Do Not Wait

RyanS

I've heard this bit of advice from several different accomplished photographers. it goes something like this: Access is critical. When you have access to a subject do not delay. Do not yield to the temptation that you can come back later to make more photographs.

This doesn't apply just to places, it applies to people as well. When a person gives you permission to photograph them they are granting you access. Treat the subject fully. They may not give permission again, or worse... they might not be with us tomorrow. Don't delay, create photographs with a sense of urgency. The same can be applied to street work. When you see a person on the street that really grabs your imagination, make the shot that counts. You might never see that person or experience that situation again.

I was recently reminded of this advice when visiting an area I had photographed many times previously. It has been open to the public for many years and is rich in photographic potential. My goal was to return and make more photographs. What greeted me was a shiny, brand-new, 3 mile long 7 foot high security fence. No more access. While I felt bad not being able to scratch a creative itch, I left satisfied knowing that I had created interesting images there before. I've captured some sense of a place that is now off-limits. A bit of history that is now closed to time.

Moving Pictures

I remember sitting during a hockey game, during intermission, in fact, after shooting a period of action. There was a revered local fellah -old-time hockey soul - just jawing away and laughing at the ticket gal.

I felt, for some strange reason, an urge to capture the image, even though it seemed mundane. I didn't even have time to fiddle with white balance, or settings. I just shot.

And I was glad I did, because the chap died of a heart attack two weeks later.

lensmole

Good Advice ! This helps hit it home. Thanks !