Photography, at its core, at least in my own 4+-decade experience, is more art than science.
Way more art!
This is not to diminish or devalue the technical and mechanical aspects of photography.
Of course, you need both, art and science, to consistently shoot remarkable and memorable photography.
But, in my personal experience, art trumps the craft part.
Poetry trumps the science part.
Learn the first part well, the art part, and you’ll begin to notice an appreciable difference in your iPhone photos and video
As an iPhone photographer with years of experience under my belt, I can confidently say that photography is far more than just mastering the technical aspects of your camera.
Sure, understanding aperture, shutter speed, and ISO settings are crucial foundations to creating great images, but it’s the artistic flair that truly sets exceptional photographs apart from the rest.
In my decades-long journey with photography, I’ve realized that while anyone can grasp the mechanics of operating a camera, not everyone can harness the creative vision needed to transform a simple snapshot into a captivating piece of art. It’s the artistry—the ability to see the world through a unique lens, to capture emotion, atmosphere, and narrative—that breathes life into an image.
Just recently, I had the opportunity to teach a workshop to a group of enthusiastic iPhone photographers. Over a few hours, I walked them through the technical intricacies of their device’s camera settings and functionalities. They were armed with the knowledge to optimize their equipment for intentional photography and filmmaking. Yet, I knew that despite their newfound technical prowess, their journey toward creating exceptional photographs had only just begun.
The truth is, that the art of photography transcends the boundaries of equipment and settings. It’s about composition, lighting, perspective, and storytelling. It’s about knowing when to break the rules and when to abide by them. It’s about cultivating a keen eye for beauty in the mundane and finding inspiration in the everyday.
In a world where smartphones have democratized photography, it’s easy to fall into the trap of relying solely on technology to produce stunning images. But the reality is that no advanced features or cutting-edge gadgets can compensate for a lack of artistic vision. It’s the photographer behind the lens who holds the power to evoke emotion, provoke thought, and leave a lasting impression on the viewer.
For me, photography is a deeply personal journey—a constant exploration of self-expression and creativity. It’s about capturing moments in time, freezing memories, and leaving behind a visual legacy for generations to come. And while the technical aspects of photography may come with practice and experience, the artistry is something that evolves over a lifetime.
So to all the aspiring iPhone photographers out there, I implore you to never underestimate the importance of honing your artistic skills. Embrace experimentation, seek inspiration from the world around you, and above all, trust your instincts. Remember, it’s not the camera that makes the photographer, but rather the passion, dedication, and creative vision behind it. So go forth, my fellow photographers, and let your artistry shine through every frame you capture.
Click.
Jack
