~ "The creative adult, is the child who survived." ~
I learned a great deal of what I know about photography from my mentor. He was a fabulous teacher who really taught us how to 'see creatively'! And some of my favorite assignments were when we were instructed to use our photography to illustrate a concept. For instance he would tell us to illustrate the concept of "loss" or "isolation." This is a method that is used very frequently in the advertising and marketing fields, who also happen to be large buyers of 'stock' photography.
I got my first taste of how to relate through images and words in college. I majored in Advertising/Public Relations, and often we had to present marketing campaigns with both written and visual elements included. We had to 'communicate' to our clients and their marketing demographics. I always loved those classes, especially the photojournalism classes. And the 'concept' idea in photography just naturally appealed to me when it became an assignment. So during one of my fun, colorful, tropical periods...I decided to take a very fun, colorful prop that I just happen to love...and attempt to use it to illustrate some concepts. My prop of choice was the beloved, yellow 'Rubber Duckie'....and I wanted to share with you some ideas of what you can communicate photographically through the use of a fairly inexpensive prop like a rubber duck.
First up are a few concept shots. So I'll show you the image, and directly above each shot, I'll share with you the intended concept. You can decide for yourselves if you think I successfully accomplished the connection between the image and the concept. Concept shots are a lot of fun!
DARE TO BE DIFFERENT
GO YOUR OWN WAY
GOING AGAINST THE FLOW
TAKING THE LEAD
STAND OUT IN THE CROWD
BE UNIQUE!
The ideas are as limitless as your own imagination. My personal favorite is the last one.."Be Unique"! Actually most of those concepts are ones that I relate to on a personal level. It took me a long time to learn to appreciate my gifts and relish how I was different....rather than bemoan the fact that I was not the same as everyone else. So these are important concepts that I try to instill in my children and encourage in others every chance I get. :o)
Additionally, I've posted a few other images that I thought might make for good greeting cards.
The 2 images above and below, would make great Anniversary cards, Vacation, Love or Valentine's Day cards. They basically speak of love...but it just happens to be between Rubber Ducks instead of people.
And this last one was just an out-take from a regular photoshoot. But it also turned out beautifully, and could be used as a Shower Invite/Card, Baby Congrats or Expecting Parents card.
And any of these would look great framed and hung up in a kid's bathroom, playroom or nursery.
Seeing creatively, can sometimes mean exploring concepts and thoroughly working your subject matter. So look around to find an object that captures your eye, and see how many ideas you can generate from it. The end result may be pleasantly surprising. But more importantly, it allows you to enjoy the creative process along the way. And your photographs can be more than entertaining or aesthetically pleasing....they can also tell a story, make a point or convey a message or sentiment..
Have FUN and do something CREATIVE today!
Comments