Capturing the essence of urban environments through photography is both an art and a technique that evolves with the photographer's experience and experimentation. This great discussion reflects on the journey and the pivotal changes one photographer is making to invigorate his creative process, highlighting the importance of adaptability and innovation in the craft.
Coming to you from Steve O'Nions, this reflective video explores the nuanced shifts in his approach to video and photography content. O'Nions openly shares his feelings of stagnation after years of creating content in a similar vein, expressing a desire for growth and change. This candid admission leads into a broader discussion on the necessity for photographers to continually challenge their methods and perspectives to stay relevant and engaged with their craft. O'Nions' experiment with urban photography in Liverpool, using a mix of color and black and white film, serves as a practical example of how changing one's tools and subjects can lead to fresh insights and revitalize one's passion for photography.
Furthermore, O'Nions' exploration into color film introduces photographers to the potential of experimenting with different mediums to achieve unique aesthetic results. His analytical approach to reviewing his work—identifying which images would have benefitted from being shot in color versus black and white—offers valuable lessons on the impact of medium choice on the final outcome of an image. His commentary on embracing changes in the photography world, including adapting to new film types and revisiting the principles of urban photography, underscores the importance of flexibility and openness to new experiences in the creative process. Check out the video above for the full rundown from O'Nions.