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Photography, an art that began with chemical reactions on paper, has experienced multiple revolutions. Today, technology and modern lifestyles drive these changes, altering how we perceive, capture, and share images. This dynamic evolution is reshaping photography in exciting ways, from the tools we use to the subjects that captivate our audiences.
1. The Dawn of Smartphone Photography
No discussion on modern photography is complete without acknowledging smartphones. These devices brought high-quality cameras to our pockets, democratizing photography in unprecedented ways. With apps like Instagram and Snapchat, everyday users became photographers, curators, and consumers of visual content.
Example: The iPhone's "Shot on iPhone" campaign showcases the extraordinary capabilities of smartphone cameras, featuring images that rival those taken with professional equipment.
2. Drones: A New Perspective
Drones have opened up a whole new world of angles and perspectives. Once unreachable vistas or large-scale landscape shots are now easily achievable. This bird's eye view has redefined the way we document places and events.
Example: Drones have revolutionized travel photography. Places like Iceland’s vast terrains or Dubai’s towering skyscrapers are being captured from angles that were once impossible.
3. Augmented Reality (AR) & Virtual Reality (VR)
AR and VR are blurring the lines between the real and virtual worlds. Snapchat’s AR lenses or Instagram filters transform ordinary selfies into creative masterpieces. On the other hand, VR photography creates immersive 360-degree experiences, transporting viewers to different realms.
Example: National Geographic's VR transports viewers to places like the peaks of Mount Everest or the depths of the ocean, providing an immersive photographic experience.
4. The Age of Influencers and Content Creators
Today's modern lifestyles, especially among Gen Z and millennials, emphasize personal branding. Many have transformed their lives into visual narratives, curating images that reflect their personal journey, interests, and aspirations. This has cultivated a unique photographic style, characterized by personal aesthetics and storytelling.
Example: Travel influencers like @doyoutravel and @gypsea_lust on Instagram, curate their feed with a distinctive color palette and theme, weaving a visual narrative of their globetrotting adventures.
5. The Fast-paced World of TikTok and Short Videos
Platforms like TikTok have underscored the importance of short, impactful visual content. While traditionally not "photography," these videos underscore the convergence of stills and motion in storytelling.
Example: Creative trends on TikTok, such as the "freeze-frame" trend, blend photography's static nature with dynamic video elements, presenting a unique form of visual storytelling.
6. Computational Photography
Modern cameras, especially smartphones, use computational photography to enhance image quality. Features like Night mode or Portrait mode leverage algorithms to process multiple images, enhancing details, and refining the outcome. For example, the Average Image Stacking Algorithm involves a simple mathematical operation, which is the calculation of the average pixel value for each pixel location in the final stacked image. The equation for this algorithm can be represented as follows:
For example, Google Pixel’s “Astrophotography Mode” allows users to capture stunning images of the night sky, a feat previously reserved for specialized equipment. Likewise, Apple's iOS Camera app has a feature called "Night mode." Night mode uses computational photography techniques, including image stacking, to capture better low-light photos. It's designed to automatically activate when the camera detects low-light conditions, such as at night or in dimly lit environments. This mode takes a series of images, aligns and stacks them to reduce noise, and enhances the final result to create well-exposed and detailed low-light photos.
7. The Quest for Authenticity
Amidst the highly curated content, there’s a growing demand for real, unfiltered moments. Authenticity has become a cherished value, with audiences seeking genuine connections and stories.
Example: The #nofilter movement on social media platforms celebrates images in their raw, unedited form, emphasizing real beauty and moments.
8. Sustainable Photography
As modern lifestyles become more eco-conscious, photographers are capturing the essence of sustainability, from the majesty of renewable energy structures to the simplicity of minimalistic living.
Example: Photographers like Chris Burkard have emphasized the importance of nature conservation through their captivating images of the wild, urging viewers to respect and preserve our environment.
9. Vlogging - The Personal Touch to Storytelling
In an age where personal narratives dominate, vlogging has emerged as a powerhouse in digital content creation. Vloggers, with their cameras in hand or mounted on tripods, take viewers through their day-to-day lives, travels, challenges, and adventures. Unlike traditional photography or video creation, vlogs are often raw, personal, and immediate. They provide an inside look into the lives of individuals, making them relatable and authentic.
Example: Casey Neistat, a renowned YouTuber, transformed vlogging with his unique style. His videos, a mix of fast-paced city shots, drone footage, and personal narratives, set a new standard for vlog content. He not only captures moments but tells compelling stories, making his audience feel like they're right beside him on his adventures.
Conclusion
In today's ever-evolving world, photography, once rooted in chemical processes on paper, is undergoing a remarkable transformation shaped by technology and modern lifestyles. This evolution is fundamentally changing the way we perceive, capture, and share images. From the accessibility of high-quality smartphone cameras and the democratization of photography to the soaring perspectives offered by drones, the convergence of reality and virtual realms through AR and VR, and the rise of influencers and content creators who infuse their personal journeys into visual narratives, photography is continuously adapting to our dynamic existence. Furthermore, the fast-paced world of platforms like TikTok emphasizes the fusion of stills and motion in storytelling, while computational photography, such as Google's "Astrophotography Mode" and Apple's "Night mode," showcases how algorithms enhance image quality. As the demand for authenticity and sustainability grows, photography serves as a medium to reflect values and inspire change. Additionally, vlogging, a popular form of content creation, has a significant connection to dating etiquette, offering insights and lessons in the art of respectful and considerate dating practices. These dynamic shifts in photography and its integration with modern life redefine the art for the digital age, opening new horizons for storytelling and creative expression.
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Portrait photography, with its timeless allure, goes beyond a mere click of a camera; it immortalizes moments, captures essence, and tells unspoken tales. The key to an impeccable portrait lies in meticulous preparation, ensuring that every aspect harmoniously aligns to spotlight the subject's authenticity.
The initial and perhaps most defining step in the journey of portrait photography is understanding the photograph's intent. Every portrait tells a story, whether it's a candid capture for a personal keepsake or a meticulously curated image for a professional portfolio. Recognizing this purpose shapes the decisions that follow, from the aesthetic choices to the emotional tone.
The photographer's role in portrait photography is akin to that of a conductor in an orchestra. They guide, envision, and bring the symphony to life. To ensure your portrait resonates with your vision, invest time in selecting a photographer whose style resonates with your intended outcome. Explore their portfolio, understand their approach to portrait photography, and communicate your expectations to ensure there's a harmonious collaboration.
The choice of attire in portrait photography can subtly yet profoundly influence the image's outcome. When considering outfit choices, think of colors that complement skin tones and the backdrop. Neutral colors often offer a safe choice, seamlessly blending without overshadowing the subject. However, the palette can be expanded based on the portrait's mood. Textures and patterns, while captivating, should be approached with caution. Simplicity often triumphs, with intricate patterns potentially diverting attention. The fit and context of the clothing also play pivotal roles, ensuring the attire complements rather than contrasts the portrait's theme.
Grooming and makeup, when executed thoughtfully, can elevate portrait photography. Hairstyling, whether elaborate or minimalist, should resonate with the portrait's tone. For women, makeup can be a powerful tool. While a natural look is often preferred, emphasizing specific features or using makeup artistry to match a theme can be just as impactful. For men, decisions around facial hair—whether it's a rugged beard, a trimmed mustache, or a clean-shaven look—can add layers of depth to the portrait.
The backdrop in portrait photography serves as a silent storyteller. Whether you opt for the controlled environment of a studio or the dynamic allure of the outdoors, ensure the background complements the subject. Natural settings, while unpredictable, offer a myriad of possibilities. However, factors such as lighting, potential distractions, and time of day can significantly impact the result.
Lighting, the unsung hero of portrait photography, holds the power to sculpt, define, and breathe life into a photograph. Harnessing natural light, especially during the 'golden hour,' can yield soft, ethereal results. In contrast, mastering artificial light, understanding shadows, and manipulating intensity can turn a studio setting into a canvas, letting the photographer paint with light.
Before the shutter clicks, take time to practice poses. While a spontaneous shot can capture raw emotion, understanding angles, postures, and expressions can significantly enhance portrait photography. Engage with the mirror, study iconic portraits, and seek feedback to ensure you're presenting your best self.
Skincare, often overlooked, is the canvas upon which the portrait is painted. Ensuring a radiant complexion, free from blemishes or imperfections, can provide a flawless base. Moreover, a well-rested appearance combined with adequate hydration ensures eyes sparkle, skin glows, and fatigue stays at bay.
Consistent communication with the photographer is paramount. Sharing ideas, voicing concerns, or discussing visions ensures both parties are aligned, paving the way for a masterpiece. At the core of portrait photography, beyond the technicalities and preparations, lies authenticity. Embrace the moment, relax, and let the camera capture the genuine essence.
In essence, while portrait photography is an interplay of various elements, preparation stands as its cornerstone. From understanding the portrait's purpose, collaborating with the right photographer, making informed sartorial choices, to mastering the nuances of lighting, every step culminates in crafting an image that's both evocative and timeless. By following these guidelines, your venture into portrait photography is bound to yield a picture worth a thousand words.
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Nude photography, a medium that captures the bare essence of the human form, has been both celebrated and vilified throughout history. From the sensual statues of ancient Greece to contemporary candid shots, the human body, in its unadorned state, has always evoked a range of emotions. The way in which nude imagery is perceived varies widely across different cultures, deeply embedded in societal norms, religious beliefs, and historical contexts. This article delves into the taboos associated with nude photography across various cultures and seeks to provide an understanding of the sensitivities and nuances that shape these perspectives.
Western Societies: The Evolution of Acceptance
In many Western societies, nude art has long been a part of the artistic tradition. The Renaissance period, for instance, saw a revival of interest in the human form, with artists like Michelangelo and Botticelli immortalizing nudity in their works. Yet, it was not without controversy. The Catholic Church, during different periods, responded with censorship, equating nudity with moral decay.
However, as times changed, so did the acceptance of the naked form in art. The late 19th and 20th centuries saw a liberalization of societal norms, with nude photography becoming an accepted, though still occasionally controversial, art form.
Middle Eastern Perspectives: Modesty and Morality
In many Middle Eastern cultures, governed by Islamic laws and beliefs, the representation of the human body, especially the female form, is seen through a lens of modesty. While historical Islamic art has showcased figural representations, explicit depictions of nudity are rare and often considered taboo. The concept of "awrah" (intimate parts) in Islam emphasizes covering, and thus nude photography can be seen as a direct contradiction to this principle.
However, it's crucial to note that there's diversity within the Islamic world. While some countries might strictly enforce these principles, others may have a more liberal stance, especially in private or artistic settings.
Asian Views: From Conservative to Contemporary
Asia, with its myriad cultures, offers a tapestry of views on nude photography. Traditional societies like India, with temple art depicting erotic scenes, have a complex relationship with nudity. While ancient art forms might have celebrated the human body, contemporary India grapples with its colonial Victorian legacy and indigenous culture, often resulting in a conservative stance on nudity.
Contrastingly, countries like Japan have a more nuanced view. While public decency laws are strict, the nation has a long-standing tradition of communal bathing, and art forms like "shunga" (erotic art) suggest a more liberal historical perspective on nudity.
African Insights: Body as Art and Ritual
Africa, a continent rich in tribal traditions, has various cultures where nudity isn't sexualized but rather seen as a part of rituals, coming-of-age ceremonies, or daily life. Traditional body painting, beadwork, and scarification practices highlight the body as a canvas. However, the advent of Christianity and Islam, coupled with colonial influences, has reshaped perceptions. Modern African societies often juggle between these indigenous practices and imported beliefs, leading to diverse views on nude photography.
Indigenous Cultures: Nudity as Natural
Many indigenous cultures around the world, from the tribes of the Amazon to the natives of Oceania, view nudity as an intrinsic part of their way of life. In these cultures, the human body isn't necessarily sexualized but seen as natural. The external gaze, especially from Western perspectives, has sometimes misinterpreted or exoticized this, leading to controversial portrayals in photography.
Nudity in Communist Countries
Communist countries, typically characterized by their state-controlled media, economies, and stringent societal norms, have historically had complex relationships with the portrayal of nudity. During the 20th century, in countries such as the Soviet Union and Maoist China, public displays of nudity were often suppressed and associated with decadence, Western influence, or moral corruption. Artistic representations were largely restricted to ideologically approved themes that emphasized socialist values, worker heroism, and collective goals, often sidelining or censoring individualistic and personal expressions like nude art. However, it's worth noting the exception of East Germany, which embraced "Freikörperkultur" (Free Body Culture), promoting naturism and the normalization of communal nudity in designated areas. As these countries underwent political and cultural shifts, so did their stance on nudity, with modern-day communist nations often showing a broader range of acceptance or indifference towards it, influenced by global trends, tourism, and cultural exchange.
Is the acceptance of nudity affected by climate?
Climate has undeniably played a role in shaping cultural perspectives on nudity, but it's imperative to interpret it within a broader context of societal norms, religious beliefs, colonization history, and more. Historically, regions with warmer climates, especially those in the tropical zone, saw indigenous populations adopt minimal clothing. The primary reason was the practical need for heat dissipation. In these societies, the human body's exposure was not overly sexualized. Instead, nudity or partial nudity was a straightforward response to the discomfort brought by intense heat. However, as colonization progressed and foreign religions and customs intermingled with indigenous practices, many of these societies began to adopt more conservative dress codes.
On the other hand, colder regions naturally necessitated the wearing of multiple clothing layers as protection against harsh, freezing temperatures. Here, nudity became a concept largely restricted to private, warm spaces. Consider, for example, the Nordic sauna culture. In countries like Finland, communal nudity is an intrinsic part of the sauna experience, separated from any sexual context. This practice stems from the need to find warmth and the cultural adaptation of making communal warmth-seeking a norm.
Coastal regions present another nuanced view. With expansive coastlines, beaches, or significant maritime activities, these areas have developed a distinct relationship with nudity, especially in the context of sea or sunbathing. Over time and with evolving cultural norms, specific parts of these coastal areas have seen the emergence of nudist beaches or naturist movements, reflecting a blend of climate-driven practices and societal acceptance.
Moreover, in places where climate directly influenced traditional dress codes, the advent of new ideologies or colonization led to intriguing syncretic practices. For instance, many indigenous tribes, while retaining elements of their traditional attire, started incorporating aspects of the colonizers' dress. This amalgamation showcases the adaptability of cultures and the multi-dimensional factors affecting views on nudity.
As the world moves towards greater globalization and interconnection, the dynamics influencing perspectives on nudity continually evolve, becoming more intricate. It remains essential, however, to understand the foundational role of climate while also acknowledging the myriad of other influences at play.
Conclusion: A World of Contrasts
Nude photography's perception is a mirror reflecting the diverse cultural, religious, and societal beliefs of people around the world. While some see it as the highest form of art, others view it as a breach of modesty. As the world becomes more interconnected, understanding and respecting these differences is crucial for artists and viewers alike. As with any art form, the key is to approach the subject with sensitivity, empathy, and open-mindedness, celebrating the myriad ways in which humanity perceives itself.
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Photography is an art form that marries aesthetics with technique. One of the foundational principles that photographers, both beginners and professionals, utilize to elevate their compositions is the "Rule of Thirds". This simple yet effective rule has been employed for centuries, predating photography and finding its roots in classical painting. Here, we will dive deep into the Rule of Thirds, understanding its history, significance, and the ways to masterfully implement it in your shots.
What is the Rule of Thirds?
The Rule of Thirds is a compositional guideline that divides an image into nine equal sections by two equally spaced horizontal lines and two equally spaced vertical lines. The theory suggests that by positioning the primary elements or subjects of your photograph along these lines, or at the intersections of them, you can produce a more balanced, harmonious, and engaging composition.
Imagine a tic-tac-toe grid placed over your viewfinder or screen. The points where the lines intersect are considered to be the "power points", and are ideal places to position your main subjects.
Historical Origins
The Rule of Thirds can be traced back to the Renaissance period. Painters of that era discovered that positioning key elements off-center created a more pleasing, dynamic arrangement. This understanding found its way into the photography world as the medium evolved, and it has remained a cornerstone of composition.
Why Does the Rule of Thirds Work?
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Visual Balance: Placing subjects in the center can make the composition feel overly static and straightforward. The Rule of Thirds introduces an element of asymmetry, creating tension and balance simultaneously.
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Guiding the Eye: By using the intersections of the grid as focal points, you can effectively guide a viewer's eye through the image, letting them naturally take in both the subject and the surrounding environment.
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Enhancing Depth: The grid lines can be utilized to emphasize the depth in an image. For instance, a horizon placed along one of the horizontal lines will create a sense of vastness and space.
How to Implement the Rule of Thirds
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Use Grid Overlays: Many modern cameras and smartphones have an option to display a grid overlay on the screen or viewfinder. This can act as a guide when framing your shots.
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Position Subjects at Intersections: As mentioned, the intersecting points on the grid are power points. Placing your primary subject—be it a person, building, or any other focal point—at these intersections can add emphasis.
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Align Horizons: Instead of placing horizons dead center, align them with one of the horizontal grid lines. For a sky-dominated image, put the horizon on the lower line. For a ground-heavy photo, use the upper line.
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Employ with Portraits: When shooting portraits, consider placing the subject's eyes along the top horizontal line. This often results in a more engaging and balanced portrait.
Reinterpreting the Rule of Thirds
While the rule of thirds provides a dependable structure, diverging from this artistic anchor might seem daunting for novices. Yet, seasoned photographers frequently venture outside its confines. Here's how they do it:
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Capturing a lady amidst the foliage
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Harnessing the rule's power while framing a lady poised on a sea rock
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An artist capturing moments from a desolate jetty
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Beyond the Edges: "The magic often lies outside the frame. There are moments when elements partially escape the frame's confines or dominate its forefront," notes photographer Alex Tan. "Such scenes render the rule of thirds redundant. My recent endeavors have been portraits that command the center."
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Zoom Out: Derek Boyd believes that making your subject a minor element can sometimes be striking. "At times, placing your focal point dead center is the most effective way to spotlight it."
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Experiment with Layout: Sarah Aagesen shares, "Designing your shot to follow a 'Z' pattern adds a delightful rhythm. It mirrors the way our eyes traverse a page—left to right, then downward, and left again." Unless you are used to reading Hebrew of course.
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Multiple Angles: "Don't settle after one click," Boyd advises. "Center your subject, then try the top right and top left. Even if the initial capture feels right, snap a few more. The final choice will reveal itself during review."
Post-production Fixes
Photography software and tools have significantly enhanced the post-production landscape, providing photographers with the means to address compositional missteps, such as deviations from the rule of thirds. One of the most common tools across platforms like Adobe Lightroom, Photoshop, and GIMP is the cropping tool. By using this tool, photographers can readjust the frame around their subject. During this process, a grid often appears over the image, mirroring the rule of thirds, which assists in the optimal repositioning of primary subjects or points of interest. In cases where the horizon might seem tilted, the straightening tool can come in handy to align it perfectly.
Beyond straightening, rotation tools are pivotal for ensuring subjects or critical points maintain their intended placement. Special features in software, like Photoshop's content-aware scale, enable image resizing without distorting essential subjects. If extensive cropping results in gaps within the frame, content-aware fill can replicate nearby patterns to fill those spaces seamlessly. For maintaining the rule of thirds, distracting elements might need removal, and this is where clone or healing tools become invaluable. They efficiently erase or replace these distractions, leaving no visible marks.
Subtle techniques like adding a vignette can accentuate focus on specific image parts, especially if they reside around the rule of thirds intersections. On the other hand, graduated or radial filters, primarily found in Lightroom, can adjust specific aspects like exposure or contrast in particular image sections, directing the viewer's gaze appropriately. Tools like Lightroom's Guided Upright further elevate the adherence to the rule by allowing photographers to ensure that elements like architectural features are perfectly vertical or horizontal.
After all the adjustments, if there's a loss in resolution due to cropping, software tools offer the option to resize or resample the image to preserve the quality for both prints and digital displays. During the entire editing journey, many software tools continuously present a grid overlay, aiding photographers in visualizing the rule of thirds and ensuring the alignment of subjects and focal points as intended. Through these advanced post-production techniques, photographers can seamlessly refine their compositions, aligning them more closely with the rule of thirds or other desired compositional guidelines.
Conclusions
The Rule of Thirds is a timeless tool that photographers can use to enhance their compositions. While it may seem simple, its impact on visual storytelling can be profound. As you grow in your photography journey, you'll discover that it's not just about following rules but understanding when to employ them and when to chart your own path. The Rule of Thirds, in essence, is less about confinement and more about offering a foundation from which creativity can blossom.
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Photography is a great hobby or profession to have, and whether you do it for fun or for work, it’s important that you learn how to take the best possible photos.
Different subjects require different camera settings, angles and lighting. Just because you’re great at taking pictures of your kids inside your home doesn’t mean you’ll be an expert at shooting moving objects outside. If you’re interested in taking nature and outdoors shots, it’s important that you use the following tips in order to photograph like a professional.
Learn about lighting.
When you’re taking outdoor photographs, you’ll rely heavily on the natural light provided by the sun. However, some people think that they’re supposed to take their outdoor pictures in direct sunlight, and this is untrue. Direct sunlight will actually wash out your pictures and make your subjects appear flat instead of dimensional. If you truly want to take great outdoor photos, it’s best to take them in partial sun or on overcast days. Plus, without the direct sun, you will also avoid any harsh shadows that may occur and leave your picture looking faded or even strange.
Don’t be afraid to use your flash.
That’s right. It is perfectly acceptable, and actually recommended, to use your flash outdoors. So many people fail to realize this because they think it’s only used for darker indoor photo shoots. The light from the flash will help to add necessary and useful light to your photos that will make your nature photos look fantastic.
Play around with your angles.
Stop standing so far away from your subjects. Instead, get up close and personal and take shots that are unusual. Don’t be afraid to stand above your subject or even below your subject, and don’t feel as if your subject matter always has to be in the center of your shot. If you really want to encompass all the nature has to offer, you have to be willing to take the unusual shots. After all, not everything in nature is best viewed from 20 feet away.
Experiment with your camera.
Most people will default to using the auto setting on their camera, and while this can help you get the hang of taking pictures, it’s not the best setting for your nature needs. Take the time to truly get to know your camera. Play around with different settings, and actually read the manual. The more information you can learn about your camera and the more you can fiddle around with it, the more you will learn about which settings to use to take the best pictures.
Know how to take pictures of objects in motion.
Capturing running water or a moving animal only works well if you know how to take pictures of motion. If you don’t, you’ll end up with blurry pictures. If you want to take professional nature pictures, you need to learn how to take pictures of objects in motion. Try to use a shutter speed of at least 1/250. Auto-focus can help ensure the object is constantly in focus as it moves. Using continuous drive mode can help to take rapid-fire shots. It’s also a good idea to leave a little bit of space at the front of your photo to give the feeling that the animal is moving.
Don’t be afraid to edit.
Even if you become a great nature photographer, you’re still allowed to enhance the quality of your photos. Don’t overlook using tools like Adobe Photoshop in order to help the colors of your photos pop or to edit the look and feel of the photo. Sometimes a little editing can go a long way, and there’s no harm in a little touch up.
Learn about the history of nature photography.
In order to be an expert, it’s a good idea to have some basic knowledge of your craft. Learning the history of nature photography can help you see different shots that photographers took throughout the years in order to have better examples of the shots you should be taking. You can also see how they took their shots, what settings and lighting they used, and even what worked and didn’t work. The more you know about your craft, the more educated you’ll be on taking professional quality shots of your own.
Jayma Watson is an amateur photographer, freelance writer and blogger who spends as much time as possible capturing nature at its best.