Keeping it pure: Photography at the bare minimum
Photographers who dare shoot only the basics are often those who have been in the industry for many years. The simplicity and the versatility shooting at the bare minimum offers are not often attractive to the newbie. On this blog post, San Diego-based photographer Arie Eric De Jong shares how it feels to shoot with one camera and one lens.
When photographers are offered options regarding their gear, they often overthink things. Shooting with a simple setup allows them to shoot straight and without any apprehension. This not only improves their decision-making, but also encourages them to think on their feet, adjusting the settings as fast as they can to capture images properly.
The smaller, the better. A photographer can still fulfill their duties using an uncomplicated setup. They can get into spaces more easily and can disappear in a group of people more effectively unlike when using a bulky camera. It may seem constricting to use a single camera for different purposes, but according to photographers who have done it, the experience is utterly freeing. It allows a photographer to grow and find ways to shoot outside the box.
The whole experience is an ode to the principle of investing in skill, not gear. According to Arie Eric De Jong, a photographer must resist the urge to mask their lack of skill with expensive and excessive gear. Learning to use a single camera will help develop a knack for detail and cut unnecessary time for decision-making.
