The pond was a vast expanse of water lilies in various stages of bloom and decay, and the initial photo I took on this day revealed a good portion of that expanse and explosion of colour. However, second thoughts prevailed and I returned a few hours later to choose a single blossom as the main point of interest.The light had changed, allowing for greater contrast, but it was the decision to narrow the focus that proved more consequential.
Less is always more in photography. The human eye is engineered to be aware of what is in front while sensing what is to the side simultaneously. Peripheral vision can warn us of danger and even matter to our survival, but it’s not an asset to image-making.
The difference between a snapshot and a worthwhile image is not related to the camera model, the lens, the film chosen, or any of the settings. Good pictures can be created with any camera, while dull pictures can happen with the best of equipment. It is the eye of the photographer, and the willingness to exclude every extraneous element, that determine the quality of the composition.
“If your pictures aren’t good enough, you’re not close enough.” ~ Robert Capa
Location: Sandpiper Golf Club, Harrison Lake, B.C.
Date: Summer 2022
Source: Nikon Z50 Digital camera with 50-250 Zoom lens
