One of my favorite creative quotes is by Claude Monet. He basically said ‘In order to see we must forget the name of things. By labeling, we recognize everything, but no longer see anything.’ I think of this concept this way. Instead of labeling all those subjects in your image, imagine them as graphic elements…shapes, colors, silhouettes. If you look at things graphically, you may compose your shot differently.
Yesterday I was on the fall tundra picking blueberries and photographing landscapes. Driving along I saw an interesting tree in the tundra. Except it wasn’t a tree, it was green triangle surrounded by warm color. The triangle shape helped convey power, strength and permanence. Surrounded by warm fall colors, including reds, creating a complimentary color pattern. Complementary colors add tension to an image. Instead of seeing a tree, I was seeing a relationship of shapes and colors. Seeing graphically, instead of literally.
Fall is here, and fantastic photography awaits. Grab your gear, head out the door, and think graphically as you scout for images. You might just discover a new way to improve your creativity.