From Stillness to Speed: My Lens on the 24 Hours of Le Mans
As a landscape, lifestyle and travel photographer, I'm used to capturing the stillness and beauty of natural scenes and distant places. My camera has seen many sunrises and sunsets, peaceful forests, and historic cities, each photo showcasing the timeless beauty of our world. But when I got the chance to photograph the 24 Hours of Le Mans—a race full of speed and adrenaline —I knew I was in for a completely different experience. Shifting from the stillness of nature to the high-energy world of racing cars was both thrilling and challenging. I loved the challenge!
The 24 Hours of Le Mans is one of the most prestigious and grueling endurance races in the world. Held annually in Le Mans, France, this race tests the limits of both man and machine over a continuous 24-hour period. Teams of drivers race cutting-edge cars, battling not only each other but also fatigue and unpredictable weather conditions.
Stepping Into a New World
I left my home in Surrey on Friday at 3 AM and arrived at the Circuit de la Sarthe around lunchtime. It was a long drive, but my supportive husband kept me entertained with last-minute insights on the racing world and teams. Honestly, I can't say who was more excited—me or him!
I headed over to The Glamping site to check in, which was super easy. I was taken around on a buggy, shown the glamping site and it felt like being in a 5-star resort :)
There was a bar and breakfast lounge area, and the bathrooms with shower cabins were just a few steps behind it. Each teepee had a small table with chairs and a light outside.
The setup was superb: cozy-looking beds, cute lamps, electricity, a mirror, flip-flops, and other small bathroom amenities like toothbrushes and shower gels. The site was just a 10-minute walk from the racing track, and it turned out to be the perfect retreat after long hours on the track. At first, I wondered how much sleep I'd actually get. But despite the constant noise of racing cars on Saturday night and music from the podium, I managed to sleep through it for a couple of hours without needing earplugs—I was that tired!
Next stop was to pick up my accreditation and then to the media center to collect my tabard and other information. This place was crowded and buzzing with activity.
From the moment I arrived to Le Mans Circuit, the atmosphere was incredible—everyone was relaxed, in a great mood, and had broad smiles on their faces. People were peeking into team boxes, trying to catch glimpses of famous drivers, some were running on the racing track, and overall it felt like being at a big street party!
Diving into the Race
The start of the race was a revelation. Unlike the leisurely pace of landscape photography, where I could spend hours waiting for the perfect light, here everything happened in an instant. The challenge was immense. Every second was a story, and every moment was a potential capture of triumph or disaster.
The weather was unpredictable and was constantly shifting between rain, wind, and brief bursts of sunshine. This required constant adjustments to my camera settings and protective gear of my equipment.
Mastering the Technical Challenges
Throughout the race, I continuously adjusted shutter speed, switching between fast settings to freeze action and slower ones to blur backgrounds and emphasize speed. Wow, I hadn’t done so many panning shots with 24 hours like I did at Le Mans! Panning involves tracking a moving car while using a slower shutter speed to create a sense of motion—a thrilling yet demanding skill to master. The beauty of Le Mans is having 24 hours to perfect it! If I didn’t get the desired result on the first try, I waited for the next opportunity. I was considering using the monopod as the camera with a telephoto lens can get quite heavy after a while but decided not to carry another equipment as my bag was already heavy enough. And I prefered to feel the camera in my hands. I have to admit that my arms felt like they had just come from the gym later on; I won’t lie!
I chose to bring my two lenses 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6 telephoto lens and a versatile 24-70mm f/2.8 lens . The telephoto lens was great for capturing close-ups of cars, and distant action with precision. Meanwhile, I used the 24-70mm lens at capturing the broader scene—the vibrant race atmosphere and crowded environments. Constantly switching between lenses and adjusting settings became a technical workout, but using the Z8 protective shutter sensor, I didn’t have to worry about damaging the camera sensor. I really love this improvement over my previous Z6.
I found some great spots at the Dunlop curve, overlooking a big screen behind the racing cars, and my favorite spot for night photography at the Porsche curve, where I could capture the light trails of the cars. Taking a shuttle to Indianapolis allowed me to get some unique angles and shots as well.
What was in my camera bag?
I tried to pack as efficiently as possible, knowing I’d be carrying this bag for more than 24 hours. Here’s what I brought:
my new Nikon Z8 camera (and Z6 just in case)
Versatile lens 24-70mm f/2.8 and telephoto lens 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6
Extra batteries and memory cards
Card reader
Portable charger
Tripod and monopod (I used the tripod at night for shooting the light trails, but I didn’t end up using the monopod)
Lens cleaning kit
Waterproof camera bags
I was grateful I packed cargo trousers with lots of pockets for all the bits and bobs you don’t want to always reach into your bag, a comfortable trainers for all the walks around the track, a rain jacket, a hat, sunglasses and water bottle. The earplugs were ready to use but I didn’t feel the need to use them.
Reflection: Enriched by Every Moment
Walking an average of 17 kilometers a day during the race, with a backpack full of camera gear, I felt like closing my circles :) Each step, each shot, brought me closer to understanding the essence of Le Mans. Standing below the podium and witnessing the winners was an absolute joy! As I packed up my gear and prepared to leave, I felt a profound sense of accomplishment. The 24 Hours of Le Mans had pushed me out of my comfort zone and forced me to see the world through a new lens—one where speed, precision, and raw emotion took center stage. It was more than just a photographic assignment; it was a journey of growth and discovery. Whether it's the quiet beauty of a mountain or the frenetic energy of a race, there's always a story to be told and a moment to be captured and shared.
Taking thousands of photos and being enriched by an enormous amount of feelings, I couldn’t possibly share them all in this blog. I hope you enjoyed reading about my Le Mans adventure as much as I enjoyed experiencing it.
See more photos from 24H Le Mans in my Sports Photography Collection. For searching any specific images, please contact me.
Keep racing through your dreams and catchMYzoom!
Jitka
Iceland Through the Mist: Photography Tips for Foggy Conditions
Thingvellir National Park, Iceland
When it comes to photography destinations, few places on Earth can rival the enchanting landscapes of Iceland. This Nordic island nation is a photographer's dream, with its dramatic volcanoes, cascading waterfalls, icy glaciers, and the elusive Northern Lights dancing across the night sky.
In this blog, I share my experiences, travel tips, recommended gear, and a glimpse of some shots I captured during my trip in Iceland in June when Iceland is at its greenest.
Why June?
June falls within Iceland's short summer season when the weather is generally milder and more predictable. While June is a popular time to visit Iceland, it generally sees fewer tourists compared to the peak summer months of July and August. This means less crowded attractions and more opportunities to enjoy the beauty of Iceland's landscapes without the hustle and bustle. Mainly, June meant more daylight hours for my photography:)
My Top 5 Travel Tips for Photographing in Iceland:
Time Your Visit: Iceland's beauty changes dramatically with the seasons. Summer offers the "Midnight Sun" with almost 24 hours of daylight, while winter promises the magical Northern Lights. Choose the time that aligns with your photography goals. I picked June and I will have to come back for Northern Lights!
Weather Readiness: I am a sun lover and the imagination of being cold can easily put me off. I made sure to be prepared for unpredictable weather. I packed plenty of layers and waterproof clothing, comfortable hiking boots (rather than just trainers as walking around waterfalls can be slippery).
Rent a 4x4 Car: Many of Iceland's most photogenic spots are off the beaten path, accessible only by rugged roads. A 4x4 vehicle is often necessary for reaching these locations safely.
Pack Essentials: Besides your camera and lenses, don't forget a sturdy tripod for long exposures, extra camera batteries, memory cards, and a lens cleaning kit.
Respect Nature: Iceland's pristine landscapes are fragile. Always follow Leave No Trace principles, stay on marked paths, and respect local regulations.
How to Photograph in Foggy Weather
Have you ever experienced the magic of foggy Iceland?
Iceland's weather, ever unpredictable, threw me a challenge: foggy weather. Initially disappointed, I soon learned to embrace it. Fog helped me to create an ethereal and mysterious atmosphere that's perfect for unique and moody photography. Whether you're in the midst of a thick fog or dealing with a light mist, here are some tips that helped me to make the most of photographing in foggy weather in Iceland:
1. Embrace the Mood:
Fog adds a sense of mystery and drama to the shots. As I mentioned earlier I embraced the atmospheric conditions, and used them to my advantage. It created a dreamy and surreal quality in my photographs.
2. Use a Wide-Angle Lens:
A wide-angle lens is ideal for capturing the vastness of Iceland's landscapes, even in fog. It can exaggerate the sense of scale and depth, making images more compelling. I was changing three lenses - a wide angle lens, a telephoto lens and a mid-range zoom lens (24-70mm).
3. Focus on Foreground Elements:
When visibility is limited due to heavy fog, focus on capturing interesting foreground elements, like rocks, trees etc. These elements can als add depth and context to photos.
4. Experiment with Silhouettes:
Use the fog to create striking silhouettes. Place your subject or an interesting object in front of a light source (such as the sun breaking through the fog), and expose for the background to create a powerful silhouette.
5. Use a Tripod:
In foggy conditions, you may need longer exposures to capture enough light. A tripod will keep your camera steady and prevent blur in your shots. This is especially important in low light situations.
6. Adjust Your Exposure:
Fog can fool your camera's light meter, resulting in underexposed images. To compensate, open up your aperture, slow down your shutter speed, or increase your ISO to let in more light. I set up white balance on auto.
7. Capture Details:
Get up close to capture the intricate details that fog can highlight, like the texture of moss-covered rocks, or the way fog clings to trees and other objects.
8. Use Leading Lines:
Leading lines can guide the viewer's eye through the misty landscape. Natural lines in the environment, like paths, rivers, or fences look great in composition.
9. Post-Processing: - Post-processing software can help with enhancing the contrast and clarity in foggy photos. Adjusting the contrast and adding a touch of vignetting can make images pop. By increasing saturation and then converting image to monochrome really enhances the mood and contrast in black and white photography.
Fog can come and go quickly in Iceland so sometimes patience is the key!
What was in my camera bag?
Wide-angle Lens (14-30mm): Iceland's epic landscapes demand a wide-angle lens to capture the stunning scenery.
Telephoto Lens (100-400mm) and a mid-range Zoom Lens (24-70mm): For shooting distant subjects like waterfalls or wildlife, a telephoto lens comes in handy.
ND Filters: Neutral density filters are essential for controlling exposure and achieving dreamy long-exposure shots of waterfalls and rivers (with constant daylight in Iceland, they rightly justified their space in my bag)
A Sturdy Tripod: Iceland's strong winds can be challenging for long exposures. A sturdy tripod is a must to keep your camera steady.
My Journey Through Iceland's Photographic Wonders
In the spirit of sharing my personal experience, here's a glimpse of my journey through Iceland's photographic wonders:
Reykjavik, The Golden Circle - Thingvellir National Park; Geysir Geothermal Site, Gullfoss Waterfall; South Coast - Seljalandsfoss, Skogafoss, Black Sand Beach (Reynisfjara), Vik, Laki Crater
Photographing in foggy weather can be challenging, but it's also incredibly rewarding. It transforms Iceland's landscapes into a realm of mystery and enchantment, offering a unique perspective that sets photos apart. Through my lens, I hope I've been able to share a slice of Iceland's beauty with you.
For more images from Iceland explore my Travel Photography Collection here.
Embrace the fog and catchMYzoom!
Jitka
Dreams in Motion: The Magic of Intentional Camera Movement Photography
Blue eMotions, Sardinia 2023
Have you ever wondered how to transform a simple scene into something completely unexpected?
As a photographer, I am constantly searching for fresh ways to push the boundaries of creativity and capture images that evoke emotions and tell unique stories. One technique that has fascinated me is Intentional Camera Movement (ICM) photography.
It is all about embracing the blur, which often goes against the conventional norms of sharp and well-defined imagery. Instead of freezing a moment in time, I intentionally move my camera while the shutter is open, resulting in a blend of colours, shapes, and textures. The outcome is a dreamlike composition that allows me to interpret the image in my unique way.
Blue eMotions, Sardinia 2023
To dive into the world of ICM photography, all you need is a camera with manual settings and a sturdy tripod. The crucial aspect is to have control over your camera's settings, mainly the shutter speed.
3 Key Aspects of ICM
Shutter Speed Selection: Slower shutter speed (min around 1/4s and up to several seconds) allows enough time for camera movement. To achieve the desired results with very slow shutter speed, it's often necessary to use a tripod to maintain stability. I took the images of flowers (as you can see further in my blog) with shutter speed between 3s-8s and a tripod was a must in this case. The longer exposure time is what sets ICM apart from traditional photography and gives it its characteristic painterly effect. Depending on the light conditions, you may need to use Neutral Density (ND) filters to reduce the amount of light entering the camera.
Composition and Direction of Movement: I look for scenes with bold and contrasting colors, interesting patterns, or prominent lines. These elements form the foundation of composition.
ICM thrives on experimentation. Exploring various camera movements, including horizontal or vertical sweeps, circular motions, or even random jitters si the best way to play with ICM. The direction and intensity of camera movements will significantly influence the final outcome, allowing to create a diverse range of abstract and artistic images.
Manual Focus: In ICM photography, the blurring effect can confuse autofocus systems, leading to unwanted refocusing during the exposure. To maintain control over the focus, I prefer to switch my lens to manual focus mode that enables me to precisely set the focus point before capturing a shot. Depending on the scene I can intentionally choose to have certain elements in focus while letting others blur into abstraction. This control over focus adds another layer of creativity to compositions.
To me, ICM photography represents a departure from the technical precision that often dominates photography discussions. Instead, it's an invitation to let go of strict rules and embrace the unpredictable. Sounds like fun? Here's why I'm enjoying this technique:
Expressive Freedom: ICM offers a liberating sense of creative freedom. Each movement introduces an element of chance, allowing for unexpected beauty to emerge.
Unveiling Emotion: The abstract nature of ICM enables me to convey emotions and moods that are often difficult to capture through traditional photography. The play of colors and forms speaks directly to the viewer's emotions.
Artistic Interpretation: Just like abstract paintings, ICM images invite viewers to interpret the scene according to their own perspectives and experiences. The lack of concrete details encourages imagination and engagement.
Winter Woods, ICM technique
Intentional Camera Movement photography is a journey of exploration and discovery. Through controlled camera motion, I've found a way to express emotions and transform reality. It’s a try and error technique and a reminder that photography is not just about capturing moments, but also about creating them. A gentle warning: Beware, it can be very addictive! :)
Discover more Abstract images in my gallery.
Enjoy ICM and catchMyzoom!
Jitka
From the Boat's Perspective: Stunning Views of Mallorca's Coastline
I've got to tell you, capturing those mesmerising moments from a boat along the Mallorca coast was an absolute game-changer. It's like the coast opens up a whole new world of possibilities for my camera lens. I mean, who wouldn't want to be in the middle of that breathtaking scenery?
Mallorca is a stunning island located in the Balearic Sea, off the eastern coast of Spain. It is known for its crystal clear waters, gorgeous sandy beaches, and rocky cliffs. This time I explored the island's coastline by taking a boat tour. From the boat, I was able to see the island's beauty from a completely different perspective.
Palma, my starting point of the boat trip
I’m not sure what it is about lighthouses but they hold a special place in my heart. Their majestic presence, guiding light, and rich history evoke a sense of adventure and nostalgia. To me they symbolise hope, safety, and the courage to navigate life's storms.
When I was cruising around them I found it a bit challenging to take straight photos at the beginning as the boat was constantly moving. I openly admit that some straightening and editing had to be done later in my favourite editing software, Lightroom.
What was in my camera bag?
When preparing my camera bag for the boat trip I made sure to take polarizing and ND filters. I used my Nikon Z6 camera together with Nikkor Z 24-70mm/f2.8S and Nikkor Z 100-400mm/f4.5-5.6 lenses.
I can’t praise enough a polarizing filter which really helps to reduce glare and reflections on water, makes the colours and details in photos more vibrant and clear. It also reduces the light in camera so it’s super helpful especially during bright summer days in Mallorca. I had one on my lenses In Mallorca almost all the time because of the strong sun and brightness.
Not everyone likes to travel with a telephoto lense but I am so happy I took it this time as I managed to focus on different patterns and textures around me. With its longer focal length, a telephoto lens allowed me to zoom in on subjects that were far away, bringing them into sharp focus and filling the frame with exquisite detail. This lens opens up a whole new world of possibilities. It not only brings distant subjects closer but also compresses the perspective, creating a stunning visual impact.
I find small coastal villages really charming especially early in the morning when they're peaceful and not too busy. This was the only time I wished I had my tripod with me so I could have captured a much smoother reflection on water surface by using a longer exposure.
Sa Foradada (below) is one of the hidden gems of the Mediterranean, Northwest Coast of Mallorca and a perfect place to reach by boat. This picturesque spot is characterised by a rocky outcrop with a natural hole forming an extraordinary frame for photographers.
Another nature beauty during my boat trip I’d like to share with you (as I couldn’t resist capturing it) are layers of a landscape (rocks). It's as if each layer holds a secret, waiting to be unveiled. The foreground, bold and assertive, guides the way. Then, the middle ground weaves colors and textures into a harmonious dance. And finally, the background emerges like a dream, beckoning with an air of mystery.
5 Most Exciting Boat Photography Challenges
Taking good pictures from a boat is exciting and combines creativity with skill. Here's what I find to be the best part of this challenge:
Dynamic Stability: The constant motion of the boat adds a dynamic element to the shots. To master this challenge, a combination of steady hands, image stabilization equipment, and choosing the right moment to capture the shot is key. Using the boat's movement as a natural part of the composition could be a great way to infuse the images with a unique energy. I set up my camera with faster shutter speed somewhere around 1/800s - 1/1250s to capture as many of sharp details as possible.
Changing Light and Weather Conditions: The interplay between the sun, clouds, and water can create stunning lighting effects, but it can also be a challenge to manage. This is the moment you appreciate to know your camera settings so you can adjust them swiftly to accommodate shifting light. During the sunset, I raised ISO in my camera settings to keep the balanced exposure.
Composition Creativity: The boat itself can serve as an interesting compositional element. Experimenting with framing your subject against the boat's structure, utilizing lines and angles to guide the viewer's eye is a great way to be creative (I enjoyed seeking the landscape reflection on boats’ window).
Equipment Protection: The marine environment poses potential risks to camera gears, such as water splashes and salt exposure. I made sure I had lens hoods and lens filters with me and will definitely consider a waterproof camera cover to be able to capture those spontaneous moments without worry.
Timing and Patience: Boating photography often involves waiting for the perfect moments to unfold – be it a seagull taking flight or a wave crashing against a cliff. Patience is key, along with anticipating these moments and being ready to snap the shot at a split second's notice. I’m still working on my patience:)
In the end, the challenge of taking boat photographs is a wonderful blend of technical skills, artistic vision, and adaptability.
As the sun dipped below the horizon, the sky transformed into a rich palette of reds, oranges, and yellows. I felt a sense of tranquility and serenity evoked by these warm hues. The soft, golden light made everything look textured and deep. Being surrounded by the warm colours and calmness felt like the perfect way to finish a day.
Taking photos from a boat along the Mallorca coast was an amazing experience and an absolute joy. Patience is key, waiting for that perfect light, and experimenting with angles adds a creative twist. Each photo becomes a time capsule, holding emotions and memories. Flipping through these pictures is like reliving the excitement and tranquility of those moments all over again.
For more images from Mallorca and my boat trip browse through my Travel Photography Collection here.
Happy boating and catchMYzoom!
Jitka
Shadows in Focus: Chasing shadows over the mountains in Mallorca
One of the most beautiful sights in Mallorca is the stunning mountain landscape. When combined with the sunrise, it creates breathtaking views; the light from the sun casts long shadows over the mountains and a very warm light.
In the world of photography, light often steals the spotlight, but there's an unsung hero — the shadow. Shadows have the power to become the main subject of a photograph, evoking a sense of mystery, emotion, and intrigue.
Moon over Andratx hills, Mallorca
To capture the stunning moments in southwest of Mallorca, I had to get up early and arrive at the location before the sunrise (around 5:30 am). Having prepared my camera bag the night before I only added water and my coffee bottle and was ready to go. It can be a bit chilly in the morning so an extra layer of clothes is handy.
What was in my camera bag?
My Nikon Z6 camera, telephoto lens Nikkor Z 100-400mm/f4.5.-5.6 and polarizing and ND filter. I almost always have my tripod with me for sunset and sunrise photography. During these magical moments, the available light is often limited, and I may need to use slower shutter speed to achieve the desired exposure and maintain image quality. Landscapes often require using smaller apertures for greater depth of field, especially when I want to capture both the foreground and distant elements in sharp focus. This means slower shutter speeds, which can lead to camera shake if handheld. By using a tripod, I stabilize my camera, ensuring that images are crisp and sharp.
Why do I like using shadows in landscape photography?
We are all hunting light for our captures but I love using shadows too. They create an interesting and dynamic element and sense of depth and drama in photos and they are often use as the main subject of a photo. They create a sense of visual separation between foreground, middle ground, and background, allowing for a more layered composition.
Contrast and Drama: Shadows in landscapes can create a striking contrast between light and dark areas. This contrast adds drama to the image, emphasizing the textures and shapes. When sunlight casts long shadows across the terrain, a whole new dimension emerges. The interplay between light and shadow brings life into even the most ordinary landscapes, creating a captivating image of contrast and textures.
Visual Interest: Shadows can introduce visual interest and intrigue into a landscape photograph. They can highlight patterns, leading lines, or intricate details within the terrain, enhancing the overall composition.
Time of Day: The quality and direction of shadows are greatly influenced by the time of day. During golden hour or the hours around sunrise and sunset, the long, soft shadows can create a warm and magical atmosphere in landscape photography, enhancing the overall beauty of the scene. This is the best time of the day!
Sense of Scale: Shadows can contribute to a sense of scale and size in landscape photography. When a prominent subject or element casts a shadow, it can provide a reference point for viewers to understand the grandeur or vastness of the surrounding landscape.
I used shadow as an important element in my pictures of Mallorca’s mountains. It was not intentional at the beginning but the more I kept shooting and moving around, the more fascinated I became by shadow and its visual scenery.
Shadow and moon over Mallorca hills
Shadow over Mallorca during sunrise
Shadow during sunrise, Mallorca
Mallorca’s sunrise
Sunrise tones, Mallorca
Light and shadow, Mallorca
I have to say it was an absolutely gorgeous morning driving around the hills and seeing Mallorca waking up into another sunny day. Sometimes photographs with perfectly blue sky without any cloud could be a bit boring and than it’s the time to look what’s around us, like shadows. Yes, I had to get up early but it was worth it! And I am an early riser anyway!
See more images from Mallorca on my Travel Photography Collections.
Find your shadow and catchMYzoom!
Jitka
Using Lines and Repetition for Stunning Results: My Composition Journey
Tuscany
In my photography journey, lines and repetitions have become invaluable tools in composition. Lines lead the eye with purpose, adding depth and context to my images, while repetitions infuse harmony and rhythm, transforming ordinary scenes into captivating visual symphonies. In this blog post, I will explore how to use lines and repetitions to create interesting compositions in your photography. If you can’t spot those elements right away there is a way how to train your your eye and that I’m covering later in this blog as well.
Lines
in photography can be both natural and man-made. Natural lines include things like the horizon, tree trunks, and rivers, while man-made lines include things like roads, fences, and architectural elements. By using lines in a photograph, you can lead the viewer's eye through the image and create a sense of depth and movement.
Road in Iceland
Amphitheatre, Taormina, Sicily
Sunset colours, Tuscany
Sicily
Olive Trees, Tuscany
Shadowplay, Lines
Leading lines in photography, Lisbon
Repetition
on the other hand, is the repetition of patterns, shapes, colours or elements in a photograph. This can create a sense of rhythm and movement in the photograph, making it more interesting to look at.
My preference is to photograph the subject in a way that the camera is flat to the subject and the aperture is small to make sure everything stay in focus (maximum depth of field).
Beach in Tuscany
Umbrella pattern, Catania, Sicily
Notting Hill, London
Winter forest
Repetition in architecture, Lisbon
Tip: When composing a photograph, I try to use lines and repetition in a way that adds to the overall story or message of the photograph. For example, a photograph of a winding road with repeating trees on either side can convey a sense of journey and movement. Similarly, a photograph of a repeating pattern on a building can convey a sense of symmetry and order.
Lines and repetitions in photography can help to:
Add interest: Lines and repetitions add a unique element of interest and texture to a photo, making it more visually appealing and engaging.
Create movement: Lines and patterns can be used to guide the viewer's eye through the image and create a sense of movement and direction.
Enhance depth: By using lines and repetitions, a photo can appear more dynamic and three-dimensional, creating a sense of depth and dimensionality.
Add structure: The use of lines and repetitions can help to organise the elements within a photo and bring a sense of structure and stability to the composition.
It might be a bit difficult to spot these elements for your photography at the beginning but you can train your eye to see lines and repetitions! Here are a few things you might like to do:
Study the work of other photographers: Look at how other photographers use lines and repetitions in their images. Analyse how they use these elements to guide the viewer's eye and create a sense of movement and depth. Instagram is a great inspiration as well as Pinterest.
Practice looking for lines and repetitions: Start looking for lines and repetitions in your everyday surroundings, whether it's in architecture, nature, or other scenes. Practice identifying these elements and think about how you can incorporate them into your own photography.
Experiment with different compositions: Try different compositions that highlight lines and repetitions. Experiment with different angles, perspectives, and focal lengths to see how they affect the visibility of these elements.
Get creative: Try to find unique and interesting ways to incorporate lines and repetitions into your photos. Think outside the box and challenge yourself to come up with new and innovative compositions.
Have your eyes open and you can see these elements almost everywhere.
A photograph can be visually interesting and impactful without the use of lines and repetitions. The absence of these elements does not automatically make a photo flat or uninteresting.
However, I find lines and repetitions to be fun to play with when composing my photoshoot. Whether or not a photograph needs lines and repetitions depends on the individual photo and the photographer's creative vision.
Photography is not just about capturing moments but also about telling a story through your lens.
Happy hunting for leading lines and catchMYzoom!
Jitka
7 Tips How to Polish a Photography Style That Worked For Me
Here I am, writing my first blog! If you landed on this page I believe you share the same amount of passion for photography like me. I also believe that by sharing experiences we make each other richer. Everyone is looking for an inspiration somewhere else, my endless source of inspiration is nature.
In my blogs I intend to capture and share my experiences, insights, ideas about travelling, photography techniques and experiments, personal discoveries and learning in the field of photography. Through my posts, I aim to inspire and motivate others to pursue their dreams and explore the beauty around us through the art of photography.
I love to travel and capture the moments but during the Covid-19 pandemic we were not able to. We had to spend more time at home. My everyday walks in the vicinity of my home in leafy Surrey village let me captured the beauty of surrounded nature. I walked with my camera and different lenses basically all the time.
I used iphone to capture my photographs for many years as it was so easy to just take out my phone and snap pictures on the go, enhancing them with filters and edits right away. Then I began to feel limited in terms of creative control and quality. I craved the ability to capture images with a bit more finesse, and so I decided to invest in a professional camera. Now, with my camera in hand, I feel like my creative potential is limitless and I'm excited to see where this newfound passion might take me.
Before I list my tips on improving photography I can not stress enough how important is to take time to really
GET TO KNOW YOUR CAMERA AND THE SETTINGS AVAILABLE
Experiment with different modes, apertures, and shutter speeds to learn what works best for you. I will be writing about it separately in my future blogs.
7 tips that helped me to improve my photography style
1. Get Close: I move in close to my subject so I can reveal its unique details and textures.
Prime lenses are great for moving closer and further to your subject as you just simply can’t zoom in and out but you have to move around. That will encourage you to look at your subject from a different angle. And it’s a great fitness exercise too!
2. Change the angle: Trying different angles, such as shooting from above or below to add a unique perspective until I find the satisfying capture.
Sometimes you just simply forget to turn back or look up as we are naturally moving and looking straight ahead of us.
3. Use the right lens: A macro lens will allow you to capture fine details and textures, while a telephoto lens will help you get closer to your subject from a distance. I really enjoy my wide angle lens 14-30mm when shooting landscapes.
4. Play with depth of field: I consider it a hidden power as I can decide where viewers should be looking at my images. I experiment with shallow depth of field to isolate my subject and to highlight its details.
5. Pay attention to lighting: Good lighting can bring out the details and textures in your subject. When shooting outside I prefer early morning or early evening (golden hour) when the natural light is softer, diffused and more flattering. I look for different types of shadows too.
6. Follow the lines: I am drawn to the use of lines and patterns in nature photography. They provide a unique element that adds texture, depth, and an extra layer of visual interest to the photo. Whether it's in the form of tree branches, rock formations, or repeating shapes, lines and patterns bring a dynamic quality to the image. They bring movement and direction to the image, leading the viewer's eye through the photo and enhancing its overall aesthetic impact.
7. Simplify the composition: I use composition to create visually appealing and meaningful images. In nature photography, I incorporate the use of lines and patterns, as well as manipulating light and shadow, to add depth and interest to the composition. Composition is an important aspect of my photography, and I am constantly exploring new ways to utilise it to bring my nature photos to life.
Nature photography is an exciting way to capture the beauty and detail of the natural world. By following the tips of getting close, changing angles, using the right lens, playing with depth of field, paying attention to lighting, looking for patterns and textures, and simplifying the composition, you can create stunning images that showcase the details of nature. I hope you found the tips helpful!
Have fun and catchMYzoom!
Jitka
