Practical Photography

TIP
USE AN
INTERVAL TIMER
The nature of self-portraiture
is that no one is behind the
camera. Use an interval
timer or remote shutter
release to take your
photo.
Above A high amount of contrast will
give your shot a moody feeling.
SEASCAPE
#3 Freeze unique waves
l Is there anything so mysterious
and enigmatic as the sea? Even
at its calmest, it’s clear that the
ocean is not something to be
underestimated. This makes it a great
photographic subject, as William
Patino (williampatino.com) found out.
“This image was captured off-shore
at dawn on a morning that was
unfortunately quite calm with minimal
swell. Occasionally a set would roll
through, providing fleeting moments
in time to capture the numerous
forms of the morphing waves. This
break is very close to shore, which
made it dangerous to shoot.
“I used a telephoto lens to capture
the finer details and compress the scene.
I love the fact that no two waves are
the same, and that every day presents
new and unforeseen opportunities.
You can’t really plan an exact shot like
this, only track and monitor the swell
and anticipate the brief moments that
arise. I remember seeing the light rays
on the horizon and specifically set my
composition up with those in mind.
“With waves it’s all about capturing
a unique form, so when this one arched
over I knew it was going to be a keeper.
You’re really at the mercy of the elements
in these moments, which is partly what
makes it so enjoyable. I’ve lived on the
coast my whole life, but it wasn’t until
I picked up a camera that I began to
truly appreciate the ocean’s beauty.”
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