There are so many variables to take a single photo of a single subject that it borders on infinity.
I use flash cards to remind me of many of these variables and also specific troubles i've been having when i'm shooting. These flash cards are very custom to where i'm personally at with my photography. For example "Check the edges for any distracting/unneccessary elements" This is easy to say, but making it a habit in the field may take some time. So i carry a set of flash cards with me while shooting and when i've got some down time, i flip through them.
It is so easy to get focused taking photos, but...
This is generally a good thing but our thinking can become narrow. These flash cards are very useful to get us out of our normal routine. They are useful when we have a good subject but can't get a photo we are happy with. But they are also good to use when we have a good subject and a photo we are satisfied with. After you would normally shop shooting read a few flash cards and you may start taking some new, potentially better, photos. Or realize you were making a mistake you often make. High ISO when not neccessary, for example. Some are very technical while others address the more creative side of photography. These questions are good to ask anytime, but best "in the field". When it's still possible to retake the photograph. Ideally after you ask yourself these questions conscientiously enough times they will become part of your unconscious routine.
Without further ado, here is a list of things written on my flash cards and some basic ones i've added for people just starting photography.
Basic |
Intermedite |
Advanced |
What Aperture am i shooting at and why? Could my ISO be any lower? Is my shutter speed fast enough for my lens and shooting conditions? Is everything in the frame adding to the photo? If i came back at a diffrent time of the day would this be a better photo? Is any part of the photo totally black or washed out? |
Would this subject look better in B&W? Is this the best lens for this situation? Is the subjet in the middle? in "the 1/3rds"? Why? Does the White Balance match the lighting and effect i want to acheive? Use Fill Flash? Wait one minute before taking the photo ( don't just "point & shoot") |
What is my in-camera sharpness setting? Could this be taken vertical too? (magazine cover) Is my color mode best for this situation? Use multible exposures to capture rain & snow, etc. Would this photo benifit from a polorizer? Should i use a dark ND filter and take a much longer exposure? |
I'll be adding many more and i'd also like to hear if you have any ideas for topics
Please check out other parts of idioimagers.org and Feel free to contact me with any questions or comments. Thanks for reading,
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