Photography is more than just capturing visually stunning locations - it's about finding beauty in unexpected places. When you encounter a scene that seems initially unpromising, the real artistry lies in using light, composition, and timing to transform it into something compelling.
Coming to you from James Popsys, this insightful video explores his experience photographing at a Welsh slate quarry. Despite its rich historical significance as the second-largest slate quarry in the world, Popsys initially struggled with the location's monochromatic nature, where buildings blend seamlessly into their surroundings since everything is made of the same slate material. He discovered that the key to photographing such locations lies heavily in working with available light and weather conditions. The snowfall during his visit added an unexpected element of drama, while specific lighting conditions helped separate the buildings from their backgrounds in ways that weren't possible under flat light. His approach demonstrates how challenging locations can yield remarkable images when you understand how to work with the conditions.
Popsys shares valuable technical insights about shooting in snowy conditions, particularly regarding shutter speed choices. He explains his bracketing technique, which serves two purposes: managing the extreme contrast between dark buildings and bright snow, and finding the optimal shutter speed to capture falling snow aesthetically. The constantly changing speed of snowfall due to wind gusts makes this technique particularly useful, as it allows quick comparison between different exposures to find the most effective representation of the scene.
The video also touches on a deeper philosophical aspect of photography that many can relate to - the relationship between experiencing a moment and photographing it. Popsys reflects on his recent decision to simply observe rather than photograph the Northern Lights, leading to an interesting discussion about when to shoot and when to simply be present. This perspective offers a refreshing counterpoint to the common drive to photograph everything noteworthy we encounter. Check out the video above for the full rundown from Popsys.
