Storytelling with Photography

By Paul Birkhead Rowan Public Library
     
      What makes photography special to so many people?  I would venture to say that it is because photos represent an artistic means of communication between the person taking the photo and the viewer.  Photographs are not only art; they are a medium through which to tell a story.  Rowan Public Library is a strong proponent of storytelling in any form and offers an array of items related to photography.

       The Art of Photography by Bruce Barnbaum is a book available for check out at the library.  In the book, Barnbaum does a good job laying down a foundation for understanding what makes a good photographer.  He does this by not only teaching mechanics, but through explaining the philosophies behind them.  Numerous charts and photographs effectively demonstrate how certain techniques create better images.  A similar book in the library’s collection is Michael Freeman’s The Photographer’s Eye, which also explains and demonstrates good composition and design.  Both of these books are sure to appeal to beginning photographers as well as to those with more experience.  

    When a person knows how to photograph properly, it shows in their work.  Diane Griliches is a great photographer and over one hundred of her images are reproduced in her book, Thinking Photography.  The photos inside are striking, but what’s really helpful are the descriptions of what she was thinking as she took them and the methods she used to capture them so beautifully.

    If you want to get better at photography, you must practice the art.  In Creative Photography Lab, Steven Sonheim lays out 52 witty, yet constructive photography exercises that will show you a new way of thinking about taking photos.  From a study in reflections, to take-your-camera-to-work day, to creating a mini photo journal; these assignments will give you the practice you need in an enjoyable way.

    Have you ever thought about taking a photography class?  If so, you may want to consider signing up for a computer class through Gale Courses (formerly Learn 4 Life).  There are several courses available where you can learn basic and advanced photography.  There are even classes to help you master Photoshop Elements, a popular photo editing program.  These online courses normally cost big money, but are available to Rowan Public Library cardholders for free.  For more information, go to www.rowanpubliclibrary.org and look for the Gale Courses link.  Classes last for six weeks and sign-ups begin every few weeks.  The next round of classes begins June 18th, so if you’re interested enroll now.

    It seems everyone these days is taking photos.  Whether it’s using a traditional camera or a Smartphone, you can take better pictures by understanding the elements of design and composition and through mastering certain techniques.  Rowan Public Library can give you the tools you need to express yourself through photography.