The Key to Great Photography

With an abundance of photos in today’s world, what is it that makes us stop scrolling or walking by? What makes us remember a certain image or a photographer’s work? To me, it’s the stories they tell. Photography is more than just capturing images; it’s a powerful medium for storytelling that allows us to use our imagination and elicit emotions. It has the ability to connect people across cultures, languages, and backgrounds. With the rise of influencer-based marketing, this is especially useful when developing branded content for platforms like Instagram. We all cringe at an obvious product-placement marketing approach – it is much better to build a story around a product in an intriguing way.

What I love about photography is that it leaves something to the viewer’s imagination. Similarly to the difference between a movie and a book – sometimes I find myself disappointed if I watch the movie after reading the same book, because the book allows me to bring my imagination to the table. I feel the story on a deeper level when my mind is more engaged. Similarly, photography can create a sense of intrigue that requires that we fill in the gaps using our imagination. 

 

What is the couple in the photo reading? Where are they?

There is no movement, communication or music to answer such questions for us. The viewer of the photo must determine these things based on visual cues such as lighting, closeup shots, or their facial expression. Given this, an image may provoke an intuitive connection stemming from memories, strong emotions, or other reasons with no rational explanation.

So how do you spark an audience’s imagination? The first step is to decide what story you will tell by understanding your subject. For example, if it’s an engagement photoshoot, let the couple tell you about themselves and ask questions to build understanding of who they are and what brings them joy. Guide your client through the storytelling process if they are not already familiar with it. Offer suggestions based on their shared experiences, such as first dates, memorable trips, or favourite activities together. Having a story will encourage the smart use of props, which I would definitely recommend for great visual storytelling. 

 

By failing to prepare, you prepare to fail” - Benjamin Franklin

Preparation is key to storytelling photography. As Benjamin Franklin once said, “By failing to prepare, you prepare to fail.” Do so by prepare a mood board for your client, and have them to do the same to see how your vision lines up, and the final products that both of you expect. Lookout for inspiration online and offline for the upcoming shoot, and embrace unrelated subjects as avenues of inspiration.

When on-site, make smart use of the light, colours and shapes around the subject-matter to tell the story. For instance, silhouettes can be a great way to add a little drama or mystery to the scene, while motion blur can conveys feeling of movement. Continue to consider the goals and values of the subject, and what story you are aiming to convey through your photos. We are all individuals, so trust your intuition when you see potential for an interesting shot, and see how it fits in with the rest of the gallery.

 

Good photos look pretty. Great photos tell a story.

 

I hope this post was helpful in providing you with some insight on what I believe to be the key to truly memorable photography. If you enjoy my work and are interested in working with a Toronto-based photographer specializing in lifestyle and brand photography, I would love to hear from you! Don’t hesitate to fill out the form below, or email me (info@miticophotography.com)  to say hello and share a bit about yourself.

 


 

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