Saturday Ambassador
Successful photographers develop a unique style that sets
their work apart from run-of-the-mill competitors. Some styles are so
well-defined that the imagery is consistently recognizable to those familiar
with the photographer's work. This is a condition for which students should
strive, but do not be discouraged when it does not come easily. Such refinement
often takes many years to achieve.
We all begin by learning photographic fundamentals such
as focus, exposure and composition, as well as the more advanced techniques of
lighting and expression through color, motion, abstraction, et cetera. However,
individuality often comes from a photographer's unique vision and imaginative
inspiration. As artists, this is something of which we are all capable – the
key is determining where your preferences reside. Consider what genre most
appeals to you and start there. Study the work of the genre's most renowned
artists or those whose work you find interesting and dissect it: What do you
like about it? If it is powerful, what elements make the greatest impact? How
was the lighting achieved and could you recreate it? If it is not obvious, the
information might be available online. Examine, as well, any elements you might
approach differently. Considerations in both cases might include sharpness,
depth of field, lens choice, perspective, subject matter or processing
techniques, such as HDR or selective color.
Although you many find some techniques more appropriate
for certain images and not for others, the techniques you tend to use
consistently out of preference will become part of your photographic identity.
The rest involves the manner in which you perpetuate ideas and how you present
them. For example, an industrial photographer may create documentary-style
images which depict a process, a piece of equipment, a facility or some workers
in a manner which is technically correct and clearly demonstrates the qualities
of the subject, but in an unremarkable way. This may be sufficient for the
client, as long as it contains the required elements. In fact, it is ordinary
because it exemplifies the work of most photographers. As an artist, however,
you should strive to be extraordinary; find a new approach to your subject which
not only demonstrates its characteristics but is compelling as art.
Reserve, Louisiana Refinery, 2011, Deva Mayorga-Malone, Panoramic Composite
~Saturday
Ambassador
