When I started this publication journey, I was not completely sure of all the directions I would go with it. And I think I al still figuring some of that out. But one important goal for me since day one is to build a community for photographer’s.
How can I do that though? That was the question perplexing my mind for quite some time. I thought one way to do it was to create fun assignments we could all do together. Last month I wrote an article on these assignments and my goal to build community through them.
So here is the first assignment. Even though this is still a new and smaller publication, I am hoping to get a fair amount of people to join in and see how this grows over time.
Assignment: Rain Photos
This time of year for many of us typically brings buckets of rain on a daily basis. For some photographers, this means more planning of when to go out and shoot in order to stay dry. However, taking pictures in the rain is a truly a wonderful experience.
Of course, it has its challenges and can mean more work to get the right shot. But, when you get the shot, it feels so good. So the challenge I am putting out there for this assignment is to get out there and make rain the subject.
Tips
Look for opportunities that add depth to the image. For example, a person with a broken umbrella or someone running to get out of the rain.
Try slower shutter speeds for some motion blur.
Shooting at a lower exposure can help saturate the blue colors in the sky.
A lens hood will help prevent having to constantly wipe the glass.
Feel free to find cover and shoot from there. It could be as simple as shooting from your car through the window, under a bus stop roof, or the patio area of a restaurant.
Many photographers go out with a clear umbrella and shoot through the umbrella. This can add a neat look too as the drops will sit on the umbrella adding to the shot.
Now if being in the rain just is not possible or proves to be too difficult due to gear or other factors, plan your shoot for right after the rain has stopped. You can capture rain sitting on surfaces or even cool reflections in puddles.
Cautions
Not all cameras and lenses have weather sealing. In light rain it is typically not a problem. In heavy rain though you could damage your gear.
Using an umbrella or some sort of bag around the camera can help keep your equipment dry.
Submissions
I want to see your best rain captures. Everyone is welcome to participate in this fun challenge. In fact, you don’t even have to call yourself a photographer. If you want to play in the rain and get some cool pictures, please do so and send me your work.
In the beginning of October, I will share the best pictures submitted along with your information so people can follow you and see more of your art. This whole challenge is about building community and having fun. If you can, please spread the word by sharing this post with as many others as you can. The more that join in the more cool pictures we all get to see together.