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Hello, .

Today, while working with a couple of intermediate-level photographers during a private lesson, I used a phrase that resonated with one of them.

I used the phrase to describe a part of the process we go through when creating or composing a picture.

First, everything we do is composition. 

The composition has elements, some of which relate to our camera technique.

Composition starts when something gets our attention, initiating the impulse to make a picture.

Here's the way I explained it during the lesson;

After I get the impulse to create a picture and understand my communication intent, I'll imagine what the image will look like.

After deciding my focal length, I'll work on the content within the frame. 

I'll begin imagining what aperture, shutter speed, and ISO I'd like to use to communicate my intent.

While those are elements of composition that we can consider, we need to understand that we use them to construct a picture.

The phrase "construct a picture" resonated with the photographer.

I like to think of our work as constructing pictures instead of composing them. 

The process isn't different; it's simply a word choice that describes what we do.  

To me, the word "construct" feels more utilitarian and practical than "compose," which aligns with my view of myself as a craftsperson rather than an artist.

Whatever word we choose doesn't matter as long as we understand that we intentionally build, construct, or compose pictures using the elements of composition.

There's only one spot left in the Introduction To Photography class that starts on Sunday, April 14. 

The Introduction To Photography class will get you more involved in photography by learning how to work your camera in manual exposure mode. You'll get a good foundation in the basics of photography while learning reliable creative techniques. Classes are scheduled to start April 14. 

Smaller classes mean better learning, so class sizes are limited to 5 participants plus me.

But smaller classes also mean spots fill up quicker. 

Private in-person or online lessons suited to your schedule are always an option. 

And remember, we learn and improve by doing, so practice making at least one picture daily.

That's all for now; thanks for reading! 
Sam

I'll help you be a better photographer—study and practice photography with me. 

And what if the timing doesn't work for you in any of my scheduled group classes? If that's the case, let's schedule a one-time lesson or a series of in-person or online private instruction that covers the same things as my group classes. 

Ways to work with me are listed below.