Morning Mountain Mist
“Too often, nature photographers, rely on the drama of the scenery to make powerful images…” “…Artist should impose their vision on the scene, not the other way around…” (The artist should be)”…looking for ways to create an image not just record one.”
These quotes from Ian Plant, in a recent Outdoor Photographer article, have made me think about my own efforts.
As a photographer when confronted with a beautiful nature scene I immediately scan for unique angles, interesting light patterns, complimentary and/or contrasting colors, geometric shapes and scenes within the scene. What core elements make this scene special?
If time allows, I’ll do a 360 view check to confirm my available shooting positions and to be sure I’m not perhaps missing an equally or more unique scene around or behind me–especially with morning or evening light.
Once I’ve found a composition that interests me I’ll quickly consider technically how best to capture what I’m seeing. What lens, DoF, exposure, filter or special technique to use. Later, during post processing, I’ll tweak the image to closer express my vision of the scene in that moment.
The natural development a nature photographer seems to lead us all down somewhat similar paths. While there’s an honest truth in simply recording nature in a pure form, most of us also crave to uniquely make it our own.
It’s possible to have both!
For example, Ian Plant creates some amazing nature images, such as those abstractions he’s labeled “Dreamscapes.” What I like about his work is while clearly establishing his own vision, he hasn’t lost the strong core connection to nature. In my opinion, they are still “honest” in that respect.
When finding someone who’s photography style and work appeals to me I try and gain as much insight from their style and results as possible. What do I like about it? What techniques do they use that I could also use? What skills do they have that I need to develop? Is there something I don’t like about it? Hopefully, the resulting answers and insights will be used to better my own efforts.
In a very real way, we use these inspirations as a stepping stone in our own development.
I also agree with Ian’s article. I also agree with your statement, “When finding someone whos photography style and work appeals to me I try and gain as much insight from their style and results as possible.” I would also include the character of the photographer. I’m drawn to some photographers because of their philosophy of life, their humor, the romanticism of their life, their writing. All of these add to my life. Those are some reasons I follow your blog.
Earl: Other than going for the immediately recognizable iconic image, I think that a lot of photographers bring their own interpretation and appreciation for nature to the table. I would certainly agree with Monte about the rest, especially the philosophy and the humor, which is why I much prefer a blog with words and pictures. I like to know what you were thinking, not so that I can copy you, but just so that I can ponder it.
@Monte Stevens – In a case where I’m simply trying to gain some understanding of the photographers technical technique or process then their philosophy or humor might not be important, otherwise those things of course would come into play. I appreciate you being here! :-)
@Paul – I agree there’s more enjoyment for me with text as well as photos but there are a number of photo only blogs I regularly follow because I admire their skill and am regularly inspired by their work.