Hello, .
In my communication with you yesterday, I mentioned the photographer I worked with during the Getting To Know Your Camera class and how it made him a more intentional photographer.
Today, I want to dig deeper into the importance of intent.
When
we study and practice our photography with intent, we become better photographers and make more impactful photographs.
Our intent should be thoughtfully applied through the creation of the picture and the critique of our work.
In other words, we should be mindful of our intent of what we do when we're doing it.
The intent of our composition should be clear and established when we see something to photograph.
Sometimes, a part of our intent can be set if we are given an assignment.
A good question to ask ourselves to begin getting involved in intent is what we want to communicate or express through
photographs?
Do we want to convey facts, opinions, or feelings?
Our intent for camera operation is essential because what we do with our camera should have a visual outcome that supports our compositional intent and communicates our intended message.
For example, to name a few, what exposure mode do we use?
What is the focusing mode and area?
What metering pattern should we use?
Remember, EVERYTHING we do
with our camera IS composition.
After we create the photograph, a self-critique is in order.
Self-criticism is always helpful because it allows us to evaluate our work and guides us in improving our photography.
Our analysis should be based on our compositional intent and whether or not the outcome of what we did with our camera operation in creating our photograph supports our intent of the composition.
Our intent
is paramount in creating our photographs.
Without intention, we make thoughtless, unengaging, run-of-the-mill, uninspired pictures.
Ultimately, our unique thought process and ability to operate our camera effectively will allow us to create distinctive and exciting photography that communicates our intended message.
If that's what you'd like to do, then the Introduction to Photography class, the Getting To Know Your Camera class, or a series of private lessons will help ya do that.
Whatever you wanna do, I'll be here to help you be a better photographer.
I'll help you be a better photographer—study and practice photography with me.
Currently scheduled classes are below.
Smaller classes mean better learning, so class sizes are limited to 5 participants plus me.
But smaller classes also mean spots fill up quicker, so sign up soon.
And what if the timing doesn't work for you in any of my scheduled group classes? 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
