Sunday, June 10, 2012

Storytelling

If there's one thing I wish I was good at, it would be storytelling photography. What is storytelling photography, you ask? Well, I don't know if it's a real thing but it's what I call an image that causes someone to create a story about what they think happened and where the picture was taken. I think Abbey and Carlotta are especially good at this. I look at their pictures (especially the wide angle shots or the action shots) and I make up a little story about the conversations I think were taking place, what time of day it was, and simply what was happening if I can't tell. That's probably the strangest thing some of you have ever heard but it's just something I do as a photographer. It helps me improve my pictures.

And speaking of improving, another thing I do is dissect what I like and don't like about a picture. I'm a big proponent of great lighting but I also love some strong shadows. I love background blur and when frames are created around a picture with trees, the side of someone's body, etc. I often fall into my comfort zone of just taking a picture of a flower or just taking a picture of a person. It's easy and it's something I do a lot. I love close up shots of just about anything. I love detail and sometimes that can be a hindrance on my pictures. Thankfully, since I got my Mark II, I've been able to take more shots I'm proud of because I notice it does well with action and is quick to take a picture when I throw the camera up to my eye at the last minute.

I know not all of these are "storytelling images," but I've been trying to do a better job of seeing things differently and capturing them differently. I know most of them are of my mom and dog, but unfortunately, I don't have a sister that will model for me! Haha.
















8 comments:

  1. These are great, Meredith! I love photos that tell a story. And I always wish I had a sister just to be my photo model... my brother just doesn't cut it. :)

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  2. Oh, I totally know what you mean. I love storytelling images. Cliche as it may sound, they almost put you on a personal level with the photographer. Ha, I don't know how to word that without sounding...weird. Aaanyway...

    You're doing a great job with your storytelling images. Such beautiful work, my friend!

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  3. love #3 :) yes, abbey and carlotta are so great at what they do... but i love your pictures as much as theirs.

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  4. I love this! And I reeeally love the bokeh in your photos! xo

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  5. Lovely photos Meredith! I've never heard of storytelling pictures but it sounds like a really cool thing to do. Next time I see an action shot I'll give it a shot! :) And I love taking close-up photos too!

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  6. Love these, it's a sweet little collection! How is your summer going?!

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  7. The one of the car speedometer is so cool!! But I LOVE all of them, especially the little doggie! :D

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