Which one would you choose?

BEFORE YOU CLICK

For most of my career, I have photographed for editorial and travel. I also come from a design background (garments and textiles). Therefore, I like to create artistic images for the love of the artistic craft of photography. If you are not photographing only for sheer joy, it is critically important to consider the end product before composing and clicking. I have spoken about this often, especially during the Spirit-N-Light workshop series. Creating an image for editorial, advertisement, corporate headshots, etc., would be completely different from an image you are creating to hang on a wall or just to share with friends and family.

HAVING THE KNOWLEDGE

From the moment I picked up an infrared camera my vision was to create fine art prints that hang on a wall. Way back at the beginning of my career I participated in several gallery expeditions, mostly wildlife. I exhibited my work at a prestigious art show in Laguna Beach over several summers, but not at the level where my vision is with the series I am currently working on in IR. 

Early this year, I had the opportunity to work with and be mentored by a highly successful fine art photographer. This is when I learned I had a lot to learn about creating a successful large size print, to hang on a wall, chosen by an interior designer. I will speak about this at the infrared online workshop this Friday, May 14. 

PUTTING YOURSELF OUT THERE

I had a review of the series I am working on, and it was very educational. I only wish I could have done it earlier this year! I believed I had a clear vision of the work, but yet I lacked the experience of creating photography that would also technically work in a linier high-end designed space. I also felt confident about my experience around light, but I have also learned that I still have a lot to learn; in post as well as in the field. During this process, I once again took a huge step back, narrowed down my approach, and refocused on the long game (the five- to ten-year goal).

I am so emotionally connected to my work that it is hard to have a proper perspective, which makes having my work reviewed is critically important.  Learning and working with a professional I highly respect has made an enormous difference in the way I will be approaching this work. Many people may not realize this, but even as professionals we hire other professionals for mentorship and education. 

ASKING YOUR OPINION

To poll the view of a larger audience, when I was challenged to make a selection on a few images, I decided to reach out on social media. I posted two images and asked.

In a large print, such as a 40X60 or larger, which of these images would you hang on the wall of your office or home and why? 

The results and comments were varied but extremely informative, furthering my knowledge of how to effectively photograph the success of these series in the future. Although, I am posting the results in this post I would still love your opinion in the comments below. 

FIRST SET

SECOND SET

THIRD SET

THE RESULTS

Some results were predictable and others surprising.  Eye contact and emotion reflected in the eyes was still the most important. However, many people also gave some suggestions about slight edits, which proved most helpful. Although, this was fascinating and very helpful, it also made me miss travel even more. We all inspire and learn a lot from each other, especially when we have a shared photographic experience together.

SHORTEN THE LEARNING CURVE

Today there are loads of opportunities to learn from professionals and grow your skills quickly. No longer do you have to return from a trip or photo shoot disappointed with the outcome because you are fumbling a long click by click, for years, until you figure it out. 

If you have any interest in Infrared photography, Mark Comon (Paul’s Photo) and I, are teaching our last online IR class Friday, May 14 with the option to join us again on Saturday, May 15, for more of the technical side, and again on Sunday, May 16 in the field for hands-on experience. 

If you are a wildlife or travel photographer, I highly recommend attending the Spirit-N-Light it up workshop 2022  (hands on) with Greg Thompson and myself.  This is a skill-building workshop, with a focus on light, to prepare you for all your shooting adventures. 

Due to my relocation, details to be announced soon, these may be my last two US workshops!