In photography as with all forms of art we seek oneness with our subject. This is called beginners mind. It is this part of the creative process that gratifies our souls, not necessarily the finished print. Although an excellent Giclee or digital print does make for good wall décor and can complete the visual venture.
We have all the equipment, books and videos one needs to learn from but does all the knowledge we accumulate get in the way of seeing and capturing good images?
How many times have you been in the field with a spectacular landscape scene before you? The light is excellent. But the rush of technology fills you head with thoughts of lenses, f/stops, depth of field, film choices, scene brightness ranges, composition and exposure limits. Equipment confusion really can get in the way of seeing and making art.
Water Spirits 16x24 Giclee Print
Some photographers get caught in this barrage of information and tools. Their images are accurate but lack life’s vibrancy. The spirit of the moment just isn’t there.
Every instant that passes before us is new and free from past baggage. Seeing with a beginners mind is the ability to step aside from personal issues and let the image find you.
For me, many of my images can come quickly. They tap me on the shoulder and seem to trip the shutter all by themselves. I become a catalyst to the event and I love that energy surge.
It takes practice to become comfortable with your equipment but it is essential. With an ease of using your equipment you can trigger the core of your beginner’s mind.
This was something I learned as a beginning photojournalist. Don’t think about your equipment just know what it can do. Be there, be aware and the image will find you. You know, “the f/8 and be there” National Geographic thing.
Life’s moments happen fast and disappear. Practice with your equipment so when they appear before you, you can capture those flashes in time and see each moment with a beginners mind.
Photographs used in this post are copyrighted by Wayne Scherr, Range of Vision Photography, 2009, All Rights Reserved. Reproduction in any manner is prohibited without the written permission of Wayne Scherr, Range of Vision Photography. An image catalog can be viewed at http://www.rangeofvisionphotos.com . You can contact me through this blog or through email at: wayne@rangeofvisionphotos.com
