5 Reminders When Taking Photos

#1

You will not immediately love every photo you take.

You have to give it time. Maybe your photo didn't match what your eyes see. Maybe it’s out of focus. KEEP IT! Allow the meaning of the photo to emerge in its own time.

I've looked back at countless photos that I have taken over the years. The photos that I thought were all wrong, end up becoming my favorites. Simply because, at the time I took the photo, I didn't really see what was actually there - I only saw the flaws. Years later, you might look back at that very same photo and see something completely different.

#2

Use What You Have.

Lots of people get caught up in buying the best camera or the newest phone camera. I have always believed that the best camera is the one you already have. New does not always equal better. Really take the time to learn all the features of your camera. Are you always using the same settings? Have you experimented with some feature you thought wasn't for you?

May I suggest that you don't need new equipment - you just need a new perspective!

#3

Take your time.

Don't rush, take your time and get your shot. Yes, people may look at you funny, especially if you pull out an old film camera from your bag! Sometimes, I may need to wait a bit from the rest of my group, and other times I simply sneak away. 

Your capture should not be rushed. Move, compose your image, and remember to take your time.

#4

Pay Attention.

It is easy to go about your day and never "look up" because you are constantly crossing things off of your to do list. If you are thinking about last night's conversation or what you have to do next week, you may not be paying attention to the beauty that is around you right now.

Honestly, sometimes I just want to be present in my life and not photograph it. To feel, see, and hear what I am experiencing at the moment. And that's perfectly fine, too. Pay attention to your life, regardless if you decide to capture it or not.

#5

Keep It Simple.

Remember to capture the simple things. The things you may overlook. It's the simple things which makes a photo more meaningful. You don't have to photograph everything. Focus on one element which speaks to you, and capture that element. Simple = meaningful.

Join me in February where I will guide you with a daily photography prompt to explore what it means to Simply Notice the details of your life.