The essence of photography often gets lost in the complexity of technology and techniques. However, the key to becoming an exceptional photographer might be more straightforward than you think: it's all about simplifying every aspect of your craft. This principle holds the potential to not only streamline your process but also to enhance the quality of your work.
Coming to you from Craig Roberts of e6 Vlogs, this excellent video emphasizes the importance of simplicity in photography. Roberts argues that the art of photography, inherently simple, has become unnecessarily complicated over the years. By returning to basics, photographers can avoid distractions that hinder progress. A standout point in the video is the recommendation to start with a simple camera setup. The choice of camera brand—be it Canon, Nikon, Sony, or others—is secondary to understanding and mastering the device you choose. Every camera fundamentally operates the same in manual mode, underscoring the idea that simplicity reigns supreme in the realm of photography. Roberts also advocates for the use of prime lenses over zoom lenses, particularly for beginners. While zoom lenses offer versatility, they also introduce a complexity that can be too much at first. A prime lens, like the classic 50mm, provides a straightforward approach to everyday shooting and helps photographers focus on composition and technique without the distraction of multiple focal lengths.
Furthermore, Roberts suggests practical settings like using a 50mm lens at an f/8 aperture and setting the ISO to 400 as a baseline for sharp, focused images. This approach demystifies the technical aspects of photography, allowing photographers to concentrate on creativity and composition. He also touches on the importance of understanding basic composition rules, like the rule of thirds, and recommends local exploration for photography subjects. By simplifying the process and focusing on accessible subjects, photographers can develop their skills more effectively and without prohibitive cost or time investments.
Check out the video above for the full rundown from Roberts.
And if you really want to dive into landscape photography, check out our latest tutorial, "Photographing the World: Japan With Elia Locardi!"
