Self Portrait - Hudson Valley
I recently received the following question from a reader, and thought I would share my answers here – hopefully they offer some insights to help those of you with similar questions.
“…I can’t capture an outstanding mountain or river view…I know a big part of that is that my camera is a pocket camera, and I don’t have real editing software, but I’m curious if you could give suggestions or tips on how to really catch a remarkable view.”
I have written here many times about the role of technology in photography, and as many of you know I am definitely of the opinion that it doesn’t really matter. Yes it certainly helps in technical aspects such as resolution, sharpness, clarity, and over all image quality. But in my opinion, the single most important aspect of any photograph is it’s ability to convey a story, and create an emotional response in the viewer.
I will let you decide whether you think the gear plays a bigger role in this regard than the composition, but I repeatedly tell students I have never been asked a technical question by a print buyer – from the 8×12 to the 36 x 90. My my work is based on my love and passion for nature, and the desire to share it with others, and it all starts there – without that, the best camera in the world means nothing.
The short answer is that it takes time – a long time to develop the instincts for seeing light. Landscape and nature photography is ALL about patience. There is a saying – “the best investment you can make in your outdoor photography is in the investment of time”. Sure you can get lucky (we ALL do) and make a few great images, but a consistent body of work is something that comes from practice, dedication, and failure.
Quoddy Head, Maine
Many want to take the shortcut and use technology, computers, etc to make nice images,but ultimately there remains a missing ingredient that keeps a viewer interested over the long run. Learning how to do this involves practice, study, and time. Here are a few suggestions:
- Read as much as possible – photography books, magazines, manuals, etc.
- Looks at as much photography as you can – I used to spend hours at the library and Barnes & Noble looking at every single photo book – I also bought a whole lot.
- Read this blog and other blogs about photography and try to learn from the concepts expressed and written about. Leave feedback, ask questions, and find photographers that are willing to share and help – this is key.
- Take lots of pictures and fail often – then you start to learn from the mistakes you are making. Go out again and make new mistakes – repeat until you start to get better, sometimes faster, other times slow – or as I say two steps forward, one step back.
- One last tip – become completely (and I mean COMPLETELY) familiar with your subject, whether that’s a specific location, or light in general. I often think about a potential image in my imagination in the middle of the night, and how I might arrange all of the elements to create the strongest composition – camera angle and height, sun height and direction, foreground and background elements, etc. This is particularly helpful with a specific area or location – ie. see Ansel’s work of Yosemite.
Most important – this should all be fun and exciting, not frustrating and disappointing, Remember my first point – passion should drive you, not the pursuit of the best image – this is what keeps you going for the long run and makes it an adventure. Hope this offers some direction and doesn’t discourage you, but rather clarifies the challenges and rewards of a truly worthwhile pursuit. Would love your questions and feedback as always!
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From books, to iPhone apps, to podcasts, Facebook and Twitter, Rick Sammon is everywhere. A Canon Explorer of Light, Rick is also everyman’s photographer. One of Rick’s basic photography tenets is that he “Specializes in not specializing”. 
Focus On What Makes a Difference
Thursday, August 18th, 2011Anthony's Nose, Hudson Valley
“The challenge is to focus on the work, not on the fear that comes from doing the work.” – Seth Godin
The ability to accomplish anything in life is directly tied to your convictions and confidence. The talent lies not in some innate genetic disposition, but in learning to see past the minds own limited perspective. But there is another element that is often overlooked – generosity.
Many of my accomplishments were the result of throwing caution to the wind, trusting my instincts, and slowly learning that I could accomplish whatever I set my mind to – regardless of my fear. Here are two ideas to commit to heart – NEVER doubt yourself and think BIG – things I’ve done throughout my life. There will be significant setbacks and disappointments, but out of that growth and experience, the kind that really makes a positive difference.
BUT, I still struggled and wondered why it was so hard to do what I loved to do – photography. Then I started to think differently about my goals, my failures, and started focusing on what matters – doing the work. Now when I see others that have the ability but fail because of commitment or execution, it makes me frustrated, but more than that, it makes me want to help.
Much of what I have learned has come from asking for help. When I have asked for help from others, I accepted that help without reservation and didn’t let my ego interfere. This serves two purposes – it keeps me humble, and it reminds me to help others along their path. And nothing will bring you closer to achieving your goals than generosity. Sure it may take longer, and in our culture of instant gratification, this will not be a popular option. But the results will be so much more valuable and lasting.
The Importance of Generosity
On a workshop
In my opinion, there is no better feeling than being generous, and I have not been disadvantaged by this in any way whatsoever, on the contrary it has enriched my work and my life. I give my knowledge freely and without waiting for anything in return. Then I try and accomplish my own goals, no matter how far fetched they are – simple concept, yet not always easy to practice.
Think about what you want to accomplish in your life – whether that involves photography, work and business, or personal issues. Then think about how you can help someone else in some small way. I can guarantee you from personal experience that once you think this way, you goals will begin to move towards you faster than ever before.
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