Celebrate World Photo Day

In case you want another reason to celebrate, consider doing something special this Saturday, August 19th on World Photo Day. Korske Ara started World Photo Day in 2010 to engage photographers around the world to celebrate the birth of photography. According to their website, "On January 9, 1839, The French Academy of Sciences announced the daguerreotype process. A few months later, on August 19, 1839, the French government purchased the patent and announced the invention as a gift 'Free to the World'."

The photo above, "Boulevard du Temple", a daguerreotype made by Louis Daguerre in 1838, is generally accepted as the earliest photograph to include people. World Photo Day's website highlights three key ways to celebrate: share your world, grow your passion, and connect your community.

Share Your World:

Regardless if you take photos daily, make an effort to go out Camera Walking on August 19th to capture images that reflect your point of view. We all see things differently. That is one of the things I love most about Camera Walking with a friend. Often our shots of the same scene tell a different story, whether it is a shot of flower petals, or a garage window that catches your eye. They all reflect your view of the world.

Once you have taken your photos, share them on your website, other social media channels, as well as consider entering your photos in the World Photo Day gallery.

Grow Your Passion:

Take time to deepen your skills as a photographer. Go out with someone who is more advanced than you to get ideas, or watch an online tutorial. I often watch videos that feature conversations with great photographers. KelbyOne' conversation with Jay Maisel, a well-known street photographer is worth watching. Here is a small clip of his photo walk with Scott Kelby. There are some great tips here!

And, consider participating in a workshop. Last year I went on a mini-workshop sponsored by Glazer's Camera with Rick Sammon at Gasworks Park. Although Rick covered a number of techniques, I enjoyed learning how to take interesting photos of our model, Elyse Hemphill, such as the one below.

We played around with different compositions and lighting, which made this photo much more fun.

It was inspiring to see what results I could get in a short period of time. In three hours I learned a lot and came away energized and ready to experiment more.

I am excited about participating in a "Dancing Flower Photography" workshop with Kathleen Clemons and Donna Eaton in a few weeks. We will be taking photos at Swan Island Dahlia Farm, the largest dahlia grower in the United States. We will also visit the International Rose Test Garden, a rose garden with over 7,000 rose plants of approximately 550 varieties, and much more. I am truly excited about what I will learn during this workshop.

Connect With Your Community:

If you have been thinking about holding an exhibit, take action to get it organized, or join a photography club to get constructive feedback from peers. At the minimum, invite a few friends to go out Camera Walking. You will get great exercise, connect with a friend, and expand your creativity.