New tools new rules

I don’t know of any creative pursuit that doesn’t require some kind of equipment. A writer needs a typewriter or a computer or a pencil. A dancer needs rhythm or music. A composer needs an instrument. A painter needs a paintbrush and something to paint on.

Sometimes adding a different type of tool can jumpstart your creativity. I recently bought an inexpensive neutral density filter for my camera and took it out to see what affect it would have on my photography. I knew it wasn’t the best quality but I was interested to see how it would change the way I approach picture taking. It turned out to be very interesting and fun because I looked through the lens with a different perspective. I could now take some shots that I couldn’t have before and visa versa.

So try a new tool and learn some new rules. It may give you a new perspective that brings something fresh to your artistry. Just make sure you don’t get caught up in the “if I get this I’ll really be an artist” trap. I could have easily spent $80 or more on this filter, but I opted to spend $20. Maybe I’ll upgrade in the future, but right now I’m interested in learning what all can be done with this one.

PIC-OF-THE-WEEK

Here's one I took using my new ND filter. You can hold the shutter open longer for more color saturation.

 

Question yourself

Usually when I’m creating a work of art, the last thing I try to do is question what I’m doing. It’s hard enough breaking through the resistance and being free to follow whatever creative path I’m on. But, there may be times where questioning can be a positive force as I create, especially if I’m doing something that I’ve done for a long time.

I was in Dallas this week on a business trip and went downtown to do some street photography. I usually get the standard shots – tall skyscrapers, people walking, and cars at intersections. But then I began to question what I was doing and what I could do that would be totally different. So I started asking questions like:

     - Could I photograph chunks and sections of buildings that represent the structure rather than the whole structure?

     - What would it look like if I put the camera on the road and got the photo from the asphalt’s point of view?

     - Could I just photograph reflections of buildings in other buildings?

All of these “questions” lead to a completely different perspectives that were new and intriguing. So, as you create, don’t forget to question yourself occasionally and see what new results come from it.

PIC-OF-THE-WEEK

Waiting for a plane in the airport I thought these shadows were interesting.