3. Foundations - Practice (Copy)
The task.
Find a stationary object* and take ten completely different photos of it (they don’t have to be masterpieces)!
* Choose a stationary object so you have the time to be creative i.e even a sleeping cat might be too risky.
The skill.
This is a creativity exercise to experiment how we can control what’s in the frame.
By keeping the object still, and moving only our feet and camera, we can practise quickly creating completely different images of a subject.
“Skill in photography is acquired by practice and not by purchase.
”
Example 1
Stationary subject: Favourite cup sitting on a window sill
Click on the images to make them larger.
The rules.
The object must stay in the same place.
You CAN only move yourself (no zoom function allowed).
Take all images in landscape format.*
Tip 1: Getting down low is one of the easiest ways to introduce a different perspective.
Tip 2: Finding an object that already has an uncluttered background will make it easier (and give you an insight into the next lesson)!
Tip 3: Maybe start with the photo you would instinctively take, and then find 9 other ways to capture the same object.
*An important note about horizontal vs vertical images in the video below (no sound required).
Example 2
Stationary subject: Cacti
While your object needs to be stationary, it doesn’t have to be singular.
The benefit.
Making 10 completely different images of a stationary object, reminds us that we can also approach any situations with the same level of creativity. Therefore, the activity is a brilliant way to practice how much control we have over a scene/the image.
I still do it often - just for fun - because it’s an activity that requires one to quickly find creative perspectives/solutions, and builds muscle memory in how to do so.
Observe how you can:
remove objects from the background just by changing your position or with only the slightest of camera movement
exaggerate certain aspects
show details or only part of the object but still make the subject clear
find a different perspective from the one we usually see
Example 3
Stationary subject: Flower and vases
Please pause here and only move on once you’ve had a chance to do this activity at least once. It practises and consolidates concepts we’ve learned in the first 2 lessons, and most importantly, builds the skills we’ll use from here forward.
If you’d like more inspiration before starting here are some examples from previous students. If you’d like to add your images to this page too there’s also a link at the top - I’d love to see your creations!
Feedback Students:
Please make sure you send your images via the link on your course page.
Next up is the first Essential Skill.
Estimated time required: 10mins.