Master Creative Control To Capture More Emotional Images with Alex Bogaard

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Nov 19, 2024

In this chat, Alex Bogaard, a landscape and wildlife photographer, shares his journey driven by emotional connections in his work. He delves into balancing artistic integrity with commercial demands, emphasizing the importance of preparation and flexibility on shoots. Alex discusses how to create emotional resonance in images and the thrill of unexpected moments in nature. He also touches on the value of maintaining a personal connection to photography, ensuring joy doesn't fade when making it a business.

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ADVICE

Frame It Right, Not Crop Later

Learn to compose the shot in-camera instead of relying on heavy cropping in post.
Capture all necessary elements in the frame to preserve image data for large prints.

ANECDOTE

Childhood Travel Sparked A Photography Habit

Alex grew up traveling with parents who documented Trans‑Sahara expeditions and inspired his love of remote places.
He kept bringing modest camera gear on trips and learned by practicing over years.

ANECDOTE

Masterclass Changed His Confidence

Alex attended an intimidating masterclass in Jackson Hole after winning it at auction and feared he didn't belong.
Daily critiques and seeing peers' work transformed his confidence and focus overnight.

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#516 In this episode of the podcast, I chat with Alex Bogaard, an intrepid photographer who draws parallels between photography and raising children, where opinions are abundant, but the emotional connection is key. Explore Alex's insights on balancing artistic integrity and commercial demands, mastering preparation and flexibility on photography trips, and deriving joy from both the journey and the final image.

THE BIG IDEAS

Embrace the Journey Over Results: Focus on the experiences and practice rather than just the final images to avoid disappointment and redefine success.
Emotional Resonance Matters: A successful photo evokes an emotional response in you, regardless of its technical perfection.
Adaptability is Key: Always have a vision, but stay flexible to adapt to nature’s unpredictability and embrace what it offers.
Personal Connection to Work: Ensure your photography maintains a personal connection; avoid producing work solely for commercial success.

PHOTOGRAPHY ACTION PLAN

Evaluate Emotional Impact: Review your portfolio and identify images that evoke strong emotions.Compare those with technically perfect but emotionally flat photos to understand your artistic preferences.
Prepare for Photographic Trips: Create a shot list and vision for your next outing. Stay open to changes and ready to capture unexpected moments, focusing on the journey.
Enhance Flexibility: Practice shooting in different weather conditions and at various times of the day. Learn to adapt your techniques to the environment, using natural light and surroundings creatively.
Engage in Constructive Critiques: Join photography groups or forums to receive and give feedback. Attend workshops where peer reviews are part of the learning process to refine your skills based on constructive criticism.
Maintain Personal Connection: Regularly revisit the reasons why you love photography and infuse that passion into your work. Ensure each project or shoot aligns with your personal vision rather than solely commercial demands.

RESOURCES:
Visit Alex Bogaard's Website - https://alexbogaard.com/
Follow Alex Bogaard on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/alexbogaard/

Grab your free 52 Lightroom Presets at
http://freephotographypresets.com/

Connect with Raymond!

Go from Confused to Confident behind the camera with The Ultimate Photography Education Bundle - https://beginnerphotopod.com/bundle
Join the free Beginner Photography Podcast Community at https://beginnerphotopod.com/group
Grab your free camera setting cheatsheet - https://perfectcamerasettings.com/

Thanks for listening & keep shooting!