Create and share photos inspired by this week's prompt, "Background" on your Aminus3 website, Substack Notes, or linked in the comments on this post.
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Be Inspired and Learn Something New
In photography, the “focus” is normally all about the subject. This week however, we are going think more about the BACKGROUND instead.
When I first started out in photography, I had a tendency to see something interesting that got my attention, push the shutter, and move on to the next photo.
This approach works, though there might be some missed opportunities.
Soon after, I took a creative photography class where we were assigned to photograph the same subject in many different ways over the course of several weeks.
The subject remained fixed in place, while we were instructed to move ourselves and our camera perspective all around to see how it changed the photo.
You can read more about this idea on how to be a more creative photographer by changing your perspective, which I wrote based on my experience with that project.
Being mindful of the background in your images is a simple and effective way to create better photos.
After you have taken a photo of your subject from one angle, move all around to see how changing the perspective and background changes the image.
Get in the habit of checking to see if the background looks cluttered or is distracting. Could you isolate your subject better?
You might find a better combination of colors that enhances the image. I spotted this docile grasshopper (locust?) on a fence. I could have photographed it from a low angle with the sky behind, but then I noticed there was a wind-chime with a pink agate hanging underneath.
Using a telephoto lens to get up close, and a wider aperture to blur out the background, I positioned myself so that the pink color framed its head.
Sometimes there is a surprise in the background that adds an extra unexpected element to the image like when my Golden Doodle ran through the frame and photobombed my perfect composition of bluebell flowers.
Get out this week and think about backgrounds. How can you enhance your images and the way you see by simply changing your perspective?
Last Week’s Prompt Photos for “Construction”
Last week’s construction prompt spawned a variety of creative ideas.
There were several visually compelling literal interpretations that featured cranes, scaffolding and big tractors.
Roland in Switzerland presented the unique work of Japanese architect Shigeru Ban in this construction project spanning the progress of seven months.
There were also some more conceptual photos shared.
One idea paired the concept of construction with the creative imagination of kids.
Another shared theme was the idea of setting up for a music concert which led to some interesting discussions about the many roadies and crew members who make a performance a success by setting up / taking down the stage for every show.
See all the photos shared for last week’s Construction prompt.