I challenge you to take a look at your surroundings.  Once you really begin to look at the world to capture photographs, everything begins to take on a new character and interest.  You become differently aware of familiar places when looking at them with a fresh eye.  Even the most common objects can make for compelling images.

To sharpen this new take on familiar surroundings, strive for the unexpected.  Think of what household items might make interesting still lifes; notice the shadows and the highlights casted by the ambient light and how it changes your image as the light moves throughout the day. Revisit the same scene different times of the day to see what I am talking about.  You will be amazed as to how different light effects your image.

Go outdoors; look at the detail just around your own home.  The cracks in the sidewalk, leaves on the ground, steps to the doorway, all can make interesting photographs.

Again, keeping in mind the time of day and where the light is located.  When the sun is low, look for places where long shadows cast the subject adding a more abstract composition.

Squint to see potential subjects as an arrangement of textures, colors and shapes.

Try different frames (horizontal and vertical) and different perspectives when you find a subject of interest.  A good way of doing this is to position your camera at different angles and heights and photograph vertically and horizontally.  Don’t let yourself continually photograph at the same level; get moving up and down and you will truly see the most common elements differently.

Simple works of art are all around you.  Sometimes it just takes a fresh eye to see the possibilities that are clearly in plain sight.

This challenge doesn’t cost a thing.  No excuses!  Now go out and look at the world differently!

Some of you have reached out to me asking if I would teach a class on basic photography. I am offering a Basic Photography class at my studio here in Mint Hill; Sunday, January 12, 2020 from 1:30 to 5:30pm.  The cost of the class will be $99 and will include camera basics, composition and lighting. 

Please reach out to me if you are interested.  I offer gift certificates for the person who has a camera and is afraid to use it!  My studio number is 704-598-9099