Dear Reader,

A huge thank you to everyone who voted in last week's poll! The results are in and today we’re diving into How to Tell a Story in a Single Shot! This skill will turn your ordinary photos into extraordinary visual stories!

A great storytelling photo doesn't just show what something looks like; it makes you feel something!

It evokes emotion and ignites the imagination. It can feel like a challenge for beginners to pack so much meaning into one frame - and that's okay! Let's dive in and break it down into simple, actionable steps you can start with today!

How to Tell a Story in a Single Shot

1️⃣ Focus on a Clear Subject
​Every great story needs a clear main character, and so does your photo! Keep it simple! Too many elements can distract from your subject, so decide who or what the star is and frame your shot to highlight it.

One simple yet effective way to draw attention and make your story stand out is by using a shallow depth of field to blur the background.

2️⃣ Set the Scene​
The setting is the foundation of your story, acting as the stage for your subject. Look for environmental details that add context, like a messy kitchen, a sunlit field, a bustling café, a cluttered desk, or a foggy forest.

Before you shoot, scan the edges of your frame - if something doesn’t enhance the story, crop it out or adjust your angle.

3️⃣ Capture an Emotion or Action​
A static subject can feel lifeless. Bring your photo to life by capturing emotion or action that shows what's happening in the moment! Think of all the possibilities: a child jumping in a puddle, a couple laughing together, a traveler looking out over a vast landscape.

Anticipate these moments by watching for gestures and expressions that tell the story.

Hands are a powerful way to bring these storytelling tips to life. Experiment with the 3 essential elements of a visual story when you're photographing hands for this month's challenge.

Submit your pics by emailing me - just hit reply - or upload them to the Photography Playground Facebook Group!

Do this to make sure I can find your photographs:

• Email: mention November Challenge in the subject line
• FB Group: mention #novemberchallenge or #hands in the post

Stay tuned! Next week, we’ll explore Capturing the ‘Everyday’ as Extraordinary, turning even the simplest moments into beauty.

Enjoy your weekend...

Happy Photographing!

Karin❣️

​ My mission at Photography Playground is to inspire a new generation of soulful photographers to slow down and capture the beauty of the world through their lens. I love to teach new photographers to master their camera with creativity, joy, and confidence. Do you know someone who needs this? Feel free to forward them this email! ​Karin van Mierlo Your Photography Mentor

Mentoring ​Apply Here →​

See Fresh ​Join See Fresh →​

Free Resources ​Start Today →​

​

​​​​

Copyright © 2024 Karin van Mierlo | Photography Playground. All rights reserved.​
You received this email because you signed up on our website or made a purchase from us.
Rua da Veronica 44, Lisbon, Portugal 1170-384
​Unsubscribe · Preferences​