My friend and I went out the other day to take photos at the park. Once we were finished, we compared our images. We had both taken pictures of the lake, the ducks and the few people that were fishing that day. When we compared our images, they looked completely different.
This got me thinking- about how perceptions affect our photography.
Environment
Our perceptions are shaped by many countless experiences and how you were raised. For instance, your surroundings as you were growing could influence in how you see the world. If you were raised in the City, you may be drawn to capturing the night life, neon signs and getting close ups of strangers. Compare this to someone who grew up in the country or on a farm. They may be more drawn to nature and landscapes and may not be as comfortable taking pictures of people.
My personal example is that I grew up in the country/rural areas as well as urban. I have never lived in a big city- like New York. With this said, for my Street Photography, I gravitate towards urban scenes that have nature- flowers, plants, etc. My favorite type of photography is landscape and nature-so I found I am naturally drawn towards these scenes. I cannot always travel to scenic landscapes however, so this is one reason I ventured into Street Photography. I just love taking photos- and the streets are always available!
I also grew up doing a bunch of different outdoor activities. Camping, hiking, etc. As an adult, I’ve taken thousands of photos during my camping and hiking adventures (that are not on here obviously). However, here is a post I did on an Urban Fitness Trail. If I did not grow up being active and fit, I don’t think this Fitness Park would have appealed to me.
Cultural Influences
Cultural influences also affect our photographic style. The traditions we’ve grown up with, and even the stories our families have told us all contribute to our creative vision. This means a photograph of a festival, a family gathering, or even a simple street scene can carry different meanings to different people.
Working in diverse cultural contexts can be a game-changer. Traveling to new places and immersing yourself in different ways of living can expand your perspective dramatically. By adapting your technique to respect and represent other cultures authentically, you enrich your portfolio and bring a unique flavor to your work.
Personal Biases
In addition, personal biases play a key role in shaping our shots. These biases aren’t necessarily negative. They’re just part of who we are. Recognizing them can actually help you understand why you’re drawn towards certain subjects or styles. For instance, I have a bias towards historical areas and more run down neighborhoods. I think these areas are more interesting than newer developments.
In other cases, I have seen where photographers are biased towards taking photos of just one particular gender or age range. Everything we take pictures of is a reflection of our inner being.
Emotions & State of Mind
Your state of mind can also affect your perceptions. If you are more of an optimist, you may gravitate towards brighter lights and vibrant colors. More introspective? Then maybe your shots have a more somber tone and you’re good at seeing shadows and muted hues. Understanding your unique viewpoint can enhance your creativity and help you take photographs that you and your audience can connect with.
Ever noticed how your mood impacts the way you compose a photograph? If you are really happy, this can lead to bold, dynamic compositions, whereas a more reflective state might result in minimalist, introspective shots. Recognizing this connection can help you be more intentional with your photography, using it almost as a visual diary to express your current emotional state.
Your mood can also influence your color choices. Whether it’s an affinity for blue skies in a serene moment or the warm, rich hues of a golden sunset when you’re feeling content. Experimenting with color palettes that match emotional contexts can greatly enhance the impact of your photos.
Lighting is another key player. The interplay of light and shadow can dramatically change the emotional tone of a photograph. Soft, diffused light can create a calming, peaceful image, while harsh, stark lighting might evoke tension or energy. Knowing how to manipulate light to match your feeling can add depth and meaning to your work.
Look at some iconic photographs taken during high emotional states. Think of Dorothea Lange’s ‘Migrant Mother,’ which conveys deep hardship and despair, or Alfred Eisenstaedt’s ‘V-J Day in Times Square,’ bursting with triumph and joy. These photographers harnessed their emotions and channeled them into their work, creating timeless pieces that speak volumes.
Using your emotional state as a tool rather than a hindrance can elevate your photography. Next time you pick up your camera, take a moment to check in with yourself. How are you feeling, and how can you translate that into your work? This practice not only makes your photos more authentic but also turns each shot into a personal narrative.
Harnessing Perception for Creative Innovation
If you want your photography to stand out, tapping into your personal perception is key. This means breaking away from the conventional norms and trusting your own vision. Understanding how you see the world can help you develop unique compositions that are distinctly yours.
One way to leverage this is by experimenting with different techniques. Play around with perspective – shoot from high angles, low angles, or even from unexpected points of view. Don’t be afraid to push boundaries and try unconventional methods. This kind of experimentation can lead to surprising and delightful results.
If you are shy and generally don’t like taking photos of people, I encourage you to get past this. Street photography can definitely still be great w/out people in it, but it’s good to be able to be comfortable with photographing individuals.
Challenging your usual way of seeing things can also spark innovation. Take time to intentionally break your routines. Visit new places, meet people from different backgrounds, and expose yourself to diverse experiences. These new inputs can alter your perception and inspire fresh ideas that revitalize your photography.
Summary
There are also practical exercises you can try to refine your perceptual skills. Engage in regular photo walks, focusing on capturing details you’d normally overlook. Use tools like prisms or reflections to add new dimensions to your shots. Even simple practices like shooting in black and white can change the way you see light and shadow, refining your compositional skills.
By actively embracing and harnessing your unique perception, you not only create more engaging and meaningful photographs but also develop a signature style that sets you apart. Remember, the best photos are often those that tell a story only you can tell.
I encourage you to head out for a photo shoot with a friend (to the same place) and then compare images afterwards to discuss. You may learn a lot hearing from your friend on the reasons why they took the pictures the way they did.
Do you agree that our perceptions affect how we take photographs? Would love to hear your comments!