Don't Forget That Shot!

How many times as a photographer have you been driving down the road or through a small town and saw things that would look great as the subject of a photo? It usually happens to me while I'm working or rushing to the next meeting. Then when the weekend rolls around I struggle to recall where these potential "captures" were and I don't capitalize on the opportunity. Earlier this year, I decided to be more pro-active on getting more of the award winning ( I hope!)shots and I now take a journal with me that allows me to add street addresses, street names, landmarks, suburbs, time of day, what was special about the subject, etc. I also read in the local newspaper about special events that will happen over the weekend and then attend the events. Sometimes I go to events that wouldn't normally excite me. Photographically, I think I bring a different perspective to shooting due to the fact that I might not be a fan of the particular sporting or entertainment event. I tend to focus on the human element instead of the actual sport itself. The more interesting photos are usually 180 degrees in the opposite direction from where your camera lens is pointing. Do the unusual and point your camera where no one else is pointing.