It was bit chilly for my latest photo walk but it was the perfect weather. The snow was gently falling, and it was overcast with no sign of sun. I will shoot in the sun, but I prefer gloomy days. I chose to use my amazing Canon 5D Classic paired with the 50mm 1.2. I sound like a broken record, but this camera produces my favourite photos. They have a character and tone to them that no other camera I own can replicate it. Honestly, the other camera that comes somewhat close, is my equally old Canon M. That’s not to say my newer pro bodies don’t produce great photos, they are just slightly different, and not as ‘film like’.
As with most of my photo walks, I chose a general area to explore and just went with it. From back alleys to main streets, I photographed whatever caught my eye. Often times, I would just turn around and walk back where I came from. It’s amazing how just changing direction can allow you to pick up on things you might have otherwise missed. My style of photography when walking around can be defined as urban landscape I guess. But I don’t like to really categorize it.
I photograph everything from fine details, to architecture to even abstract compositions. I try to find the simplicity in things and strip away all the clutter. Whether that is by using a shallow depth of field or through composition. I also constantly search out contrast colours or similar tones. Rule of thirds also play a huge role in how I frame. I don’t always follow that ‘rule’ but I can definitely help in creating interesting compositions.
For anyone out there struggling to find beauty in their ‘boring old town’, you just have to know where to look. Don’t be afraid to get in close to subjects, or even take a step back. Cross the street, get a different perspective. Try different times of the day. Go down roads or alleys (safely) that you typically wouldn’t wander down. Lastly, not every photo has to be perfect or a masterpiece. The photo I chose for the banner of this post, is actually slightly out of focus. But it was my favourite one of the bunch.
