Photographers make photographs, right? It’s obvious. And we all regularly share and view images, even as the technology underpinning the craft has changed. But what makes a photograph a “finished” product that we can put out into the world?
Photography is an artistic pursuit, and yet shares similarities with sports. While fundamentally an individual activity, there is a necessary social component that enhances the experience. How do these two strains interact in our photographic journey?
Share a photo in an online community, and you’ll likely receive all kinds of feedback. Some will offer praise; others will point out flaws. But there’s one skill many photographers overlook—one that could hold the key to making your work stronger.
What matters more—sensor size or how a camera fits into your real-world workflow? Recent comments from our Fstoppers community made me curious to delve into how typical photographers feel, and it revealed a lot more than just APS-C vs. full frame preferences.
As photographers, we plan our shoots. Anyone photographing outside will check weather, sunrise or sunset times, and try to understand anything else that might impact getting a good image. But do you ever plan to fail?
Photo books provide a curated, immersive experience that allows viewers to engage with photographs at a slower and more deliberate pace. So what happens when one challenges your perspective on your own photography?
I recently read an article that highlights three different types of hobbies you need to live an enriching life. Photography is surely one of the most popular hobbies today, practiced as it is by a huge number of people around the world. So how does photography enrich your life?
Photography, like any artistic pursuit, needs to be cultivated. You have to invest in it. And while cameras, lenses, and accessories are often the focus of photographic investment, what can really elevate your craft is putting more of yourself into your work.
A lot of discussion focuses on how much photography is worth: how much you should charge for a photoshoot, how much you should sell your prints for, and so on. Value, however, relates to your judgment of what’s important in life. It’s different for everyone. So what’s the value of your photography?
There are many opinions and pieces of guidance imparted to new photographers. Many show up regularly, like how you should “make” photos rather than “take” them. Some of this advice is helpful, while other pieces might crush your creativity. Following the advice to avoid one common technique may unintentionally stunt your growth without you even realizing it.
The impact of a photography workshop doesn’t end with the last official event. If you continue to engage with the lessons and inspiration you gained during your time there, you can allow them to shape your photographic journey in meaningful and lasting ways.
Attending a photography workshop is about more than simply showing up with your camera. It’s up to you to maximize the experience and ensure it’s valuable for you.
A photography workshop provides an immersive opportunity to dedicate an extended time to your photography. But before embarking on the journey, you’ll want to prepare yourself so that you make the most of the experience.
