I only started serious photography in 2019 when I took four courses with NYIP. Looking back at my photos taken at that time, I was reminded how focused I was on subjects alone – trying so hard to make sure they were exposed properly, in focus, and all the other technical stuff. Gradually as the technical side became more second nature, I was able to think about and incorporate light and other elements in order to enhance the subjects for a more interesting composition.
1). SIDE 1: Photos 1, 2, & 3 were taken several years ago at the beginning when my focus was on subjects alone and trying to get all the technical parts correct.
2). SIDE 2: Photos 4, 5, 6, 7, & 8 were taken over this past year
3). In the title of this post, I mentioned 2 sides + 1 more. The last photo is my +1 more side that provides an income and something I never saw for myself five years ago when I started photography. I live in the heart of Amish country. A lot of the Amish own businesses like roofing companies, bakeries, construction, and woodworking. The community has their own Amish publication filled with advertisements and classifieds, and it's very important to them. Since they aren't allowed to own technology like cameras or computers, they have needs for photography and design services. The last photo is my +1 more other side – photography of products and ad design for Amish businesses.
Thank you for posting Jennifer.
1,2,3: I can see your point about focusing on the subject, however I see in 3, the beginning of incorporating "more" into your compositions.
4-8 really show your use of DoF and work it to your advantage. I like the moody feeling in number 6. Regarding 7 and 8, I have tried many times to photograph our red poppies and no mapper what the saturation of Red removes the depth of the flower. I don't know if that is true with your photo or more likely the compression from uploading.
Bonus. I never thought of that. Probably because there was an Amish community in the Willamette Valley of Oregon in the late 1800s, but it died out after the death of their bishop in 1907. The remaining Amish families either moved away or joined other churches. A couple other started...but never developed as those back east.
What a great way to help pay for new camera gear!
There are definite signs of significant growth here Jenny (although I really do like the character of the sky in #2).
Images 3-6 really show a greater level of intent and creativity, adding more of the environment to create a broader story or playing with light to add mood.
I always find flowers a challenge and have found it difficult over the years to produce much that I like. Being influenced by my own frustrations and negative bias these are my least favorite of the group.
It must be frustrating to be amongst the Amish and unable to capture their rich and unique character, but at least you got to record their handiwork!
Wonderful series overall - thanks for sharing and showing how much you have grown, both in your creativity and technical skills.
You grew over the years, that's great! My personal favorites is the acer leave in bright light. The leaves of the branch are sharp, beautiful color & Rich of light. Very positive mood.
Creatures pushing their rear side towards the lens, looking a bit awkward for me as it looks like they tell me: "Go, leave me alone", and maybe worse. Maybe I'm a bit sensitive...
The red flowers providing a strong color contrast to the green of the leafs.
It's great when you can make some income by photographing for an woodworker. When you meet their needs & things look attractive to their customers: well done!
Great work Jennifer! Definite signs of growth. My favorite one is the leaves (photo 4). It's also great you found a way to put your camera to work for you! I'm working on doing a similar thing my self.