Tuesday, March 2, 2010

For the Love of Hasselblad...and Inspiration

I forgot how much I loved medium and large format until I was required to use them for my current photography assignment.

Going back to basics: film, spot metering, manual focusing, really being aware of composition and other little details - is exactly what I need right now.

Using the Hasselblad in particular has forced me to:

* Slow down.
* Be more attuned to detail & composition.
* Check. Double check. Triple check.
* Appreciate the beauty of film.
* Get excited about photography all over again!

I guess sometimes it takes changing your camera, your lens, or your style/subject of shooting in order to regain inspiration, spur new ideas, and push your comfort zone.

How can we improve & grow as photographers if we are always chained to our standard, good-ol'-standby shooting equipment & habits?

Force yourself to use a lens that has been collecting dust. Approach a familiar subject in an unfamiliar way. Shoot a different format. Use black & white if you normally shoot color. Try morning light if you typically use evening. Experiment with long exposures.

However you shoot: Mix it up every once in a while. You might be surprised what kind of ideas it will stir up.

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