Let us first look at what is called art in photography. Ansel Adams quoted, “Art implies control of reality, for reality itself possesses no sense of the aesthetic. Photography becomes art when certain controls are applied.”. I feel those controls he is talking about are the processes and techniques of photography we individually create.
Where to start when shooting black and white photography? I would like to match our journey through fine art photography as to being similar to my journey through learning martial arts.
The Basics: Gear, Camera, Lens, Filters, and Film.
Imagine stepping into a dojo, the scent of wood and the sound of silence wrapping around you like a comforting blanket. This isn’t just any space—it’s where you learn discipline, where you refine your technique, where you transform your body and mind. Now, think of creating a black and white image as your first kata. You're not just here to snap pictures; you're here to master an art form, to use techniques for creating art with light and shadow. Remember this guide “A photographer is an artist; you make images; you don’t just shoot or take pictures. The practice of photography is the process of creating. “. So we must learn, study and practice our skills like the illustrator, painter and shifu or sensei.
The gear? That's our uniform and weapons. Camera body is our gi (the uniform that gives structure), the lens is our sword, filters are our armor. Protecting the lens and enhancing your images, allowing you to shape light to your will. And then the film, the very ground we stand on. Choose wisely, like a samurai selecting their blade. Me; I start with choosing the lens and film, thinking about the story telling image I want to carve out of reality. Why the lens and film first? There are many types and brands, of which I will cover along the way.
Okay, the Lens? That’s your sword, your katana, the blade is the heart of your photographic arsenal, shaping the very essence of your image before it even reaches the film. It's through the lens that you control perspective, depth, and your visual narrative, making it the true arbiter of your creative vision carved out of the worlds reality around you.
Film?
The ground you stand on, the very foundation and silent collaborator that shapes your approach, demanding a deep understanding of Knowing what you want to do, by knowing and reading the environment. With film you have the international organization for standardization (ISO number), representing how sensitive to light the film is – knowing this gives you the ability to pre-visualize your results, allowing you to read the scene and choose the perfect medium to capture it.
As you progress, you'll add more techniques to your arsenal. You will learn to strips away the noise, allowing you to focus on the essence—composition, contrast, and texture seeing through the color. Much like adding kicks with your punches.
Also remember, this is a lifelong journey. In martial arts, even the greatest masters continue to learn, continue to refine their techniques, continue to sharpen their blades. Photography is no different. Every time you pick up your camera, you’re stepping into the dojo, ready to dance with reality and create something new.
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