September Monthly Photo Assignment Announced: "The Eyes Have It!"

I wracked my brain trying to figure out what to pick as September's monthly photo assignment. But I have it now, and I shamelessly copied the idea from one of my favorite photography sites, Digital Photography School.

My topic choice is: "The Eyes Have It!" Since the eyes are the windows to the soul, let's see what's lurking inside. Have fun interpreting this topic. Remember, it doesn't have to be human eyes...it could be animal eyes, or whatever you define as "eyes." Need some inspiration? Check out the blog topic and some of the submissions DPS readers turned in here. The photo above is also one of my favorites focusing on Cordelia's lovely eyes.

The only stipulations is that the photo has to be taken between NOW and Sept. 28. Turn in your submissions at shebawheeler@picture-yourworld.com and they will be posted for voting when the polls open on September 29.

Now -- GET OUT THERE!

Instructor's Tip: Work Your Subject

Work Your Subject
Before leaving any subject you’re photographing, eliminate all
variables of how to improve its capture. This may mean choosing a
different lens to change the perspective, getting down low or up high
to get a different angle, augmenting the light by using flash or a
reflector, softening the light with a diffuser, using a filter for an
effect, etc. As you can see from this list, therIe are many strategies
that can be applied to change the image. When used in tandem, even
more variables can be applied. Learning to use them should become
part of your photographic repertoire.



A great task for you to do right now is sit down with a pen and paper
and generate a list of different ways you can change the way you
capture a picture. Use the ideas I shared as a basis from which to
start. When you’re done, make some copies of the list and place one
in your camera bag. Refer to it often and apply the techniques when
you’re out on your next shoot.

- Russ


All photos in this post were taken by award winning photographer Russ Burden. To learn more about how Russ took the following photo in this post, join him on one of his photo tours. Visit Russ Burden Photography to get more information.

To take a class with Russ or a fellow Digital Photo Academy instructor in your area, check out the Digital Photo Academy. I took Russ' intermediate and advanced courses last year, and he continues to be a strong source of knowledge and encouragement as I progress in my photography.

Don't forget to check Take Great Pictures for Russ' most recent tips. On the home page, click on the "Photo Tips And Techniques" button in the left hand column. Additionally, check out his "Digital Tip of the Month" found by clicking on the Digital Photography button.