Textures 😍

I’m a big fan of textures! They’re like magic that makes your images feel real. Textures are super important in how people connect with your work. They give it a sense of touch that’s missing in flat pictures. By using different textures, I can make people feel like they’re actually there. The roughness of a stone or the softness of a fabric can almost be felt through the image. It’s like a little sensory experience!

Colors are another way to make textures pop. Different shades can make a texture look even more interesting, for example, a bright color can make a rough surface look even rougher, while a soft color can make a striking texture look softer. This is all part of my creative process and I love experimenting with how colors can change how people see textures.

Shapes and patterns are also important for adding depth to my work. Textured shapes can make an image feel like it’s moving or flowing, for instance, the waves in the ocean or the angles of a building can all add to the overall look of the piece. Patterns, whether they’re the same or different, can make the eye wander around the image and discover new things.

Contrast is also a big part of how textures show up in my work. High contrast between different textures can make them stand out and catch the eye. Low contrast can make textures blend together and look smooth.

By combining textures, colors, shapes, patterns, and contrast, I can create images that are not only visually appealing but also feel real. Each texture is like a little invitation for the viewer to get closer and explore the artwork.

So here is a challenge for you, over the next 24 hours try to capture 8-10 textures that inspire you.

Best Camera?

Like many other artists out there I still have a lot to learn about the tools/ techniques and approaches to do with my craft, but when ever a friend of mine or someone I am introduced to is thinking of taking their first significant step towards photography, more often than not I will hear them say the words "what is the best camera to get?" Now they may as well ask what is the best trouser to wear or what is the best food to eat... The more I grow as a photographer the more I realise that each camera and lens has its own quirks, its own personality!

The natural instinct in this megapixel obsessed world we live in is to look at what camera has the most megapixels or the latest features, and there never seems to be an emphasis on weather or not the picture is interesting! I sometimes wish there would be a camera where it wouldn't allow you to use the other features unless you understand them fully, almost in the way a video game would not allow you content unless you were good enough and deserved it!

I now use my phone as my No1 camera because it is always with me, and all the images on this post were all taken and edited completely on the phone! I find myself caring less and less about sensor size and lenses because I have really great DSLR gear that 85% of the time is in a back pack waiting for a shoot,  while my phone on the other hand is being used 85% of the time! I've mentioned in another post the X100s which is probably the only other camera in my price range that I would be happy to relieve my phone from the responsibility of being the main camera.

All the images are edited using Snapseed which if you have never heard of it, is absolutely a fantastic editing tool, and I love how easy and friendly it is to use. It is a great example of what can happen when you combine simplicity with power! When I am on the tube or a bus I find myself popping open Snapseed and trying out a new approach to an image or to try and transform a mundane picture in to a potential work of art!