aows #19
on loving what you photograph
love what you photograph
"There's nothing as useless as a sharp photograph of a fuzzy concept" - Ansel Adams
Technical aspects of photography are useless if our images have no deeper meaning. And by technical aspects I mean much more than just the camera settings, like post-processing, printing in the darkroom, choice of paper or film stock...
Good technique should be invisible, part of the photographer's visual statement, letting the image speak for itself. Good technique is always in the service of the image. Good technique for the sake of good technique is meaningless.
In music, it's not the most proficient with the instrument that plays the most memorable pieces. It's the one who plays from their heart. Of course, good technique is still required, but for a purpose. Not for the sake of good technique alone, but to create music that inspires.
To create images that convey emotion, you need to feel it inside you first. I believe you have to be passionate about what you photograph.
In my case, I love being outdoors. While I like to photograph almost anything, it is in nature where I enjoy the art of making images the most. It's the combination of the two things that drives me.
After months of living (and photographing) suburban environments, I finally had the chance to be somewhere a little bit more... away. Rachel and I spent a few days in the Sleeping Bear Dunes, Michigan. This trip has given me new energy and motivation. This is what being out in nature does to me—what fuels my photography.
My love for photography also encourages me to spend time outside. Sometimes, I might not feel like going on a hike, but I want to make some images so I go anyway. And the other way around: I might not feel inspired to take photos, but I do want to be outside. Inevitably, I always end up taking photos.
I also find nature incredibly fascinating. No matter how many mountains, trees, rivers or lakes I see, I always stand in awe in the presence of Mother Earth’s work.
When you love what you photograph, everything is much easier. You know what you are trying to capture, what you want to communicate with your images. So I believe that your choice of subject matter matters. Be it nature or the busy streets of a big city, you should love it. Feel it. Let it inspire you.
What drives your photography?
new images
new videos
We talked about post processing and how far we can go with our digital processes a couple of weeks ago. In this video, I expand a little bit on those thoughts.
This is the video of the trip I mentioned above, a quick but very needed camping trip in Michigan. It was my first time this far north around the Great Lakes, and I was surprised to see big forests, beautiful beaches, and few people. I’m sure the place looks quite different in the summer, but as of right now, it’s a dream. A little bit chilly, but perfect otherwise.
This is the tentative cover of my upcoming book, ONE. There’s still some work to be done, but I’m getting very close to finishing it. I’m very excited about this project, as it includes what I believe is some of my best work. I can’t wait to share more with you all.
For now, I can only thank you for being there once again, and hope you all have an awesome week!
Adrian