Editing so many photo's is giving me that chance to really get to grips with lightroom 2 and what a powerful piece of software it is! Well worth the investment.
Latest offerings: enjoy
His Details, originally uploaded by Izula.
As a break from the wedding photo's i thought i'd edit one of my much loved "colour" shots. Subject, rained on paving slabs in london! There is always something to photograph when one keeps there eyes open.... "Caroshine" is the result: carousel gently shining onto the wet paving.
Caroshine, originally uploaded by Izula.
Over the last couple of years, when experimenting with flavours in cooking it would seem I have a tendency to over do things the first time round...(usually second time is better and third time perfect). Less is more. Be that less of a particular flavour, or, less flavours (herbs/spices/seasonings/juices/vinegars/sauces....) in combination together.
This has got me wondering... is this the same with photography? Is the recipe for a better photo 'Less is more'? Naturally in the minimalism movement less is necessary, however, what of 'normal' photos? What of portraits, landscapes, wedding photo's. My current hypothesis:
"Less is more: by controlling the elements within a photo so that there is less happening and a clear 'flavour' (focus) a better photo should be produced...."
I believe this is probably the case in more photos than not, until proven wrong. I will of course experiment over the coming month and share my findings but am also going to survey the many 'successful' photos I see to find the exceptions which prove the rule. My expectancy is that they will be photo's by established photographers, those who have learnt the rules that they might better break them!
If you have any thoughts on this, or any photos for either camp to share please comment and link.
An update on the London pictures: Canary Wharf station on the Jubilee line. I just love the lines and shapes in the industrial styled architecture!
Stair Lift, originally uploaded by Izula.
I'm known for being the chatty type. Personally I couldn't possibly comment. However, of late the value of words has become eminently apparent. Reading is a key form of learning, and with so many excellent sources at our fingertips (quite literally), delivering vast quantities of valuable information, what excuse do we have to remain naive in our chosen fields of work, hobby or otherwise?
Personally I am linking this to my photography. I wish to improve, grow, be stretched, experiment, and reach my goals on a regular basis. Of course, I cannot expect that by just 'being a brain' improvement will willingly fling itself upon my prior undertakings, embrace the mistakes, and turn them into articles of finesse and splendour. Practice is key. However, much of what I have achieved alone, has taken twice the time of similar ventures where I have sought help, and read expert advice.Over on deviantArt many of the photographers whom I most respect, admire and look up to have recently been suggesting subjects to read up on, articles of value, and discussing the books and tutorials they themselves are currently using to develop their work. I guess this leaves me no choice in the matter... The only remaining question: "where to start?"
Answer: By learning from the best - Joe McNally - The Moment It Clicks
Have finalised one of my Kew Gardens photos specifically for a contest over on Deviant Art (DA). First time i've entered such a big competition so i'm a little nervous - but at the same time thrilled at the piece i have to enter. Even if its not a winner i can see improvements through practice so that pleases me!
Skeletal Obsession, originally uploaded by Izula.
Well i've now finished my degree with a respectable grade (so i'm told) of a 2.1 BA(Hons) in Applied Theology. So now on to the next stage of my life - work (or job hunting in this case). However, while i am doing this i am picking up some hours waitressing. Money is money you might say. I have also found i have a little bit more time for taking photographs (wahoo).
Back in January this year i went to Malawi for 5 weeks, and although focused on my college placement i found time to take a few photos. My favourite photo (a spur of the moment act now or forever miss it out of the truck window) can be seen below. 
I See You, originally uploaded by Izula.
Next i got lost in essay and my dissertation which proved "time consuming" at least. Oddly no photo's of that
May brought sunnier climes and an escape from written work with a trip to France to help lead the 14+ teenagers work at Spring Harvest Holidays just for the half term week. Final night we had a talent show, and some talent there was...
Jump 2, originally uploaded by Izula.
Since then i managed to spend a bit of time at the beach before moving back to my parents(not alot mind you.)
Between finishing college and starting the job hunt (slightly more leisurely as i have a part time job to keep me going) i had about 2 weeks off... 1st week i was at the NFI conference in Brighton, and second week included a trip to London to take some more photos, go on the eye, and watch Les Miserables. Great fun and photos to follow....
Now back in the sunny north i am almost unpacked. To keep me happy i have several new toys to play with.
1. Metz 58 AF-1 Flash Gun
2. Photoshop CS4 Extended (Jump 2 is the first picture processed in it and prob. more of a learning curve than quality but hey...
3.Lightroom 2
4. A website bizzyliggs.mfbiz.com which is under construction but getting there slowly! :)
So that's me somewhat up to date... Hope to get the new pictures to you soon....
