Pixiq

You've likely heard the saying K.I.S.S. or "keep it simple stupid". Well, I don't like calling my readers stupid so we'll go with silly instead. I mean, you are on one of the best websites for learning photography after all so you can't be stupid, right?

It's easy to get caught up in gimmicky photography. It's easy to confuse complicated processes or equipment with better photography. Many photographers, in the beginning of their learning experience, can mistakenly believe that better cameras, more lenses, or cooler accessories will make them better photographers overnight.

That's certainly not the case.

A cool new filter or a tilt-shift lens does not turn a snapshot into a work of art!

There are tons of cool tools for photographers of every level. But the most important tools you can have in your arsenal are simplicity in technique and a focused vision.

As cameras get fancier, and other equipment becomes more advanced, the urge to use sophisticated techniques becomes stronger and stronger. I know, I've fallen into those traps before.

Less Is More

Less is more. Less is more. Less is more.

It feels good to say it. It feels even better to live it.

Simplify Your Equipment

For beginner photographers less equipment is probably better.

Start with one camera and one lens. A good wide angle or a tele-photo should work fine or you could go with my favorite, the nifty fifty. Then pick one subject matter and stick with it.

When you minimize the amount of equipment you have, and really familiarize yourself with it, you gain more control of the given situations, and ultimately, the photographs you produce. It allows you to concentrate on what's most important in your craft - how your photographs should look.

Simplify Your Vision

You don't have to travel around the world to create great photographs. Many talented photographers have created entire careers without venturing outside of their respective cities, or even, their backyards!

Your goal is to be very strong with even the simplest subjects. When you can create great photographs from even the most boring situations and settings you know you're well on your way.

Photographs are individuals. Make them say something different by being different, not just by being of something different. That's how your artistic vision oozes into the photograph and turns it into individual expression.

Simplify Your Subject

Be selective. Try focusing closely on a subject. It isolates it from distracting elements and allows the viewer to "fill in the blanks". This draws people in as they personalize their viewing experience.

Strive for simplicity in choosing your subject matter. Look for strong lines, shapes, or other distinct patterns and play around with composition. Try isolating them. Look for the abstract.

Simplify Your Statement

We all aspire to make striking and compelling photography. Works of art that make you think, or feel, or whatever. Photographs that do something!

This can often be accomplished by making a single stark statement.

When you simplify your equipment, simplify your vision, and simplify your subject you ultimately simplify your statement as an artist or photographer. This can ultimately lead to you refining your vision and creating a unique look and feel that escapes so many potentially wonderful photographers.

Pay attention to the photographs that you find compelling. Are they mostly wide angle, black and white, or landscape? Chances are there are clues in your favorite photographs or photographers' portfolios that can tell you where you could simplify.

Keep It Simple Silly

Photograph The kiss by Tommy Fjordbøge (Tommy's Corner)