UPDATE: New insights from professional photographers are reshaping how you approach photography, revealing critical mistakes that could be ruining your shots. A recent video highlights 11 common errors and offers urgent strategies to elevate your photography skills, with a focus on immediate action you can take now.
The video, presented by Shannon, emphasizes the danger of “tunnel vision” when using long lenses like the 400mm and 600mm. He cites a specific incident in Denali, where photographers missed captivating environmental shots by fixating solely on distant subjects. Instead, by switching to a shorter focal length, they captured dynamic scenes that resonate with viewers. This simple adjustment could be the key to avoiding the mistake of thinking “closer is better.”
Shannon stresses that effective photography begins before you press the shutter button. “Software is for finishing, not manufacturing the photo from scratch,” he states. This means making small, intentional decisions upfront, like protecting highlights and selecting cleaner backgrounds. By doing so, you can save hours during the editing process.
In a compelling twist, fellow photographer Nick Page addresses a psychological barrier many face: arriving at a location with a single shot in mind, ignoring the shifting light and weather conditions. This mindset often leads to a memory card filled with “almost” perfect photos. To avoid this trap, he encourages photographers to remain flexible and open to the unexpected scenes around them.
The video introduces two pivotal concepts that can transform your photo planning. Firstly, lighting conditions can be more crucial than the location itself, challenging the notion that iconic sites guarantee great images. Secondly, Page advises against forcing photographs when conditions are unfavorable, as this often results in flat lighting and disappointing outcomes.
Instead of playing it safe, Page advocates for taking risks. He shares an extraordinary example of a photographer using an underwater housing on a tripod, dedicating days to capture a single, daring shot. This discipline may feel extreme, but it can yield stunning results.
As the video delves deeper, it addresses technical aspects that may be overcomplicating your photography. It covers techniques such as stacking, bracketing, and panoramas, emphasizing that a tripod is not always necessary if you can shoot quickly enough to align your frames. For instance, focus stacking is recommended over stopping down to f/22, which can lead to softer images due to diffraction.
The segment also highlights the importance of manual focus modes, urging photographers to choose their settings deliberately rather than relying on automation. This is especially critical when shooting in chaotic environments where autofocus can struggle.
For those serious about improving their photography, this video serves as a wake-up call. With Alex Cooke, a Cleveland-based photographer, providing expert insights, viewers can learn to recognize and rectify the hidden habits that may be holding them back.
To watch the full rundown and transform your photography skills, check out the video above. Don’t miss this opportunity to elevate your craft and capture images that tell compelling stories!
