Kevin J. Sperl

 photography

 

Photo Column 001 - Introduction

Two of the simplest methods for improving snapshots are isolation and depth of field. In this picture a single tulip is isolated against a blurry blend of other flowers, easily leading the viewers eye to the center of interest. These two techniques are among the many to be discussed in upcoming columns.

 
Like most of you, I take pictures and hear comments leading me to believe that “I could be a photographer.” Unlike most of you, I'm sure, I acted on those comments. Five years ago I resigned from my job, a tenure-track teaching position in Software Engineering, and declared myself to be a professional photographer.

My decision to go 'pro' was more a life decision then a career one. I love what I do and feel privileged to tell stories about Lakes Region people and communities. I also teach photography at the New Hamp

In the past five years, I've photographed weddings, sold a few landscapes, picked up a bit of contract/commission work and, more importantly, worked as a photojournalist.

This week marks the beginning of my employment with the Salmon Press family of weekly newspapers. I look forward to 'shooting' you, the reader, and contributing as a feature writer to The Gilford Steamer, The Winnisquam Echo and The Meredith News.

This column is about photography. I see part of my role in the Lakes Region as promoting photography as a visual art form. I also feel it important to give back to the readership the skills I acquire in the world of photography.

Thus the column, From Snapshots to Photographs, is born.

We've all taken snapshots. We ask our family, or group of friends, to stop what they are doing and smile at the camera. Snap! The people in the picture were there all right! But what were they doing? These are the types of images that force you to say “Oh, you had to be there!” In my opinion, a snapshot simply records the fact that someone or something existed at a certain place at a certain time. A photograph goes beyond snapshots; capturing the emotion of the moment and transmitting the viewer to the scene. To achieve this there are things that can be taught― the skill, and things that come from the photographers vision― the art.

Topics in this column focus (no pun intended) on photographic skill and range from discussions about equipment to issues of exposure and composition.

I invite your participation, comments and suggestions. I further solicit your photographs for critique. I am hesitant to do this, but if you keep in mind that I am simply offering my opinion, maybe I can offer suggestions to help you on your journey to taking better photographs. If you choose to send photographs, please send them to me c/o The Meredith News. I ask that you not send email attachments.

In the next column I'll talk about equipment and the differences between 'pro' gear and that used by most of you.