Waikato River, Hamilton

Waikato River, Hamilton
Low Water Waikato River, Hamilton NZ

Monday, November 29, 2010

HOT OFF THE PRESS - SPORTING ACTION

Post by Judy@Gallery21

To me, photography is the simultaneous recognition,
 in a fraction of a second, of the significance of an event.
  Henri Cartier-Bresson


Hamilton, New Zealand (aka“events city”) has hosted two popular sporting events this month. The annual “Round the Bridges” running and walking event and “The Bridge to Bridge Water Ski Classic” – the biggest event of its type in the country held on the Waikato River.  Gallery 21 photographers were there to capture some of the action.








(All images © Copyright Gallery 21 Photography)


Saturday, November 6, 2010

OPEN YOUR (PHOTOGRAPHIC) EYE TO YOUR NEIGHBOURHOOD

Posted by Judy@Gallery21

The important thing is not the camera but the eye.” – Alfred Eisenstaedt
(German-American photographer and photojournalist)

For enthusiastic amateur or professional photographers some of the best photo opportunities can be found in your own backyard or neighbourhood. 

Waikato River - within walking distance of  my home
Often we are in awe of photographs taken in exotic places, but most of us really don’t have to travel any further than our own areas to find some wonderful photo locations.  Because our neighbourhoods are so familiar to us, we tend to take things for granted and think of them as ordinary, often failing to see just how extraordinary they may be.  It’s just a matter of taking the time to stop and observe and developing that “photographer’s” eye i.e. the ability to really pay attention to details around you.      


Often you may need to visit a location several times before you get your shot.  A distinct advantage of being able to photograph in your own neighbourhood is that you are on the spot and can be there at a moment’s notice to catch the desired conditions for the shot envisaged. 

Californian Quaile snapped in my garden
Another advantage is that you’re likely to have explored the area where you live and have a good knowledge of some unusual or unique features that a casual visitor may be unaware of.  Make the most of these opportunities.  Experiment at different times of the day in different weather conditions, at different angles, to get the shots you want.

There are a myriad of subjects and the list is only limited by your imagination, your perception, your creativity. These attributes are just some of the things that can set you apart and provide those unique shots.  Some examples to get those creative juices flowing could include gardens, birds, pets, statues, sculptures, parks, street scenes, river, lake and beach scenes, events, buildings, architecture etc.    Write down some ideas of your own, do some research on the best shooting conditions and then go and capture those photographs.   Remember though, to be sensitive to people and if you are shooting close up, always ask their permission.