Non-Photography tricks and techniques

Non-pho·tog·ra·phy[non-fo-tog'ra-fi] noun :The creation of pictures by exposing film inside a camera to light without relying on common, expensive photography adds-on.

Prefix ...................................................... The prefix non adds one of the following meanings to a root word: 1) Not--as in nontoxic. 2)Lacking or without--as in nonsense.

Non-photography being what it is [i.e. free of the photographers' extra cargo], the non-photographer's main tools [other than a camera and film] will be
(1) enthusiasm, (2) an open mind and, hopefully, (3) some creativity.

Framing ['frA-ming]; verb (for positioning the camera): To construct and fit the parts by finding the right position for the camera.

When trying to capture the desired construction of the subject, the non-photographer won't have to stop and bother with the tiring question of which lens will be appropriate to use. S/he will only have to gracefully move around in order to find the desired distance from the subject.

Sometimes it will mean coming much closer, [Leaves after the rain]	And, of course, sometimes it will be all about moving farther away. [Dallas from the air]
The brave non-photographer will not be afraid of tilting the camera [Tilting Century City]	Or of risking the well-being of her/his new clothes while making a close-to-the-ground photograph. [The 3rd St. Promenade from a dog's view]

Light [lite] Noun; electromagnetic radiation of any wavelength.

The non-photographer, as we all know, doesn't wish to carry around a set of filters but would still like to have some say as to the amount of light that reaches the camera. Therefore, s/he uses certain techniques involving film and exposure.

• Film - There is a variety of film which can be used for different effects, also to help the carefree non-photographer stay on the move without being concerned with the correct filtration.  For example, an infrared film will produce unusual-looking photos, as it is sensitive to the invisible infrared wavelengths. However, a blue-sensitive film is sensitive to ultraviolet and blue light.
  
• Exposure - When interested in a photograph with better contrast, the non-photographer can use the under-exposed/ over-developed technique. This method lets the non-photographer shoot at a higher film speed and then increase the film processing time. For example, on an overcast day, one can shoot a 200 ASA film at a 400 ASA film speed (one stop higher) under-exposing the film, and while processing it, make sure to "push" or over-develop the film [assuming the non-photographer didn't forget to mention that little fact to the lab people].  The result is often a nice increase in contrast.
  
  
  [A foggy day in Santa Monica]
  
  NOTE ONE: the same result can be achieved on a bright, sunny day using the opposite technique of over-exposing/ under-developing.
  NOTE TWO: This technique works best with black-and-white film.
  
  Next time - More non-photography tricks and techniques!

Did you miss the premier of the Non-photographer? 

Non-photographer #3

Non-photographer #4

 

"Nitsa is the first (and so far, the only) non-photographer. She lives in Los Angeles where she took upon herself a one person's project of making street photos." You can see her website at:  

All photos Copyright © Nitsa. All Rights Reserved.