An In Focus approach to photography is simple – the more thought, vision and passion you put into the creation of your image, the less you have to put on top of it later.
Just like any other art form, great photography requires a lot of practice. You have to give yourself time to get acquainted with each of your newfound options. This (as you can imagine) is not done overnight. It takes time.
By completing this course however (congratulations by the way), you now have a basic understanding of what’s available. You know how to change color, set contrast, choose depth of field, clean your light with a polarizer and take it away with a fader, and so on. The question now shifts from “what are my creative options?” to “when do I use them and is there a particular order they should be applied?”
An In Focus Approach To Creative Photography
Once you’ve got a handle on your basic options (the 12 creative essentials), it’s time to put them into play. Simply follow the steps below to make the magic happen totally in camera.
Step One: Visualization
Don’t just react to the obvious, anyone can do that. Think before you press the shutter button. Visualize something better, try to share an idea, express a feeling. Be unique in your approach, be bold, courageous, different and your pictures will show it.
Step Two: Perspective
Once you have an idea of what you want to say, then put it in the viewfinder. During this stage, you’ll be choosing where to stand, lining up the graphic elements (by moving right and left, up and down), choosing size relationships (by moving forward and back), picking the perfect focal length and maneuvering your angle of view until the composition is pristine. Once you’ve chosen this spot, there is really no need to move.
Step Three: Expression
It’s at this stage where six of your 12 creative options come into play. Dial in the best possible color and character settings that match your unique vision, changing the white balance, tint, hue, contrast, saturation and sharpness all in camera, all while the inspiration surrounds you. After all, when else are you more in tune with how you feel or what you want to accomplish?
Step Four: Structure
And here comes our final six. Starting with your background and working forward, begin creating the most sensational image of your life. Through the artistic control of the aperture, shutter speed, ISO, a flash, fader and polarizer, generate a solid structure (ensuring that your light is glare free, in focus and illuminates your vision perfectly) … and press the shutter button.
And that’s it. There is nothing more to it.
Push yourself hard, give the act of photography a chance and the time it deserves. Never settle, never compromise on your vision. Strive for perfection in camera and (trust me) you’ll be rewarded as never before. Remember your photos not only reflect what’s around you … they highlight what’s inside you, as well.
Thank you for joining us on this journey through what is possible. We appreciate your trust and faith. If you ever have any question just let us know. We’re here for you!
Good luck, good shooting … and stay In Focus!
This is post #16 of 16 of In Camera Magic: The 12 Essential Creative Options, a free online photography course for creating spectacular images right in the camera.