A Common Bond

I just finished up teaching a mini-workshop for PPofA in Oakland, California. When I was invited to teach, I thought it was a stretch - since PPofA members are typically wedding and portrait photographers. What would I be teaching them and how would we attract them to attend my seminar? Much to my delight, we filled the class and everyone there was eager to learn what I had to teach about creative outdoor photography! The reason many attended was to learn how to improve their landscape and scenic images that they make in their spare time or on their travels. But there were also a few that wanted to utilize some of the techniques they'd learn in the class for their outdoor portraits and wedding images. Since I strongly believe that all types of photography can benefit from utilizing visual design concepts, and creating dynamic compositions, this turned out to be a perfect balance of what I had to share and what they wanted to learn. In the process I realized that the two types of photography were not that different; weddings are often about capturing the moment, the gesture; wildlife and nature photography is also about that at times. Outdoor portraits are about striking a balance between the person and the environment; same as I do with magazine environmental portraits; and also about creating a composition that was visually strong and that led you to the person or people. Even light was a common factor, especially with the natural light used by many wedding photographers in the class. Yet while it was familiar information, none of them had successfully created images outside of the wedding or portrait realm that they were satisfied with, before the class. In the end, they all learned something new because they stepped outside their comfort zone to try some different techniques and to see in fresh ways. And I affirmed that there is always some common ground to share no matter what type of photographer you might be.

Comments

[Melissa Zavadil]

Brenda I really enjoyed this expecially the part where you stated, "In the end, they all learned something new because they stepped outside their comfort zone to try some different techniques and to see in fresh ways." This is a very powerful thing you stated! And I wanted to commend you!!!! :o)

Conquer the only thing that IS stable in life "Change" and you will spread your wings to new worlds and create new dynamic thoughts, concepts, products (photography) and visions. Melissa Zavadil

[Brenda Tharp]

Thanks, Melissa, for your feedback. We think alike!