Pho·tog·ra·pher [fəˈtɒɡrəfə] noun : a person who takes photographs, either as a hobby or a profession.
Window shopping was the most cost effective way to view the season’s latest fashions without actually walking into a store until online shopping took over. Still, store windows remain ever glamorous. They also provide photographers a great opportunity to practice portraiture, since the mannequins don’t seem to mind how many times you want to take another photo. I also love the little gems that aren’t immediately obvious, like an adorable life-like Yorkie, and a fabulous pair of red shoes.
Whimsical Me
I am always the first to admit that I am very particular. I like things a certain way and I refuse to lower my standards. This is especially true when it comes to my photography, I only share carefully selected photos through specific online mediums. There are mediums I stay away from because they take away my ability to control what/how information is shared, either because the medium is built that way or somebody else already puts it out there. This makes me precarious about others claiming ownership and sharing my content, even when no harm is meant. But in this day and age, when everyone is sharing everything, how can I not be scrupulous about what information is offered about me on the internet? In an ideal world, people should have the ability to control information about themselves, or consent to it being shared. Social networks are not defined as free press - yet.
If it wasn’t for you lending me your camera, the thought of picking up a DSLR and trying it would have never crossed my mind. Your generosity opened my eyes to the possibilities of photography beyond using a power-shot. I was so grateful for being able to take your camera on my adventures throughout Europe that I treated it with utmost care, locking it for safety whenever I wasn’t using it and diligently wrapping it in huge bubble wrap in my backpack. I only put it at risk once - when I went to a secluded beach only reachable by walking in shoulder-high water after disembarking a boat - but that was because I had done the trek the day before and I knew what precautions to take to protect it (sealed in ziploc many times over, carrying it high above my head!). The risk of getting swept away by a wave was worth it, the camera made it through and the photos of the clear blue water, black sand beach, and white cliffs were glorious!
Louis, thank you for introducing me to my newfound passion for photography.
Happy New Year to you and yours!
Anyone can be an artist.
Photography is easily one of the most accessible forms of art performed by the general public. It wasn’t always this way. The technology for photography was first developed during the 1800s and became popularized by the introduction of instant cameras in the 1940s. After many technological advances, photography has been embraced by the masses and has become socially mandatory, creating the “if it’s not on camera, it never happened” effect. Putting aside the annual family and school portraits, party and travel snapshots, and cellphone pics of the everyday world around us, there’s a form of photography not commonly pursued by people: artistic self expression. All photographers are artists, yet few people acknowledge themselves this way.
It could be because people think photography requires an investment of time and money, and the technology looks intimidating. But people underestimate their ability to take great photographs. I have underestimated mine for a very long time. In my experience, with a great camera and a little coaching, anyone can be a good photographer. It just takes a little patience, taking the same shot over and over again - not just until it’s right, but so that you can choose which photograph to keep out of many. It’s even easier if you make a project for yourself to photograph particular objects, scenery, or people; you’ll end up with a wonderful collection of photographs with a common theme.
Anyone can pick up a camera and take a picture. Anyone can be an artist.
Sony Alpha NEX-5N
What a beautiful camera. I used its predecessor during last summer’s trip to Europe without really knowing how to use it. The new model is even better because it provides an on-screen guide and photograph-taking tips. I got to try it out during the Photo Plus EXPO at Jacob Javits this Fall. What a machine - $699.99 - owww! It’s only a matter of time!
Inspired by...
- Sophie: You're letting your talent go to waste. You should really invest in a good camera and take photographs.
- Jolanta: I want to. I even know which camera I'd buy.
- S: So go for it!
- J: When would I even photograph? I have a full-time job.
- S: In the morning before work, with the best light!
- J: Maybe. I'd want to share my work online. What should I call it?
- S: Jolanta's New York.
