An amazing author wrote , and I'm paraphrasing, photographers give the world a miracle. They allow others to see what few people see in life. And yet, we take this miraculous event for granted everytime we pick up a newspaper or magazine or browse our friends Facebook albums. But it is so true! You are not there to witness the miracle of the first steps or the front row at the Bare Naked Ladies concert, and yet you can see what the person behind the lens saw and understand the moment in time that was meaningful. And, do you ever notice, when you ask someone to explain the photo, they spend about 30 minutes telling you what happened leading up to it, or during it, or even after? There is a story behind every snap shot.
These are the things you should remember when you get behind the lens of your own camera, and argueably more importantly, behind the lens of a complete stranger. Although you may never see that picture again, you are giving this person the opportunity to remember and pass on this miracle. Don't tread on this lightly. And don't display it lightly, either!
Pictures are treasures and everyone should be proud of what theu captured. This is why being able to take a great picture is important, no matter who you are. And this ability all boils down to knowing your camera. Understanding all the buttons and programs will go a long way in getting the perfect shot. After you know your camera, get some editing software. Hint: all celebrities air brush and photoshop their pictures- this gives you license to do the same! No one is stunning at all times in every picture. A good photo editing program, and it doesn't have to be photoshop, will do wonders for you. Following the touch ups, print out on quality paper with a quality printer. If you don't have one or want to buy one, send them to Walgreens or Walmart- just check your order when you pick it up. This is important! If your pictures don't come out the way you want- they're fuzzy, out of focus, cut off weird, anything- you can give them back and they won't charge you for printing. Retouch and try again. No harm, no foul.
Here is where it gets interesting. This is how everyone is going to be touched by your vision of life. They are going to see life through your eyes and witness the miracle of your engagement or college graduation. Make sure this miracle is well framed. And this doesn't have to be traditional in a frame. Think out side the box and complement your images. Here are some really interesting suggestions I have heard recently:
~ Use a clear glass vase and fill with sepia-toned photos as a centerpiece.
~ Print your images in vellum paper in black and white and glue to a frame without the solid backing. Connect several frames using fabric glued to the back of the frames to create an enclosed circle. Bring the images to life with a candle on the inside. This is another great centerpiece.
~ On most editing and retouching software you can change images colors and styles. If you want to create a colorful, energetic space- use the Andy Warhol-style function, print on large paper and frame in a solid, black frame. Do you want to have a rustic, hand done feel? Try the sketch function and print on linen card stock.
~ What about cards and gift wrap? Add in clip art and text to make it personal and informal greetings.
So, think about these things when you pick your camera up next time. It is not about the "perfect shot" but more about being able to pass along the miracle of that moment to the people that matter to you. If you take this mindset on, your images will be more real and mean more, and therefore be so much better!
Happy shooting everyone! Have you ever done something creative with a photograph? Tell me about it!
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