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HeartWood
A blog about cultivating
creativity, connection and contentment
wherever you are

Learning to See - A guest post by Ruth Daly

9/20/2017

5 Comments

 
While I'm taking a break for relaxation and recreation, I've invited some of my fellow bloggers to fill in with guest posts. This week's is from blogger/photographer Ruth Daly, who blogs here. Whether or not you carry a camera around, you can apply these insights on slowing down, focusing on details and really learning to see, to your everyday observations of the world around you.

Contemplative Photography
by Ruth Daly

Spending time with other photographers always helps me improve my skills. Sometimes it's getting to know my camera better or gaining useful tips on composition or shutter speed. Other times, it's suggestions on how to notice the details. For the last few weeks, I've been taking a course on contemplative photography. This isn't about the technical side of photography, although that does come into it, but about developing observation skills and different ways of shooting the same thing. The course is called 'Learning to See' - this is very good for me. Too often, I find myself in a setting with no idea where to start taking pictures because so many interesting things surround me. ​
​Contemplative photography is a bit like meditation; it helps me focus on a theme, and then notice the details. It forces me to slow down. 
​The theme here is all about finding the light.
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For the next few I focused on the colour yellow. I soon found myself wishing that I'd gone with something more creative like shadows or patterns, so decided to look for lines as well.
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Texture and simplicity.
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​ Shining a flashlight on a fuchsia for a different effect.
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We were encouraged to take multiple shots of the same flower from different angles and in all stages of its life. Even though I love the vibrant colours of the red petals, there's something wistful and beautiful in the dying flower, captured from above, its petals drying out and beginning to curl.
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Since starting the course, I find that I automatically choose a theme when I'm out walking or even just taking pictures in my back yard. ​
And I'm finding the details.
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5 Comments
Sally C Kane
9/20/2017 06:20:42 am

Fascinating and instructive. I learned so much, just in this short sampling. It makes me want to go out with my camera. The meditative approach- slowing down an attending to detail- appeals to me. Thank you.

Reply
Susan Stec link
9/20/2017 03:16:06 pm

The shot with the reflection in fragmented windowpanes is amazing. Going out in search of the perfect shot with a method to my madness makes sense. I will give it a try. Thanks for filling in. I enjoy Nan's blog. It's one of my favorites sites. It was nice meeting you.

Reply
Emily Everett
9/20/2017 04:38:01 pm

I love the idea of using photography as a meditative experience. Thanks for the inspiration!

Reply
J.Q. Rose link
9/21/2017 05:24:15 am

Thank you for giving us a different perspective on photography. I know when I am out shooting, I am in the moment and relishing the experience. Your photos are beautiful and certainly gave me some new ideas for pictures. Very inspiring. Good to meet you.

Reply
Bobby M link
4/29/2021 12:03:33 am

Hello nice blog.

Reply



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    Nan Sanders Pokerwinski, a former journalist, writes memoir and personal essays, makes collages and likes to play outside. She lives in West Michigan with her husband, Ray.

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