For this week’s challenge we are putting a twist on Still Life by photographing inanimate subject matter, whether natural or man-made, as found and without interference by the photographer. Since the artist is unable to have complete control over the composition and lighting in Found Still Life, which are key aspects of photography, some creative techniques should be considered while photographing. Lighting can somewhat be controlled by choosing what time of day to photograph, by adding fill light either on or off camera, or by utilizing reflectors, diffusors, or anything else that may alter the available light. Composition can be controlled by artistically excluding things that do not contribute to the overall image by experimenting with your shooting angle or perspective, by zooming in or moving closer to your subject, or by using a shallow depth of field.
When deciding on subject matter there basically are no limitations, but some active planning can help in finding those perfect still life shots. Make a point to visit locations that are known to have interesting subjects, especially if you have some idea of what you are wanting to photograph. Some locations include garden centers or garden sheds, workshops or tool sheds, antique shops, boutiques, restaurants, markets, and cafes. Abandoned or deserted buildings could be a photographer’s dream location for Found Still Life, but make sure you get the appropriate permission to avoid trespassing and to maintain safety.
To recap this week’s challenge:
- Take a new photo that illustrates Found Still Life by choosing a subject matter that was arranged without the artist’s interference.
- Post your photo during the week of Sunday, Feb 24 and Saturday, March 2.
- Please remember to comment on at least FIVE photo submissions this week by answering the question “why?” in your comments. In other words, “why do I like (or not like) this photo? or “why did this photo catch my eye?”
The friendly community guidelines are pretty simple:
- Take a new photo for the current weekly theme, not something from your back catalog or someone else’s image.
- Post your photo each week to our active communities on Facebookor Flickr (or both). Tag the photo: #2019photochallenge #photochallenge #tempusaura
- Don’t leave home without your camera. Participating in the 2019 Trevor Carpenter Photo Challenge is fun and easy.
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