Photography: Reflections of the Soul
It has been said that the eyes are the windows to the soul. Therefore, I believe that the camera is a reflection of one's soul. Photography is a great medium for artistic expression. An individual's view of the world is captured through the images he or she photographs, subconsciously capturing expressions of inner child and alter egos. Even though a photographer consciously photographs a person, landscape or object, it is his or her psyche that creates the interpretation with the use of light, camera settings and backgrounds. Like a painter, the film and/or digital sensor becomes their canvas.
In always searching for that once in a lifetime shot, ones ego plays a large role. It is imperative that a photographer (amateur or professional) has an ego large enough to believe that he or she is the best and at that particular time taking the best picture. Artistic expression comes in almost infinite mediums but unlike painting, drawing, sculpting, etc., the photographs themselves can be copied and printed over and over again, but the given opportunity may and can only be captured once by the camera.
It becomes apparent that luck has a little to do with whether or not we capture that once in a lifetime shot or being in the right place at the right time with a camera. The true question is, does luck really have a lot to do with it or does a photographer's psyche, gut feeling or hunch come into play? How many times have you left the house forgetting your camera and going back to get it on a hunch and later that day it paid off? This has happened to me several times. However, if you're a truly dedicated photographer or in my case obsessive compulsive you would never leave the house without your camera.
What impels us to turn off the beaten path only to find that great shot? Most photographers know that in many cases you have to explore remote areas to capture that great nature shot. What inspires us to try different lighting schemes, filters and backdrops in the studio? Your first answer would be knowledge, know-how and experience, all true and are all important in becoming a good photographer. However, it is our egos, inner child, hunches, artistic natures or our very soul that takes that knowledge, know-how and experience and turns it into a piece of art for all to enjoy.
Not unlike other art forms there are rules for good photography--the rule of thirds, correct exposure, format and composition to name a few. True innovations and advancements are in many ways achieved by breaking the rules, thinking outside the box or painting outside the lines to mention a couple clichés. Some of the greatest artists, scientists and thinkers had some type of neurosis or as some would say, including Freud, were a bit egotistical, obsessive compulsive, or even crazy.
As photographers, it is most important that we enjoy and have fun taking pictures; if it wasn't important to us, we probably would do something else. Maintaining self confidence while not becoming overly confident and providing the world with inspirational images that will endure for a lifetime and beyond, is the goal to which we all should aspire.
Our cameras are our paint brushes, pencils, piece of stone or clay and it is up to the individual photographer (artist) to create that masterpiece for the other windows of the soul to enjoy, interpret and with which to be inspired.
In always searching for that once in a lifetime shot, ones ego plays a large role. It is imperative that a photographer (amateur or professional) has an ego large enough to believe that he or she is the best and at that particular time taking the best picture. Artistic expression comes in almost infinite mediums but unlike painting, drawing, sculpting, etc., the photographs themselves can be copied and printed over and over again, but the given opportunity may and can only be captured once by the camera.
It becomes apparent that luck has a little to do with whether or not we capture that once in a lifetime shot or being in the right place at the right time with a camera. The true question is, does luck really have a lot to do with it or does a photographer's psyche, gut feeling or hunch come into play? How many times have you left the house forgetting your camera and going back to get it on a hunch and later that day it paid off? This has happened to me several times. However, if you're a truly dedicated photographer or in my case obsessive compulsive you would never leave the house without your camera.
What impels us to turn off the beaten path only to find that great shot? Most photographers know that in many cases you have to explore remote areas to capture that great nature shot. What inspires us to try different lighting schemes, filters and backdrops in the studio? Your first answer would be knowledge, know-how and experience, all true and are all important in becoming a good photographer. However, it is our egos, inner child, hunches, artistic natures or our very soul that takes that knowledge, know-how and experience and turns it into a piece of art for all to enjoy.
Not unlike other art forms there are rules for good photography--the rule of thirds, correct exposure, format and composition to name a few. True innovations and advancements are in many ways achieved by breaking the rules, thinking outside the box or painting outside the lines to mention a couple clichés. Some of the greatest artists, scientists and thinkers had some type of neurosis or as some would say, including Freud, were a bit egotistical, obsessive compulsive, or even crazy.
As photographers, it is most important that we enjoy and have fun taking pictures; if it wasn't important to us, we probably would do something else. Maintaining self confidence while not becoming overly confident and providing the world with inspirational images that will endure for a lifetime and beyond, is the goal to which we all should aspire.
Our cameras are our paint brushes, pencils, piece of stone or clay and it is up to the individual photographer (artist) to create that masterpiece for the other windows of the soul to enjoy, interpret and with which to be inspired.
View from Barnegat Lighthouse Print
Truckee River in Autumn Verdi Nevada Poster by Soulshine51
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Sierra's Mt. Rose
by Soulshine51
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Table of Contents
- Windows to the Soul
- Photography Tips, Equipment and More
- You Can't Take Too Many Pictures!
- Keep It Clean
- Shutter Speed for Different Results
- REFLECTION of the Soul
- Windows To The Soul
- Featuring Photographic Items from Soulshine Expressions
- More Helpful Links For Digital Photography
- Need a New Camera or an Upgrade?
- Digital Camera Accesories
- My Other Photography Lenses
- More Camera Stuff on eBay
- More Great Items from Ebay
- Choose the Best Camera
- The Clear Water of Lake Tahoe . . . Wishing You Were There???
- Now Book that Travel Photograph Vacation
- New Guestbook
- For More Information On Photography Visit These Links
Windows to the Soul
Photography Tips, Equipment and More
Before You Go Out
One of the world's fastest growing hobbies and businesses is Digital Photography. The Digital Camera has revolutionized the way we photograph, where we photograph and how often we photograph. Whether you're a professional or an amateur photographer you will always want to capture the best quality photographs you can.The great thing about digital photography is you don't need the most expensive camera in the world to take great pictures. All you need is a good eye, a little knowledge and a bit of soul.
Before heading out for a photo shoot, you should never leave the house without at a minimum the following:
Your camera, of course, extra batteries and memory card, UV and polarizer filters, and external flash. [Most cameras have built-in flashes; however, they sometimes do not provide efficient lighting under certain conditions.]
You might also want to bring along a sturdy tripod or some form of camera stabilizer. A zoom or telephoto, and an additional wide angle lens can also be useful. Depending on what type of photographs you plan to shoot, you may want to take along a close up lens or two.
You will want to have a good camera bag to protect and carry all your gear. I use a basic backpack that I added foam padding to in order to protect my camera and lenses. If you go this route, just make sure it has enough pockets and compartments for all your equipment. I even have straps on mine to hold my tripod.
You Can't Take Too Many Pictures!
The great thing about a digital camera is you can delete any photo that doesn't measure up. I like to take several shots of the same subject, sometimes experimenting with the settings. I very rarely shoot in auto mode, more on modes later.If you have a small memory card or are shooting in RAW format you might want to review your photos often and delete ones that aren't the BEST. Large memory cards are good if you don't want to worry about deleting photos on your camera to save time.
So take a lot of pictures, you can't take too many. This way you have a better chance of capturing that "great shot". Keep this in mind when shooting people and things that move like eye lids.
Keep It Clean
It is important to keep your camera lenses clean to prevent encountering spots and blurs on your images. If you have a more expensive camera that has threads on the lens so you can attach a skylight(UV) filter, it is a good idea to use one to protect the lens from scratches and dirt. If you have one of the less expensive cameras without threads, make sure to not touch the lens and use the lens cover when not in use.
Depending on how often you use your camera really determines how frequently you should clean it. Every few weeks if you use your camera regularly is recommended, or every few months if you use your camera only occasionally.
Purchasing a lens cleaning kit is highly recommended. Use the lens brush and air blower to remove loose dust particles from the lens. Place a drop of lens cleaning solution onto a lens tissue or cloth and wipe the lens clean with a circular motion. Use the blower to dry the lens or let it air dry. Never use anything like soap which is abrasive or wipe too hard. Be sure to clean filters using the same method.
Mountain Snow Holiday Greeting Card
Depending on how often you use your camera really determines how frequently you should clean it. Every few weeks if you use your camera regularly is recommended, or every few months if you use your camera only occasionally.
Purchasing a lens cleaning kit is highly recommended. Use the lens brush and air blower to remove loose dust particles from the lens. Place a drop of lens cleaning solution onto a lens tissue or cloth and wipe the lens clean with a circular motion. Use the blower to dry the lens or let it air dry. Never use anything like soap which is abrasive or wipe too hard. Be sure to clean filters using the same method.
Mountain Snow Holiday Greeting Card
Shutter Speed for Different Results
To freeze the action or capture the motion either way you must choose the correct shutter speed.
When freezing the action remember the closer the action the faster the required shutter speed. Also set the shutter speed faster than the focal length of the lens. Let's say you are using a lens set at 200mm the shutter speed should be at lease 1/200 of a second. This will prevent a blurred image.
When capturing motion a tripod and timer or remote trigger is recommended to prevent camera movement. Note that most cameras with built in shake reduction require that it be disabled when using a tripod. So check your camera's manual.
Here are some basic shutter speed suggestions when shooting different subjects.
TO FREEZE THE ACTION
Sporting events - 1/500 to 1/2000 seconds
Birds in flight - 1/500 seconds and above
Waterfalls - 1/1000 seconds or more
TO CAPTURE MOTION
Waterfalls - 4 or more seconds
Cars at night - 3 to 10 seconds
Amusement park rides - +/- one second
When freezing the action remember the closer the action the faster the required shutter speed. Also set the shutter speed faster than the focal length of the lens. Let's say you are using a lens set at 200mm the shutter speed should be at lease 1/200 of a second. This will prevent a blurred image.
When capturing motion a tripod and timer or remote trigger is recommended to prevent camera movement. Note that most cameras with built in shake reduction require that it be disabled when using a tripod. So check your camera's manual.
Here are some basic shutter speed suggestions when shooting different subjects.
TO FREEZE THE ACTION
Sporting events - 1/500 to 1/2000 seconds
Birds in flight - 1/500 seconds and above
Waterfalls - 1/1000 seconds or more
TO CAPTURE MOTION
Waterfalls - 4 or more seconds
Cars at night - 3 to 10 seconds
Amusement park rides - +/- one second
REFLECTION of the Soul
Shooting water reflections alone and not the subject can generate a great abstract image.
Reflections from light and bright colors in water can really affect the mood of a picture. So when shooting, always look for opportunities to add water and its reflections to your images.
Sierra Nevada Mountainscape
by Soulshine51
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Featuring Photographic Items from Soulshine Expressions
Products featuring panoramic sunsets, flowers and more, including beautiful framed fine art prints, posters, wall clocks, mouse pads, messenger bags and more courtesy of Soulshine Expressions.
Welcome and thank you for visiting!
Welcome and thank you for visiting!
Reddish Orange Daisy Keepsake Box
Even if you weren't a fan of orange, you would have to admire the sheer brilliance of this beautiful reddish orange daisy surrounded with a hint of brilliant purple in this beautiful keepsake box.
Price: $25.00 
Blue Morning Glory Throw Pillow
Your morning will be anything but blue with the addition of items like this beautiful throw pillow featuring this beautiful morning glory flower.
Price: $20.00
Red Rose in Bloom Tote Bag
What better way to show someone you love them than a traditional red rose. This beauty is in full bloom on our tote bag. Find this photo on many other items at Soulshine Expressions.
Price: $17.00
Photography Reflection of Soul Organic Cotton Tee
At Soulshine Expressions we truly believe Photography is a Reflection of the Soul. Here you can find this and other great photography and graphic t shirts and apparel items with the photographer in mind.
Price: $27.00
Delta Purple Sunset Large Framed Print
The poignant beauty that is the Mississippi Delta at sunset can be found in this beautiful purple sunset large framed print. Find this photo and others on a variety of products from clocks to greeting cards at Soulshine Expressions.
Price: $35.00
More Helpful Links For Digital Photography
If you are serious about learning digital photography and would like to eventually turn your part-time hobby into a part-time or full-time business, you might want to check out some of these links:
Tricks and techniques for better images with your digital camera. Use your digital camera to take stunning photographs!
These fantastic ebooks will help you transform your digital photos into beautiful, professional quality pictures even if you've never used a digital camera before.
How to easily start up and market a profitable photography business even if you have never been in business before. Earn up to $720 per week part time with your camera, selling photos.
Tricks and techniques for better images with your digital camera. Use your digital camera to take stunning photographs!
Get Paid To Submit Photos To The Internet!:
Genuine home-based photography system lets you earn up to $250 a day and also gives you the opportunity to earn monthly residual income off every photo that you submit online!These fantastic ebooks will help you transform your digital photos into beautiful, professional quality pictures even if you've never used a digital camera before.
How to easily start up and market a profitable photography business even if you have never been in business before. Earn up to $720 per week part time with your camera, selling photos.
Need a New Camera or an Upgrade?
If its a new digital camera you need or just an upgrade to a higher end unit, there are a world of options available. I have listed a few suggestions--some old, some new and some to be released this spring.
Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS7 12.1 MP Digital Camera with 12x Optical Image Stabilized Zoom and 3.0-Inch LCD (Black)
The Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS7 delivers AVCHD Lite HD more...1 point
Canon PowerShot SD1300 IS 12.1 MP Digital Camera with 4x Wide Angle Optical Image Stabilized Zoom and 2.7-Inch LCD (Silver)
It's all about the power of contrast. Color that defies more...1 point
Panasonic Lumix DMC-FH20K 14.1 MP Digital Camera with 8x Optical Image Stabilized Zoom and 2.7-Inch LCD (Black)
The 28mm wide-angle lens lets you easily capture large more...1 point
Canon EOS Rebel T2i 18 MP CMOS APS-C Digital SLR Camera with 3.0-Inch LCD and EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS Lens
The flagship of the EOS Rebel line, Canon EOS Rebel more...1 point
Canon PowerShot SX20IS 12.1MP Digital Camera with 20x Wide Angle Optical Image Stabilized Zoom and 2.5-inch Articulating LCD
-12.1 megapixels-720p high-definition video- 20x w more...0 points
Fujifilm FinePix S1800 12.2 MP Digital Camera with 18x Wide Angle Optical Dual Image Stabilized Zoom and 3-Inch LCD
Fujifilm FinePix S1800 - 12MP, Fujinon 18x Wide Op more...0 points
Nikon Coolpix S3000 12 MP Digital Camera with 4x Optical Vibration Reduction (VR) Zoom and 2.7-Inch LCD (Green)
Nikon's style setting, image making Coolpix S3000 combines more...0 points
Panasonic Lumix DMC-FH20 14.1 MP Digital Camera with 8x Optical Image Stabilized Zoom and 2.7-Inch LCD (Red)
Panasonic DMC-FH20 Digital Camera FeaturesThe DMC-FH20 more...0 points
Polaroid t1031 10.0 MP Digital Still Camera with 3.0 LCD Display (Orange)
10.0 MP Digital Camera with 3.0-Inch LCD Display0 points
Nikon Coolpix P100 10 MP Digital Camera with 26x Optical Vibration Reduction (VR) Zoom and 3.0-Inch LCD (Black)
10.3 Megapixels for stunning prints as large as 16 more...0 points
Canon Rebel XS 10.1MP Digital SLR Camera with EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS Lens (Black)
Ideal for a wide range of photographers from first more...0 points
Digital Camera Accesories
Below are some of the items recommended in the photography tips:
My Other Photography Lenses
More Camera Stuff on eBay
If it's a deal on new and or used equipment, why not give eBay a shot (no pun intended).
More Great Items from Ebay
Choose the Best Camera
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The Clear Water of Lake Tahoe . . . Wishing You Were There???
Now Book that Travel Photograph Vacation
Now that you are all geared up and ready to go, why not plan and book an exciting photographic adventure--maybe a trek to your favorite vacation spot or an adventure to an unexplored venue.
New Guestbook
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LeCordonDude
Nov 8, 2011 @ 12:30 pm | delete
- I love that clear water of lake tahoe pic!!!!!!!!! this is one of them WOW lenses!!! :0)
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Mia-Mia
Aug 24, 2011 @ 7:11 pm | delete
- Thanks for a nice lens.
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poloponydesign
Nov 1, 2010 @ 12:17 pm | delete
- Great lens! love the info!
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kathypi
Oct 31, 2010 @ 10:34 pm | delete
- ENJOYED READING YOUR LENS VERY MUCH, 5 for sure! kathy
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Vincentn
May 20, 2009 @ 9:30 am | delete
- This lens covers a lot of good information. Favourite it with 5*. Nice lens.
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kimmanleyort
Apr 20, 2009 @ 10:49 am | delete
- This lens is chock full of good information and I love the title!
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ZoeSPEAK
Jan 18, 2009 @ 11:12 pm | delete
- Excellent lens!
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3dMooNMaN
Dec 22, 2008 @ 7:24 pm | delete
- A lens into the lens ! Amazing ! Great Work !!!
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RolandTumble
Nov 12, 2008 @ 1:55 pm | delete
- Nice shots, and good insight on the process. 5*
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snaz
Nov 7, 2008 @ 1:47 am | delete
- Bravo!
Beautiful language, imagery and images...
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Jun 6, 2008 @ 2:57 pm | delete
- Thanks for all the great advice!
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flowski
May 20, 2008 @ 9:29 pm | delete
- Very inspirational thoughts for photographers. Your digital photography is wonderful and your such a good writer too, awesome!
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Janet21
May 18, 2008 @ 5:16 pm | delete
- Nice lens! Welcome to the Everything Photography Group! :)
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Evelyn_Saenz
May 11, 2008 @ 11:23 am | delete
- Little Joe Otter was checking out your lens and liked it so well that he is sending you a virtual cup of coffee to hang on your wall.
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Rock_The_Ice
Apr 30, 2008 @ 5:31 pm | delete
- This is amazing. I *heart* photography and this is a brilliant lens. Your photos are truly outstanding. Ironically, my security word for this blurb is "unique"...
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MissyPrissy
Feb 7, 2008 @ 5:58 pm | delete
- Wow! That's all I can say. The way you describe photography here definitely shows your love and passion for it. Your photos are wonderful. I can't wait until your next installment. Keep up the good work.
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j8pacrat
Feb 5, 2008 @ 7:04 am | delete
- Great lens! Enjoyed the pics and tips are useful.
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chickendumplinchick
Feb 3, 2008 @ 2:11 pm | delete
- Fantastic lens. Your pics are GREAT! I checked out your stock site as well--good JOB!! Very inspirational!! Thanks!
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For More Information On Photography Visit These Links
- Shutterbug Magazine
- Leading Photography Publication Outlining Tips, Techniques & Creativity
- Photographic Society of America
- This society is a world-wide interactive organization for serious amateur and professional photographers or for anyone interested in photography.
- Digital Photographer
- Leading Magazine for Digital Photographers.
- Soulshine Expressions
- Express your soul with original graphic designs and photography from Soulshine Expressions. We have t shirts, tank tops, jerseys, sweatshirts, hoodies, kids and infant wear, dog t shirts, coasters, calendars, note cards, greeting cards, keepsake boxes, tote bags, messenger bags, and more.
by Soulshine_Expressions
One of our greatest passions is learning. We're not experts on anything. We don't believe anyone is. Some people just know more about a particular subject... more »
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