It's All About The Method
Over the years, I've learned that great images are not just plucked out of the air as you pass through a scene. They're crafted with a blend of vision, technical skills, a bit of luck, and a specific approach that's unique to each photographer. Essentially, it's the method that makes the image.
Through my own learning process, I've come to understand that more than anything else, studying the methods of photographers who you admire is one of the best ways to advance your own skills and creative techniques. When I first started shooting, I spent hours poring through books and studying the methods by photographers like Galen Rowell, Bryan Peterson and Nevada Wier. What I found most useful was when I was able to read about the specific insight, the creative ideas and the technical approach that went into each photograph.
Years later, I can look back and see how vital those tools were for my own development, which is why I decided to write this book.
Learn By Looking Over My Shoulder
Behind The Action
is all method. It lays out the exact step-by-step process for 12 specific adventure and outdoor type images. Essentially, I take the reader along with me on a number of shoots and let them look over my shoulder as I scout the location, gauge the light, choose my equipment, come up with an approach, execute the final image and reflect on how it all went down. I even show you a number of outtakes so that you can follow along and see how the final shot eventually came about.
In short, Behind The Action is the closest thing you'll ever get to actually being there on the shoot with me and watching me work. Honestly, I can't think of a better way to teach you how to become a better photographer aside from bringing you on as an assistant. Even if you have a solid understanding of photography and equipment, you can learn
What You'll Learn
For each of the 12 images that's featured inside the book, I detail the following:
- Concept: The basic idea behind the shoot and what I was hoping to achieve in a final shot.
- Gear: An exact inventory of what gear was taken along with me and what gear was used.
- Light: My assessment of the light and the challenges that each scene presented.
- Approach: My own unique ideas on how I planned to tackle the shoot.
- Execution: What ACTUALLY happened after all the planning.
- Final Thoughts: Reflections on what went right and what went wrong.
- Post Processing: Exact notations of how I adjusted the image in the digital darkroom.
- Quick Tips: Thoughts and advice on how to get these kinds of results for yourself.