Manhattan reflection in a cup of coffee
I’ve been taking photos for 10 years on and off. People like my photos. I think they’re ok. I know I can do better. And I’ve wanted to make a portfolio for a while.
Amongst the thousands of images I’ve made I probably have a handful that I really like. Those I love I could probably count on one hand. This is probably the best photo I took last year. I don’t get enough of these.
The aim for 2013 is to make enough photos – good photos – to have a solid portfolio of 12 images.
How do I hope to do this?
Firstly, this blog is going to be critically important. I won’t be able to hide. It will force me to take photos and work harder than I ever have.
Next, I have whittled down my gear to the following:
- A micro four thirds camera and one manual focus prime lens
- Tripod
- Cameraphone
- Compact camera
I’ve done this to slow myself down. I took better photos when I shot film. I know I need to slow down to take better photos. So the SLR and its three lenses are gone. They made me lazy. I plan to think more creatively about my photography. I plan to be more intentional with my composition. I plan to make the time to take my time.
Finally, and perhaps most importantly, I’m not setting myself an unrealistic goal. 12 images – that’s one a month. If I miss a month no problem – I’ll try to make up for it later in the year.
When I started thinking about my photography goal for 2013 my first thought was how many photos I could sell. But I knew that wouldn’t keep my motivated. I want to be a better photographer – not the same photographer who can sell a few photos. So I’m going for the portfolio. 12 images. If I get more great, but if I get 12 keepers that will be my most successful year in photography.
I’m not sure what to expect over the next 12 months. Here’s what I hope:
- I’ll post photos as I go,
- I’ll write about what I learn,
- I’ll link to things that are relevant, and
- All things going well I’d like 2 or 3 well-known photographers to write here. We’ll see.
I know a lot of other people who take photos who struggle with the same things I do. I hope this begins some sort of conversation. I’ll post more about that in a future update.
It begins.
About Jeremy Porter
And I shall be the first to leave a comment. Good luck with your project Jeremy. I recently bought a Panasonic Lumix LX7 for the very reason you have stated – to slow everything down and to limit my choices. It really helps to improve your ‘eye’. I’m also forcing myself to shoot something everyday – compact camera is perfect for this cos I can take it everywhere.
I’ll keep checking in to see how you’re getting on
Good to hear you’re on the same path. I’m interested to see how you go. Are you uploading any?
Nice one Mr Porter, looking forward to seeing the portfolio grow