Focusing on the light in an image, where the light is your subject, can make the difference in your everyday photos. Light does everything to enhance the story. By making the light your subject, you are creating interest and depth into your scene. Do not be afraid to shoot in all the different kinds of light. Full sun, low light, night, dappled light, backlight, rim-lighting, spotlight, side-light, etc. All you have to do is try. Practice focusing and seeing the light. It never hurts to try, fail, and try again. By no means have I “mastered” light, but I will not stop trying. The reward to accomplishing capturing an image with beautiful, interesting light, is worth all of the fails.

Movement in an image is tangible. A twirling dress, hair blowing in the wind, dog slobber flying through the air…it all makes you feel something. Sometimes it is necessary to tell the story through movement. Sometimes frozen movement, sometimes blurred. It all depends on your perspective and objectivity.

I am always drawn to a framed image. Framing draws your focus into the subject. It can really take a mundane, simple moment, and draw you into what is happening so much more. Maybe I love the intention of a framed shot. Combining an authentic moment and the intentional composition really “gets” me. I love the challenge to catch that moment at just the right time to be able to shoot through something. You might catch me hiding behind a bush, lying in my front yard, standing underneath my dogs, peeking through a keyhole…whatever it takes to get the shot, right?

One of my favorite ways to elevate my everyday photos, is too tell everyday stories through shadows. As you pay closer attention to the light that is around you, you will notice, there is so much detail in the shadows. It’s also another great way to be in the frame, too. So, BONUS! Whenever shadows are present, that usually means theres some harsh light in your scene. Also, a great opportunity to create some gorgeous black and white conversions. Putting the focus on the shadows creates depth in an image, not to mention, it’s just fun!

Let’s face it, we need to stop and smell the roses. Okay, and sometimes, documenting our daily lives and our kids can get a little monotonous. We do still live in the world. Although, we may need to remind ourselves of this when we are so focused on the people around us. Take a second to look up and look around you. Wait for that sunset, or get up early for that sunrise. It is part of your day. Some days, the most spectacular things we see are the same things we might ignore. Break out that macro lens, get yourself an olloclip, and get in close, too. Capturing nature both from afar and up close can really spark creativity and magic.