For the past couple of posts, we've been talking about getting closer. For our lesson today, we are going to talk about getting close and being bold and creative in our cropping (specifically with portraits). Today's lesson comes with an assignment too but we'll get to that a little bit later.

Getting closer can be a challenge, especially when you are photographing people. I think it makes both parties a little nervous if the photographer is right up in the subject's face clicking away. I want you to fight through that anxiety, though, because getting close can make such a radical difference in your photography. This is why I have been focusing on it so intently for the last few weeks. If you feel nervous getting really close to your subject, a zoom lens can be a life saver. Feel free to back up but make sure you zoom back in, way in. Zooming in is also flattering for the face. When I say I want you to be close, I mean I want you to be this close...

As you can see in the copyright stamp, this amazing image was taken by Abby Braman. I saw this on Abby's Flickr stream and asked her if she would mind sharing it with all of you. What this image perfectly illustrates is how wonderful it can look when you get close and crop creatively. What makes this image work is how irreverently it was cropped. It allows you to really see that amazing eye! I also think the crop shows off her expression too (kind of a sweet smirk). You can even see the photographer in the reflection of her eye. I want you to see this example and feel confident that it's absolutely okay to crop off the side of someone's face or the top of their head or whatever. Just be experimental and try it out. You may surprise yourself and end up with a jewel like this!

This next image was taken by Betty Schueter. I found this amazing image example on Betty's Flickr stream. The best part? This image was taken with an iPhone! People always ask me about cameras and which one is best or which one should they buy. The real trick is knowing how to use the camera that you have to its fullest potential. Always remember, the camera isn't taking the picture, you are.

Not to digress too much but, speaking of iphones, you might check this site out. I love how he says that "the best camera is the one that's with you". 

So, back to the images and on to your assignment! I want you to try and emulate these crops. Here's my opinion, copying is not always bad. In fact, when you are learning something new, copying (for lack of a better word) can be incredibly helpful. It's the first step. When I used to teach photography at The High School for the Performing and Visual Arts and Episcopal High School (both in Houston, Texas), one of the assignments that I gave my intro class was to pick a photographer whose work you love and emulate it. Once you have experimented with replicating what someone else has done (tried it on for size so to speak) you can then personalize it and make it your own. It's a liberating way to try some new techniques. Enjoy!

Please post links to your images in the comments section below or in the Monday Lesson Flickr pool. I'd love to see what you come up with!