by Harvey Smart
Interesting little details are everywhere, just waiting to be found and photographed.
Here are some tips and suggestions of what to look out for, and how to get great shots.
Explore! – Venture off the beaten path to find unique subjects. You don’t have to go far to do this. Explore your own area!
Sometimes, the most intriguing shots come from places that are not well-trodden by tourists and locals.
Look Closer – Often, these hidden gems are right under our noses. You can try using a macro lens (if you have one) to reveal the intricacies of everyday objects.
Many phone cameras also allow you to get up close to your subject. Things like plants, leaves and rocks often have fascinating patterns or details when seen up close.
Play with Light – Early morning or late afternoon light can cast magical glows and create dramatic shadows, creating shapes and colours that might not be seen otherwise.
Change Your Perspective – Try shooting from different angles – get low to the ground or climb up high. Try to get a perspective that hasn’t been seen before.
Pattern and Textures – Our previous competition was also about pattern and texture, but it applies to the theme of ‘Hidden Gems’ too.
Look for repetitive shapes, contrasting textures, and bold lines. These elements can transform a simple subject into a stunning photograph.
Use Negative Space – Sometimes, what you leave out of the frame is just as important as what you include. Use negative space (parts of the frame that are not ‘busy’), to draw attention to something.
Tell a Story – Everything has a story and you can use your photos to tell it. Whether it’s the history of an old building or the journey of a fallen leaf, let your images speak.
Remember, the beauty of photography lies in the ability to freeze a moment in time, revealing the hidden gems that might otherwise go unnoticed.
Keep your eyes open, be creative, and most importantly, enjoy discovering new little details.
Have fun and happy shooting!