The Art of Photography

Professionals often say they “make,” rather than take, pictures—a distinction that implies creative collusion between machine and operator, rather than a simple confluence of light and space. 

In every carefully considered photographic accomplishment, four elements are vital: subject, composition, light, and exposure. In this book, we will use the shorthand of the icons below to highlight the choices that make a successful photograph.

Subject
Most photographers document only family history—birthdays, weddings, graduations, or holidays. Others expand to nature or sporting events. A few make art. And some make art of all their pictures, no matter the subject. Shoot what’s important to you.

Composition
Good composition usually means unity and balance in shapes, colors, and textures. But mood, emotion, and actions are often enhanced by flouting conventional photographic rules; if it works, it works.

Light
Landscape photographers will say they’re “waiting for the light.” Photojournalists must often use ambient light. A studio photographer creates his or her own, with lamps. But all know that light—low, soft, harsh, warm, or diffuse—is critical.

Exposure
The amount of light that falls on the sensor must be calibrated by the size of the aperture opening and the speed of the shutter. Proper exposure is considered to be a full range of tones, from deep shadows to bright highlights, all with good detail.