Why images matter and how to create consistently powerful and
captivating ones, from the perspective of a renowned photographer
Fueled by the handy cellphone camera and social media, we've become
obsessed with digital images--from posting "selfies" on Snapchat to
featuring still lifes of what we're having for dinner in our Facebook
stories. Yet, for those seeking more creativity in their lives, there's
nothing like taking photographs through the lens of an actual camera,
complete with a focus ring and shutter button.
"Photography helps you look at the world and your life through fresh
eyes," attests Santino Zafarana, an internationally recognized
photographer and teacher. In Think Before You Shoot Zafarana offers an
illuminating guide to understanding the art of seeing, with 21
techniques to make taking photographs a conscious act. To consistently
capture wondrous images, he emphasizes adopting a simple yet deliberate
practice: before you press the shutter button, stop to observe and
answer four critical questions:
- What are you looking at?
- Why does this image captivate you?
- What elements should remain in the image?
- How can you show your viewer all that you see?
The book also covers these important points:
- Why photographs matter--to developing a sense of identity, tracing
your personal evolution, preserving cherished memories, keeping a record
of your ideas, and securing your legacy.
- How the cellphone has changed not only the way we take, view, and
share pictures but also the nature and meaning of photographs
themselves.
- The importance of understanding good, basic lighting--including
natural window lighting--and how light affects the quality and "feel" of
images. As Zafarana stresses: "Light creates mood."
- Why to never overlook a photograph's background, and how paying
attention to subtle background elements can strengthen and enrich your
subject in the foreground.
- Pointers for effective cropping--including why to never crop a picture
at the person's knees, elbows, ankles, wrists, or toes.
- The power of the photographer's point of view and its impact on a
photograph's focal point. "Every decision about point of view changes
the way your viewer will see the photograph," notes Zafarana.
- The rewards of investing the care and developing the consciousness to
take great photographs, including finding creative fulfillment and
building self-esteem.
