Page 62 - Learning How to Photograph with your DSLR Camera 2nd Edition Jan 2021

Color
Color can be utilized
to showcase an array
of color or a single
color that is
emphasized. Colors
can be vibrant,
intense, or muted. In
general, with low light
colors are washed
out, while if well-lit
they have more
intensity and
vibrancy.

Subject Matter
Architecture, buildings, and people present all kinds of opportunities for photography.
Form, shape, and contrast are especially important. Again, mornings and late afternoon
are better times for photography, but do not discount other times out of hand. Cloudy
days can sometimes mute and soften the brightness and can be ideal for black and
white photography.

Take this time to approach your subject from different angles or perspectives. This is
what a friend of mine refers to as “being a spaceship”. He recommends you hover, dip,
angle to create interest and find that shot. Make something common or mundane look
different, unique, and interesting. Consider just framing one part of a more complicated
subject like a window, a pair of hands, or a piece of machinery.

Lenses
Wide, standard, and short telephotos or zooms with that range can be used. The “nifty
50” is a great lens to practice with as it teaches you to move closer or farther from your
subject for framing the shot. Use a wide aperture to make your subject the focal point
creating a blur behind the subject. For buildings, a wide-angle lens is often employed.

Etiquette

A bit of etiquette; when photographing people always ask for permission and if you ever
intend using this as future sale print you need a signed release form from that person. It
is not necessary to get a signed release if you do not intend on selling the print, but it’s
still courteous to always ask for permission before you take their photograph.

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