There is so much to learn in photography that it is easy to become overwhelmed. Let's step back and have a bit of fun!
If you have been following my daily articles,
you have been working pretty hard lately learning all the various photo tips and rules... Now let's try our hands at a really fun photo project - that can make you famous in your community!
I know that those of us who have been bitten by the photo bug often wake up in the morning wanting to shoot something, but we just don't know what!
Here is a project that can be done in a few minutes or can last years - and it's totally up to you...
Most communities have some sort of historical society. If you can't find a listing for one, try contacting the local library.
Once you've tracked them down, pay them a visit and ask to see old photographs of the area.
Find a shot taken back as far as possible, the middle 1800's is ideal, and get a copy of the photo.
Now take your gear, go to the same spot and shoot a modern day photo from exactly the same vantage point, etc.
Try to duplicate as much of the photo as you can...if there is a horse and buggy going down the street, include a car at the same spot in your photo. If there are people strolling down the sidewalk, put some people in yours too!
I'm sure you know what I mean! You are trying to copy as much as you can. (Don't forget to take the shot at the same time of day!)
Once you are done, print them out side by side.
This project will teach you more than you could ever predict! It will not only teach you how to work with your equipment, but it will teach you to look for and be observant of details.
Not only that, this project is ideal for kids just starting out in photography all the way through old retired pro shooters.
It all depends on you and how much detail you want to convey.
For example… In the original photograph with people strolling down the sidewalk...does your photo show them?
A photo by a teenaged beginner may not. It's OK. Shoot at your own level!
Are you more advanced? In that case the strollers are included! We can even go deeper if you want to... Is it the same size family group as the original? Are they made up of the same mix? (Man, woman, three kids.)
In other words, you can keep it simple - no people at all! Just the location. Or you can get as complex as you want.
This project is a surefire way to get known in your community - once people have seen your before and after photos. Compile them into a collection and donate a copy to the local historical society, library, Chamber of Commerce.
Then, do it again! Before long you will have enough of them to put together a "then and now" type of book! Chambers of Commerce love this sort of thing!
You ARE going to enjoy this photo project! Not only will you have a lot of fun, learn to master your equipment and develop a critical photo "eye." You will quickly become known in the community for your photography! For more information, check the resources box!
