he was 23. He says “I’d decided when I was a teenager that I was going to be a journalist. I was involved with my secondary school and university’s student newspapers and then had my own full-page entertainment column in every Friday edition of a regional newspaper for a year after graduating.”

Twelve years ago, he bought what he describes as his first “proper” camera (a Sony A350 DSLR) in Seoul, South Korea before switching to Canon a couple of years later. Ben taught himself photography on numerous backpacking trips around Asia for about 5 years. Then, in 2014 he enrolled with MatadorU—the American travel platform Matador Network’s old travel photography, writing, and film-making education platform. Over 2 years he did their Fundamentals and Advanced Travel Photography courses, mentored by Canadian professional photographer Kate Siobhan Mulligan. He says “She and the courses really inspired me, taught me a great deal, and set me on the right path. In particular, I learned how to communicate with and pitch to editors as well as how to develop my brand. From there, I got my first BBC photo essay published and everything took off from there”.

Ben, where are you from?

I’m from Salisbury in the south of England.

Where do you currently live?

I recently moved to Tbilisi, Georgia.

What genre of photography do you specialise in?

I specialise in travel, portrait, and documentary photography.

Describe your style of photography?

Although I’ve worked on photojournalism assignments for BBC Travel, the photojournalism style is not my natural setting when I’m travelling—I can turn it on and off when required. Recently, Up & Coming Art described me as a ‘fine-art travel photographer’, which I hadn’t considered before but I have grown quite comfortable with the title since. My photography focuses on fleeting moments of human interaction, unfamiliar cultural customs, and remote landscapes because those are the things that interest me. I’m endlessly moved when I sit and watch the ebb and flow of daily life around the world and try to create works that reflect this. I take intimate portraits and place great weight on the initial interaction with my subjects—getting people to open up and warm to me first is part of the challenge. My photos are a reflection of how I travel the world; I do not pay people to pose for me and I shun staged scenes – I always strive for authenticity and I hope that it shows.

What are you working on at the moment?

Settling into life in my new apartment in Tbilisi and getting back on top of everything as the vaccinated ‘new normal’ begins.

What is your next project or assignment?

I’ll be documenting Georgian culture and landscapes and aiming to publish photo essays and written pieces about the South Caucasus region and beyond. I’m also teaching myself video editing and I’m planning to buy a drone since there are no regulations on their use here.

Are there any photographers whose work/style you admire?

My favourite Instagram account that I’m currently following is probably that of Indian street photographer Vineet Vohra—he is endlessly creative, surprising and playful, and it’s fantastic to see India through the eyes of a talented local photographer. I admire the work of GMB Akash, David Guttenfelder, Simon Urwin, Gil Kreslavsky, and Taylor Weidman, among many others.

What is your favourite memory of your experiences?

In Taiwan in 2018, I walked the first half (5 of 10 days) of the Dajia Mazu, the world’s third-largest religious pilgrimage. The full 10 days is a 340-kilometre hike along roads, stopping at hundreds of Taoist temples along the way, all while following a wooden statue of the Goddess Mazu carried in a palanquin (wooden box on poles) by four men. You sleep in temples, in parks, or at the side of the road, and 24/7 there are nonstop fireworks, firecrackers, fascinating scenes, interactions with interesting characters, and incredible photo opportunities. At the start, I thought the long hike would be good for me, but by the end of my last day I felt 10 years older because of the lack of sleep and smoke inhalation – but it is unbelievably worth it if you’re into intense cultural experiences that haven’t changed much in hundreds of years.

What’s the biggest photographic challenge you overcame?

When I was working in Manipur in Northeast India for the BBC, I had to photograph some powerful women who were the bosses of a famous market as well as leaders of large-scale political protests in the region. They were very unfamiliar with both foreigners and being photographed. They gave me a day to conduct interviews and another day for photography, where we walked around the market together and I could shoot away. Whenever they noticed me raising my camera towards them in what I wanted to be a candid moment, they would either flash a cheesy grin, flick me the peace sign, or look like rabbits in headlights. Therefore, I had to be stealthy, see the shot in my mind, and raise my camera up to take the shot within a second and back down again before they noticed. It was a lot of fun actually.

What’s in your camera bag?

What’s in your camera bag? A Canon 5D Mark IV. A Canon 25–105 mm f/4 L series lens. A Sigma Art f/1.4 35mm lens. That’s it. I’m a gear minimalist.

What photographic equipment would you never leave home without?

My sling camera strap—it’s a game-changer.

What advice you would give anyone who is starting out?

Study the basics of composition and exposure and be patient. You’ll probably take quite a lot of bad photos to start with, perhaps for a few years. If a more experienced photographer or one that you admire offers you constructive criticism, then accept it graciously and learn all that you can from them.

Any pitfalls they should avoid?

Avoid oversaturating images, especially oranges and blues. Find an experienced mentor rather than allowing your ego to grow from unabashed praise from thousands of fellow amateurs on photography websites – the mentor’s advice and critique will be many times more valuable to your development and growth.

Lastly… if you weren’t a photographer what would you be doing?

My other line of work is academic proofreading. I edit articles for international academic journals as well as PhD students’ dissertations. I don’t just travel for work – if I wasn’t a photographer, I’d still be travelling and exploring far and wide.

To see more of Ben’s work visit www.benmckechnie.com or follow Ben on Instagram or Twitter.

Interview by Kav Dadfar.

10 Of The Most Photogenic Festivals In The World

There are so many amazing festivals and events all around the world that take place every year. Some are local and might only have a few hundred people attending. Others pull in crowds of hundreds of thousands or even millions. These amazing festivals are some of the most vibrant and photogenic places for photography. So here are 10 of the most incredible festivals in the world.

Holi – India

A Hindu festival, Holi is a celebration of spring, love and new life. Known as the festival of colours, due to the powdered paint that is thrown, Holi is celebrated in March and marks the end of winter and the arrival of spring. But it also celebrates the Hindu god Krishna and the legend of Holika and Prahlad. The story goes that Prahlad’s evil father who thought of himself as a god tried to kill Prahlad for disobeying him. His plan was to use Holika (Prahlad’s sister) who had a special cloak that would protect her from flames to lure Prahlad into a fire. But because Holika planned to use her power for evil, the cloak flew onto Prahlad and protected him instead.

This is why on the first night of Holi, people light bonfires. But the main draw of the Holi festival is the colours that are thrown at each other. Some believe that this tradition comes from the Hindu god Krishna throwing coloured water over his milkmaids when he was a boy. This has since developed into the practical jokes and games of the Holi festival.

Tomatina – Spain

Near Valencia, in the town of Bunol, every August there is a food fight known as Tomatina. More than 100 metric tons of tomatoes are thrown in the streets, in what is the world’s biggest food fight. Started in 1944/1945, no one is sure how this tradition started. Theories on the origin range from food fight amongst friends to disgruntled citizens who decided to show their displeasure toward the local councilmen. The festival is held in honour of the town’s patron saint Luis Bertran and Mare de Deu dels Desemparats (Mother of God of the Defenseless) and pulls in anywhere between 40,000 to 50,000 each year.

Make sure that you have your camera well covered if you are planning on attending this festival and be prepared to get very tomatoey!

Burning Man – Nevada, USA

In the Nevada desert, every year thousands of people congregate to take part in one of the most spectacular gatherings in the world. The organisers insist that it isn’t a festival but rather a “temporary metropolis dedicated to community, art, self-expression, and self-reliance”. Held prior and including labour day, it includes art installations, music, partying and performances. There is no money exchanged at Burning Man so anyone attending has to bring their own food, shelter and supplies.

Burning Man began in 1986 in San Francisco when founder Larry Harvey and Jerry James along with a few friends burned an 8 feet tall wooden man and dog as a ritual on the summer solstice. By 1988 the effigy had grown to 30 feet tall and Larry Harvey officially named the ritual “Burning Man” to distance it from the “Wicker Man” references. In 1991 Burning Man moved to Black Rock Desert and by 1996 the event had grown in popularity to attract 8,000 people. Fast forward to 2019 and it was attended by almost 80,000!

Paro / Punakha Tsechu

The small Himalayan country of Bhutan is the venue for some of the most colourful and extravagant festivals on the planet. Called “Tsechu”, these festivals occur all year round in various districts and celebrate Guru Rimpoche (the saint who brought Buddism to Bhutan). They include dancing, incredible masked costumes and telling of mythical stories. They are attended by locals in their droves and are one of the most photogenic places to be. Two of the most famous are the Paro and Punakha Tsechu which occur in February and March. If you are planning to attend these make sure you take plenty of memory cards as you’ll be snapping away for hours!

Cherry Blossom Festival

Every year, around March, as the trees begin to wake from their winter sleep, the islands of Japan become decorated with cherry blossom. Known in Japanese as “Hanami” which translates to “flower viewing”, this ancient custom dating back to the 8th century encourages people to pause and appreciate the transient nature of life and beauty. The arrival of cherry blossom was also seen as the sign to begin planting rice. During this period, there are celebrations, street festivals and the trees are lit up with artificial lights and paper lanterns.

Naadam – Mongolia

Held every year from 11th to 13th July, Naadam is a national festival in Mongolia. It is linked to the nomadic culture of the Mongols and focuses on the three traditional national games of archery, wrestling and horseracing. They also include performing arts, craftsmanship, cooking and dancing. There are special rituals and the participants wear unique costumes and use distinctive tools and sporting items. The competitors are highly respected and the winners are awarded titles for their achievements.

Day of the Dead – Mexico

Originating in Mexico and known as Dia de los Muertos, the Day of the Day is celebrated on the 1st November. It is a celebration in honour of the dead (to avoid insulting them through mourning or sadness), people celebrate with food, drinks and parties. The familiar symbol of this celebration is the skeletons and skulls which appear everywhere and people make altars and give offerings such as food and drink to encourage the return of their deceased. It is believed that during this holiday the dead return to celebrate with their loved ones.

Venice Carnivale – Italy

Venice is one of the most picturesque cities in the world at any time. But during the Venice carnival, it becomes like a giant outdoor studio. Thousands of people descend to the city and many adorn extravagant costumes and masks and are all more than willing to be photographed. The combination of the architecture and the colourful costumes make for wonderful photos. You will also find celebrations all around the city, so there will be no shortage of photo opportunities.

Chinese New Year

One of the biggest celebrations in the world, the Chinese New Year is celebrated all around the globe. So wherever you are, the chances are that you will be able to head to a local celebration to photograph the precession and celebrations. This makes it one of the easiest and most accessible festival to photograph as you don’t necessarily have to travel to China.

Rio Carnival – Brazil

The mother of all carnivals and known as the “Greatest Show on Earth”, the Rio Carnival is a significant Catholic tradition which signals the start of Lent. The carnival evolved from its original roots of being a food festival when people would enjoy their last opportunity for a feast before abstinence and fasting during Lent. It gradually changed to an annual city event resulting in the samba parade competitions held in 1933 and to today. It is one of the biggest and brightest events in Brazil and the world.

There you have it, 10 of the most photogenic festivals in the world. But these are just some of the incredible festivals that happen around the world. There are so many more that you could write another list without any of these on. But for now, use these as potential ideas and inspiration for places to go and photograph.

10 Scottish Castles That You Should Photograph

It’s hard to believe that a small country nestled in the north of Europe can be such an incredible photography destination. Even harder to believe is that there are so many picturesque castles that are just perfect for any photographer. It’s almost as if these castles were built all those centuries ago for today’s photographers. It is estimated that once there were 3,000 castles in Scotland. How many there are today is debatable as some estimates include houses where the tag castle was added and ruins which are no longer visible. What is for certain is that there are plenty of castles to satisfy your photography needs. So here are the 10 most picturesque castles in Scotland to photograph.

1. Eilean Donan Castle

Probably the most photographed castle in the whole of Scotland and seeing it with your own eyes, you’ll understand why. It has appeared in countless movies over the years and is visited by hundreds of thousands of visitors every year. Legend has it that the castle was founded by the warrior blessed with the ability to talk to birds due to him taking his first drink as a baby from a raven’s skull.

The more likely explanation is that the castle was founded in the 1200s due to its strategic position to defend from Viking invaders. Seeing the castle now, you may not believe that it was completely destroyed in 1715 by the British Navy. For 2 days they bombed the castle to suppress an uprising. It wasn’t until almost 200 years later (after WWI ended) that the castle was rebuilt by Major John MacRae-Gilstrap and was finally re-opened to the public in 1955. It is a truly beautiful castle that deserves its rightful place amongst the most picturesque in Scotland and the world.

2. Kilchurn Castle

Sitting at the head of Loch Awe, this castle is another of the famous spots where you’ll often find photographers, especially at sunrise. The castle was built by Sir Colin Campbell in the mid-1400s. But later (in 1689) the main tower house was converted into accommodation for officers while barracks were built in the courtyard for the soldiers. The castle was eventually abandoned late in the 17th century.

Today, even though the crumbling facade of the castle doesn’t have the same majestic presence that it once did, it arguably adds to its photographic appeal. The famous spot for taking photos of this castle is from across the loch next to the A819. If the conditions are right early in the morning, you will be treated to a beautiful light and mist across the lake.

3. Dunnottar Castle

One of Scotland most spectacular castles, Dunnottar translates from Scots Gaelic to “fort on the falling slope”. It is one of the most important castles in Scotland history. It was besieged by William Wallace and was once the resting place of the Scottish crown jewels. The castle is around 20km south of Aberdeen next to the town of Stonehaven. It is perched on a clifftop surrounded by the North Sea and was once connected to the mainland by a causeway. This was deliberately destroyed and replaced by a route along the cliffs to make it more difficult for invading armies.

The position of the castle on the east coast means it can be photographed throughout the day from various angles. Sunrise and sunset can produce stunning results if the conditions are right. If you own a drone and the fierce Scottish wind allows you, aerial shots from the sea can also look magnificent.

4. Castle Sinclair Girnigoe

Situated on the east coast of northern Scotland near the town of Wick, this castle ticks all the boxes for photographers. From its stunning location to the crumbling ruins of the castle itself, the effort of getting to this castle is worth it. It is believed that the castle was built by William Sinclair who was the 2nd Earl of Caithness in the late 1400th century. The castle was repeatedly extended until it was damaged beyond repair in a siege in 1680 and was never inhabited again.

The best shots of the castle are from the east side of it along the clifftop. But you can also get some nice, closer shots from before the footbridge and even underneath it looking up. But this castle is another that can be photographed throughout the day.

5. Castle Stalker

It is believed that Castle Stalker in its present form was built by Sir John Stewart in the mid-14th century. It is a four-story tower house that sits on an Islet on Loch Laich. The name “Stalker” comes from the Scots Gaelic word “Stalcaire” which means “hunter” or “falconer”. Over the years the castle changed hands many times and was finally abandoned in 1840 when it lost its roof. In 1908 Charles Stewart of Achara purchased it and carried out some conservation work. It wasn’t until 1965 when Lieutenant Col. Steward Allward bought the castle that it was fully restored.

Unless you are on a boat, there is only really one area that you can capture good photos of Castle Stalker from. That is from the bank of the loch along the A828. As you are looking west, sunset is a natural time to be photographing the castle if the conditions are right. But sunrise and early morning will allow you to take photos of the castle as it’s being lit by the sun behind you.

6. Ardvreck Castle

Driving along the A837 in whichever direction, you will soon see ruins of yet another beautifully positioned castle on a loch. Ardvreck Castle dates back to around 1490 when the region was owned by the Macleods of Assynt. The castle is infamous for the ultimate betrayal of “Highland hospitality”. In 1650 the Marquis of Montrose lost the battle of Carbisdale and fled to Ardvreck Castle where he sought sanctuary. Neil Macleod of Assynt was away so his wife tricked Montrose and locked him in the castle dungeon. She notified government troops who took Montrose to Edinburgh and executed him. The castle changed hands many times and was replaced by the more modern Calda House a stone’s throw away. Calda House itself burnt down in 1737 and before it could be rebuilt, the Mackenzie estates were seized by the Crown in 1745 for their support in an uprising. The castle has been in ruin ever since.

All of the photography locations for this castle are along the A837. There are several places that you will be able to stop to capture shots of the castle and Calda House throughout the day.

7. Urquhart Castle

Around 2km south-west of Inverness is perfectly perched, Urquhart Castle. Sitting on a cliff, overlooking the most famous of lochs in Scotland – Loch Ness, it would understandable if this castle would shy away and play second fiddle. But instead, it is another great old Scottish castle that deserves to be photographed. The castle was founded in the 13th century and played a significant part in the Wars of the Scottish Independence in the 14th century. It was even held as a Royal Castle and was further strengthened until in the middle of the 17th century when it was abandoned. In 1692 the castle was partially destroyed to prevent the Jacobite forces using it and subsequently decayed until it was placed in state care as a monument in the 1900s.

Due to its position and the fact that it is a managed site (in that there is an entrance fee and there are opening times), it can be difficult to photograph the castle. Your best bet might actually be to book a cruise on Loch Ness to capture photos in the morning. Photographing the castle from land will be best done late in the afternoon when the sun will be behind you. Morning shoots will mean you will be looking directly into the sun so you will have to be creative or use filters to suppress the contrast.

8. Old Keiss Castle

This old castle now in ruin was built by George Sinclair (5th Earl of Caithness) in the late 16th or early 17th century. It was one of the three fortifications that controlled this territory along with Ackergill Castle and Girnigoe Castle. As with many Scottish castles, Old Keiss Castle was in many battles and was badly damaged in the 1600s and while some restoration work was carried out, it wasn’t extensively rebuilt to its current form until 1860. During World War II Keiss become an important military location and its defence was a priority for the UK. Due to the German occupation of Norway, Caithness was particularly vulnerable to invasion. So the long flat beach was supplemented with anti-tank obstacles, machine-gun pillboxes and mines. The remnants of these pillboxes are still visible today.

As for photographing the castle, the best spots are from the beach. Try to get there during high tide where the water meets the coast and can create a beautiful silky effect. Also, be on the lookout for seals that often rest on the rocks on the foreground that can be used for added interest.

9. Dunrobin Castle

While the other castle above are all relatively small or in ruins, this mighty castle stands proud and as beautiful is it did in its heyday. It has been the home to the Earls and Dukes of Sutherland since the 13th century. The Sutherlands were one of the most powerful families in Britain. The Earldom of Sutherland was created in 1235 and it is believed that the castle was built around that time. The original castle wasn’t as big as additions were made over the years.

The best shots of the castle are from the gardens or further back along the coast. Depending on the time of year the shots from the garden can be taken throughout the day. Also, be on the lookout for the falconry show that takes place daily in the gardens.

10. Edinburgh Castle

No list of Scottish castles will be complete without the mightiest of them all. There has been a Royal Castle here on Castle Rock since the 12th century. But from the 15th century, the castle began to be used less as a residential place and in fact, by the 17th century it was used primarily as a military barracks. It is an icon of the city and of Scotland and dominates the city skyline. Photos of the castle are possible from all around the city, but the classic shot is from Calton Hill where you can capture the city skyline and Edinburgh Castle in the background.

These are just some of the amazing castles that Scotland offers photographers. There are plenty more such as Sterling Castle, Balmoral, Inverness and more. The one thing that you will be sure of in Scotland is that there will be a castle close enough to you wherever you are.

Improve Your Photography With This Photography Journey

Amateur photographers often ask me what is the best way that they can improve their photography. My answer is always that they should simply take more photos. The thing about photography is that no matter how much you read or how many YouTube videos you watch, nothing beats actually practising shooting different scenarios. Even if you make mistakes or end up with photos that aren’t sharp, you will learn far more from the experience and challenges that you face than watching tutorials.

This is one of the reasons why I always recommend that you try to travel and use the time away to practice your photography. By being somewhere and not being distracted by everyday life you will be forced to try and practice your photography every day. So here is my ultimate bucket list of an around the world photo tour itinerary that will help you improve your photography.

1. Home => Scotland

Landscape photography is a good way to begin your photography training. The great thing about landscape photography is that it can be done at a much slower pace than other genres of photography. You can take your time to really think about your composition, experiment with different settings and even try out some accessories like tripods and filters. So the first destination on the list is Scotland.

There are plenty of destinations around the world that offer themselves perfectly to landscape photography. But Scotland has a few advantages over the likes of Iceland or even North America. Firstly because of its size, it allows you to tick off many locations in a short space of time. Which also means if the weather isn’t great in one place, you can easily go to another location.

It also offers very easily accessible locations without the need for special transport like 4WD or snowmobiles. But the jewel in the crown of Scotland’s landscape is its incredible castles. There are not many places in the world that offer the array of landscapes mixed with incredibly photogenic castles. For these reasons, Scotland should be your first stop.

2. Scotland => Italy

Next on your incredible photography journey is practising your city photography of which there is probably no better country than Italy. Whether it is Rome, Milan, Florence or Pisa, Italy’s cities are like giant outdoor museums waiting to be photographed. So spend a few days or even weeks finding those famous views and capture the iconic cityscapes in perfect light. You can even explore some of the countrysides and brush up on how to photograph smaller towns and villages.

Try to coincide a visit to Italy with the Venice carnival where the whole city becomes an outdoor photography studio. This is where you can practice capturing stunning portraits either using natural light or by using artificial lighting. The great thing about photographing Venice during the carnival is that you will have a city full of willing models who will happily pose for you to photograph them.

3. Italy => Namibia

Now that you have practised photographing people, it’s time to try photographing wildlife. Nowhere on earth offers the breadth of wildlife as you would get in Africa. There are so many options depending on the type of wildlife you want to photograph but, arguably the greatest overall variety of photographic opportunities will be in Namibia. There will be the big five to capture photos of but also amazing world-famous landscapes are thrown in for an extra incentive. In the evenings you can also practice some astro and star trail photography for those once in a lifetime shots that will take your portfolio to the next level.

4. Namibia => India

Time to dive into some street photography. There is no better place in the world for that than India. A country that is all about extremes and for a lot of people it can be very overwhelming. But if you allow yourself to fall in love with what it can offer photographically, you may never want to leave. Whether it is the streets of Delhi or the ghats of Varanasi, India is the best place to practice capturing those authentic and candid street photos.

Because of the sheer volume of photographic opportunities, you will have ample time to practice in some challenging conditions. These might include low light conditions, fast-moving subjects or even just the sheer volume of people. Whatever the challenges may end up being, you will become a better photographer after spending some time photographing India.

5. India => Vietnam

From the craziness of India to a different kind of crazy in Vietnam. This is where you can bring it all together and practice all you have learned so far. Sure you can practice your street photography in Ho Chi Minh City or Hanoi. Or take cityscape shots in Hoi An and even landscapes in Halong Bay. But you can also begin to practice photographing foods and the incredible and colourful ingredients on offer in one of the many markets in the country.

This is also the place to practice your architectural photography by visiting the many temples in Vietnam. The combination of all of these makes Vietnam one of the best countries in the world for photography.

6. Vietnam => Home

Now that you are well practised in most aspects of photography, you can put it into practice in your home country. Wherever you live in the world, the opportunities for photography are there. You just have to be willing to work hard to find them. One of the things that all photographers experience is that they find it easier to photograph other countries than their own. The best way to combat this is to make yourself a shot list of places, ideas or even specific things to photograph when at home. This will ensure that you can continue to put into practice what you have learned.

There you have it, an idea of a once in a lifetime trip to inspire and ensure you come back a better photographer. Now, in reality, this will be beyond the realms of possibility for most of us doing it in one trip. So you can still use this as a potential bucket list of destinations. The point of this is to get you to try to think about going to places with specific scenarios and objectives in mind. But mainly to actively use your trips as photography shoots. Because being away and focusing on photography will ensure you get the practice in to become a better photographer.

6 Photography Documentaries You Need To Watch

There is something incredibly appealing about photography documentaries. They tend to be of a higher calibre due to the quality set by the photographer involved in the documentary. They are also a great way to improve and inspire your own work. So here is a collection of photographic documentaries you need to watch if you love photography or even just exciting documentaries!

1. “Gregory Crewdson: Brief Encounters”

“Brief Encounters” has successfully captured the inspiring and influential work of one of the world’s most accomplished photographers, Gregory Crewdson. Filmed over 10 years, the documentary presents the processes Crewdson uses to create his epic masterpieces, from his inspirations to the scouting and logistics necessary to produce the work, through to the post-processing of his photographs.

While watching the movie, you feel privileged to be getting such an in-depth perspective of the care Crewsdon takes to produce his detailed cinematic-inspired images. He allowed unlimited access to the film crew, which enabled them to capture the essence of Gregory Crewdson’s art.

Directed and produced by Ben Shapiro
Released on October 31, 2012 (New York City)
Running time: 77 minutes
Country: United States
Language: English

Photographer Gregory Crewdson setting up a shot with his 8×10 camera on location in Pittsfield, Massachusetts. Creative commons.

2. “Night on Earth”

Whilst not strictly a photography documentary, “Night on Earth” is something that everyone should watch, not only photography enthusiasts. The use of new low-light camera technology has allowed the documentarians to capture animals at night in high definition. The footage is breathtaking and brings incredible animal species in spectacular locations into your living room.

A variety of animals and their survival methods are captured in a myriad of environments. The series of episodes includes footage taken in jungles, oceans, cities, and tundras worldwide. Samira Wiley is the narrator, and she is a refreshing alternative to the usual nature narrators like David Attenborough and Peter Coyote.

Distributed by Netflix
Released on January 29, 2020
Running Time: 40-52 Minutes
Country: United Kingdom
Language: English

3. “War Photographer”

“War Photographer” is an extraordinary documentary about an extraordinary photographer, James Nachtwey. Nachtwey is not a photographer who sees himself as removed from his subject matter. He believes that photographers are political and are involved in what is happening around them and the situation they are capturing. This documentary captures Nachtwey’s philosophy of us all being part of a whole, and that tragedies worldwide involve us all.

“War Photographer” is an emotive film that tells of an iconic photo-journalist who documents war. A photographer who is idealistic, compassionate, and humane despite witnessing the horror of war. The director has cleverly echoed these qualities by using a micro camera mounted onto Nachtwey’s SLR, which enables us to see what he sees.

Produced by Christain Frei
Released in November, 2001
Running Time: 97 Minutes
Country: Switzerland
Language: English, German, and French

Rio de Janeiro – Photographer and environmentalist Sebastião Salgado. Creative commons.

4. “The Salt of the Earth”

Sebastião Salgado, like James Nachtwey, is no ordinary photographer. He, too, considers the photographer to be an interloper and not someone detached from their subject. “Salt of the Earth” follows Salgado’s life and showcases his work, which spans 40 years and includes major historical events in Africa, Europe, and Brazil, his motherland. Directed by Wim Wenders, a photographer, and Juliano Ribiero Salgado, Sebastião Salgado’s son, this award-winning documentary reveals how Salgado fell in love with photography and used his talent to capture natural environments and the people who live in them.

Salgado’s photographs illuminate the exploitation of people and the planet by individuals and corporations who are just out to maximize profit. They are so powerful and perfectly composed that they elevate documentary photography into art. The storyline and cinematography give the audience a startlingly clear insight into this amazing man.

Produced and Directed by Wim Wenders and Juliano Ribeiro Salgado
Released on May 20, 2014 (Cannes)
Running Time: 110 Minutes
Country: France, Brazil, Italy
Language: French, Portuguese, Italian, English

Still from Swiss Documentary “War Photographer” by Christian Frei with James Nachtwey. Creative commons.

5. “Through a Lens Darkly”

“Through a Lens Darkly” is the first documentary to explore the impact photographs have on the identity of African Americans from the times of slavery to the present day. It looks at the differences between white photographers’ images of African Americans and photographs taken by African Americans themselves. It reveals how the camera has been used as a tool by African Americans to affect social change. The documentary includes historical photographs of lynchings through happy family snaps to professional photographs by some of America’s most renowned black photographers.

Through these images, the documentarians have not only created an overview of African American history, but they have also presented them in a way that challenges the audience to understand how identities are affirmed through the photographs we take of one another. Many of the photographs featured in “Through a Lens Darkly” have never been seen before and open a window to African American culture and history that gives the audience a more in-depth view into the lives, experiences, and perspectives of African Americans.

Produced and Directed by Thomas Allen Harris
Released on January 17, 2014
Running Time: 92 Minutes
Country: United States
Language: English

6. “The Mexican Suitcase”

“The Mexican Suitcase” is a photographic documentary with a twist. It follows the journey of over 4,500 film negatives of photographs taken during the Spanish Civil War by Gerda Taro, David Seymour, and Robert Capa, from their disappearance at the start of the second world war (WWII) to 2007, when they were rediscovered in a suitcase in Mexico City.

Three narratives come together in “The Mexican Suitcase.” The story of the suitcase, the story of exile, and who owns our histories. This documentary is a beautiful film that not only looks at history but at the memory and the impact that photography has in shaping both. It is a fascinating and soulful documentary that anyone interested in photography or history must watch.

Directed by Trisha Ziff
Produced by Trisha Ziff, Eamon O’Farrill, Paco Poch
Released on July 9, 2011
Running Time: 86 Minutes
Country: Mexico
Language: English and Spanish

Robert Capa’s negatives later found by his brother, Cornell Capa. Creative commons.

There you have it! Six photography documentaries that you might not have heard of before and need to watch. They will not only entertain you, but they will also inspire you to go out there and engage with the world and with the people and places you photograph.

Photo credits: Dreamstime. No usage without permission.

6 Reasons Why Scotland Is The Ultimate Landscape Photography Location

There are many countries that would claim to be the ultimate destination for a landscape photographer, so what makes Scotland so special? Well, it might not have the mighty mountains of the USA. Or the volcanoes of Iceland or even the endless views of New Zealand, but there’s a reason that every year thousands of photographers flock to this tiny country and are captivated enough to return. Here X reasons why that might be.

Castles

The one thing that sets Scotland apart from all of the other countries above is its castles. No other country can mix as many incredibly historic castles with amazing landscapes. It is estimated that there were once up to 3,000 castles in Scotland. The many that still remain are all in various states of degradation. Some are still standing as proudly as when they were built, others are mere ruins like a blot of on the landscape. Even the ruins still mix with the landscape to provide some of the most unique and iconic scenery a photographer could ever wish for.

Unique mountains

Scottish mountains (Munro) are unique and seem just blend into the landscape, unlike the more striking mountains you will find elsewhere. There are no mighty peaks such as you’ll find in North America or the Alps. In fact, the highest mountain in the whole of the United Kingdom is Ben Nevis in Fort William at only 1,345 meters height. Yet these mountains still feel grand and walking or driving through them makes them seem like giants. Undoubtedly one of the main reason why they look so different from other mountains is the gentle way they slope into the valleys. This as well as the unique green and brown colours makes them incredibly photogenic. You will also often find that your composition will be helped with a lonely old cottage sitting in the shadow of an imposing Munro providing the perfect point of interest.

Magnificent lochs

You won’t have to travel far in Scotland to come across a loch. Each loch is a haven for birds and local wildlife as well as fish. One of the things that often hits people is the sheer size of some of the lochs. These lochs will often be flanked by mountains, cottages and even old castles. You will sometimes also find locals fishing by or in the lochs which again help to add a point of interest to the scene. If you are lucky you may even encounter some early morning mist just to add a bit more mystery and atmosphere to an already magnificent scene.

Beaches and coastline

You wouldn’t necessarily associate Scotland with incredible beaches. But you’ll be amazed at some of the beautiful beaches and coastline you’ll encounter. The thing that makes these beaches so photogenic is that there are often striking cliffs or mountains in the background. Or they might be the odd sea stack for you to use as your point of interest. But for those who want golden sand beaches that you’ll expect to see in the Mediterranean, well, there are plenty of those as well.

As for the coastline, it is amongst the best for photography in the whole of the United Kingdom. From the incredibly photogenic Duncansby Stacks to gorgeous lighthouses, the Scottish coast has it all.

The weather

Sunshine followed by rain followed by sunshine followed by hail followed by sunshine. This might be a typical day of weather that you’ll encounter in the Scottish highlands. But while in many other countries photographers would despair at the sight of clouds and rain, for some reason it just seems to work in photos of Scotland. In fact, a photo of a Scottish castle or the Munros just doesn’t look right in glorious sunshine. This means that as a photographer you can worry less about the weather and more about your composition and photos. Even when you do encounter bad weather, there is a chance that it will pass quickly. But then there is also a possibility of prolonged spells of rain. So make sure you pack waterproof clothes and something to cover your camera with.

Historic cities

Once you have had your fill of landscape photography you can pop into one of the many historic cities in Scotland. Whether it’s Inverness or Dundee, Sterling or Aberdeen, or even the big two Glasgow or Edinburgh, there is no shortage of cityscapes, castles, old churches or even the odds Scotsman to capture in photos. These cities are some of the most photogenic in Europe and you should make time to explore them. The great thing about Scotland is that just a short drive from any of these cities will take you out into the wilderness.

Scotland is one of the world’s best photography locations and once you visit, you will understand why. There really is everything that any landscape photographer could want. The close proximity of the locations to one another also means that you can easily change your plans to suit the weather conditions if need be. So why not make Scotland your next landscape photography destination, you won’t regret it.

Photogenic Places – A Simple Guide To Photographing Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania is home to some renowned photographers, and it’s no wonder why! There are so many key locations throughout the state that are perfect for capturing the state’s ambience. The Keystone State, situated in the perfect climate to capture unique and interesting photography regardless of the time of year, is filled with landscapes, cities, and landmarks that would keep any photographer busy. Here are some of the most popular locations, and also included are a few secret spots throughout Pennsylvania where you’ll be able to take the best pictures possible.

Washington, Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh has earned a few nicknames over the years, such as The Steel City and the City of Bridges. Downtown Pittsburgh is nestled between three rivers – the Allegheny, the Monongahela, and Ohio. Where these three rivers meet is referred to as the Point, and it’s a great spot to take some panoramic views of the areas around Pittsburgh. From the Point, you can see Heinz Field, PNC Park, both of the inclines, the Carnegie Science Center, and a lot more.

But what if you want to take a wide photo of downtown Pittsburgh, Point included? For that, you should ride up one of the inclines to the Mt. Washington area and set up a tripod on one of the overlooks. From this vantage point, you can capture all of downtown Pittsburgh, the rivers, the Point and its mammoth fountain, the stadiums, and more. In fact, many of the photos of downtown Pittsburgh that you can find searching online were likely taken from Mt. Washington.

Gettysburg

This is where key moments in US history occurred. Anyone who is a Civil War buff (or even anyone who just stayed awake in history class) knows a thing or two about what happened at Gettysburg. Scenic farms surround a National Military Park, which comprises of some of the battlefields that Gettysburg is known for. Aside from many different cannons and monuments spread throughout the area, which make for interesting landscape photography, the countryside found here is quite breathtaking.

Additionally, you can take photos of historical landmarks, including the Jennie Wade House Museum and the David Wills House, or snap images of the battlefield from the perspective of the soldiers.

The Ben Franklin Bridge, Philadelphia

The City of Brotherly Love offers a wealth of locations for interested photographers. Not only is there amazing and historical architecture spread throughout the city, but the parks and the zoo provide creative opportunities to show juxtaposition in your photography. Of course, there are awesome landmarks, too, like the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall, which means you could easily spend an entire week shooting in Philadelphia and still not capture everything there is to see.

But what if you want to capture the city itself? One of the best ways to capture the spirit of Philadelphia is to walk across the Ben Franklin Bridge. From this vantage point, you’ll be able to see a decent portion of the city, including its the city’s great skyline. With the bridge’s walkway leading you into town, you can create an engaging photo in the evening with some light trails from the cars that will add a sense of dynamism into your photos. You can also frame your skyline shot to feature the bridge in the shot from the riverside.

Delaware Water Gap

If you want to get some great picture showing how Pennsylvania fits into the countryside alongside adjacent states, then the Delaware Water Gap is an ideal photography location. This national recreation area has parts of New Jersey brushing up against Pennsylvania as the Delaware River cuts a path right through the Appalachian Mountains.

With more than 70,000 acres of trails, mountains, river, and waterfalls, this is a dream come true for anyone looking to photograph the beautiful Pennsylvania landscape (the waterfalls, in particular, are extraordinary, with several in close proximity to each other so you can get several in a single shot).

Hickory Run State Park (Including Boulder Field)

Located in Hickory State Park, which is on the eastern side of Pennsylvania as part of the Pocono Mountains, this location is a magnificent sight to behold. This field of boulders is 18 acres long, so you know how it got its name! Some boulders are as big as 25 feet long, presenting a very unique area to photograph.

This is a prime example of Pennsylvania being much more than a rural landscape in the middle of the state with major cities to the east and west. Boulder Field is worth revisiting at different times of the years so you can capture the changes from winter to summer.

Other notable locations within the park include Stametz Dam, Hawk Falls and Sand Spring Lake.

Pine Creek Gorge

If you’re up for a little off-roading and feel like traversing a massive area in central Pennsylvania, then you will undoubtedly find some incredible wildlife and scenic areas to photograph by going to Pine Creek Gorge. This incredible gorge is about 50 miles long and 1,500 feet deep, which has earned it the nickname of the Grand Canyon of Pennsylvania.

If you hike up to the top of Leonard Harrison and Colton Pont State Parks, then you are in for a spectacular view that cannot be replicated anywhere else. Imagine taking one shot overseeing the gorge, and then hiking to the bottom to get the opposing view! If you take the Turkey Path on the way, then you’ll be able to see some great waterfalls, too. Just be sure to take a map, because this is a very dense area and it’s easy to get lost among the foliage. The best time to photograph this area is in the fall where the colours of the leaves can give fantastic results.

Lancaster County

No visit to Pennsylvania would be complete without taking a trip back in time to a period where horse and cart was the main mode of transport. Where windmills were the main source of power and when people lived simpler and a slower pace of life. Head to Lancaster County to photograph America’s oldest Amish settlement and capture a time that many have long forgotten.

Whilst it may not be the first photography location you think of in the US, Pennsylvania has pretty much anything a photographer could ask for if you’re willing to look in the right places and do a little travelling. So why not make the Keystone State your next photography destination. You might be surprised by the results.

12 Of The Most Photogenic Monuments In The World

The world is full of amazing places to photograph. Some of these are natural landscapes or amazing cultural festivals. But arguably the most iconic are the famous monuments that we have all seen thousands of photos of. But does that mean they shouldn’t be photographed? These are rightly some of the most popular photo spots in the world, so here are 12 of the most photogenic monuments in the world.

Eiffel Tower

The creation of Gustave Eiffel, “La dame de fer”, (the Iron Lady), stands proud in the centre of Paris. But that wasn’t always the case. In fact, when Eiffel first put forward the proposal for his wrought-iron lattice tower, it was met by huge opposition from the artistic elite. It was described as a “metal asparagus” that would overshadow the beautiful buildings of Paris such as Notre Dame and Arc de Triomphe. Nowadays, it is loved by the majority of Parisians and is seen as a cultural and historical symbol of France.

Tower Bridge

Not to be confused with the unremarkable-looking London Bridge, Tower Bridge was constructed between 1886 and 1894 due to the need to connect the centre of London to the growing east end of London via a bridge further down the River Thames. However, a traditional bridge that sat at road level wouldn’t work as it would block access for ships using the various docks along the river. Construction on the bridge started on the 22nd of April 1886 and was officially opened in June 1894.

Machu Pichu

The mere mention of this place conjures up visions of explorers of yesteryear. This lost city in the tropical mountain forest of the Peruvian Andes in the northwest of Cuzco is believed to have been a royal residence or possibly a sacred religious site of the Inca’s. It remained hidden until 1911 when American archaeologist Hiram Bingham stumbled upon it. When Bingham arrived in Urubamba Valley a local farmer told him of the ruins on top of the mountain. He called the mountain “Machu Picchu” which means “Old Peak” in the Quechua language. Led by an 11-year-old boy, on July 24th, Bingham finally reached the lost city.

Taj Mahal

This incredible mausoleum might just be the grandest act of love in history. Commissioned by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in 1632 and taking over 20 years to complete, it houses the remains of the Shah’s beloved wife. Sitting beside the Yamuna River in Agra and built from white marble which mimics the colour of the light throughout the day, this is one of the most stunning and famous pieces of architecture in the world which combines Indian, Persian and Islamic influences.

The Great Wall of China

This ancient series of fortifications built across what is now northern China needs no introduction. It is one of the most incredible feats of engineering and is riddled with mystery, myths and questions. It is also one of the most popular photography locations in the world. Photographing the wall is not easy as you are often facing hoards of tourists. So the biggest advice is to arrive early morning and hope for great light and some mist in the mountains.

Colosseum

A glimpse into the magnificence of the Roman empire stands proud in the centre of Rome. The amphitheatre was the largest ever built and dates back to AD80 when up to 80,000 spectators cheered on gladiators. Photographing the Colosseum is relatively straightforward, but capturing unique shots is not. Look for interesting angles and geometric shapes and you can always use it as a background for a point of interest in the foreground. Blue hour shots using slow exposure will also look great.

Angkor Wat

The first sight of the largest religious structure in the world is enough to make the hairs stand on the back of your neck. The classic shot from the front of the complex at sunrise is often on the bucket list of photographers. Unfortunately, that involves sharing the area with hundreds of other tourists and photographers. But Angkor Wat offers so many more photo opportunities than just this classic shot. Keep your eyes open when wandering around the temples and you may find the striking orange robes of the monks punctuating the scenery. And don’t forget about the close-up shots of the intricate carvings.

St Basil’s Cathedral

It is hard to believe that a man that committed so many atrocities was also responsible for this marvel in the centre of Moscow. Ivan the Terrible ordered the building of the church to commemorate the capture of Kazan and Astrakhan. The colourful Orthodox church in Moscow’s Red Square was completed in 1561 and was the tallest building in the city for almost 40 years. With good light it almost impossible not to capture a beautiful photo of this museum. Its location next to the political heart of Russia (the Kremlin) provides ample photo opportunities.

The Great Pyramid of Giza

The oldest of the seven wonders of the ancient world, the Great Pyramid of Giza dominates the desert landscape. This mighty structure never fails to amaze and like all the great monuments of the world, there are plenty of opportunities for great photos as long as you are willing to be patient and persistent. Look for interesting foreground additions such as camel herders to incorporate into your shots.

Christ Redeemer

The 30-meter high statue of Christ located at the peak of Corcovado mountain overlooking Rio de Janeiro is a symbol of Christianity across the world and one of the new seven wonders of the world. Whilst you can capture photos of the statue from near the statue itself, the best shots are arguably from Sugarloaf. But this is a busy spot so you may want to head up at sunrise to avoid the crowds (but be aware that some parts of the city are not safe when it’s dark. Check with your hotel to be sure).

Empire State Building

The worlds tallest building until the construction of the World Trade Center in 1970, is one of the world’s most iconic buildings. But what makes photographing it so special is that there is almost a perfect viewing area to do so from the top of the Rockefeller Center. From the “top of the rock”, the Empire State Building is perfectly positioned to photograph at sunset with views of Manhattan and beyond.

Neuschwanstein Castle

The ultimate fairytale castle deep in Bavaria was commissioned by King Ludwig II as his personal retreat. Construction began in 1869 but was never completed due to his death in 1886. The most popular location for photos is from the metal bridge that is the “Neuschwanstein Castle viewpoint”. But if you are prepared to do some walking you can capture a variety of different shots from the different walking trails in the area.

These are just some of the famous monuments in the world that are worthy of photographs. The reality is that this list could be entirely different and much longer. For example, there is the Tiger’s Nest in Bhutan, So, if haven’t already been why not add them to your bucket list. Just make sure you take plenty of memory cards.

10 Famous Photography Quotes To Inspire You

They are some of the most famous names in photography. Over the years their images have captivated and inspired us photographers. But they also had a way with words. These famous quotes by some of the most influential figures in photography can teach us so much. So here are 10 famous photography quotes to help inspire you to become a better photographer.

Ansel Adams

“There are no rules for good photographs, there are only good photographs.”

First up is one of the most famous quotes by the master himself Ansel Adams. For all of the rules and techniques that are talked about, really this quote sums up the only thing you need to know. That it doesn’t really matter how you get there. A great photo is a great photo and that is all the matters. This also extends to post-processing. So if anyone ever tries to tell you that it’s cheating or that your photos don’t fit the “rules”, quote this famous line from Ansel Adams.

Peter Adams

“Photography is not about cameras, gadgets and gizmos. Photography is about photographers. A camera didn’t make a great picture any more than a typewriter wrote a great novel.”

This is one for anyone who has ever blamed their camera or the accessories for a bad photo. Even the most expensive high-end camera cannot automatically transform poor photos to great ones. For sure good equipment will make the quality of your images better. But it can never compose your image or consider the lighting that would make a great photo. So worry less about your camera gear and spend more on practising and learning how to take great photos.

Steve McCurry

“I think life is too short not to be doing something which you really believe in.”

Arguably the most famous documentary photographer of recent years, Steve McCurry’s photos are amongst the most widely recognized in the world. This quote is not only about following your passion, but also photographing subjects and scenarios that you love. Because the more you believe in something, the more effort and dedication you will put in which will reflect in your photos.

Percy W. Harris

“Skill in photography is acquired by practice and not by purchase.”

Another famous quote that highlights the importance of practising your craft rather than worrying about buying new equipment. The great thing about photography is that the more you practice the better you will become at it. You can train yourself to see compositions in your mind and pre-visualise the shot before you even lift your camera. So keep practising.

Robert Adams

“No place is boring if you’ve had a good night’s sleep and a pocket full of unexposed film.”

There is sometimes a misconception that you need to fly to amazing destinations around the world to be able to capture stunning photos. The reality is that you can take great photos anywhere. Whether that is the city you live in, your local village or even a local park. The opportunities are there. You just have to be willing to get out there and take photos.

Destin Sparks

“Photography is the story I fail to put into words.”

Photography has the power to tell an entire story in just one image. As much as writing a description of that scenario can help tell a story it can never have the same impact as an iconic photo. These stories are what makes each person’s photo unique. They are also what can transform an ordinary scene into an extraordinary story.

Peter Adams

“Great photography is about depth of feeling, not depth of field.”

Another great quote from Peter Adams which highlights the importance of worrying less about settings and rules and more about the actual photo. The connection with the person you are photographing, the atmosphere or the feeling of the scene is more important than what your settings are. Of course, that is not to say that your settings are not important at all because after all you still need to ensure that your photos are sharp for example. This is more to get you to really think about the photo.

Robert Capa

“If your pictures aren’t good enough, you aren’t close enough.”

One of my favourite quotes and one that really helped me in my early days as a photographer. By far, the most common feedback I give on my workshops and tours is for my students to get closer to their subject when taking a photo. Often the reason for being far away is simply shyness and a fear of being caught photographing that person. But the reality is that getting closer will not only ensure you capture a better photo but also ensures that you build a much better connection. So as Robert Capa puts it, get closer if you want better photos.

Henri Cartier-Bresson

“Your first 10,000 photographs are your worst.”

I look back at my early work and it is pretty clear that I have improved since then. I’m sure every photographer will tell you the same thing. The more photos you take and the more photographic challenges you have to overcome the better you will become as a photographer. But this quote is also true when you first get to a location as well. Often my best photos from any shoot are never my first ones. But rather a few later ones were taken when I have had more time to think about the composition. So try never to rush your photos, instead take your time.

Jen Rozenbaum

“We don’t learn from our good images; we learn from the ones that can be improved on.”

This is such a great habit to get into especially at the start of your photography journey. Don’t get despondent about your failures. Instead, learn from them to ensure that you don’t make those same mistakes again. Remember even seasoned pros made mistakes when they started.

Photography is like any other skill. With practice and failure comes learning and ultimately improvement. Use the quotes above as an inspiration to push you to become a better photographer.

Bare Bones Photography: What Gear Do You Really Need?

What is the end game of photography? To make a photo, right? Not always a print but nonetheless an image of some kind is the final goal of most photographers. The tools needed to complete what can sometimes be a world altering task are simple. At their minimum, you’ll require some type of otherwise light-proof box which has a relatively small opening-i.e. a camera, and some way of recording the incident light which enters-i.e. film or digital sensor. You don’t even truly need a lens(pinhole cameras) to make a photograph but of course that helps immensely.

Now, that list of gear might sound incredibly lacking but when you think about it everything else that we throw into the mix simply expounds on or enhances those basic pieces. There are multitudes of cameras, both film and digital, with equally vast selections of lens and filters for each. Everything else aside, this article will help you if you’re just starting out on your photographic journey in that you will learn what basic photo gear you will actually need…not just what someone might want to sell you.

What You’ll Need

Below is a list of the bare-bones gear that you will need to get rolling in making photographs. Of course there are not real absolutes as you will soon find out but in order to reach the end result, a picture, you will need these few things:

The Most Important Item

The single most important tool you can possess isn’t actually a piece of gear at all but rather the correct mindset. I’m listing this first because everything else is secondary to your ability and to adapt and make the most of whatever camera or lens you have available. When I first started out in photography, eighteen year old me saved $265 and bought a 35mm SLR kit that included one 18-55mm F3.5-5.6. I shot on that one lens for about five years and managed to make some wonderful photographs despite it being a “kit” setup. After I switched to digital photography(I still shoot film as well) the progression evolved much the same way with me beginning with a kit lens and later branching out as I learned more about the craft.

Don’t think that you need incredibly expensive cameras or lenses to get started doing photowork. Granted, there are some things that even the most determined effort can’t make happen without the necessary equipment but you might be surprised how much you can get out of “low end” gear when you approach the problem with creative solutions.

A Camera

The importance of a camera can’t be overstated but that doesn’t mean that it has to be the latest and greatest piece of tech to roll off the line. In fact, if I could back in time I would have spent much less on my first digital camera and much more on the lens. More on lenses in a minute but ironically the camera you use usually plays much less of a role in the final image quality(sharpness/color/contrast) than you might think.

Whether it be film or digital, find a camera that is well built and feels good to you. If you can’t readily handle the camera before you buy then become a review hound and learn everything you can about other users experiences. Luckily, most digital cameras today are so good in terms of ISO performance and build that you won’t really go wrong in most cases. Again, if I can offer a little advice in hindsight, invest more in your glass instead of your camera.

A Lens

The lens is the eye through which your camera sees and there are apparently hundreds of different eyes out there. Like I mentioned earlier, the quality of your lens is a huge factor in the final quality of your photos. If you put a poorly made, blurry and sluggish lens on the most expensive camera in the world you will still get poorly made, blurry and sluggish photos in turn

In short, if you aren’t sure yet which genre of photography you’ll gravitate towards, what’s called a “normal” focal length lens will be the best bang for your buck. The term “normal” refers to a lens approximately equal to the field of view of the human eye which is arguable in the 30-50mm range. Most kit lenses included with cameras hover in the normal range. In any case, find the fastest lens(small F-number/large aperture) that will fit the most situations be it landscape, portraiture or street photography. Fortunately, a fast 50mm lens remains of the cheapest lenses you can currently buy.

Finishing Up

Yes, that really is all you need. While there are a few accessories like film or memory cards that you’ll require the overall basic gear to start making images really is as simply as that.

As you progress you will learn what makes you tick photographically and you can adjust your tools accordingly. Find a camera, find a lens, and start shooting.

The Case for Black and White Photography

Brace yourself because here it comes…it’s another discussion about black and white photography. Don’t worry, it’s not going to be the same old “which is better?” or even worse, another “how to convert your photos to black and white” type of articles. Admittedly, I have written on both of those subjects extensively before but this time will be a little different.

Today, we’re going to strip down the idea of black and white photography and attempt to locate how this tried and true area of photography has managed to maintain its status in an arguably over saturated(pun intended) world of photographic modernism.

Monochrome and the Film Difference

It’s not secret that the black and white side of photo work is deeply rooted in film. Still, even though it makes for a solid title for this section, the term “monochrome” has been somehow mismanaged to the point where it is widely considered synonymous with black and white. This is wrong. Monochrome means “one color” or essentially an image made of shades of only one color. This color could be anything from black, yellow, red or pink. Grayscale might actually be a more appropriate term for true black and white. Even then the lines become somewhat blurred because it’s incredibly difficult to completely abolish all color toning from a black and white film negative. Take a look at these images of a 4×5 black and white negative(complete with film borders)and I’ll show you what I mean.

The first photo is a color rendition of the negative. You’ll notice that is is toned quite blue based on the development. This is due to a few factors but the point is virtually all black and white photographs aren’t exactly black and white. Rather, they are toned based on the type of film emulsion and the development techniques used. Now, look at that same piece of film after I have digitally converted it to black and white in Lightroom.

See the difference? I say all of that to say this: modern digital photography often paints a one dimensional representation of black and white images. True black and white photographs aren’t usually black and white at all or not even monochromatic. Instead, they are a carefully mapped presentation of tonal ranges. Remember this the next time you click a button to make your photo black and white. Sure, it might remove the color but the work shouldn’t stop there.

Speaking of color…

Is Color Necessary?

Yes, color is needed. Is it always needed? Absolutely not. There are times when a photo is suited to black and white and times when it is not. Well, who decides? That question is also deceptively simple to answer. It’s you, you’re the one who decides. Does the color play a role in the emotion or feeling you mean to convey or does it get in the way? These are most certainly murky waters to wade.

Today, we don’t even have to approach color or black and white photography the same way as we did thirty or even twenty years ago. Take the very site you’re reading this article on right now. LifePixel specializes in infrared converted cameras that brings the world of color into a new realm of creative exchange. Infrared cameras see light differently than our own eyes. As a result, completely familiar colors become foreign and black and white pictures take on a completely new feel. When you think about color and how it relates to photography you must understand that even the things we see are wholly subjective to our own perception.

Some Closing Thoughts…

If you haven’t been able to tell by now the purpose of this article isn’t to promote the merits of one type of photo over another. There’s plenty of room even now for both color and black and white photography. In fact, a lot of it comes down to personal taste and how we perceive the world around us. At the same time, remember to look deeper into your work and find what gives it meaning to you. Does color play a part? Does it make more of a connection in black and white? Whatever direction you choose just make sure that the original intent of the photo shines through.

Remembering Why You Shoot

There are times when the most simple of explanations eludes us. When it comes to photography, or more specifically to the point of making strong photographs, we must be fully aware. Not just aware of our settings and camera placement but also our intent. Oddly enough, it’s frightfully easy to lose this awareness during the very process of doing the thing which we love. What I’m so gently hinting at here is this: do you know why you make photographs? Are you aware on an internal level why you you shoot what you shoot?

In this article we’re going to take a look at why we can so easily lose sight of our purpose while making photos. This artistic straying can happen gradually or on a picture by picture basis. Perhaps more importantly we will also examine how you can regain your a creative awareness and become a more deliberate, purposeful photographer.

Obsessing with the Technical

When you think about it there are arguably very few absolutes when it comes to photography. So, why does the pursuit of technical perfection occupy such a large corner of our creative minds? Never place more emphasis on the technical aspects of photography than you do on expressing the feeling of a scene.

How many incredible photographs have you seen that are underexposed? Over exposed? Maybe they are slightly out of focus. The worth of those photographs or any other image doesn’t lie in the balance of a histogram or tack focus. They move us because they were made with intent and show the truth and beauty of a moment. Don’t put so much attention into the way you capture a photograph that forget why you wanted to shoot it in the first place.

Burnout

If you make photographs long enough there will come a dark and wretched day when you simply become tired of it all. It might happen sooner than later or it might take years but to some degree or another you will have to face burnout. When you become tired of shooting there just doesn’t seem to be anything out there to make pictures of that interests you. You just don’t get the joy from the process as you once did.

Don’t worry…this literally happens to us all and it isn’t limited to one event. There are highs and lows throughout a photographer’s journey. The key remedy is somewhat paradoxical, however. To beat burnout you take a break but not altogether stop shooting. Try to take a rest from your camera(and it from you) and breathe for a while without making photographs. When you begin to say “Man, I wish I had my camera with me” you will know you are cured. Do this as needed or as directed by a photo writer….

Self-Doubt

The best way to forget why you make photographs is by trying to make them them exactly the way someone else does. Be mindful that there is an incredibly fine line between inspiration and emulation. Never allow yourself to sacrifice how you want to capture a photograph based on the idea that it’s not the “right way” or just because it might not look like someone else’s version.

There could be an entire book written on this point but I’ll do you the favor of brevity. It’s perfectly alright to absolutely love the way other photographers images might look; that’s great, learn how to make yours in a similar way. But only do this if it fits with your own vision. Don’t do it for ‘likes’, shares, or any other reason that would otherwise cause you to shoot with anything but your own photograph in mind.

Final Thoughts….

Today, it’s easier than ever to allow yourself to forget why you make your photographs. We are constantly bombarded by new and better equipment that make us lose sight of what makes a good photo. Sometimes we simply become tired of shooting and this causes us to forget why we love making images at all. And what maybe be the most common danger, sometimes we doubt our own instincts as photographers. All these reason, and no doubt others, can make us forget our own intent. Luckily, they can all be overcome and if you find yourself in any of the circumstances I’ve mentioned then I hope this article gives you a helping hand. Have fun with what you do and always remember why you do it!

The Great Minor White and Infrared Photography

Born in 1908, Minor White was something different in terms of how and why he photographed. He incorporated as much of his own beliefs and philosophies into his work as he did photographic technique. His work is a mix of his mentality and the emotion he felt towards a scene or subject. He injected a part of himself into all the photographs he made. Bestowed by him are such words as “The photographer projects himself into everything he sees, identifying himself with everything in order to know it and to feel it better.” and one of my personal favorite quotes about us photographer’s mentality “…all photographs are self-portraits”.

Minor White-By Imogene Cunningham

It was with the existential mindset that White approached his photographs and perhaps there was none of his work as idealistically surreal as his adventures into the world of infrared. Not only was he a prolific photographer in the artistic and technical sense but he was one of the early practitioners of infrared photography who brought it’s incredible appeal to the masses. The IR images he made, just like his other works, projected a world blended with both the physical landscape and his own personal creativity.

By Minor White, 1958

By Minor White, 1955

By Minor White, 1955

Minor White and Infrared

How did Minor White make his IR photographs? With magic…. Well no, not exactly magic, but it certainly looked that way. Minor White used black and white infrared film, usually large format 4×5, to capture his dreamlike scenes. The infrared or more accurately “near-infrared” light spectrum falls around the 700-1200nm range and infrared film is manufactured to be sensitive to these wavelengths. However, seeing as IR film is also still sensitive to other wavelengths of light, IR filters must also be attached to the camera lens in order to filter out other types of unwanted light that falls in the more visible spectral range. It’s this filtration of the normally visible light and the inclusion of the near IR spectrum which we generally don’t see which gives IR photography their ghost-like quality. Development of the IR is surprising the same as many other conventional black and white films and requires basic darkroom techniques and chemicals.

IR Lens Filters

IR 35mm film

You may be wondering, “So why can’t I just use an IR filter on my digital camera to make IR photos?” And that’s good question. The answer lies in the very construction of most modern digital cameras themselves. IR wavelengths are generally unwanted and in conventional photography and therefore modern digital cameras have a built in IR filter that is placed in front of the image sensor to block out IR light. Even if an IR filter was placed on the lens the resulting transmitted IR light would in turn be filtered out by the camera’s own internal filter. So, how can you enable your digital camera to make IR photographs? Read on….

IR Photography in the Digital Age

As I mentioned earlier, the largest obstacle that stands in the way of making IR images with your currently digital camera is the built in IR sensor filter inside your camera. So if you want to venture into the world of IR photography this filter must be modified through an infrared camera conversion process.

New IR translucent filter being installed

This means that your camera’s sensor is now sensitive to incoming IR light. There are also many other possibilities to expand your infrared horizons with today’s digital camera bodies. Full spectrum, color IR, and a host of other tailored IR imaging effects can be produced depending on the type of conversion and IR lens filter combinations you happen to choose. The benefits to Find out more about infrared conversion possibilities here.

A Final Word About Minor White and Infrared Photography

The work of Minor White was profound, beautiful, innovative, provocative, and at times quite sad. His ventures into the world of IR photography showed us a the wonderment that is all around us, yet invisible all the same. His images speak volumes to the life he lived and to the way he approached the art of photography.

Today, we have so many ways to practice IR photowork whether it is with film and filters or with our digital cameras through a dedicated IR conversion. If you are considering the latter route, be sure to learn as much as possible about the possibilities and limits of digital IR conversions. Make sure whoever you trust your beloved camera to has the reputation for quality that you and your gear deserve. Read more about IR digital camera conversion here at LifePixel and be sure to check out what people just like you have to say about the level of service offered by the LifePixel team!

Previsualziation: Knowing Before the Shot

Previsualization, or simply “visualization”, is one of the most simply yet alarmingly difficult aspect of making your own photograph become more than just the some of their parts. When we “previsualize” our images it means that the appearance of the final outcome before we ever click the shutter button. The method of previsualization was championed by the photographically indomitable Ansel Adams who believed the best way to convey wholeness within a photograph was to strive to see it in your minds eye from the get go. Everything else would then be a matter of what needs to be done in order to reach your personally desired outcome.

But how is it done? Or more importantly, how can you learn to do it yourself? Ansel gave us a lot to go on and we can learn a lot from his legacy. At the same time, we can mesh together with modern digital techniques and expound into something I like to call dynamic visualization. We’ll get more into that in just a minute. But first, let’s talk about how you can begin to visualize the finished photograph before you actually make it manifest itself from your camera.

Learning to “See”

Teaching yourself to see the finished product on the front end of the process isn’t an easy thing to accomplish, especially not right out of the gate. The ability to visualize a finished photograph is somewhat paradoxical due to the fact that a large component of the skill involves shooting a lot of photographs. This means that visualization is a product of repetition. Each time you make a photograph, you see the effect of shooting at the technical factors you have selected. Pay close attention to what settings you use!

Once you begin to mentally catalog the cause and effect relationship between your techniques and their respective outcomes you will then gradually learn to approximate the particular look of a finished image before it is actually shot.

Be Patient

The largest detriment in learning how to visualize your finished photos is that confidence-killing frustration that often sneaks in from perceived failure. Will you be able to anticipate the exact outcome of your photographs each and every time? Of course not. Failure is an incredible teacher and this is especially true when it comes to learning the skill of photographic visualization.

So, don’t allow yourself to be discouraged by the tedium. Shoot as often as you can, practice seeing the finished photo in your mind, observe the results, and then apply those outcomes to future photographs. I assure you that being able to see a finished photo(or close approximation) will slowly begin to happen on its own.

Dynamic Visualization in the Digital Age

I want to speak briefly on the progression of the visualization process as it pertains to today’s digitally integrated world of photography. The technique is one I have coined as “Dynamic Visualization” and is a direct evolution of the visualization idea of Ansel Adams. It involves the instant feedback we now are capable of achieving with our digital photographs. As we no longer have to wait for development of our film to be completed before we see the results of our efforts, the process of visualization changes. We can now allow the readily displayed outcome of our photos to directly impact the mechanism of visualization in a much quicker and more dynamic fashion.

What I mean here is that we immediately view the image we have just captured and that quick feedback can organically spur our creativity in real-time. This can lead to alternative compositions and exposure combinations that we might not have otherwise considered, thusly changing the final visualized image in our minds. This dynamic visualization could in fact be the continuation of Ansels visualization method. We first visualize the finished photo we want to make, receive real-time feedback from our digital displays, and then use that information to mold alternate(possible better) visualizations.

Final Thoughts on Visualization

The hard truth about learning visualization is that it takes time, effort, and patience. There are no real shortcuts when it comes to teaching yourself to “see” a photograph before it’s made. Shoot as much as you can and observe the results carefully. See the results of your work and study your own work. Visualization happens as much by physical labor as it does by mental flexibility. The key is to keep trying until that visualization “aha” moment makes its way to you. Just keep shooting!

Four Ways to Rekindle Your Photographic Spark

As you progress more and more on your photographic journey you will encounter problems and challenges. Some of those challenge you expect while some can take you fairly by surprise. You will go through ups and downs, strikes and gutters. This cycle of peaks and valleys can affect you creatively, financially, even physically. Most common of these is the fact that sometimes we lose a little bit of our enthusiasm for the craft. This is normal and most definitely a problem you can overcome through all kinds of ways. In this article, we’re going to talk about a few ways that can help you rekindle your photographic spark.

Understand that it Happens to Us All

The first step to overcoming any problem is to understand that you have one and that it’s a natural part of growing as a photographer. Simply realizing that your loss of photo making zeal isn’t the end of the world can actually snap you out of your slump.

An important thing to remember is that whatever the reason you’ve lost your spark, you can get it back. The opposite is also true. If you continually find yourself dreading a shoot or not getting excited to get home to edit an awesome sunset image, ignoring the problem will only make it worse. Take a breath and work to identify what’s happening.

Learn about Great Photographers

We all have reasons why we got into photography. And the majority of us have certain “icons” whose work speaks to us especially loudly. The giants of the photography not only produced legendary photos but they also left behind lessons that we can learn from in order to strengthen our own craft. Take the time to learn the methods of the established masters.

Find books they’ve written and invest as much in your learning as you do in your gear…well, maybe not that much. When I get a little less that spritely to get out and make images, I open up a book of Ansel Adams photos. After seeing a few images of Half Dome and Taos Pueblo and I’m ready for action!

Shoot Something Different

If you find that you’ve grown tired of shooting, maybe you’re just tired of shooting the same things over and and over again. Sometimes it helps enormously to take a refreshing dip into another end of the creative pool.

Break the monotony and give yourself a fresh pair of eyes. If you shoot a lot of landscapes, then try some portraits. Shoot a lot of portraits? Try some landscapes. Changing things up a bit can open up entirely new creative outlets for your work.

Leave the Camera

Completely ceasing your shooting might sound counter intuitive but at times we can can photographic burnout. If this is happening to you try leaving your camera at home. Just focus yourself on the events, people, and environment around you without viewing everything through a viewfinder.

Live and breathe without making photos for a few days or even a few weeks. Much like switching up your shooting material, walking away from the camera for a while can hit your reset button and jump start your enthusiasm for making photographic once more.

Final Thoughts….

Whether most of us will admit it or not, we aren’t always super excited about making photographs 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. We have highs and lows of creativity and artistic energy levels. At some point you will experience this reduction in your photographic spark to some extent. Just remember that when it happens, and it will, that there are ways to combat the lack of motivation. While it all depends on your situation, some type of healthy change is usually the best remedy. This change can be taking a break from shooting or reading an autobiography about your favorite photographer’s life. Recognize that things just don’t feel right and take steps to bring yourself back into the photographic fold.

I love helping people overcome their hurdles so check out a couple more of my articles here at LifePixel, How To Be Successful in Photography and Real Talk: Reasons Your Photography Isn’t Improving. They deal with similar situations and can give you that lift that you need to get back into the game.

Discovering Your Own Photographic Style

The internet seems to be bursting at its virtual seams with creative ideas and tips on photographic methodology. In my opinion there’s no such thing as knowing too much about making photos and I urge you to learn all you can from as many places as you can about the technical side of photography. Still, there are a few points about the craft of photo making which tend to be less discussed than others and when they are talked about often they are not evenly keeled conversations.

Perhaps nothing is as elusive nor enigmatic that the topic of style in photography. More specifically, how to find your own unique style of shooting. The idea of style is somewhat of a paradox due to the very definition of the word itself which literally means that you model something based on the characteristics of something else. How can you carve our something unique to you if it’s very core is fashioned on the work of someone else? How do you develop your own style of shooting? The short answer: stop thinking so much.

The Misconception About Style

You will not wake up one day and say “Oh, that’s my style.” The fault lies not in the pursuit of a particular style but rather in our own misunderstanding. Our own personal way of photographing comes about organically, gradually, and with great fluidity. Style is not something that we work to achieve, but rather it is something that festers from our creative subconscious as a direct result of practice and patience.

It is not a destination to be reached but rather a journey of creative expression. Don’t obsess over being different at the beginning. That comes later.

The Three Stages of Style Development

I’ve philosophized(at times too much) on the processes behind the development of personal photographic style and have come to the conclusion that three stages are involved as we progress to our own uniqueness as photographers. These stages are hazy and unfixed, but seem to be commonly shared by the majority of us camera jockeys.

Stage 1: Emulation

This is where most of us start. We find the work of other photographers and discover in their photographs characteristics that we connect with on some level. This connection leads to a desire to replicate those characteristics with our own work. We essentially attempt to “figure out” how their photographs were made or why they have a certain appeal to us.

The more we expose ourselves to the work of others the more we come to understand what type of photos we do and do not like. Photographic emulation is the influential cornerstone that helps us understand ourselves and what we enjoy shooting. This leads us to….

Stage 2: Self-Realization

Once we have spent time discovering what type of photography appeals to us an extraordinary thing begins to happen; self-realization. Self-realization begins to manifest itself after the photographer has seen the type of work he or she enjoys and wants to pursue. This is a very important step on the path of developing your own identity in the world of photography.

You realize that your own photographs can be something completely un-ordinary even though they were initially nurtured beneath the shade of influence from other photographers.

Stage 3: Self-Projection

This is the last but most actionable stage in the development of your own style of shooting. Self-projection happens only after you have learned and experienced the craft of photography to the point where you begin producing work than can truly be considered your own creation.

Sure, it may have impressions of all the stepping stones of influence you’ve absorbed along the way but the end result is something exclusive to your own creative vision. You will have produced something that carries with it a part of yourself, in your own distinct way.

Final Thoughts on Style

As we’ve said, your personal style of shooting will find you if you have the patience and persistence to simply allow it to occur naturally. You will constantly evolve as a photographer and perhaps go through the three steps of style development multiple times over your lifetime. Keep in mind also that style is not finite. It’s not a destination to be reached. It’s a journey.

The important thing to remember is that each of us, at one time or another, were all beginners. We all searched for the same fire.

Take your Photography to New Heights

As the autumn leaves fall gently by the wayside and winter sets in, I would like to share a few personal thoughts about why flying small drones to take your photography to new heights is something photographers should consider. The time of year you choose to learn can most certainly add to the attraction.

My colleague, Scott Strimple and I spend a few weeks a year teaching drone flight during our ‘Earth to Sky’ workshops at the Maine Media Workshops and College. With the birth of the Part 107 rules, we can be very specific about the regulations, and help point our students down the right path to passing their Remote Pilot Certificate. This naturally involves some fairly intensive ground school training prior to even touching the controls of the small drone. These lessons are quite overwhelming for someone who has not had any type of pilot training, but there is nothing like opening the door of the classroom and setting off to embark upon your first flight. Most students with no experience are a little nervous, and anxious to do as well as their compatriots. What is especially exciting is when the first flight is above the astonishing Maine beauty with the colors of fall at their peak. The images displayed were taken on the DJI Phantom 4. the link will provide you with all the information on the machine, along with camera specs.

This image was captured by one of our students with our help. He was amazed to see what can be achieved from a small camera lens attached to a flying machine!

Once everyone feels comfortable flying, the next step is to learn to operate the camera and combine flying with photography. The camera on virtual sticks enables the photographer to obtain stunning images from the campus lawn! The concerns and thoughts emanating from a considerable amount of negative press melt away as you capture a bird’s eye view of the beauty surrounding you, and you are ensconced in an explosion of color.

Part of our class involves preparing our students to answer questions, and deal with unhappy bystanders. Even within the drone community, there is generally a huge amount of debate surrounding the legalities. When images are posted, there is always someone who wants to either question the authenticity of an image or pose the thought that the aforementioned image was taken while violating the rules of engagement. It is easy to consider throwing in the towel and moving on to a different form of photography. So what are we to do? Firstly, don’t give up! If you are at all cautious (and it is good to always be cautious) consider what it is you can do without sending your small drone too far away.

Top down, or nadir images are becoming extremely popular (and are among my favorites) as well as panoramas – all of which can be taken from where you are standing. This way you maintain the maximum amount of control of your drone and can easily land if you feel the weather conditions are changing, or you simply don’t feel comfortable anymore. I rarely feel the need to compete when I am flying and will concentrate on my end goals, frequently ignoring any strong suggestion that I should become a little more adventurous. When I learned to fly a Cessna 182 I soon found out the limits of my flying ability, and because my rear end was strapped to the seat, it was easy to comply with my inner voice!

If all you feel compelled to do is use a small drone to hover above you as a tripod in the air, or virtual tripod, you have done more than most. Think about it, when we go out with our cameras, we are limited to the lens we choose. The lens dictates what it is that we see, and how we compose our photograph. The drone enables us to take our images to new heights. While we are still restricted by our choice of lens in the air, we are seeing everything from a new perspective. How adventurous you become is up to your confidence, your flying prowess, and your photographic vision. Remember not so long ago, Photoshop shocked the world with the ability to manipulate images. Photoshop is a powerful tool in the right hands, as is your small drone. Don’t get discouraged by scaremongers – go out and discover what you can create using this wonderful technology.

Nowadays, people generally don’t tend to question a photographer. There is no assumption of impropriety unless the lens is particularly long and the photographer is hiding in the bushes. The same does not apply to those using drones to capture aerial images. It is likely that you may be questioned, and even if there is little doubt about what you are up to, the question will frequently be asked: “what about privacy.” Given time, I believe the curiosity will die down, and there will be less fear involved. While there are many questions and assumptions of nefarious behavior, I would suggest overcoming the obstacles and at least finding a local group of flyers with whom you can spend a bit of time.

I am equally as obsessed with all methods of capture when it comes to taking images. I love experimenting with IR as much as I enjoy flying my small drones. I simply love the flexibility these many forms of creative expression offer me and encourage everyone to keep an open mind when it comes to new technology.

The wonderful thing about attending a photographic workshop is full emersion in one area of choice. Our drone workshops enable our students to learn so very much and by the end of the week, we are able to present an example of the work completed and the challenges overcome. Scott and I will be running several workshops at MMW next year. The dates will be announced in January. We will also be teaching for the first time at Madeline Island School of the Arts, located on the largest of the Apostle Islands in Lake Superior, from September the 18^th to the 22^nd of 2017.

To sum up, it has been quite a year for the drone industry, with technology tripping over itself to be released. Flying a small drone is becoming simpler, and the rules are becoming more clearly defined. I want to encourage those of you with an interest, to try your hand at flying and letting go of the anxiety so that you can simply have fun. Find a mentor in the industry if you have questions. To that end, I am happy to chat with anyone who wants to explore the possibilities. The end goal does not have to be to make money, although I highly recommend taking the remote pilot airman certificate so that you have the flexibility to sell your images or work commercially should you so desire.

Do Photography Trends Stifle Your Style?

Do you allow photography trends to stifle your style, or does your personal passion, style and creativity prevail?

A well-known wedding photographer (who shall remain nameless) once berated me because I was, in his opinion, following the trends and overdoing the new and popular filter effects of the time. I walked away from our conversation feeling mortified and crushed. In short, incredibly defeated. Upon reflection, I realized he was indeed correct in many instances. Some of the images I was creating for my customers were over stylized and would not withstand the test of time. However, these trends are often popular and very much in demand. It is sometimes hard to stick to your guns when asked to create a certain look. Do you allow your artistic style to be compromised because of your clients’ specific requests?

I would suggest that unless your work is synonymous with a particular style, I would highly recommend catering somewhat to their suggestions, but make sure you add plenty of your own artistic vision into the mix. However, some demands can simply rub you the wrong way, and it is ok to say no! I think I can state without much dispute that there is one particular request that simply makes many photographers see red. Namely, trends that clients have found on other photographic websites or on social sites that they want you to copy. So, standing up for your particular style may lose you a few customers in the short term, but tenacity can prevail given time, allowing you to be true to your photographic vision and recognized for your talent.

In my opinion, there are a couple of photographic trends that I thought were amazing at the time, but have not really held up that well. Disclaimer! I am guilty of creating some of these images and will showcase them below.

Coloring parts of your black and white image

Photographs that disrupt the horizon

Over processing the vintage look

Do you ever find yourself re-visiting your website and removing those images that reflect trends that really date your photographs? Generally speaking, the cleaner images do tend to stay in your portfolio longer. Other tips that come to mind are limiting the use of the highlight priority tool. The foggy feel used to feature on my website, but I have since removed most of these. Also, while my children were growing up, I became deeply ensconced in the world of senior photography and I fought hard with many clients to keep the completely unblemished images to a minimum.

Above all, make sure the photograph talks to you. If you want it to be commercially viable, you do need to be critical of your work, and maybe request the opinions of those friends who are happy to be honest with you (time to check the ego!) Take pictures people want to admire. Captured images should not require interpretation they should speak for themselves. Neal Rantoul recounts his opinion on this subject in an enthralling article featured in PetaPixel. I do agree that cameras are most certainly much simpler to use. Great photographs can be taken with only a minimum understanding of ISO; shutter speed and camera settings in general, but eventually the mechanics do need to be understood.

There are many simple plug-ins that allow you to edit your images quickly and efficiently. Plug-ins for use with Photoshop or Lightroom can be used as an artistic tool, allowing you to create your own recipes and layer your effects for all sorts of finished looks. The Nik collection is now offered as a free download, and I would highly recommend it. You can learn a simple edit, or explore the software to create some amazing visual effects. The secret is to use them wisely, and not become obsessed with one particular result.

When it comes to creating images that are just for me, I use all of the software products mentioned above, and enjoy playing with effects and layers. This is especially true when I am editing my IR images, or detail shots where I like to add a little artistic license.

I recently took senior portraits of my triplets (two girls and a boy) before they left for college, and I admit to enhancing the sunset to create a somewhat vintage look. My girls are extremely close and are now attending colleges in two different states. The candid image of them together means so much to me, and this is the essence of why we chose to be photographers. On a personal level, what pleases you is really all that matters.

I also had some fun with the DJI Inspire during the family photo-shoot!

In conclusion, one has to wonder why the paintings of Vincent Van Gogh were not popular during his lifetime. He was a unique painter, pushing the limits, who is now considered to be one of the most famous post impressionist artists of all time. I am sure we can name many popular artists and photographers of our time, but one has to wonder if they will stand up to the opinions of critics, or indeed the general public 100 years from now. Maybe our work will be discovered and we will be revered! It is worth contemplating what it is that constitutes an iconic photograph? I very much enjoyed reading an article by Evie Salmon entitled ‘what is iconic imagery?’ Who is to say what will be revered in the future, which should encourage all of us to keep persevering when it comes to our artistic vision. Don’t let those trends take over and stay true to your vision.

Confront Your Photographic Challenges

Are there times when you feel challenged to complete an assignment, or even to just go out and take some photographs? Tangential activities take on an unanticipated urgency. I have never really understood what drives this onset of dispassion for the task, but I know I have experienced it many times, and I find it helps to set myself a few challenges and hold myself accountable until each of my personal challenges are completed.

Nature photographer Jim Brandenburg is known for challenging himself. Jim decided to limit his images to only one photograph a day for a 90-day period between the autumnal equinox and the winter solstice. His project was deeply personal, and the amazing work that developed over the months most certainly speaks for itself.

Here are a couple of ways you can provoke your challenges, and learn a few new techniques in the process:

Join a Photo challenge site – One great site, Photochallenge.org encourages you to increase your photographic skills by committing to a photo challenge. No tutorials, just photographers interacting with each other. The team sets out common guidelines, which are easy to understand and simple to follow. The challenges are specific, such as; capture black and white shots of the human body, or take portraits of people or animals, and then share with others also participating in the challenge. If you are not quite up to engaging at that level, it is still worth visiting the site to view images and to ultimately gain the courage to start interacting online with other photographers.

Commit to taking a tutorial a week – There are many sites that provide free tutorials, such as Iheartfaces as well as subscription based sites like CreativeLive, KelbyOne, and Lynda.com that offer the opportunity to learn a little more about your camera, as well as how to use software applications to successfully edit your images. If you find it easier to learn in a classroom, give yourself the gift of a workshop a year. The secret is to follow through on what you have learned.

Set specific parameters – Make some definitive decisions each time you go out to take images. Consider some of these ideas:

1 – Take only one lens with you. If you do not have fixed lenses, choose a zoom lens focal length and don’t be tempted to change it. This will encourage you to position yourself correctly for each shot. It will also help you to really understand the capabilities of each lens.

2 – Utilize the full frame. Fill your frame with the shot and don’t plan on cropping in post. This will encourage correct orientation, and enable you to make every pixel count.

3 – Decide upon a color or texture and concentrate on images of that color or texture. This makes you evaluate your surroundings and notice many things you may not normally have seen.

4 – While teaching at a photographic conference in Las Vegas, I played around with the color/full frame challenge and spent a couple of hours in the beautiful botanical gardens located in the Bellagio hotel. I started with some fairly simple images and then dug down into the fragility of petals. I found myself down a whole new path involving the combination of shadow and color.

5 – Dedicate a photographic day to simply using your mobile phone, and get creative. There are many apps for editing camera phone images and some of the results are pretty impressive. While boating in Maine, I was able to capture the old Maine Windjammer, the Isaac H. Evans. I challenged myself to use only my mobile phone all day so that I would concentrate on light and composition. It was quite refreshing to have my head up and looking at my subject, rather than staring down the camera viewfinder!

6 – Limit the number of images you take. Imagine you do not have the capability of taking many photographs. Make every image count, and don’t cheat by erasing images!

Sometimes it is important to try to recognize the route of the challenged feeling! Each time I head up to Rockport, Maine to teach drone flight and aerial photography, I find myself having to overcome the inherent fears surrounding the nature of the class. I am not immune to the constant commentary surrounding the use of drones and their various applications. In order to overcome those mental challenges, I remind myself that I teach because I enjoy teaching, and the pleasure I receive from watching students initially grapple with the technology, and then start creating beautiful images is most certainly more contagious than the niggling doubts in my head. I also take time out to go and fly with my teaching partner and hone my skills a little more.

Flying over water takes a little more concentration and awareness of the wind conditions. but the results can be incredibly rewarding. The image above is a single capture, and below, a 5 image panorama created in Lightroom. These were taken using a DJI Phantom 4.

Finally, I have also noticed that as infrared photography becomes more popular, there are many discussion groups debating about what constitutes a good IR image. No matter what my assignment, I carry my converted Canon 1DS with me and find an opportunity to experiment.

It is interesting to compare my results with images taken from the Phantom 4. In the image below, I am actually much closer to the boats in the harbor, but hovering over the water.

I challenge you all to experiment with IR. If you are not yet ready to convert one of your cameras, consider purchasing a filter that somewhat replicates the look and feel, and this will give you a great introduction. I am pretty sure you will soon be hooked. Whatever your end goal, don’t let those perceived or real challenges get in the way and don’t let the negativity of others (or your own doubts) prohibit your creativity.

Recognizing your Talents

I have written about cultivating the creative and overcoming the fear factor. Let’s consider ideas to help you recognize your talents!

Many photographers find that there are periods when they are unsure of their abilities. Discovering that you have a photographic ‘eye’ is an exciting moment. Then the frustration of learning the mechanics comes in to play. Those images that looked so good on an automatic camera setting are much harder to recreate once you start exploring the camera. Further discouragement can come from a critical photographer who starts to tear apart your technique. The secret is not to let those moments of frustration inhibit your learning curve. Open the floodgates and keep experimenting! The good news is that I believe the teaching community is more responsive to positive feedback, and there is a culture of acceptance and encouragement when it comes to helping photographers develop their craft. This is further supported by the plethora of online learning possibilities such as Lynda.com and KelbyOne.

Once you have started to develop your technical skills, find out where the camera leads you. After many years as a photographer, it is only recently that I have started loving my work because I am finally focused on creating images for my clients and making pictures that please me! Many of the points I have already written about in previous blogs would apply to this blog also, overcoming fear and encouraging your creative side both help you to recognize your talents. What do you really enjoy about photography? And what inhibits you from growth? I have mentioned the importance of exploration; encouraging yourself to capture images that don’t necessarily come easily to you. The mistakes you make will also bring new insight to your photographic body of work, or simply help you to understand the mechanics of your camera better.

I recently watched a fascinating documentary about Vivian Maier. Vivian became famous posthumously when John Maloof discovered her work in a thrift auction house in Chicago. She worked as a nanny, but constantly experimented with her camera. Her passion led her to create a vast collection of candid street photographs. She most certainly discovered her talent, but one wonders if she actually recognized it. Her touring exhibitions can be seen around the world, and attract huge crowds. What we do not know is why she did not share her work. If you take a moment to peruse her online galleries you will marvel at her extraordinary photographic skill.

Unlike Ms. Maier and those wonderful street photographers of her ilk, I have never been adept at catching people as they go about their lives. I find myself concerned about invading privacy and once I become self conscious my work falters. I learned early on that street photography was not one of my innate talents! On my recent search for new photographic pastures, I find that I very much enjoy seeking out resilience and vulnerability. This can be found repeatedly in nature, and I am drawn to exploring something beyond the obvious. I enjoy playing with available light to expose, scrutinize and find the beauty from a unique perspective. This is a simple technique which involves considering more than just the angle that comes immediately to mind.

The translucent, delicate nature of flowers can really be examined when using available light to emphasize the shadows and accentuate their fleeting beauty.

It is always fun to explore all sorts of available light. Try taking your camera and a willing subject out a dusk when the street lights are turned on. If your long suffering accomplice is happy to work with you to find the best angle, the effects can be quite dramatic!

For extremely personal reasons, I am drawn to the Golden Gate bridge. My latest infrared images using a converted Canon 1D, captured the late afternoon mist, and I was able to reflect just the right mood for the particular project I had in mind.

I am also enjoying creating a body of work from a different perspective. Looking down on the world from above, using a small unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), involves a distinct skill set which is constantly evolving as the tools become more advanced with each new iteration. Shooting with the camera pointed directly downward, and a bit of advanced planning, can make for some fun and different shots.

It is amazing how our work grows as we recognize our talents, and find we no longer need to emulate the talents of others. Our work may end up looking like another photographer’s work, but this should not be because we are forcing a style, more because that is how the process evolved naturally. Whether professional or amateur, make sure and take time to evolve, and to enjoy your moments behind the camera.