In analog photography, the image is invisible and remains hidden on the film until it magically appears during development. Poetry can remain in our minds like a latent image. Here is a poem I wrote about this phenomenon.
With the digital revolution, there are more and more photos being taken. It can seem that any particular photo has already been taken numerous times. An interesting piece by Teju Cole in the New York Times relates that photos we see can remind us of other photos. In my case, they often remind me of songs.
Here’s a finding that interests me: “Brain process involved in sight have found the visual cortex also uses information gleaned from the ears as well as the eyes when viewing the world.” This is according to a team of neuroscientists at the Institute of Neuroscience and Psychology at the University of Glasgow. Professor Lars Muckli, who led the research, explained in an article for their university magazine, “Sounds create visual imagery, mental images, and automatic projections.”
Sometimes it’s the imagery in the song; sometimes it’s linked to a memory associated with the song.
“Don’t you wonder sometimes ’bout sound and vision,” David Bowie asked us in the song “Sound and Vision.” Yes, we do.
—
Photo tip: Think of a few of your favourite songs and try to take photos that match them.
Don’t you feel inspired whenever you travel? Seeing the world with “fresh eyes” provides wonderful photo opportunities, and you may get some of your best photos when visiting a new place. A little research and preparation in advance can make for a more trouble-free experience when photographing.
Photographer Jim Richardson relates, “Philosophically, photographers seem to divide along that fault line. On one side are those who desire only to be in the moment. For them, forethought only distorts perception. On the other side are the planners. Most National Geographic photographers I know do both: research extensively to prepare their schedule (and their minds) and then become existentially in-the-moment once on site.”
Some of the preparations may involve looking through websites, photo or guide books, or Google Maps to get a sense of what the place looks like and to learn good shooting locations. You can also research seasonal events in the destination, so you don’t miss an important festival or event. Also, with social media, you can meet up with other photographers who are native to the area. It’s a great way to learn the ins and outs of a place, and connect with like-minded people.
—
Photo tip: Connect with other photographers on Flickr or Facebook to join a photo walk. It’s a great way to socialize and learn new things.
You have probably been in a street environment where there’s an opportunity to take a candid portrait and you know that calling attention to the camera will spoil the moment. What to do? Many factors come into it; the country you’re in, the purpose of your photograph, whether you think the person objects to having their photo taken. It depends very much on the circumstances–but the bottom line is to have respect for the subject.
Magnum photographer Carolyn Drakerelates, “It depends on the circumstances. There is a pleasure in disappearing behind the camera on a crowded city street, and sometimes making the picture before the conversation makes for a more surprising picture. But if there’s someone I want to pose or spend time with, or who for some other reason it seems to make sense to ask, then I will. It’s a judgement call.”
In my experience, I have had success in engaging with the person, and asking, “May I take your photo?” Then I may look for more candid moments as I take some photos. Spending a little time with people and engaging with them may lead to more authentic portraits.
—
Photo tip: Try making the subject’s environment part of the portrait. These details can help form a narrative about the person.
The Japanese are crazy about fish. Not only do they enjoy eating fish, they also enjoy catching them. At urban fishing centres you can pay 600 yen (about $7) to go fishing in a concrete pool. (The fish have to be put back to be caught again by another customer.)
There is something zen about fishing. In a Huffington Post article Abigail Wise lists the ways in which fishing makes you a better person. It reduces stress and helps keep you fit, not to mention the health benefits of eating fish.
In my years spent in Japan in the 1980s, I saw people fishing in rivers, canals, and lakes. There was something calming about just watching them fish. And, of course, it made for interesting photos.
—
Photo tip: The world looks different from above. Try looking for high vantage points to get dynamic high-angle shots. Russian photographer Alexander Rodchenko was a master of using both high-angle and low-angle photography.
