I found a great article written by Etienne Bossot a French photographer who’s based in Hoi An, Vietnam over on the Digital Photography School Website.
In the article instead of looking for a subject he suggests looking for light as your subject then sitting and waiting for a person to enter the frame. It kind of turns the rules of composition on it’s head.
anurag agnihotri https://flic.kr/p/9hBaJN
Please note that I have always focused my photography, and my articles on travel photography, on people. So when reading this think people (which also includes street photography).
In travel photography, most people tend to look for a good subject to photograph. The problem with this approach, is that you might end up taking the same kind of compositions again and again. Framing your subject on the side, rule of thirds, looking into the photo, etc. As much as these are nice photos, you may feel the need to develop your creativity and come up with something different.
What I am telling you, is to completely not focus your attention on your subject. Instead of that, try and focus your entire attention on the light around you. Not the beautiful sunset light in the whole sky, but the little spots of golden light right there, on the floor next to you. Yes, can you see them? Well, there is your next photo my friend.
Yes, I hear you already, “What do you mean shooting light?! And what is my subject, what am I telling a story about?”. Well – now your job is to patiently wait for the right subject to walk into that light. But remember? Shoot the light.
Keep things simple, only include elements which are relevant to the story you are telling. You can fill your frame with that sumptuous golden light you found on the floor. Because you are only shooting that light, you are going to crop you in way you would never have before. You are going to break the rules you have been following.
It will surely be beautiful, as your light will be stunning. You have to get used to getting that close to things and people in a light that can be quite full of contrasts and colors. But with time and a bit of practice, things will start to take shape.
You Can Read The Original Article By Etienne Bossot Over At Digital Photography School
Source: Digital Photography School
Image Source: anurag agnihotri
