Ken Burns, born on July 29, 1953, in Brooklyn, New York, is an acclaimed American filmmaker. In his career, he has been nominated for two Oscars and won five Emmys. He is known for his distinctive style of documentary filmmaking. His work has significantly impacted the genre, bringing history to life through a unique narrative and visual storytelling blend. Burns’s documentaries have covered a wide range of American history topics, earning him numerous awards and a place as one of the most influential documentarians of our time.

Early Life

Burns grew up in a family that valued education and the arts. His mother, Lyla Smith Burns, a biotechnician, and his father, Robert Kyle Burns, an anthropology professor, instilled in him a deep appreciation for history and storytelling. However, his childhood was also marked by tragedy. His mother died of breast cancer when he was just 11 years old. This event deeply affected him and later influenced his work.

Burns attended Hampshire College in Amherst, Massachusetts, where he studied under documentary filmmaker Jerome Liebling. Liebling’s emphasis on the power of the image and the importance of storytelling had a lasting impact on Burns. While at Hampshire College, Burns developed his distinctive style, using archival photographs, period music, and first-person narration.

Ken Burns effect

The “Ken Burns Effect” is a distinctive technique in documentary filmmaking. Due to its extensive use in Ken Burns’ work, it has become synonymous with his name. The technique involves panning and zooming on still photographs, creating a sense of movement and narrative flow within a static image. It allows filmmakers to bring photographs to life, making them more engaging and visually dynamic for the audience.

Ken Burns popularised this technique with his landmark documentary series “The Civil War” (1990). Burns was faced with the challenge of depicting historical events where moving footage was scarce or non-existent. To overcome this, Burns and his team innovated by using existing photographs in a new and captivating way. This method was not entirely new but had never been utilised so effectively and extensively in a documentary series of this scale.

While Burns popularised this technique, it has since been widely adopted in various forms of media, including documentaries, educational videos, and even corporate presentations. Many video editing software programs now include built-in tools labelled as the “Ken Burns Effect,” thus making it accessible to many users.

Exploration of American History through Documentaries

The Civil War

One of Burns’ most notable works is “The Civil War,” a nine-part series that took over five years to complete and aired on PBS in 1990. This groundbreaking documentary used more than 16,000 archival photographs, paintings, and newspaper images to tell the story of the American Civil War. Narrated by historian David McCullough and featuring voices of Morgan Freeman and Sam Waterston, “The Civil War” received critical acclaim and brought Burns widespread recognition. The series not only won numerous awards, including two Emmy Awards, but also drew an audience of 40 million viewers. This makes it one of the most-watched programs in the history of public television.

Baseball

Following the success of “The Civil War,” Burns continued to explore American history through a series of ambitious projects. His documentary “Baseball” (1994) is a comprehensive look at the sport’s history and its impact on American culture. Structured in nine episodes, or “innings,” it covers the evolution of baseball from its early days to the contemporary era. Like his other works, “Baseball” combines extensive research, rare footage, and compelling narration, making it not just a sports documentary but a broader reflection on American society.

Jazz

In 2001, Burns released “Jazz,” a ten-part series that chronicles the history of jazz music from its roots in blues and ragtime to its place in modern culture. The series highlights key figures in jazz, such as Louis Armstrong, Duke Ellington, and Miles Davis. It explores how the music evolved alongside significant social and cultural changes in America. “Jazz” was praised for its depth and breadth and its ability to convey the essence of the music and its creators.

The Vietnam War

In 2017, Burns co-directed “The Vietnam War” with longtime collaborator Lynn Novick. This ten-part, 18-hour documentary offers a comprehensive and unflinching look at one of American history’s most controversial and consequential events. It features testimony from nearly 100 witnesses, including many Americans who fought in the war and Vietnamese soldiers and civilians from both sides.

The series was lauded for its balanced and thorough approach, as well as for its emotional depth.
Beyond his documentaries, Burns has contributed significantly to the public understanding of history. He is known for his rigorous research and dedication to authenticity, often spending years on a single project. This meticulous approach ensures that his documentaries are informative, engaging, and thought-provoking. Burns’ work is characterised by a deep empathy for his subjects and a commitment to exploring the complexities of American history.
Burns’ influence extends beyond the screen.

Honours

He has received numerous honours, including the National Humanities Medal and honorary degrees from several universities. His documentaries are frequently used as educational tools in schools and universities, helping to teach American history in a dynamic and accessible way. Burns’ ability to bring history to life has inspired a new generation of filmmakers and historians.

Despite his many accolades, Burns remains deeply committed to his craft. He continues to explore new subjects and push the boundaries of documentary filmmaking. His recent projects include documentaries on the Roosevelts, country music, and the American National Parks.

Enduring Power of Storytelling

Ken Burns’ contribution to documentary filmmaking and historical storytelling is immense. Through his innovative techniques and unwavering dedication to authenticity, he has changed how we view history and has brought the past into vivid focus for millions of people. His work reminds us of the importance of understanding our history and the enduring power of storytelling to connect us to our collective heritage.

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Historical Context

The Dutch angle gained prominence in the early 20th century, mainly through German Expressionist films such as “The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari” (1920). This movement was characterised by its dramatic, distorted sets and chiaroscuro lighting, designed to evoke psychological tension and emotional intensity. The Dutch angle perfectly complements these elements, enhancing these films’ surreal and unsettling atmosphere. Over time, this technique crossed over into other genres and media, including photography, where it conveyed various moods and themes.

Psychological Impact

Photographers and filmmakers often use Dutch angles to create a psychological effect. The tilt induces a sense of unease or tension in the viewer. This makes it ideal for scenes that convey instability, chaos, or confusion. For example, a Dutch angle in horror photography can make a scene appear more disturbing and unsettling, amplifying the emotional impact. Similarly, in action photography, the tilt can add dynamic and kinetic energy, emphasizing movement and urgency.

Composition and Visual Interest

From a compositional standpoint, Dutch angles can add visual interest to an image. The photographer can create a more engaging and visually stimulating photograph by breaking away from the traditional horizontal and vertical lines. This can be particularly effective in architectural photography, where the tilt can unconventionally highlight a structure’s geometric patterns and lines. The diagonal lines introduced by the Dutch angle can lead the viewer’s eye through the image, creating a sense of movement and depth.

Technical Considerations

Executing a successful Dutch angle requires careful consideration of several technical aspects. The degree of tilt is crucial. If it is too slight, the effect might be negligible or extreme, and the image might become chaotic and difficult to interpret. Typically, angles between 5 to 45 degrees are used, depending on the desired effect. Maintaining a solid focal point is essential to anchor the viewer’s attention amidst the disorienting tilt. Balance within the frame is also crucial. Despite the intentional imbalance of the horizon line, the composition should still adhere to principles of visual harmony.

Practical Applications

Dutch angles are versatile and can be employed across various genres and styles of photography. In street photography, they can convey the bustling, chaotic energy of urban life. In portrait photography, a slight tilt can add an element of intrigue or highlight the subject’s emotional state. Although less common, Dutch angles can be used in landscape photography. Here, they evoke a sense of drama or highlight the ruggedness of the terrain.

Contemporary Use

In modern photography, Dutch angles are still widely used for creative expression. Digital photography and editing software have made it easier to experiment with different angles and perspectives, enabling photographers to push the boundaries of traditional composition. Social media platforms, which focus on attention-grabbing imagery, have also contributed to the renewed popularity of Dutch angles. As a result, photographers now aim to create memorable, visually striking images that stand out in a crowded visual landscape.

Conclusion

Dutch angles are a powerful and versatile technique in photography. They can convey various emotions and add a dynamic visual element to compositions. While using Dutch angles requires careful consideration and a deliberate approach, their creative possibilities are vast. Dutch angles can be used to evoke psychological tension, highlight architectural details, or add movement to an image. They remain a valuable tool in the photographer’s repertoire, continuing to captivate and intrigue viewers with their distinctive and unconventional appeal.

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Numbers Game

For a more interesting picture, try the Rule of Odds. This means including three, five, or seven primary subjects or elements. If you have more than seven, your brain might struggle to distinguish between odd and even numbers, and the rule of odds won’t be as effective. These subjects or elements can be individuals, items, shapes, or other essential features. Using this technique, you can avoid a perfectly balanced composition that may result in a less captivating image.

When photographing, having an odd number of subjects in the frame can create a sense of movement and energy. This is because the viewer’s eye is naturally drawn to move around more, resulting in a more dynamic image.

To avoid monotony in compositions, it’s best to avoid even numbers. They can often create a repetitive, overly symmetrical look lacking visual appeal. Instead, try incorporating odd numbers into your composition. This will add an element of unpredictability, making the overall design more visually attractive.

Balance

Creating a sense of natural balance in a composition can be achieved by using odd numbers of groupings. This is because no central subject divides the frame in half, leading to a more harmonious and aesthetically pleasing visual. Having a distinct main subject is helpful when photographing an odd number of subjects. This will capture the viewer’s attention and act as the primary focus, directing their gaze and enhancing the overall impact of the picture. It’s also not necessary to have your items identical. Your rule of odds composition is simply an odd number of elements.

When to Use the Rule

The rule of odds works best with flower photography. When framing your image, do it so that you capture an odd number of flowers in the frame. You might need to move around slightly to change your perspective or shooting direction. Street Photography is another genre that works with the rule. Look for three people to include in your shot.

Even numbers still work.

Although the Rule of Odds is a helpful guide, it is worth noting that its a guide only. Photography allows for exceptions regarding artistic creativity. Even-numbered compositions can be compelling depending on the context, subject matter, and desired visual impact.

When taking photos of couples or other subjects that come in pairs, it may not be possible or necessary to follow the rule of odds. In these situations, breaking the rule and focusing instead on achieving a symmetrical composition is okay. While the rule of odds can undoubtedly help create dynamic images, it’s not always the best approach. A robust and static composition is sometimes more appropriate, especially with a clear reflection.

Photographers learn when to apply or deviate from compositional rules over time through experimentation and practice, as with many other skills. As a photographer, you have various tools at your disposal to create captivating images. The Rule of Odds is just one of them. To produce well-composed and engaging photos, you should also consider other aspects of composition, such as lines, shapes, textures, balance, and the rule of thirds.

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Understanding Perspective

Depth gives an image a three-dimensional feel. It provides a sense of distance between elements and can draw the viewer’s eye deeper into the scene. Techniques for adding depth include using a shallow depth of field, incorporating layers in your composition, and using leading lines to guide the viewer’s eye through the image. A shallow depth of field, often achieved by using a wide aperture, keeps the photo’s subject in sharp focus while blurring the background or foreground. This technique adds depth and helps isolate the subject and draw the viewer’s attention to it.

There are many types of perspective that you can use to create a sense of depth in your compositions; however, the basic ones are linear perspective, atmospheric perspective, and size perspective. 

Linear (Geometric) perspective creates the illusion of depth by making lines converge as they recede into the distance. It relies on two key components: parallel lines and a vanishing point. The vanishing point is usually situated on the horizon but can also be positioned anywhere within the image.

Atmospheric Perspective: This technique depicts distance by making distant objects appear lighter, less saturated, and hazier than closer ones. To use this technique effectively, you can include background elements such as mountains or trees to enhance the feeling of depth.

Size (diminishing scale) Perspective: With this technique, objects closer to the camera appear larger, while those farther away appear smaller. One popular method is to place a figure in a landscape shot to give a sense of scale. You can also emphasise height, length, colour, texture, contrast, highlights and shadow. You can use this to your advantage by juxtaposing different-sized objects in your composition to create a sense of depth.

Framing and Composition

Regarding framing and composition, there are a few things to remember to make your images more visually engaging:

1. Try to include interesting foreground elements in your shot. This will help to create a sense of depth and immersion in the scene.
2. Consider positioning objects so that they overlap. This technique provides a visual cue of depth and layers within the frame.
3. Experiment with diagonal compositions.
4. Diagonal lines can add dynamism and depth to your images, making them more visually appealing.

Aperture and Depth of Field

For a shallow depth of field, which isolates your subject from the background and emphasises depth, use a wide aperture with a low f-number. However, for landscapes, choose a narrow aperture with a high f-number to keep more of the scene in focus, which enhances the perception of depth.

Light and Shadows: 

Side lighting can create shadows, highlight textures and add depth to your subjects. Backlit subjects can create a sense of depth by emphasising the silhouette and creating a halo effect.

Lens Choice:

• Wide-angle Lenses: These lenses exaggerate perspective, making objects appear farther apart and enhancing depth.
• Telephoto Lenses: Compress the scene, bringing distant elements closer together. This can create a unique sense of perspective and intimacy.

 Looking up or down

An interesting way to add perspective to your photos is by changing the angle of your camera. Instead of looking straight ahead, shoot from above or below your subject. This technique can help you create unique and captivating images that stand out in your portfolio. For example, taking photos from above of a cityscape or a beautiful landscape can emphasise the scale and depth of the scene. 

On the other hand, shooting from below can add a sense of drama and power to your photos, especially when capturing buildings, bridges, or other architectural structures. Including recognisable elements such as people or objects in your composition is also helpful, as they provide a reference point for the viewer and help them understand the scale and depth of the scene.

Post Processing

If you take pictures of buildings or other objects with straight lines, you may notice that they appear distorted. Fortunately, there are tools in Adobe Photoshop and Lightroom that can help you fix this issue. In Photoshop, you can use the Perspective Warp tool to restore parallel lines, while in Lightroom, you can use the Geometry panel to correct perspective automatically. Additionally, you can enhance the depth of your images by adjusting contrast, sharpness, and clarity. Consider using selective focus or vignetting to direct the viewer’s attention.

Mastering perspective and depth in photography is an ongoing process that involves experimenting and refining your skills. To create captivating images that transport viewers into the scenes you capture, it’s crucial to understand the principles of perspective, use compositional techniques, and utilise your equipment effectively. Remember to practice consistently, analyse your results, and stay open to new creative possibilities.

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By using light beyond the visible spectrum, photographers can create surreal and dreamlike images, which offer a new perspective on the world. This post will explore the fascinating world of infrared photography, including its history, techniques, equipment, and the breathtaking results it can produce.

History of Infrared Photography

Infrared photography has its origins in the early 20th century when scientists discovered the existence of infrared light beyond the visible spectrum. An English physicist named Robert W. Wood (1868-1955) conducted experiments with infrared-sensitive photographic plates in 1910, which furthered research in this area. In the same year, he captured the first infrared and ultraviolet photographs, which were of subjects around his summer home in East Hampton, N.Y., as well as the Moon. During World War II, infrared film proved to be useful for aerial surveillance, enabling the military to detect camouflage and hidden enemy targets.

Photographers started using infrared film in the 1930s. Infrared film allowed them to capture stunning landscapes and portraits with an ethereal feel. With digital photography, infrared imaging is now more accessible, allowing photographers to explore this unique artistic expression. Two decades later, recording artists like Jimi Hendrix and the Grateful Dead further popularised the technique. They released album covers with infrared images that were popular due to their multicolored look.

Understanding Infrared Light

Infrared photography captures light beyond the visible spectrum, usually in the near-infrared (NIR) or shortwave infrared (SWIR) ranges. Unlike traditional photographic films, which are not sensitive to infrared light, specialised equipment or modifications are required to achieve the desired results. Dedicated infrared cameras or modified DSLRs equipped with infrared-passing filters can capture infrared imagery in digital photography.

Converting a Camera for Infrared Photography

There are two popular methods to capture infrared images. One way is to modify a digital camera by removing the infrared-blocking filter and replacing it with a filter that blocks visible light. This modification makes the camera sensitive to infrared light. Another way is to attach an infrared filter to the lens of a standard digital camera. This filter allows only infrared light to pass through, enabling the camera to capture infrared images.

Finding the Right Subjects

Landscapes

Infrared photography can turn ordinary landscapes into scenes from a fantasy world, with vegetation appearing in striking shades of white and pink and skies taking on a deep, dramatic hue.

Plants and trees reflect infrared light, which makes them appear bright and luminous. This contrasts sharply with darker elements such as water, rocks or skies. Infrared photography can also enhance the appearance of clouds, making them appear more dramatic and fluffy against a deep black sky. Since water absorbs infrared light, it seems darker in photographs. This allows for exciting contrasts between water and the surrounding scenery.

Architecture

Old buildings, such as those made of stone and brick, have unique textures and appearances when captured in infrared. Similarly, modern buildings with sleek designs and large glass panels create a fascinating futuristic look in infrared photography. You can also experiment with contrasts by capturing older and newer structures or juxtaposing natural elements, such as trees and skies, with architectural subjects.

Portraits

Unique Skin Textures: When captured using infrared light, imperfections on the skin become highlighted, and the skin appears smoother, resulting in surreal and ethereal portraits. 

Dramatic Eyes: Infrared photography often captures the irises of the eyes as much lighter or almost white, resulting in intense and captivating portraits. 

Black and White: Infrared portraits translate exceptionally well in black and white, which enhances their timeless and dramatic quality.”

Other Compelling Subjects

Cemeteries offer a unique opportunity to capture evocative and haunting imagery with the weathered textures of tombstones and the starkness of the IR aesthetic. Similarly, automotive photography can be transformed by using Infrared techniques, resulting in a fascinating, vintage appearance. Additionally, ruins and abandoned buildings become even more captivating and moody when photographed with an IR look. IR enhances the eeriness of decay and desolation.

Ideal Shooting Conditions

Traditional photography steers clear of harsh shadows or sunny days. Infrared photography runs toward it. Not only does more light give the photographer more infrared for imaging, but it also makes shutter speeds more manageable and raises the intensity of the refracted IR light within the scene. This can deliver stunning effects. Sunlight and clear skies are optimal for infrared photography, as infrared light is abundant under these conditions.

• Midday sun can create intense contrasts and dynamic images, while overcast skies produce softer, more subdued results.

Post-Processing Techniques

• Post-processing is essential to infrared photography, as raw infrared images may appear reddish or magenta.
• Adjusting white balance, swapping colour channels, and fine-tuning contrast can reveal infrared photographs’ surreal, otherworldly appearance.

Equipment for Infrared Photography

Infrared Filters

• Infrared filters are essential for photographers who opt not to convert their cameras. The filters block visible light and allow only infrared light to pass through.

Converted Infrared Cameras

• For photographers dedicated to infrared imaging, converting a digital camera to be sensitive to infrared light is a popular choice.
• Converted cameras are permanently modified to capture infrared light without external filters, providing convenience and flexibility in shooting.

Infrared photography is a fascinating technique that reveals a hidden and surreal perspective of the world around us. By using specialised equipment and techniques, photographers can create beautiful and extraordinary images that capture the unique qualities of infrared light. Whether taking photos of breathtaking landscapes, striking portraits, or architectural wonders, infrared photography inspires and captivates photographers and viewers.

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Digital Composition: The Human Touch

Using software tools and digital platforms, such as Photoshop, has changed how artists create their works. Digital technologies have made artistic tools more accessible to a broader range of people, allowing them to participate in the creative process.

With digital tools, artists can easily mix different mediums, experiment with colours and manipulate elements with great accuracy, surpassing the limitations of traditional artistic methods.

Supporters of digital composition believe that the creative process involves a human touch that AI cannot replace. They stress the significance of an artist’s intuition, subjective interpretation, and unique perspective. According to this perspective, technology can enhance the artist’s abilities rather than replace them. Emotional depth and personal experiences are integral to the creative process that machines cannot replicate.

Algorithms in Art: The Rise of AI:

Ai has brought a significant change to the creative world. Image generators such as Photosonic, Dall-e, Midjourney, Nightcafe or Adobe Firefly utilise machines that combine datasets, algorithms, and neural networks. AI can analyse extensive datasets, identify patterns, and create content independently. This has resulted in the rise of AI-generated art, which has raised concerns about the role of machines in the creative process and questioned traditional concepts of authorship and originality.

On the other hand, some people argue that AI-generated art has a unique and unpredictable aspect that traditional art forms cannot match. Machine learning algorithms can produce novel and unexpected results that challenge conventional artistic boundaries. Additionally, the ability of AI to analyse vast datasets allows it to incorporate diverse influences, resulting in art that transcends individual styles or cultural limitations.

The intersection of Digital Composition and AI:

One of the key differences between digital composition and AI is the source of creativity. In digital composition, creativity comes from the artist’s ideas, emotions, and skills, which are then translated into a digital format with the help of tools. It is a collaborative process between the creator and the tools they are using. On the other hand, AI relies on algorithms and data inputs (prompts) to generate outputs. Those against AI argue that it may resemble human creativity but lack the emotional and experiential nuances inherent in human artistry.

Challenges and Ethical Considerations:

The conversation surrounding digital composition versus AI is becoming more complex as time goes on. It is essential to consider this debate’s ethical implications and societal impact. Questions about copyright, ownership, and whether machines will replace human artists raise ethical concerns. Striking a balance between embracing technological advancements and preserving the authenticity of human creativity becomes crucial in navigating this complex terrain. Ultimately, the relationship between digital composition and AI is not one of opposition but of collaboration and co-evolution.

The Future of Artistic Expression

Integrating art and technology presents exciting opportunities for artists to push the boundaries of their creativity and expand their skills. Artists can break down traditional boundaries and create new and innovative works by utilising digital tools and exploring the vast possibilities of AI-generated art. This merging of human ingenuity and machine intelligence promises a dynamic and diverse future for the art world.

AI-powered image creation is an exciting avenue for creativity and exploration. It allows you to generate surreal landscapes, craft whimsical characters, experiment with colours and textures, and experience joy and wonder. The journey of harnessing AI for image creation is educational, inspiring, and undeniably fun.

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Historical Context

Photographers in the mid-20th century started experimenting with unconventional techniques to break free from the traditional photography constraints. Intentional camera movement is one technique that allows photographers to create images that focus on conveying emotion and energy. Ernst Hass and Aaron Siskind were among the pioneering artists who embraced this idea of intentionally moving the camera, marking the beginning of a new era in photographic expression.

Techniques of Intentional Camera Movement

Intentional Camera Movement (ICM) involves deliberately introducing motion during the exposure to achieve various visual effects. One of the most common methods is panning the camera horizontally or vertically while capturing a moving subject like a car or a river. This creates dynamic streaks of colour and light, giving the image a sense of speed and direction.

Another technique involves rotating the camera on its axis, producing circular or spiral patterns. This is often used to capture the energy and vitality of natural landscapes or seascapes. Additionally, camera shake, created by gently tilting or jostling the camera during exposure, can produce abstract and painterly images that go beyond the boundaries of traditional photography.

Visual Impact and Emotional Resonance:

Intentional camera movement has a unique ability to evoke emotions and engage viewers on a deeper level. ICM images often have an abstract, dreamlike quality that encourages subjective interpretation, creating a more immersive experience. The intentional introduction of blur can convey a sense of mystery and nostalgia, prompting viewers to contemplate the fleeting nature of time and space.

Moreover, ICM can be a powerful storytelling tool. Photographers can guide viewers’ attention by emphasising certain elements using movement and blur and creating a narrative within a single frame. The ambiguity and open-ended nature of ICM images challenge viewers to actively participate in making meaning. Thus resulting in a stronger connection between the photograph and the observer.

Challenges and Rewards:

Intentional camera movement is a technique that offers a wide range of creative possibilities. However, mastering it requires both technical skill and artistic intuition. Achieving the right balance between blur and clarity can be challenging, and the unpredictable results add a sense of experimentation to the process. However, this unpredictability makes ICM exciting and rewarding for photographers who want to push the boundaries of their craft.

Creating an ICM image

Select a Suitable Subject:

Intentional Camera Movement can effectively shoot scenes with distinct patterns, textures, or colours. Subjects with solid lines or shapes, such as beach scenes, trees, etc, can enhance the visual impact of ICM.

Choose the Right Settings:

Switch your camera to Manual (M) mode to control the exposure settings completely. Begin with a slow shutter speed, say 1/4s to 1s, to give enough time for the movement. Use low ISO to avoid any needless noise in the picture. Adjust the aperture to regulate the depth of field according to your artistic vision.

Use a Tripod or Handheld:

You can use a tripod or handheld for freedom of movement. I have always just handheld.

Experiment with Movement Techniques:

• – Panning: This technique involves following the movement of a subject either horizontally or vertically. It is particularly effective when photographing moving objects such as cars or people.
• – Rotating: In this technique, you rotate the camera on its axis during the exposure to create circular or spiral patterns in your image.
• – Shaking: Gently shaking or moving the camera in different directions can introduce random blur and abstraction to your photos.

Practical Considerations:

• When you take photographs, you can either manually focus or use autofocus, depending on your personal preference and the nature of your subject. Choosing a focal point in the scene that stays relatively still is essential to create an anchor within the blur and produce a recognisable image. Experiment with different shutter speeds and movements for unique effects.
• After taking a few photos, review them on your camera’s display to evaluate the results. Adjust your technique, settings, and movements based on the feedback from your initial attempts.
• Minimal post-processing can enhance ICM images by adjusting colour, contrast, and sharpness. Experiment with post-processing tools to achieve desired effects.

Adamski Effect

The Adamski effect is a photographic technique created by Josh Adamski, a renowned artist and photographer born in Tel Aviv in 1948. His unique method of impressionist photography involves utilising blur techniques to create the illusion of motion, resulting in abstract images with a dreamlike quality.

Adamski’s photos often capture the beauty of movement, transforming mundane scenes into captivating works of art. The Adamski effect has gained worldwide recognition for its ability to create visually stunning images that challenge our perceptions of the world around us.

It is important to remember that intentional camera movement is a technique that is highly subjective and experimental, and it does not follow strict rules. Therefore, allowing yourself to be creative and embrace the unpredictability of the results is essential. With practice, you will better understand how different movements and settings can influence the outcome, leading to more intentional and satisfying results.

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Types of Abstract Photography

• Intentional Camera Movement (ICM)
• Light painting
• Bokeh
• Oil and water
• Reflections
• Macro
• Double Exposure
• High-speed water/paint drops

Key Elements

Abstract photography is one where there is a complete absence of rules. Certain elements, however, will give your abstract image more appeal.

• Simplicity – aim for an uncluttered image, therefore, one without a lot of elements
• Composition – while the rule of thirds doesn’t apply, the abstract image has a clear structural design. Accordingly, give thought to the image’s shapes, patterns, textures, and colours.
• Perspective – shoot from unusual angles, flip or rotate the image to provide an exciting orientation.
• Light – backlighting, shadows and silhouettes create mystery in your image.
• Colour – vibrant colours that work well with each other

Take or Make?

While you can take an image – you can also make abstract images in photoshop. One easy and fun technique is twirls using an image you already have. A good tutorial can be found HERE

Tips for beginners

1. Start with everyday household objects
2. Try Intentional Camera Movement – trees or seascapes make great subjects
3. Macro photography works great – e.g a closeup of a petal or leaf edge
4. Experiment with different angles
5. Look for structure in lines and curves
6. Apply the KISS principle (keep it simple stupid) – minimise the elements.
7. Use photoshop or lightroom to add effects.

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Urban landscape photography captures images of cities and towns where the focus is on the man-made aspect of the urban environment. While landscape photography captures the essence of nature from forests, woodlands, waterfalls and deserts, urban landscapes capture our man-made impact on the landscape, from parks and gardens to residential, public and industrial buildings. It’s a fast-growing photographic genre capturing towns and cities’ dynamic and ever-changing environments.

History of Urban Landscapes

French inventor Nicéphore Niépce took what is widely regarded as the first urban landscape photograph in 1826 or 1827. His image showed parts of buildings and the surrounding countryside of his La Gras estate as seen from a high window. It is the oldest surviving camera photograph in existence. Just over a decade later, in 1839, Louis Jacques Mande Daguerre took an image of an empty Paris street. The absence of people in the scene is caused by the daguerreotype’s 10 to 15 minute exposure time. Anyone moving through the scene is eliminated, and only those standing remain.

Distinct genre

Urban landscape (also called cityscape photography) is often confused with Street photography. However, the genres are quite distinct. Street photography captures candid moments of people interacting in and around the city. Urban portraits are also a different genre, one where the photographer captures posed or staged images of people against a city backdrop. Urban landscapes photograph the man-made structures. Rather than the people moving through it, the environment is the scene’s focus.

1. Black and White or colour?

Colour is everywhere in the city, from the cars, traffic lights and street signs to shades of brick and glass or the attire of pedestrians. If the colour aids your story, then go with it – if, however, it distracts and draws the eye to an errant pedestrian in a red jacket when you want the viewer to focus on the structure behind, try going black and white. The absence of colour prioritises shapes and patterns.

2. Perspectives and Point of view

Look for different perspectives from down at footpath level to up a couple of floors in an observation deck or multi-level carpark. A different point of view will tell a completely different story. Also, consider portrait mode to isolate or emphasise viewpoints

3. Lighting

The time of day and the weather has enormous impacts on your image. Sometimes, the golden hour works on a building or scene. At other times it’s at its best on a sunny (or cloudy) day. Consider what you are photographing and factor in the light to suit your vision. I chose a dismal, wet day to photograph the Avenue of Honour in the image above. Considering all the heartache and lives lost during WWI, I didn’t want a bright, cheerful, sunny day. The gloomy wet roads and scenes aligned more with what I wanted to portray.

4. Leading Lines

While leading lines are used in all genres, they come into their own for urban landscapes – roads and fences; all draw the viewer’s eye up or into the image. The spurts of water in the fountain lead the viewer to the building behind in the photo above. The ring of stones also leads the eye around and to the back

5. Depth of Field

Both urban and nature landscapes benefit from an F stop 11 and above. F16 will give capture more of the scene in sharper focus. On a sunny day, it’s the F16 rule. However, a dull or cloudy day at F16 would require an ISO of between 400 to 800.

6. Images with Impact

What you leave out of an image is as important as what’s in it. While elements of the image may be appealing to you as you stand in front of them – they don’t always work in the finished image. Too many points of interest make a confusing image, and the viewer is unsure of just what the image is about. What made you stop and want to take the shot? That’s the predominant feature – compose your image so that this feature is prominent. This is your focal point – it’s the part of your image that you want the viewer to see first. In the photos above, while I like the lightning bolts, they distracted from the bikes which was the reason I stopped to take the shot. So I recomposed and took another shot.

7. Framing your scene

Framing the image will draw attention to one part of your scene while blocking out distractions. Archways are great for this, as are open doors and windows. You will need to bracket your shots and blend to avoid the window being blown out by shooting into the light with windows.

Symmetry

When two halves of your image – horizontally or vertically – mirror the other half, you have a beautifully symmetrical image. It gives a clean, evenly proportioned and balanced look to the image. To take a symmetrical photo, you must be standing in the centre. When composing your shot, align everything up and exclude what isn’t symmetrical.

Urban landscapes preserve the ever-changing faces of our cities. Cities are constantly evolving, with new buildings going up and others coming down. So if you revisit the scene a few years on, it will always be a different scene from what you took years before.

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What is a wide angle lens?

The commonly accepted norm is any lens wider than the human field of vision is a wide-angle. Lenses in the 24mm – 16mm range are considered a wide-angle lens, and less than 16mm is deemed to be ultra-wide. Fisheye lenses are those less than 8mm. The most popular range is 16-35mm.

So What’s a “normal” lens?

A standard lens is one that, on a full-frame camera, has a focal length of 35mm or more. This is multiplied by 1.6 for canon and 1.5 for Nikon on a crop sensor. This makes the “normal” lens for a crop sensor 24mm, as this equates to 36mm on a full-frame camera.

When to use a wide angle

Wide angle lenses are used for capturing as much of the scene in front of you as possible. Therefore, they are convenient for interiors in real estate photography. Landscapes, cityscapes, seascapes and architecture are the other main categories that shine. However, as they include so much, you need to be especially mindful of not having distractions or negative space in your image.

How to use a wide angle

The most common mistake people make when using wide angles lenses for landscapes is to use them for every big vista or a standard lens. i.e. straight horizontal or vertical. This, however, creates a scene with the horizon across the centre. However, if you angle the lens down, the horizon becomes the top third of the image, and the foreground becomes the star.

It becomes more important to find a foreground subject because your background being pushed further to the back. Otherwise, everything in the frame will be too small to be of interest. So get as close or low as you can to your foreground and have a definite subject, preferably in the midground (to avoid distortion) in the image. My subject was the lake with autumn trees leading the eye in the picture below. I was on a sloping hill and couldn’t get closer to them than about 8ft – but the ‘trees’ in the lower edge of the frame were really only low shrubs though they look like small trees.

Not for every landscape shot

Bear in mind; the wide-angle lens won’t be the right lens for every big vista. A wide-angle will make everything in the scene look further away. Unless you are shooting close to the ground, in which case the foreground becomes much more significant. While you will fit everything in, you need to be mindful that the background will appear further away and smaller. So if you are going for dramatic tall mountains, then the wide-angle may not be the right lens for the shot. However, if you have an interesting foreground leading to an interesting distant element, the image retains its impact.

drawbacks of wide angle

The two drawbacks of a wide-angle are barrel distortion and lens flare. All wide angles distort the image, especially at the edges of an image, the cheaper ones more than others. You have to be especially mindful of what is in the edges of your images. Anything at the edges will bend inwards and require straightening in your editing. It follows then that you should never have a person on the outer edges of your image. You can minimise distortion by moving further back and zooming in slightly or later in post-processing.

Lens flare – you may like it in images – sometimes it helps, sometimes not. Apart from trying to remove in PS or the like – you can get around this by adjusting your angle, using a lens hood or (my favourite method) blocking it with your hand.

They do take some getting used to, if you have never used a wide-angle before. Like a macro, they aren’t a lens you can just put on and shoot with, which was the mistake I made when I got my first one. I’m not a read the manual kinda girl. You need to understand HOW they work to use them to their best advantage.

Practice makes perfect

When I first bought one, I went out all excited, got some shots, downloaded them at home and was disappointed. The images were uninteresting and had distortion. It then didn’t leave the bag much as I regretted buying it. Shortly before a big overseas trip, I changed camera systems and bought a wide-angle as well as a zoom and walkaround. I knew I wanted to get interiors of churches and views from the Eiffel tower, so a wide-angle was going to be needed. Lots of youtube and practice before I left gave me a basic understanding; though I still made mistakes, these were ones I could correct in post. Having said that, it’s not a huge learning curve – and once you have nutted it out, you will be able to capture more interesting and powerful images.

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