FlickrTours / Discuss

cobalt123    says:

This is an unusual tour, for there are no photos to go with it, just a recommendation that you can find amazing threads and topics within any number of groups on flickr. This one is recommended from the JPG group, started by fraying.

Use this link to see the whole discussion, or read the excerpt here. The credits are given as the permalink to the topic replies and the members are credited with a link to their photo streams just before their post. Copy and paste their url as needed. Each member's unique flickr ID number is also provided. You can also find their photo stream by entering

www.flickr.com/photos/
and then add their ID number.

Another tip: to see all the latest images of a member, enter this:

www.flickr.com/photos/
and then add their name or ID number
and then add:
/archives/date-posted/

Have fun!

Photographic Wisdom

www.flickr.com/photos/fraying/ 35034347810@N01
www.flickr.com/photos/fraying/

fraying says:
I remember when I got my first camera, a 126 cartridge Kodak, my dad gave me my first shooting advice: Make sure the sun is at your back, and hold your breath before hitting the shutter. I still do that today.
Since then, I've come up with some of my own bits of wisdom to remember when shooting....
-- Look behind you! This mental exercise is designed to remind myself to step away from the crowd, look in the other direction, and generally remember to not just shoot the obvious.
-- Growl like a tiger! When you're shooting someone and they're just sitting there looking uncomfortable, say Growl like a tiger! The subject will either actually do it or crack up laughing - either way, you get a true emotion instead of a fake smile.
-- Keep shooting! This one's simple math - the more shots you take, the better chance there'll be something decent in there. And now, thanks to digital SLRs and cheap compact flash, you really can just keep shooting.
Do you have any pearls of photographic wisdom? Share them here!

at 4:53pm, 29 May 2005 MST

www.flickr.com/groups/jpgmag/discuss/39219/

www.flickr.com/photos/xmark/ 80834667@N00
xmark says:

- Take lots of boring photographs.
Seriously, I usually have a camera in my pocket wherever I am. If I have to wait for a couple of minutes I just shoot whatever is available. Not shots I'd share you understand, but it's good practice hunting for angles and light and dull subjects make you think harder. Just delete them when you're done.

www.flickr.com/groups/jpgmag/discuss/39219/271065/

www.flickr.com/photos/lazojoey/ 49257757@N00

www.flickr.com/photos/lazojoey/ lazojoey says:
Thanks for starting this thread. Some things I learned so far.

a Photography is not the camera. It is seeing. It involves my view of the subject and what resonates in me to take the shot. I got this terrific advice from Ken Rockwell.
b I take good pictures of what I really care about. Thus, I take extra time to look again and again until I get that satisfaction.
c Experience the subject. What better way of taking a good picture of sushi than to eat it after taking a shot!

www.flickr.com/groups/jpgmag/discuss/39219/271097/
www.flickr.com/photos/jeffclow/ 73955226@N00
jeffclow says:
Good tips all.....thanks for sharing them.

I remember reading where the professionals take a minimum of 300 shots for every one they deem usable ....so with digital, I take a LOT of photos to get a few keepers.
And lately, I've been using the macro button on the digital camera to take some closeups that I would never have attempted until visiting this site and seeing the magnificent world that is all around us..only in miniature.
And hitting the big group pools here at Flickr has given me tons of ideas for shots in the future....
Thanks for starting this thread....!

www.flickr.com/groups/jpgmag/discuss/39219/271162/
www.flickr.com/photos/tomcosgrave/ 35237099452@N01
tomcosgrave says:
This may sound like a statement of the totally obvious, but if you're looking to take a blink or you miss it sort of a photograph, ensure that the lens cap is off!!

www.flickr.com/groups/jpgmag/discuss/39219/271198/

www.flickr.com/photos/wideopen/ 81556694@N00
wideopen says: look closer

www.flickr.com/groups/jpgmag/discuss/39219/271342/

www.flickr.com/photos/vicster/ 25111274@N00
Planet Vicster says:
Remember to put film in the camera! I'm Old School .
www.flickr.com/groups/jpgmag/discuss/39219/271376/

www.flickr.com/photos/nevin/ 48600078915@N01
Nevin says:
Fill the frame and Crouch.

www.flickr.com/groups/jpgmag/discuss/39219/271393/

www.flickr.com/photos/ckaiserca/ 271409" / 77547214@N00
ckaiserca says:
Just because the frame is a rectangle doesn't mean it has to be level. . .

www.flickr.com/groups/jpgmag/discuss/39219/271409/

www.flickr.com/photos/dulcelife/ 92673622@N00
dulcelife says:
Shoot with both eyes open.

www.flickr.com/groups/jpgmag/discuss/39219/271410/

www.flickr.com/photos/mutephotoblog/ 13588395@N00
Mute* says:
When you compose a shot in the viewfinder remember to use your eyes to compose the shot, not the viewfinder. Just because your viewfinder is rectangular doesn't mean you should ignore compositions that are square.
For example.

www.flickr.com/groups/jpgmag/discuss/39219/271431/

www.flickr.com/photos/lucidpieces/ 84745798@N00
jayjuice says:
spend time lying in bed visualising your concept

www.flickr.com/groups/jpgmag/discuss/39219/271432/

www.flickr.com/photos/vice1/ 15384155@N00
vice1 says:
know where you stand.

www.flickr.com/groups/jpgmag/discuss/39219/271482/

www.flickr.com/photos/quas/ 46114315@N00
quas says:
Keep your elbows tucked; it avoids camera shake.

www.flickr.com/groups/jpgmag/discuss/39219/271486/

www.flickr.com/photos/bensimons/ 87444549@N00
BenSimons says:
use a tripod and stop down

www.flickr.com/groups/jpgmag/discuss/39219/271606/

www.flickr.com/photos/foutugraphe/ 49503061747@N01
F o u t u g r a p h e says:
Look up.
Always take your camera with you. Always.
Good tips Derek, Thanks!!

www.flickr.com/groups/jpgmag/discuss/39219/271616/

www.flickr.com/photos/urbandiscount/ 49503125218@N01
urbandiscount says:
look at the edges

www.flickr.com/groups/jpgmag/discuss/39219/271619/

www.flickr.com/photos/potatoe/ 24046975@N00
potatoe says:
something similar like mute' : visualise what you are trying to capture first, then take the shot.
and another thing which is very true - the more you practise, the better your skill

www.flickr.com/groups/jpgmag/discuss/39219/271706/

www.flickr.com/photos/urbandiscount/ 49503125218@N01
urbandiscount says:
always overshoot

www.flickr.com/groups/jpgmag/discuss/39219/272031/

www.flickr.com/photos/seemsartless/ 32218499@N00
seemsArtless says:
Return your camera settings to your default after changing them for any reason.
The ceremony at a wedding I was at was quite dark, so I turned off the autofocus, and turned the ISO way up so I could shoot without a flash. Of course I forgot to reset things, so the 1st set of reception photos were no-good.
I should have checked while I was shooting at the reception, but was caught up in the moment...

www.flickr.com/groups/jpgmag/discuss/39219/272444/

www.flickr.com/photos/xmark/ 80834667@N00
xmark says:
Corners!

www.flickr.com/groups/jpgmag/discuss/39219/272714/

www.flickr.com/photos/elton/ 87899971@N00
dooda says:
Don't put too much stock in rules and advice. Look at your subject and decide what it is that you like about it before you shoot. Then decide what composition best enhances it. Try to imagine the finished photo before you take it, what does it look like?
What would you love to see in a pic that you've never seen before? Get that Picture.

www.flickr.com/groups/jpgmag/discuss/39219/272719/

www.flickr.com/photos/jdubfudge/ 81645152@N00
jdubfudge says:
Ansel Adams always drew out his photographs in advance before shooting them. If you have a good knowledge of what you are shooting then I think it is good advice.
Compose your shot. Look. Compose it again. Look. Then compose it a 3rd time. Shoot.

www.flickr.com/groups/jpgmag/discuss/39219/272982/

www.flickr.com/photos/mithra/ 38851190@N00
mithra says:
Never leave your camera home. If the view appeals to you, take it. Some of the best photos are spontaneous, not panned.

www.flickr.com/groups/jpgmag/discuss/39219/275133/

www.flickr.com/photos/pimliclive/ 43178681@N00
Pimliclive says:
Is there a demand for lots of boring photographs pool?

www.flickr.com/groups/jpgmag/discuss/39219/275295/

www.flickr.com/photos/68137880@N00/ 68137880@N00
rskoon says:
Strictly limit the number of shots you have. A problem with digital cameras is that you can walk around with a feeling that you have unlimited frames. There are no limits. Limits can be powerful.

Use a polaroid and one pack of film. Having only ten pictures that cost you a buck apiece is a wonderful constraint. You really have to think about what you are doing before you commit and press the shutter button. It is the opposite approach to shooting hundreds of pictures and it works well.

www.flickr.com/groups/jpgmag/discuss/39219/275336/

www.flickr.com/photos/stefaniepetersen/96859827@N00
_stefanie says:
Have confidence in what you see. No one sees the world like you do. Have confidence in that.

www.flickr.com/groups/jpgmag/discuss/39219/275362/

www.flickr.com/photos/sandw/ 11059220@N00
ryanirelan says:
I think what rskoon write is a good point...but not for everyone. Beginners, for example, should not limit themselves. They should shoot, shoot, shoot - as much as they can and then they can evaluate their many images and decide what worked and what didn't.

In theory, I agree with limitations as creative inspiration, but it's not a rule everyone should use.

www.flickr.com/groups/jpgmag/discuss/39219/275486/

www.flickr.com/photos/urbandiscount/ 49503125218@N01
urbandiscount says:
shoot what you like.

www.flickr.com/groups/jpgmag/discuss/39219/275526/

www.flickr.com/photos/the-meir/ 275562 84029201@N00
Baracute says:
Dont fall in love with your shots! The the dust bin can be your best friend! Shoot a lot, but then, don't hesitate to throw away anything that's not absolutely outstanding.

www.flickr.com/groups/jpgmag/discuss/39219/275562/

www.flickr.com/photos/kritikal/ 44124461041@N01
colorcritical says:
This may seem academic but trust me:

Read Occam's Razor An Outside View of Contemporary Photography by Bill Jay. Bill's words will inspire you.

Read Camera Lucida Reflections of Photography by Roland Barthes. In this you will understand one profound view of what makes a great image.

As for shooting:

Don't be intimidated by your subject, whatever it is. The best to way to get over your intimidation is to confront it. I learned this in photojournalism

Be comfortable with your equipment, whatever it is. I once shot with a square format Zeiss Ikon Twin Lens Reflex for two years, at first it was the most cumbersome piece of equipment, after the first six months of constant use I fell into this wonderful rhythym.

Shoot constantly like it was the first time, meaning don't ever take the joy out of photography. I carry at least my G2 with me everywhere I go, every day.

www.flickr.com/groups/jpgmag/discuss/39219/275579/

www.flickr.com/photos/richardlowkes/ 93777901@N00
RichardLowkes says:
Try a different angle! A lot of shots in my experience work from lower than standing position. Change perspective.

www.flickr.com/groups/jpgmag/discuss/39219/275611/

www.flickr.com/photos/fladines/ 275758" 49503082912@N01
furthe r says:

Zoom with your feet
try shooting with a fixed focal length lens. it can develop your photographer's eye, and better your anticipation of the decisive moment you may be thinking about your positioning better .

Try the opposite
when stuck creatively. shoot from the opposite angle, exposure. focus on the background instead of the subject. you can alter the aesthetics and the message. change something beautiful into something meanacing.
If there are photos you find boring, challenge yourself to make them interesting.
if you find photos of flowers or landscapes, abstracts, portraits, whatever subject boring or trite, try make the most interesting, innovative, unique photo of a flower, landscape, abstract, etc., that you can. try to be creative with something you rarely photograph.

Wear your neck strap
accidents can happen at any time. a neck or wrist strap can save you money for repair/replacement, and photographs lost without having a camera. having a back up camera is wise. i promised a friend i'd take photos of his graduation. the night before i dropped my camera km 7d and needs to be repaired. i ended up shooting with my old prosumer digicam minolta a1 .

but to add to lazojoey notion that photography is not the camera, a better camera will allow you to shoot faster, in lower light, and with higher quality. but despite whatever camera, the photographer makes the shot. a great photo can come from a leica or a lomo. one may be limited in a camera's functionality. but you aren't limited in creativity.

www.flickr.com/groups/jpgmag/discuss/39219/275758/

www.flickr.com/photos/dulcepericulum/ 73276151@N00
_chance_ says:
If you're taking a picture of a stationary object, walk all the way around it first. You're original location may not be the best one.

Also, DON'T hold your breath when pushing the shutter release. Wait for the natural pause at the end of exhaling to trigger the shutter. Holding your breath will cause your hands to shake. Just like shooting a gun.

www.flickr.com/groups/jpgmag/discuss/39219/275777/

www.flickr.com/photos/outofcontxt/ 85153294@N00
outofcontxt says:
Look for the extraordinary in the ordinary. Don't get comfortable in sharpness. The blur CAN be your best friend.

www.flickr.com/groups/jpgmag/discuss/39219/275872/

www.flickr.com/photos/toyfoto/ 20124241@N00
toyfoto says:
Every once and a while approach your subjects as if you are telling a story. It's a good excercise to explore the medium.

www.flickr.com/groups/jpgmag/discuss/39219/276894/

www.flickr.com/photos/strizznizzy/ 25448431@N00
MrsStrizzay says:
I have the kids say fuzzy pickles . I think I saw it on a movie somewhere, but they think its fun so what the heck.
I have finally turned off my flash, FOR GOOD!
I also employ the if I take 500 pics a few will turn out great philosophy.
And right before sunset make for lovely photos.

www.flickr.com/groups/jpgmag/discuss/39219/276926/

www.flickr.com/photos/urbandiscount/ 49503125218@N01
urbandiscount says:
go out at night and shoot some.

www.flickr.com/groups/jpgmag/discuss/39219/277126/

www.flickr.com/photos/mjross/ 44679841@N00
mjross says:
turn off the flash
sometimes you need to shoot first and think later
look for another angle
you don't have to focus on the obvious
photography is about capturing how you see the world-shoot to get your point across

www.flickr.com/groups/jpgmag/discuss/39219/277212/

www.flickr.com/photos/defininglight/ 46441096@N00
txsappho says:
Study... read your camera manual. You may find that it can do far more than you imagined.
Study... the artist who produce art that you like. What is it about their work that moves you? Is it a color, a method, a theme, a focus, what?

Study... the four corners of your viewfinder before pressing that shutter release. Too often we get so engrossed with the subject that we don't see visual clutter in the frame until the picture is printed.

Grow... as you improve you will want to improve your equipment. This is just a fact. Keep on top of what's out there, what will do the job you're trying to accomplish, and buy what you need. If you can't get it right away, save. You'll be glad you did. The camera does not make the photographer but it does make the image and quality does count.

Grow some more... realize that you are unique and it is your vision that you are putting to print. No two photographers are the same, should follow the same rigid rules or expectations. Be original. Be yourself.

www.flickr.com/groups/jpgmag/discuss/39219/277394/

www.flickr.com/photos/botogol/ 33451089@N00
botogol says:
if your pictures aren't good enough, then you ain't close enough. now, who said that?

www.flickr.com/groups/jpgmag/discuss/39219/277622/

www.flickr.com/photos/howeird/ 11249843@N00
howeird says:
digital flickrers....
if you can, carry around with you an extra set of charged batteries.

www.flickr.com/groups/jpgmag/discuss/39219/277966/

www.flickr.com/photos/visualadventure/ 31731556@N00
NikonShooter says:
BREAK THE RULES! Shoot into the sun, dont listen to the rule of thirds , over expose, the golden hour can truly happen at any time of day, shoot action with slow shutter speeds, use rear sync with your flash, use wide angle lenses to force you closer to your subject, ditch the lens and go with pinhole, know that digital is not better than film and that film is not better than digital....shoot and mix both, and best of all...enjoy and capture YOUR vision of the world and NOT all of the others on Flickr

www.flickr.com/groups/jpgmag/discuss/39219/278988/

www.flickr.com/photos/visualadventure/ 31731556@N00
NikonShooter says:
Botogol - That would be Robert Capa.
www.flickr.com/groups/jpgmag/discuss/39219/278997/

www.flickr.com/photos/owenbooth/ 56008391@N00
owenbooth says:
If you're using your camera's lightmeter, under-expose. Always.

www.flickr.com/groups/jpgmag/discuss/39219/279007/

www.flickr.com/photos/toyfoto/ 20124241@N00
toyfoto says:
See. ... I'm and overexposer with film that way at least I get all the details.

www.flickr.com/groups/jpgmag/discuss/39219/279016/

www.flickr.com/photos/bytepusher/ 62959750@N00
bytepusher says:
Just because the frame is a rectangle doesn't mean it has to be level
But go big or go home, nothing is quite as annoying as a photo that is 2 degrees off level.

www.flickr.com/groups/jpgmag/discuss/39219/279026/

www.flickr.com/photos/visualadventure/ 31731556@N00
NikonShooter says:
A good exposure is defined by the photographer. I say blow out the details and see what you get. Push yourself beyond what people call good photography proper DOF, exposure, comp, etc . You are the photographer, its your vision to capture. PLAY!!!!!! Dont worry about getting the text book shot......thats already been done by so many people :

www.flickr.com/groups/jpgmag/discuss/39219/279031/

www.flickr.com/photos/boblywobly/
Boblywobly says:
I don't have any advice except maybe bring extra film and batteries! be prepared as the scouts say.
The nice thing about this site is it's evident from the photos I see here is that the world is truly marvelous, and every single one of us has the eyes and the heart to recognize that.

www.flickr.com/groups/jpgmag/discuss/39219/279204/

www.flickr.com/photos/fraying/ 35034347810@N01
fraying says:
Another favorite:
Embrace the blur!

So much common photographic wisdom is about getting sharp, clear pics. But that can be too clinical. Sometimes it takes a little blur to really capture the emotion of a moment.

www.flickr.com/groups/jpgmag/discuss/39219/279248/

www.flickr.com/photos/malachi_petunia/ 279294" 44718269@N00
Malachi Petunia says:
Only for digicams: press the shutter even on a bad exposure or composition and ponder why it was bad later. I learn more from my errors than my hits.

www.flickr.com/groups/jpgmag/discuss/39219/279294/

www.flickr.com/photos/urbandiscount/ 49503125218@N01
urbandiscount says:
expose to the right side of your histogram: if you can switch one on in your view finder, learn to use it.

www.flickr.com/groups/jpgmag/discuss/39219/279714/

www.flickr.com/photos/rossangeles/ 74874768@N00
rossangeles says:
When shooting nudes. Shoot naked.

www.flickr.com/groups/jpgmag/discuss/39219/279731/

www.flickr.com/photos/pfong/ 79832711@N00
pfong says:
If you see anything red, shoot it.
And the corollary when hiking in the woods or outdoors:
Lookout for anything colourful.

www.flickr.com/groups/jpgmag/discuss/39219/279744/

www.flickr.com/photos/petebeck/ 279802" 64435420@N00
petebeck says:

look past your subject.
calculate the best shooting angle and position in everything you see -- even if you don't shoot it. it's good practice.
always carry a spare charged battery.
never go anywhere without your camera.

www.flickr.com/groups/jpgmag/discuss/39219/279802/

www.flickr.com/photos/drl/ 68862107@N00
drlynch says:
this has been sort of said already but i´d like to emphasize:
know what your photo is actually of. this might not be an object but a feeling or light or pattern. figure out how to show that subject--whether it is by getting closer as many have said or physically moving your camera around until you find the best way in your mind to frame your subject and don´t worry about taking several minutes to frame a shot--and then take it again with different framing, angle, f-stop, shutter speed, etc. .

www.flickr.com/groups/jpgmag/discuss/39219/279817/

www.flickr.com/photos/carolynhack/ 45919548@N00
carolynhack says:
words of wisdom my parents told me at least four times while i was taking my first photograph at age 3: DON'T DROP THE CAMERA.

www.flickr.com/groups/jpgmag/discuss/39219/279889/

www.flickr.com/photos/almostinfamous/ 51035633309@N01
pangalactic gargleblaster says:
1 take off the lens cover
2 apologize to people if you get in their way
3 let people walk through your shot
4 don't take your photos and yourselves too seriously :

www.flickr.com/groups/jpgmag/discuss/39219/279943/

www.flickr.com/photos/marramgrass/ 21752671@N00
goodyear says:
Memory is cheap, film is cheap, shoot lots.
BUT don't go all machine-gun: slow down.
Forget about the gear: get good with what you've got. Man, I wish I could listen to this one...
Don't obsess on objective image quality sharpness, resolution, whatever - look for what you like, not what the MTF charters/bench-testers like.
Learn the rules composition, exposure, etc . Use them and get to know them well. Love them.
Then break them.
If you shoot digital, pay attention to your EXIF.
If you shoot film, take notes.
Kneel down.
Get up on a chair.
Try using a tripod.
Go for motion blur.
Don't observe your scene - participate in it.
Try wides - you'll love 'em.
Either learn how to use flash properly, or turn it off. If necessary, cover it up with some black tape.

www.flickr.com/groups/jpgmag/discuss/39219/280224/

www.flickr.com/photos/51565043@N00/ 51565043@N00
blue coyote laughing says:
wear weather appropriate layers and comfy shoes. eat and pee before you go out.

www.flickr.com/groups/jpgmag/discuss/39219/281616/

Hämmerle_Leibsle_Häberle_Hannes_Birgermoischter_ [deleted] says:

dark side of the moon
and a deep blue spot light

www.flickr.com/groups/jpgmag/discuss/39219/281719/

www.flickr.com/photos/etobicokesouth/ 16478858@N00
*Muhammad* says:
In the old days it used to be make sure you have enough film now a days make sure you have enough memory.

www.flickr.com/groups/jpgmag/discuss/39219/281742/

www.flickr.com/photos/visualadventure/ 31731556@N00
NikonShooter says:
Try to shoot digital with the wrong WB setting......or cross process if shooting film.

www.flickr.com/groups/jpgmag/discuss/39219/281830/

www.flickr.com/photos/vsolanoy/ 43362555@N00
Digitalised says: -
If in doubt, rule of thirds for composition.

- If using a rangefinder, use a lens protector and leave the lens cap off
- Sometimes the most interesting subjects are those you've left behind, not what's in front of you
- Film and digital are two different mediums
- Let the kids have a camera -- their perspective of the world can be enlightening

www.flickr.com/groups/jpgmag/discuss/39219/282147/

www.flickr.com/photos/heather/ 286257" 32373682187@N01
heather says:
kneel down though i did that once on market street right into a puddle of pee, now i sniff, then kneel . I like that one.
mine:
- look closer
- reframe and shoot again
- look up

www.flickr.com/groups/jpgmag/discuss/39219/286257/

www.flickr.com/photos/martytdx/ 19623720@N00
martytdx says:
I'm a relative newbie got into it, had all equipment stolen, took 4 years to invest again and I'm getting a feel for photography again. Before, I was a point-and-shoot guy with a good camera, now I'm finally SEEING what there is...
What I'm finding is:

1 take a look around - there are unexpected pictures everywhere. My 'new eye' has me looking at things I would have passed over before because they weren't 'classic photo' opps.
2 If shooting in digital, take the shot even when in doubt. Quite often, you'll find that shot turns out much better than expected ... and if not, you didn't lose anything. this is tougher with film .
3 Lenses, lenses, lenses. You get what you pay for many times over.
4 Listen to the photographer next to you - you get a lot of good tips from guys/women who have been doing this for a while, even in a casual i.e. non-photographic conversation.
5 It's not a competition unless it actually is . My wife and I would go out together and I was determined to get a better shot. She had digital, I'm using film, so she was taking 20 to my 1 and trumping me. Once I just relaxed and went for MY MOMENT, it was worlds better.
6 This is a doozy, an error committed by a neophyte. Make sure that the tripod legs are locked ... else lenses get broken. I learned the hard way.

www.flickr.com/groups/jpgmag/discuss/39219/286286/
www.flickr.com/photos/kritikal/ 44124461041@N01
colorcritical says:
BTW Derek, nice work starting this thread. I have read every post and its amazing to hear the wide variety of wisdom . I just thought of something that is actually happening to me:

If your shooting mostly digital, go back to film.

If your shooting mostly film, go digital.
If your stuck on your medium, then change cameras.
Change is good! After shooting digital since my son was born two years ago, I have fallen in love again with my Zeiss-Ikon Twin Lens Reflex.

www.flickr.com/groups/jpgmag/discuss/39219/287291/

www.flickr.com/photos/spaceritual/ 30354453@N00
Space Ritual says:
when browseing Flickr, click on the more properties icon.
When I come accross a photo I really like I click on the icon to a feel on what may work for future shots and to see how the photographer might use certain settings to give a feel to the photograph

www.flickr.com/groups/jpgmag/discuss/39219/289076/
www.flickr.com/photos/gloriafavor/ 51181083@N00
wongwong says: Yes, take as much shots as you can, the timing will always be there for you if you stay long enough to the moment.

www.flickr.com/groups/jpgmag/discuss/39219/289252/
www.flickr.com/photos/girl-inchoate/ 59755778@N00
www.flickr.com/photos/girl-inchoate/ girl inchoate / dawn
says:
Thank you all for sharing these. I think any wisdom I have gotten or have happened upon through my own photography has been hit upon here and I don't have anything original to offer. I just wanted to say thank you for making me smile, reminesce, and think about my photography and why I like doing it so much.

www.flickr.com/groups/jpgmag/discuss/39219/289260/
www.flickr.com/photos/vicster/ 25111274@N00
Planet Vicster says:
I didn't see it here so I hope I'm not repeating: When photographing kids and animals, get down on their level unless, of course, your composition requires aiming down on the subject.

Of course, as Heather points out, do mind any puddles of ick. Kids and pets are in famous for leaving puddles...

www.flickr.com/groups/jpgmag/discuss/39219/290085/

www.flickr.com/photos/russmorris/ 49503155594@N01
rustman says:
back up often and in multiple formats, when possible.
take a second to look around.
get closer to your subject.

www.flickr.com/groups/jpgmag/discuss/39219/290339/

www.flickr.com/photos/bbaltimore/ / 36521965978@N01
bbaltimore says:

This is an excellent thread. It amazes me that regardless of experience level the comments are all beneficial. I'm not sure if these qualify as wisdom but here are some things I do that help me. Some of these border on being assignments but to me they are tips if they help.

- If your subject notices your camera, pretend to take the shot, wait a few seconds and shoot them when they are unaware.
- On occasion, carry ALL of your cameras Digital, film, toy, polaroid with you and shoot the same subject with each of them.
- Buy a 3 pack of cheap instant cameras and shoot only with them for a day.
- Put your camera on the ground for the shot.
- Go hunting: Decide what you want to capture subject, theme, feeling before you leave the house and shoot only that.
- Capture people: For your day out make it a goal to meet 5 strangers and capture their photographs. Talk to them. Get their names and email addresses and send them the photos.
- Take self-portraits often. some photographers say every session you should have at least one frame of yourself and any friends that were on the mission to document it.
- Ignore the viewfinder: Point like a gun and shoot.
- Ask a kid what they notice in a certain subject and shoot that. Another take on this is to give kids cameras and shoot around a whole day with them. Not only will you benefit from seeing with a child's eyes for a day but they are more brave and unintimidated by social protocols with strangers. This will coax real emotions out of people so you can shoot pics simultaneously behind them.
- When photographing kids: Ask them questions about things they are interested in. As they begin talking you will get lots of unfiltered emotion to shoot.
- After the candid: Once you've captured a candid photo of someone doing something interesting engage them in conversation and ask some questions. You might learn more about what they were doing and it can open doors to new subject matter.
- Edit later: Sometimes it is best to shoot the shots using only emotion and work magic in the darkroom traditional or digital to crop and massage your pictures into the best composition.
- Fill with flash: When shooting sunny or beach pics try using your flash to remove harsh shadows and light your subjects evenly.
- Be prepared: Beyond the normal supplies you need for photography carry a small notebook and writing tools. Carry cards with your info and flickr account links so you can give them to people you meet if they would like to see your photos. Carry model release forms if you plan on using photos for commercial purposes. Always have a lens cloth of some kind with you.

www.flickr.com/groups/jpgmag/discuss/39219/291377/

www.flickr.com/photos/visualadventure/ 31731556@N00
NikonShooter says:
When shooting digital: Take your shots...download them then walk away. Take about 48 hours away from that batch before you edit and pick your hero shots.

www.flickr.com/groups/jpgmag/discuss/39219/291808/
www.flickr.com/photos/visualadventure/ 31731556@N00
NikonShooter says:
Photograph in bad weather! Take plenty of waterproof stuff for your gear and your self!

www.flickr.com/groups/jpgmag/discuss/39219/291818/
www.flickr.com/photos/mr_fabulous/ 17875539@N00
pbowers says:
At 5:30 in the morning, bears can look alot like dogs...

www.flickr.com/groups/jpgmag/discuss/39219/291976/
www.flickr.com/photos/urbandiscount/ 49503125218@N01
urbandiscount says:
shoot wide angle. get close.

www.flickr.com/groups/jpgmag/discuss/39219/291994/
www.flickr.com/photos/photokitten/ 97584013@N00
photo kitten says:
Shoot sunsets with clouds....they are always more dramatic.
Make a conscious effort to keep power lines out of the image....unless you mean them to be there. Nothing looks worse than power lines in a scenic shot.

www.flickr.com/groups/jpgmag/discuss/39219/292342/
www.flickr.com/photos/visualadventure/ 31731556@N00
NikonShooter says:
Photo Kitten-
Or a WalMart bag stuck in the trees. They are clinging to EVRYTHING down here S. AZ ......on the fence, in the trees, stuck to the catus........pastic bags, at least you can pick them up and move them.

www.flickr.com/groups/jpgmag/discuss/39219/292405/

www.flickr.com/photos/urbandiscount/ 49503125218@N01
urbandiscount says:
shoot with your eyes closed, at random

www.flickr.com/groups/jpgmag/discuss/39219/292414/

www.flickr.com/photos/drl/ 68862107@N00
drlynch says:
i completely disagree with photo kitten--avoid the pretty, trite things like beaches, sunsets, mountains, landscapes in general, clouds, the grand canyon, the eiffel tower, the sugar loaf etc...

and oh yeah, are you really going to get a greater parliament at sunset than monet already painted? buy the postcard or a poster.

i need to take this advice myself sometimes--couldn´t resist the copan in são paulo a few months back and the pão de açucar did find its way into one of my pics--albeit in a rather unique way

www.flickr.com/groups/jpgmag/discuss/39219/292439/

www.flickr.com/photos/visualadventure/ 31731556@N00
NikonShooter says:
drlynch-
Hehehehe...im with you on that one. Very over done : But hey....everyone has their thing.

www.flickr.com/groups/jpgmag/discuss/39219/294961/

www.flickr.com/photos/koduckgirl/ 63234423@N00
koduckgirl says:
shoot as tho you are in love with the subject be it object idea person whatever just get really into like a temporary obsession you get best shots that way

Somebody said talk to kids while photoing them you get unfiltered emotion-true also photo while they are playing with their friends

and yes it is too true ALWAYS carry your camera-
I found a dead bat on the ground while walking the dog and could not take a picture and later it was gone...

www.flickr.com/groups/jpgmag/discuss/39219/295011/

www.flickr.com/photos/flutential/ 55036790@N00
flutential says:
Just want to say thank you to everyone for all your excellent tips!
'Flute'

www.flickr.com/groups/jpgmag/discuss/39219/295090/

www.flickr.com/photos/deroesch/ 90716011@N00
deroesch says:
It's been said before, but I'll say it too:
- Get in close.
- Clear your edges.
- Move six inches to the right or left .
www.flickr.com/groups/jpgmag/discuss/39219/295151/
www.flickr.com/photos/botogol/ 33451089@N00
www.flickr.com/photos/botogol/ botogol
says: ALWAYS crop...

www.flickr.com/groups/jpgmag/discuss/39219/295328/

www.flickr.com/photos/fladines/ 49503082912@N01
furthe r says:
i understand your point drlynch and i commend you for your honesty and willingness to bring it up. it can be helpful for a photographer to broaden their subject matter. but i think any subject, even common things like landscapes, landmarks, can be photographed in uncommon, interesting ways. but this is all dependant on the vision, creativity and skill of the photographer.
If there are photos you find boring, challenge yourself to make them interesting. was something i listed in my suggestions. i think landscapes, macros and flowers are common photo subjects. but i think swerve's landscapes are interesting portrayals.

www.flickr.com/photos/jamesgold/165004/in/set-5025/ www.flickr.com/photos/jamesgold/165004/in/set-5025/
www.flickr.com/photos/jamesgold/sets/5025/ www.flickr.com/photos/jamesgold/sets/5025/

i had never taken a photo of a flower. i always found them boring and as you mention, trite, subject matter. but i tried to take a photo that is more uncommon, showing the essence of the subject, instead of a more common, exact representation of one.

www.flickr.com/photos/fladines/1297498/in/set-2589/ www.flickr.com/photos/fladines/1297498/in/set-2589/
i understand your point for photographers to avoid trite things. yet i want to mention photographing something common in an uncommon way is another option.

and botogol, you mention ALWAYS crop. while some people my do this, there are people who never crop, who achive the best composition within the viewfinder, before they take the photo. some images can be improved with a crop. but i think some photographers consider cropping as a last resort or considered before hand, like taking a photo in 3:2 format, but visualizing in the viewfinder that they will crop it square. here is a link of a purist view of not cropping

www.jimmaginn.fsnet.co.uk/fullframe.htm www.jimmaginn.fsnet.co.uk/fullframe.htm and here is thread discussing to crop or not

www.flickr.com/groups_topic.gne?id=8283 www.flickr.com/groups_topic.gne?id=8283

anyways, every photographer is different and has different ways to work. but i just wanted to balance out your suggestion of always cropping.

www.flickr.com/groups/jpgmag/discuss/39219/295584/

www.flickr.com/photos/photokitten/ 97584013@N00
photo kitten says:
I think my statement Shoot sunsets with clouds....they are always more dramatic was taken literally. I didn't mean to say go out an shoot a sunset , I just meant if you are going to, they are always more dramatic with clouds....

www.flickr.com/groups/jpgmag/discuss/39219/296325/

www.flickr.com/photos/visualadventure/ 31731556@N00
NikonShooter says:
Photo Kitten-
Nah not at all...just brought up more things to say hehehehe. :

www.flickr.com/groups/jpgmag/discuss/39219/296418/

www.flickr.com/photos/fladines/ 49503082912@N01
furthe r says:
i think everyone has varied aesthetic tastes. all views are valid.
i think people will consider everyone's suggestions listed here, and find which work for them. especially when suggestions seem absolute, or more subjective.

photo kitten you mention Nothing looks worse than power lines in a scenic shot. while this may work for yourself and others, i can imagine some photographers might be able to make a interesting photograph of a scenic with powerlines. say the concept of the photograph was to show urbanization of rural areas. there could be landscape with a tree in the foreground. but also in the foreground could be some powerlines. they could be composed to mimic the layout of the branches, and there could be an interesting juxtoposition. so in this case, with this concept, powerlines in a scenic shot would make sense and could work well. this may not be common a landscape image, but as drlynch insightfully pointed out, some people may desire to try something different.

everyone has an opinion of what they think looks best. so suggestions regarding aesthetics can be subjective. photographers may not share the same opinion.

but i think people should still say what works for them. just recognize others may disagree. i think it is great that drlynch made his opinion known. just as it was great that you made your known photo kitten.

www.flickr.com/groups/jpgmag/discuss/39219/296490/

www.flickr.com/photos/erinmalone/ 49503007257@N01
erin_designr says:
I used to be of the mind and philosophy to never crop. I was taught to compose in the viewfinder and use full frame. This served me well for 20 years. Then I took a workshop with a very charismatic and interesting photographer who has since become a mentor and he made a statement that changed the way I work from now on. I compose with a viewing card for the rough image. Before I ever lift a camera. Then I continue to look a t the image and think about what is absolutely inherent and important to that image - basically defining what the borders of my image should be. This is without the card or the camera. The edge of a grey card works to define the borders. You will find using this technique that not every image you want to make fits neatly into the aspect ratio of 35mm or 6x7 or 120mm or even 4x5 . The image makes it own borders and sometimes cropping is necessary to finish the image you intended to make. This approach has freed me from the confines of the film aspect ratio and make me much more thoughtful about the images I spend time making.

www.flickr.com/groups/jpgmag/discuss/39219/296563/

www.flickr.com/photos/milangelic/ 44912253@N00
Milangelic says:
The smallest specks of dust will ruin many macro and close-up images. Wipe the object clean!

www.flickr.com/groups/jpgmag/discuss/39219/296702/

www.flickr.com/photos/fladines/ 49503082912@N01
furthe r says:
emalone, when you say a viewing card , is that a board with a rectangle hole cut into it that you hold with an outstreached arm, in front of a scene? if so how big is it? something you can put/fold in your pocket? or do you carry it in a bag when you are out taking photos.

i seldom crop. i prefer shooting with fixed focal length lenses. charles eames said, something like the designer should embrace restraints [from the clients, budget, time, etc] cause it allows you to be more innovative, creative. if i get tired of 3:2, i'd try square or whatever. cropping takes away from the challenge, the visceral act of composing within the viewfinder is the funnest thing about photography to me. but that's just me. however others shoot is cool too.
photography is great in that we all can shoot whatever we want subjects , however we want aesthetics . ansel adams, henri cartier-bresson and laszlo maholy-nagy had distinct images and methods. its interesting to hear others' approach to photography. interesting method emalone. thanks for sharing.

www.flickr.com/groups/jpgmag/discuss/39219/296752/
www.flickr.com/photos/erinmalone/ 49503007257@N01
erin_designr says:
yes fladines, the viewing card is a black card with a hole cut into it. It is generally a 35 mm size hole, so the start of an image begins there. The card I have is about 4x5 so it will fit into a jacket or shirt pocket or back pocket. the grey card is usually about 8x10 so goes in the backpack. I think there is room for all ways to shoot but folks should always be open to trying new ways of seeing. you never know what may happen.

www.flickr.com/groups/jpgmag/discuss/39219/297125/
www.flickr.com/photos/drl/ 68862107@N00
drlynch says:
okay, so my avoid the trite things comment was a bit of hyperbole. but it sure got things going, eh?

www.flickr.com/groups/jpgmag/discuss/39219/298057/
www.flickr.com/photos/fladines/ 49503082912@N01
furthe r says:

drlynch, when i read your comments, i thought it was awesome. it was a valid point, and the exaggeration made it humourous. your candor is admirable.
www.flickr.com/groups/jpgmag/discuss/39219/298609/

www.flickr.com/photos/steve_gobeil/ 16355802@N00
steve_gobeil says:
Coming from the old school my words of wisdom would have to be film is cheap, shot a lot of it. When I first started out my first instructor told me to shoot at least 10 rolls a day and than come back and process them while I still remembered what and how I had shot, This allowed me to understand how the camera saw versus how my eye saw.
www.flickr.com/groups/jpgmag/discuss/39219/300486/

www.flickr.com/photos/mjross/ 44679841@N00
mjross says:
it's ok to like your mistakes ...

sometimes over- or under- exposed images are better than properly exposed images...
watch your highlights and shadows.

use your negative space wisely.
your subject doesn't have to be in the middle.
your subject doens't have to be a physical object.
depth of field is a tool. use it.

learn to shoot in black and white. it will make your color images better.

www.flickr.com/groups/jpgmag/discuss/39219/300630/

www.flickr.com/photos/yoodoo/ 20804216@N00
yoodoo says:
take a minute or 2 to when you find a place interesting to hang around, choosing the best angle and composition.
remember that beautiful subjects doesn't always make beautiful shots. Its all up to you.

Never shoot in auto. Turn the manual button and learn the basis of focus, depth of field... will free your creativity and make you more comfortable
with your tools.

Well, what are you waiting for? Don't stop shooting!! XD

www.flickr.com/groups/jpgmag/discuss/39219/301328/

www.flickr.com/photos/oceanbornstudios/ 39274799@N00
deborah lattimore says:
what works for me: never go anywhere without the camera, always carry 2-3 charged batteries and 2-3 512k memory cards. take a million pictures of everything, often without using the viewfinder or LCD. for super macro shots, stick the camera inside, outside, behind, and around everything, as close to every flower or ocean wave or stream as possible, and enjoy the unexpected. as i learn more as a photographer, i like to revisit old photos and try different croppings and/or tweak with photoshop curve tool. oh - another thing - back up photos on an external hard drive. - thanks for starting this thread, derek!

www.flickr.com/groups/jpgmag/discuss/39219/301494/

www.flickr.com/photos/uncommondepth/ 38132381@N00
Birdie at Uncommon Depth says:
18 percent grey can usually be found in the unshaded grass, or in the blue sky facing away from the sun.
I agree with yoodoo - get off the auto button.

www.flickr.com/groups/jpgmag/discuss/39219/301643/

www.flickr.com/photos/visualadventure/ 31731556@N00
NikonShooter says:
Have a nice collection of photobooks.....not how to books.....but books of other photogs work. Its nice to have things to insipre you and get your brian moving when your creativity level is low. Poetry is also good to have around. Great photography is so much more than the just technical. Learn to see things for what they truly are....SHAPES!

www.flickr.com/groups/jpgmag/discuss/39219/306341/

www.flickr.com/photos/specialp/ 80913300@N00
Special P says:
take the perfect picture, then play around with the settings and take a freaking awesome one.

www.flickr.com/groups/jpgmag/discuss/39219/312109/

www.flickr.com/photos/candiedwomanire/ 51035743246@N01
Dawn Endico says:
Here are some tips for shooting without looking through the viewfinder when you're more interested in capturing the moment than in being analytical.

www.flickr.com/photos/candiedwomanire/1688416/ Hold the camera above your head...

When you're in a crowd and taking a pic of the crowd, zoom out to the widest angle and hold the camera as far as you can above your head. Aim the camera slightly down from horizontal and hope for the best. The extra foot or two of height makes a big difference, especially if you're shorter than everyone else. Even better if you can stand on something too.

www.flickr.com/photos/candiedwomanire/16262825/
Hold the camera on the ground ...
When shooting wildflowers, hold the camera near the ground and shoot up. Its an unusual angle that most people don't see, the sky will make a nice backdrop and it will be easier for crappy autofocus cameras like mine to focus on the right thing.

www.flickr.com/groups/jpgmag/discuss/39219/312543/

www.flickr.com/photos/ultimaslair/ 81263806@N00
ultimaslair says:
Hmmm...open your eyes.
Get on your knees, or lay down!
Look for things, they don't always come to you.
A nice camera helps too.

www.flickr.com/groups/jpgmag/discuss/39219/313333/

www.flickr.com/photos/dshearer/ 97134791@N00
dshearer says:
Most awesome thread, ever. I love how you can read philosophies, and then go and look at pages to see words in action.
For people with non SLR cameras like mine, don't be limited by holding the thing to your face. Point it at weird angles. When shooting kids, try shots at kid level for a view at their height. Twist the view screen if possible. We might not have the light gathering capabilties of more expensive lenses, but our tools are less cumbersome.

www.flickr.com/groups/jpgmag/discuss/39219/349115/

www.flickr.com/photos/pfong/ 79832711@N00
pfong says:
-Shoot during the magic hour.

- crop until it hurts and then back off a bit.

www.flickr.com/groups/jpgmag/discuss/39219/349139/

www.flickr.com/photos/visualadventure/ 31731556@N00 1117145126"
NikonShooter says:
Believe with the fiber of your soul that the Magic Hour can be ANY hour ;

www.flickr.com/groups/jpgmag/discuss/39219/349328/

www.flickr.com/photos/erouse/ 49579004@N00
Emerald2098 says:
If you have good vision: Squint.
If you have bad vision: Take off your glasses.
Always: Be surprised by your results!
Give it a try: Shoot the unfmiliar!!
.
www.flickr.com/groups/jpgmag/discuss/39219/597698/

www.flickr.com/photos/mylakent/ 44124424463@N01
mylakent says:
As always, Derek, fabulous post. I remember your turn around trick from your honeymoon shots in Paris on Ephemera and have captured quite a bit that way.

I've been focusing more on 'street portraiture' lately -- and found that when I smile at my subjects read: strangers I get amazing results.

www.flickr.com/photos/
Posted at 12:24PM, 28 August 2005 PDT (permalink)