Instructor Insights: Creating the Better Photograph:

An interesting article that outlines the thought processes of this particular photographer as he goes about making a better photograph from the scene has has in front of him.

"By rotating the camera vertically, and placing the LAMP post in a strong position within the frame, I was able to create a graphic image from just the two simple elements of building and lamppost. The lamppost, being in shade, stood out strongly against the building, and matched the density of the dark windows. (see picture 3). By the time my client showed up, a few minutes later, the lamppost had sunlight striking it, and the moment was gone. This type of situation proves again and again how important it is to hone your vision and stay open to the possibilities all around you. The more you photograph, the easier it becomes to see the potential in a scene."

I frequently tell people that more than half of learning to be a photographer is learning how to look at things. We see things every day (well, most of us do), but how often do we take the time out to actually look at them, to enjoy the colour of the light, the lay of the shadows, the motion caused by the wind? Being a photographer, you need to train yourself to actively look at things, not just passively see them. Once you're actively looking, then you can act to make the view better. Then record it, to share with others.