One of my hobbies is photography, and I really enjoy taking pictures of all kinds, but especially landscape and architecture photos and candid shots of people. It's particularly fun taking pictures at dance competitions, because a camera attracts dancers like a porch light draws moths...couples will dance right up into your face and pose so you can get the shot, instead of grimacing and turning away. And the ladies are beautifully dressed and made up, which always makes for a good picture.
I learned two valuable lessons about photography from my father, who was a professional photographer: always take as many pictures as you can, and always fill up the frame. The first rule is important, because most of the pictures you take won't be any good for one reason or another (poorly composed, out of focus, flash didn't go off, subject's eyes closed, stupid expression, etc). By taking lots of pictures (which is easy and cheap with a digital camera), you can delete all the bad ones before anyone ever sees them, and because only the good pictures ever see the light of day, everyone thinks you're a great photographer. The second rule is equally important, because no one wants to see a photo of tiny people in the distance, squinting into the camera. By filling up the frame, you focus in on your subject and get a much more interesting picture. Obviously, this rule is flexible...you may want to show small figures against a big landscape, or framed by something in the foreground, for instance. But in general, fill up the frame to keep your pictures interesting.
So that's today's message: nothing about politics, immigration, or the shortcomings of funds managers...just some advice on good photography from someone who loves to take pictures. Grab that Kodak Brownie (now there, I'm dating myself!), get out, and take some pictures today.
Have a good day. And remember to fill up the frame.
Bilbo
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