Exploring Photojournalism
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| Self Portrait prior to Photoshop Curves Edit |
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| Self Portrait after Photoshop Curves Applied |
Self Portrait
Henri Cartier-Bresson said, “Your first 10,000 photographs are your worst.” Everyone has to start somewhere, I guess it's uphill from here. I have always admired those who can capture a single moment in time, a beautiful moment that can never be reproduced. As an amateur photographer with little knowledge and expertise behind the secret of "making" a great picture, I am excited to learn how to become a better photographer.
Utilizing window filtered sunlight, I attempted to create a unique photograph. I found that I battled shadows and direct sunlight. This resulted in multiple attempts over a period of time in order to determine when the light would be best. After looking through the prints, I specifically found that I favored photographs with unique lighting and shadows. Prior to this portrait, I was unaware of the multi-faceted aspects that influence a photo. It was a learning experience, finding that it took multiple attempts to reach even one good shot.
The technology boom has created a society with auto-pilot mentality. Taking the fast, easy way out has led to a lack of creativity and true work ethic in many areas of life. Photography is a great example of how computer science has evolved making mankind excessively simplistic, with the camera being a tiny yet miraculous computer. By changing to a manual mode, shooting at ISO 100, the learning experience became exponential as did the number of influencing variables. It is far more rewarding to earn the making of a great photo then take the credit of a computers work.
On both photos, I value the unique shadowing on portions of the face and wall. However, although the better shots came in early evening with less intense light, I think that future pictures could benefit from altered positions for both the subject and camera. Furthermore, I would like to test the early morning sunrise light which may be more flattering light for portraits.
Some may question why I chose to not look into the camera. I have found that I always appreciate photos that are not necessarily posed and directed at the camera. Every photograph takes on a life of its own and can set a specific tone and mood. The pictures that I find specifically distinctive and powerful are captured without the subjects awareness conveying spirit, vivacity and deeper emotions.
Utilizing window filtered sunlight, I attempted to create a unique photograph. I found that I battled shadows and direct sunlight. This resulted in multiple attempts over a period of time in order to determine when the light would be best. After looking through the prints, I specifically found that I favored photographs with unique lighting and shadows. Prior to this portrait, I was unaware of the multi-faceted aspects that influence a photo. It was a learning experience, finding that it took multiple attempts to reach even one good shot.
The technology boom has created a society with auto-pilot mentality. Taking the fast, easy way out has led to a lack of creativity and true work ethic in many areas of life. Photography is a great example of how computer science has evolved making mankind excessively simplistic, with the camera being a tiny yet miraculous computer. By changing to a manual mode, shooting at ISO 100, the learning experience became exponential as did the number of influencing variables. It is far more rewarding to earn the making of a great photo then take the credit of a computers work.
On both photos, I value the unique shadowing on portions of the face and wall. However, although the better shots came in early evening with less intense light, I think that future pictures could benefit from altered positions for both the subject and camera. Furthermore, I would like to test the early morning sunrise light which may be more flattering light for portraits.
Some may question why I chose to not look into the camera. I have found that I always appreciate photos that are not necessarily posed and directed at the camera. Every photograph takes on a life of its own and can set a specific tone and mood. The pictures that I find specifically distinctive and powerful are captured without the subjects awareness conveying spirit, vivacity and deeper emotions.
“The camera is an instrument that teaches people how to see without a camera.”
Dorothea Lange
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| Prior to Photoshop Curves Tool |
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| Post Photoshop Curves Tool |
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