The great and prolific photographer Gary Winogrand used to say that you should be risking failure every time you raise your camera to your eye. By that he meant if the scene looks familiar to you, you’ve probably already taken a similar photograph, so try something new. It may not work, but when it does it can take you to the next level. I find that I have to push myself all the time because I lapse into familiar habits: shooting from eye level, same lens to subject distance or comfort zone, don’t move around enough or shoot enough variety.
We have no excuse for not taking photographic chances with digital, it doesn’t cost extra and there’s nothing to lose and extraordinary pictures to gain. So take a look at your stuff, if you’re seeing a lack of variety and similar photographs, grab your camera and take a photographic leap….
I agree with “Gary Winogrand” and work hard to really stretch myself every time I take a picture. It is hard sometimes when shooting something I am familiar with, but when I succeed at doing something new, even if the result is not a great photo, I do feel like I have learned something.
I agree with “Gary Winogrand” and work hard to really stretch myself every time I take a picture. It is hard sometimes when shooting something I am familiar with, but when I succeed at doing something new, even if the result is not a great photo, I do feel like I have learned something.
I alway try the make the most of a “location” or “subject” when taking a picture… My biggest problem is always seeing something that may look great but being too slow or unprepared and miss the opportunity.
I alway try the make the most of a “location” or “subject” when taking a picture… My biggest problem is always seeing something that may look great but being too slow or unprepared and miss the opportunity.
Yes, I agree, we should take more chances. My problem is finding time to shoot. You do make very good points here though
Yes, I agree, we should take more chances. My problem is finding time to shoot. You do make very good points here though
Wow MADN I have to say you and I think very differently – I wouldn’t have had those thoughts about the picture. I think your comment might warrant some self-inspection.
Wow MADN I have to say you and I think very differently – I wouldn’t have had those thoughts about the picture. I think your comment might warrant some self-inspection.
I think it’s the same mindset that automatically labels you a pervert if you photograph children. A sad sign of the times indeed…
I think it’s the same mindset that automatically labels you a pervert if you photograph children. A sad sign of the times indeed…