Daily Archives: July 8, 2014

What makes a great photographer?

 

 

There are four main components that make up a great photographer:

 

1. Technical knowledge. This includes the foundations of photography such as light and posing, knowledge in the basics such as shutter speed, white balance, aperture, ISO, and incorporates the technical theory and know-how in making a great image.
2. Technical follow-through. This is the physical application of the technical knowledge above. It’s knowing how to set the shutter speed, aperture, how to focus, meter, and so on.
3. Artistry and creativity. This is the artistic expression of the photographer, and includes composition, lines, mood, feeling, storytelling, and so on.
4. Personality. We all know that you can be technically the greatest photographer, but if you want to take pictures of people, then you must have the right personality for it. You must make people feel comfortable, warm and welcome in front of the camera and therefore it’s a big part of the equation in the discussion of people photography.

 

 

The list above is from an excellent article by Bryan Caporicci on Thomas Menk’s Fuji Scoop It site, and he wrote a great article about the on coming mirror less revolution, but that is for another entry, I want to deal with the four issued above!

 

Number One is a given.  You have to understand and be able to use the basic principles if you want to become a great image maker!

 

Number Two is vital.  It truly is the vital application of those principles that will allow you to make the images you want to make!  Once you fully understand the controls, you can solve any of the problems you will have to work through.  Photography is problem solving and knowledge and application are the two key

 

Number Three artistry and creativity.  This is where the rubber meats the road!  Artistic expression is you, how you see the world and how you apply your knowledge of composing, storytelling, and expressing your feelings in your work.  Artistry is art, skill, talent, brilliance, and flair, all rolled into one!

 

Personality is how you show up  in your images!!   Bryan is referring in this one about photographing people.  He is right, but your personality also factors into how you approach all subjects!  While your personality doesn’t have much affect on an old rusting car, it does have a big affect on how you photograph.  I know I’m loosing you, but trust me there is a point in here somewhere!!!!!!  I believe your outlook is vital to how you see.  Are you open to new ideas, do you have a strong work ethic?  Why does any of this matter?  Because your willingness to stay on top of the process will result in your staying “in the process”.  Even in art, sticking with it, can determine how far we go!  If your personality is to stay positive and never give up, you will make the journey with a lot more success!

 

Thanks Bryan for a very interesting article filled with great information.  Here is a link to his article:

 

sproutingphotographer.com

 

Blessings,

 

the pilgrim