As an iPhone photographer, I often find myself reflecting on David Bailey’s insightful words: “It takes a lot of imagination to be a good photographer. You need less imagination to be a painter because you can invent things. But in photography, everything is so ordinary; it takes a lot of looking before you learn to see the extraordinary.” This quote resonates deeply with me, as it encapsulates the essence of what it means to capture the world through the lens of a camera-dedicated or phone camera.
Photography, especially with an iPhone, is an art of observation. Unlike painting, where one can conjure up fantastical scenes from the depths of imagination, photography demands a different kind of creativity and seeing. It requires us to see the beauty in the mundane, to find the extraordinary in the ordinary.
This journey of discovery is both challenging and rewarding, pushing us to look beyond the surface and delve into the deeper layers of our surroundings.
Think of your subjects, scenes and scenarios as “layers” is probably the most practical way to begin your journey in photographic seeing. Peel the layers slowly.
When I first started using my iPhone for photography, I was captivated by its convenience and accessibility. The ability to capture moments on the go, without the need for bulky equipment, was liberating.
However, I soon realized that the true magic of iPhone photography lies not in the device itself, but in the way we use it to see the world. It’s about training our eyes to notice the subtle details, the fleeting moments, and the hidden stories that often go unnoticed.
David Bailey’s quote serves as a constant reminder that great photography is not about the number of photos we take, but about the quality of our vision. It’s about cultivating a sense of curiosity and wonder, and being willing to explore the world with an open mind. This means taking the time to observe our surroundings, to experiment with different angles and perspectives, and to embrace the imperfections that make each moment unique.
For new photographers, this journey can be daunting. The sheer volume of images we can capture with our iPhones can be overwhelming, and it’s easy to fall into the trap of quantity over quality. But as Bailey suggests, it’s not about taking thousands of photos; it’s about learning to see. This requires patience, persistence, and a willingness to learn from our mistakes. It’s about understanding that each photo is a step towards refining our vision and honing our craft.
Experienced photographers, too, can benefit from this mindset. In a world where we are constantly bombarded with images, it’s important to remember that the true power of photography lies in its ability to tell a story. This means going beyond the obvious and looking for the deeper meaning in each shot. It means being intentional with our compositions, and striving to capture the essence of a moment rather than just its appearance.
As iPhone photographers, we have a unique opportunity to document the world in a way that is both personal and universal. Our photos can capture the beauty of everyday life, the moments of joy and sorrow, and the fleeting glimpses of the extraordinary that make life so rich and varied. By embracing Bailey’s philosophy, we can push ourselves to see the world with fresh eyes, and to create images that resonate with others on a deeper level.
So, to all photographers, new and old, I encourage you to take up the challenge. Work tirelessly to learn to see, and take the extra effort to capture the extraordinary in the ordinary. Remember that it’s not about the number of photos you take, but about the vision you bring to each shot. With imagination, patience, and a keen eye, you can transform the ordinary into the extraordinary, one photo at a time.
These photos are from Alesund, Norway. Ålesund is a port town on the west coast of Norway, at the entrance to the Geirangerfjord. It’s known for the art nouveau architectural style in which most of the town was rebuilt after a fire in 1904
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Jack
