Expanding Your Photographic Vision

Can you guess what this unusual image is? For a hint, the photo is from the same subject of a previous article titled Simplicity. Even though both photos incorporate red and yellow as their dominant colors, those are not the true colors of this particular photo. Some fun experimentation led me to alter the original colors quite dramatically, and I liked this color rendition.

If you consider other components often found on this subject (keeping in mind the colors are different than what’s shown in this photo), you just might be able to guess the source of this close-up shot. Try pushing your mind beyond what you think you’re seeing in the photo, and see if you can come up with a few guesses.

If you’re stumped, or are in a hurry, keep reading. I’ll also share THREE TIPS on expanding your photographic vision.

MYSTERY SUBJECT REVEALED
The photo below reveals that the source of the abstract close-up photo shown above is a NAPA-brand mud flap (hanging on the old Chevrolet truck referenced in a previous post). A portion of the letter “N” has been focused on, and a plant’s leaf and its shadow are seen to the right of the “N.” The color of the mud flap is actually varying shades of faded yellow, not the brilliant colors in the modified image.

TIPS FOR EXPANDING YOUR PHOTOGRAPHIC VISION
During the process of photographing, you may not realize the treasure that awaits you in a potential image. Here are a few ideas you might consider for future photo outings:

• Flexibility — Switch gears, internally. Instead of being predominantly a “thinker,” be a “feeler,” endeavoring to be more in touch with your emotional reactions to what you’re seeing.
• Exploration — Although at times you may not be consciously aware of why a particular scene or subject is compelling to you, there’s something about it that nevertheless appeals to you. It could be the lighting, color, shapes, texture or any number of other characteristics that you’re drawn to on a non-thinking level. Give yourself permission to intuitively explore a scene or subject without the pressure of knowing the outcome.
• Perseverance — Whenever the visual elements of a particular scene or subject are not quite coming together, it’s important to continue exploring the scene or subject. Don’t let your mind — i.e., over-analysis or fear — cause you to stop exploring too soon. Instead, assume there will be a pleasing visual solution, and keep working at it.

I hope these thoughts are helpful. Do you have some thoughts you’d like to add?