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.