Welcome to Quotidian Photography!

I'm so glad you found my blog. I'm a San Francisco photographer, and this blog is how I stay sharp in the ever-evolving world of photography. I'm passionate about capturing the world around me with my camera, and I try to share that passion with you here. To find out more about me, check out my About page. And don't miss my website!

One of the things I love about photography is that it's a journey, not a destination. I'm constantly learning new things and meeting new and wonderful people. I really couldn't wish for anything more.

“Which of my photographs is my favorite? The one I’m going to take tomorrow." – Imogen Cunningham

“A portrait is not made in the camera but on either side of it.” – Edward Steichen



Tuesday Photo Tip - Why Do All Your Photos Need to Be Sharp?


I admit it, I have it. The Sharpness Disease. If a photo's not tack sharp (where I want it to be), I usually delete it.

But sometimes. SOMEtimes. Sharpness isn't necessary. In fact, it can get in the way. Sharpness says: look here! Pay attention to me! Sharpness says: this photo is about ME. And this is great, when you do have a specific subject for a photo. People, animals, we expect them to be sharp. Or at least we expect the eyes to be sharp.

What if you want just a feeling? An indication? Not a 'look here' but more of a 'feel this.' Then I think sharpness can get in the way a bit. Be a false friend. And blur can help you show and tell what you mean more effectively.

In this case I set my shutter speed to 1/10 of a second, and I took several photos in succession, moving the camera slowly up and down. My goal was a photo where the grass was still identifiable, but where none of the individual details were present (and distracting). I wanted a photo with the feeling of grass. Grass in general, not just this grass.

So, what do you think? Do you have the Sharpness Disease too? Or do you appreciate a bit of blur?

3 comments:

Chesney said...

I think the blur adds an artistic touch to the image...I have tried this technique and never had results I love...you did a great job, you inspired me to try it again!

Izabela said...

Very nice abstract, Jessica- I love those slow shutter speed panning on the static object.
Cheney, you need to try and try again, some of them just work, and some of them- not that much. Trees, or grass, or field of flowers are perfect for vertical pan, simple landscapes with clear horizon- for horizontal.

Phoebe Webb said...

i think i could use a touch of the sharpness disease. i really love blur for conveying feelings, or memories. you're photos are always so sharp (gorgeous), it's nice to see the other side.

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