As we immerse ourselves in the serenity of Autumn through the lens, we strive to capture the essence of the moment and feel of the season.
As part of my journey of exploration in photography, I have learned to use a variety of techniques to create images that express something beyond the mere visual representation of what is in front of our eyes; my preference is to do as much of this in-camera rather than create something in post-processing. There are post-processing possibilities that go beyond what can be done with just our cameras, even though they are getting smarter; examples, such as HDR, Focus Stacking and combining multiple images are among these.
Today’s example is one where all of the work was in-camera, other than some image clean-up, and the result was visible on the LCD screen on the back of my camera…
Autumn Serenity
This image was created by using a somewhat slow shutter speed at 1/8 second and intentionally going out of focus a bit to create a soft amalgamation of autumnal colors. My intent was to capture some of the serenity that we might experience during a comfortable autumn day, as we enjoy a gentle breeze, comfortable temperatures and the beauty of the landscape that surrounds us.
A Fresh Perspective
Photography is more than just a vehicle for capturing the world around me; it provides me with a palette and a set of brushes, with which I paint not only what I see, but also look to express the emotions that are evoked by the scene in front of me in that moment.
Growing up in the Netherlands exposed me to a wide cross-section of visual arts that laid the foundation of my photographic view of all that surrounds me. Early influences were the Dutch Masters of the 17th century, to whom I was introduced by my grandfather during museum explorations; favorites among them are the scenes of quotidian life depicted by Jan Steen and Frans Hals and the vivid landscapes of Jacob van Ruisdael.
My classical high school education was supplemented by the Boijmans Van Beuningen museum, where I spent many a lunch hour exploring its great collection. Here I was introduced to surrealism with a particular love for the approach taken by Salvador Dali; Dali also rekindled my appreciation for the work of Hieronymus Bosch, who often showed the folly of us mortals.
Universal Connections
My approach to any photographic subject is to look for understanding first; in this I look to establish either a connection between the viewer and the subject or capture the connection of the subject with its surroundings. The captured image then aims to portray this connection from a perspective that is part of my personal interpretation.
This interpretation is often a form of externalized introspection, which may alternately display the connection of isolated beings and items with their environment or highlight the whimsy of the profound world, in which we find ourselves. The universe is full of connections, many of which are waiting to be discovered; part of my journey as a photographer is to document these connections.
Any assignment, be it an event, a product shoot or a portrait session is always approached through communication with the client; this is where the first connection is established. Ideas are exchanged and a collaborative plan of action forms, ultimately resulting in a set of images that aim to exceed the expectations of each client.
And, lest we forget, it is important to have fun while practicing the serious business of photography!
View all posts by jansenphoto
