Boom!

You don't need a camera for this exercise.

Hold your hands up like you're holding a phantom, imaginary camera, and move your shutter finger, and at the same time, say "Boom". Don't SHOUT it, c'mon, that's just weird.

Do you feel silly? Don't. I got this from Kevin Kubota, one of the best known photographers in the world. (and a really cool guy as well...)

Have you ever wondered how those supremely talented photographers can find the instant of maximum emotion or action? It's not chance. It is practice, and practice, and practice. The cool thing is, you don't have to have a camera in your hands in order to practice.

Little Angel

Walk downtown in whatever place you find yourselves. When you pass a little cafe with people talking outside, couples seated deeply in conversation, hold up your imaginary camera and go "boom". Try to catch the moment, the proper look, the downcast eyes or the eyes searching deeply into the eyes of the other. Find the moment, the smile, the earnest look of the salesman, the laugh of the children..... "Boom".

It's ok, you can whisper "boom". It works no matter what volume you boom at, although if you do it loud, you might break the mood you are observing...

And if your subjects see you "booming", you will probably get a smile. And if you tell them that you are a photographer and impressed with their expressions, you might end up with a friend or even a client. You never know!

Boom!

Homework? Be aware of where you are, and all of the images and expressions you are surrounded by, all day, every day. Then, of course, “Boom” them!

Coming next week.... It's all about the subject...