How many times have we wished for a simpler life, especially when everyday tasks seem to drag us down. I sometimes think that the Amish or Mennonite sector have the right idea...keep things simple. Get rid of the extras, the clutter, and the time-stealing pursuits we think are so important. Well, maybe not my computer...I do really like to meet you here!
I'm just finishing a class, Keeping It Simple, with Kim Manley Ort. In her classes she encourages us to simplify not only our photography, but our lives. Our first lesson dealt with simplicity and minimalism. You know me, I look things up in the dictionary...just a fun habit of mine...so I looked up simplicity and minimal.
- Bing dictionary defines simplicity as "a lack of complexity, complication, or embellishment."
- Bing dictionary also defines minimal as "very small in amount."
To apply this to photography, I need to stop before clicking the shutter button and focus on what it is I really want to include in the photo; what is the subject, what will bring attention to the subject, and what needs to be eliminated.
I must say, I've taken several of Kim's classes, enjoyed each one, but for some reason this one really resonated with me. I finally "got it!" I finally took my time and let my eyes discover what to photograph and my heart discover how to photograph it.
