The Big Picture

When I became serious about photography four years ago, I was told very early on to "fill the frame". Once I saw the benefit of isolating a subject, I couldn't stop. In life I have no trouble "seeing the big picture", but in photography, give me the details, baby. Don't get me wrong, I enjoy all styles of photography from landscapes, to black and white, to artfully processed. And while I marvel at all the different styles, I still end up zeroing in on the details for my own stuff. I went out the other day with the intent to think more about composition and landscape, and by the end of the hour I was back to zooming in like nobody's business. In short, I'm in a rut, photographically speaking.

Last night I was at a dinner for my husband's potential clients. I was nervous before going, and prayed that God would help me be at ease, since social situations with strangers make me nervous. With my stomach tied in knots and a pounding headache, I trusted that God would get me through the evening. No surprise, my ailments slowly evaporated as I held several wonderful, meaningful conversations with all four couples; two of which are birders! They were telling me when and where to go and promised to call if they saw the bald eagle they had spotted recently in our neighborhood. My husband was showing off one of my bird shots on his phone and one of the ladies lit up and said, "You're a photographer? I need someone to shoot a graduation party." My heart sunk because I can't shoot people. I explained that I'm a nature photographer, but I do want to learn how to do portraits and people. Maybe one day.

After focusing on the big picture (pardon the pun), I came to the realization that my fears prevent me from being successful and happy. So I decided to find a local class that teaches portraiture. Right now I have an email out to a private tutor that specializes in portraits, since the community college classes were online only.

Below are examples of my attempt to get the "big picture", and how each time I ended up with a detail oriented shot. I'm determined to break this habit and branch out! The same way God is helping me to overcome my social phobias, I am confident that He will guide me in this and all areas. I just have to ask!

Anyone know what kind of flower this is?

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