Sunday, April 26, 2015

Working the Scene

One of the lessons that I try, sometimes in vain, to remember when I'm out with my camera is to Work the Scene. Like many, I must fight the tendency to look at something, grab the first shot that I see, and walk away, saying "Got it."

And I certainly might have it. But the first shot that looks so right might not be the one that really speaks to me once I take a few and look at the results.

When Brian and I encountered this piece of heavy equipment, we both moved around, shooting from various angles.




Then we shot from varying distances.



I also shot some of Brian doing his thing.


That gave me a nice variety from which to choose. I actually took more shots than these, but these are the ones that I liked best, and I likely missed many that Brian saw and took, for we all see differently. It's a good idea, however, to take your time and force yourself to check out various views.

6 comments:

ADRIAN said...

It worked well. interesting shots of a photogenic machine.

Shammickite said...

I like them all, and for some reason, I like the second one best. Its a jumble of machinery, lots of rust and peeling paint, very rural industrial. And I like the rusty yellowness of it all. Including the winter grass.

TexWisGirl said...

you're right. most photography tips tell you to 'use your legs' in photography. :)

Ginnie said...

Interesting commentary, AC. I always remember when my husband worked at "Life" magazine and Margaret Bourke White was so popular then. Dick used to say "well anyone who took as many pictures as she did of the same subject would have to get a good one at some point." I think the other photographers felt it was cheating a bit ...but it worked for her.

Gail Dixon said...

Very good reminder! I tend to rush my shots. It would help to slow down and be more thoughtful. Your shots are excellent!

EG CameraGirl said...

Working the scene is such good advice. This is a great subject for that!