Ask Yourself: "WHY am I Taking this Photo?"

[@Scout-nj7xj]

Chris is a clever chap and an excellent teacher. I like how he never lifts up himself. Instead, inspiring and encouraging others to become better photographers - As is his way. Excellent video which I enjoyed.

[@ChrisSalePhoto]

Oh Adam... stop it, you will make me blush! Looking forward to our next photo adventure, should be a lot of fun.

[@timrosenburgh9485]

Hi Chris, I totally agree with you about getting out with your camera is a way of forgetting about everything else in your life. I think that you are a good teacher in your field of photography which I'm sure helps a lot of people. Nice images as usual.

[@ChrisSalePhoto]

Thanks Tim, that is kind of you to say. I just try to share my experiences and what I have learnt so that others can get as much pleasure from photography as I have over the years.

[@jimwlouavl]

I really enjoyed hearing your thoughts mixed in with your woodland effort. I think the bigger picture approach of your recent videos is a great trend.

[@ChrisSalePhoto]

Thanks Jim - tonight's video is a little different, just for balance! :)

[@RiccardoPareschi]

Why? Because I love the nature, because take photo is a natural thing for me (I've started at 16 with my dad's camera) and photography is a kind of meditation process. You inspired me to dedicate myself to landscape photography and to study it seriously. And also not to worry too much about technological innovations but to devote more to composition and light. Thanks Chris!

[@ChrisSalePhoto]

Hey Riccardo - I am so pleased that you have been inspired to study landscape photography more seriously. My main motivation behind these videos has always been to share what I have learnt to help other get as much pleasure from photography as I have over the years. Can I ask, how is it going so far?

[@philiptamburello5437]

Thanks, Chris. It is the "why" I need to keep in mind. Just in passing, you have a gift. It is "teaching".

[@teevorian]

Agree, he is the Einstein of photography teaching, but also the images I have seen from him are of course amazing

[@ChrisSalePhoto]

Thank you Philip, that is so kind of you to say. I don't know about a 'gift', I just hope to share my experiences with people in as honest a way as possible. I love sharing what I have learnt with others so that they can get the same pleasure from photography as I have over the years.

[@ChrisSalePhoto]

@svhe - thank you for your kind words - with this kind of support I hope I will still be producing these videos come the end of the year.

[@dennispenton2052]

Insightful with a great direction message.

[@ChrisSalePhoto]

Thanks you Dennis - I hope you found it useful.

[@CluelessYoutuber]

I went on this video thinking you will be talking about why are you taking the specific photo, and clearly determining what needs to be put or removed in the frame. Ended up with more including the inspirations to get out of bed and go to nature. Great thoughts Chris!

[@ashstubbings2603]

Hi Chris. Hope you're well, and that the Gall Bladder is healing nicely? You certainly look better. It's funny isn't it, how different photographers have very different strengths and weaknesses? I, for instance, would be absolutely in my element in the woods. It's an interesting concept too.. the 'why' we do photography. You're right, there's so many videos out there regarding the 'how' but very few about the why. If you haven't already come across his channel, you might like to take a look at 'The Photographic Eye'. He concentrates more on this subject than on the 'how'. Cheers.

[@ChrisSalePhoto]

Hi Ash - I am doing OK thanks. Coming from the Chiltern Hills I started my photography in the woods. But since moving north I got out of practice and now it is certainly a weakness of mine. But I am working hard to improve, and that geared head certainly helps a lot.

[@desgardner4627]

I have thought about that question many times why do I take photographs! I first thought about it 60 years ago and to-day I went out at 2.30pm to our local woodland area to practice my photography and I asked my self that question again! well I took three pictures one for F/B one for Instagram and one for my portfolio....I enjoyed every minute in the fresh air.....Thank you Chris for asking that very same question I hope you enjoyed your picture taking too! Oh by the way Happy New Year and Thank you for all you do on here!

[@ChrisSalePhoto]

Hey Des! Nice to hear from you. So pleased that you had such a successful shoot. I have been thinking a lot about motivation lately - my photography has always been driven by my love of the outdoors and I think now is the time to refocus a little and remember why I picked up a camera in the first place.

[@JohnHPettigrewFujishooter67]

Loved the video Chris, I have to agree with your point, photography to me is an escape, when I am with my camera nothing else matters, I could be taking an image and I would not hear a bomb go off, its the only time I am totally relaxed. The woodland around here changed a lot in the past couple of days massive snow storm and yes I did get some shots afterwords (video tomorrow) and overnight tonight the temp will be -35 with the windchill! Thanks for sharing an inspiration as always!

[@ChrisSalePhoto]

Hey John - it is always fascinating to hear from people who have shared vary similar experiences to me. I think that my use of photography as a form of meditation comes through in my photos - my best work always has a feeling of calmness and serenity. Is that the same for you?

[@JohnHPettigrewFujishooter67]

@@ChrisSalePhoto I would have to say yes, I would say that my best photos are for sure the most relaxing to look at, and I was probably very relaxed when taking them.

[@johnjtoth7633]

Excellent video, Chris. Super topic and Outstanding images. The images drive home the point.

[@ChrisSalePhoto]

Thanks John, I am glad that you enjoyed it.

[@CraigNiesenPhotography]

Chris, I think that many photographers struggle with why they take a photograph. Also, many cannot effectively communicate what compelled them to make the composition choices that they did for the photograph. Stunning winter woodland scene. Thank you for sharing. Peace and Safe Travels.

[@ChrisSalePhoto]

I agree with you there Criag - so many of us rely on gut instinct and then struffle to express the connection that we had with a scene.

[@rosssayer6524]

Really enjoyable Chris, I’m a believer that as a photographer it’s nice to tell a story and share that we someone who’s is unable to see nature as it is. The ability to share your knowledge is great

[@ChrisSalePhoto]

Hey Ross - that is a great way of looking at things. I love telling stores with my images, but sharing it with people who are unable to see it for themselves first hand elevates it to the next level. You've given me something to think about there.

[@MiguelACoronaDM]

Good question Chris. I've actually spent the first couple of weeks in 2022 asking the "why" question. My "why" has been more at the macro level - why am I taking photos to begin with. I feel as though I've reached a transition period in my photography, and at the moment, have more questions than answers. I'm hoping this journey is a positive one. So far it does seems like it is, despite facing some insecurities and unknowns. Regardless, asking why has been a consistent theme in my reflection. Thanks for the video.

[@ChrisSalePhoto]

Hi Miguel - it sounds as though you are at a critical point in your journey. I hope that you are not too frustrated by have questions that you are unable to answer at the moment. I try to reassure myself that it is more important to ask the right questions than to have all the answers - sometimes (not often) it works. :)

[@kaijohnson198]

Love this topic and the conversation Chris. Definitely going to keep the why in front of the how on future adventures 🤙🏻

[@ChrisSalePhoto]

It is worth considering Kai, even if it only helps to identify what it is that you like about a scene so that you can work to eliminate everything else.

[@paulcookphotography]

Great video Chris. It really feels as if taking a little bit of time off from YT has revigorated you as far as making videos because the last two have been fantastic! Interesting topic and a great one to ponder. Lovely woodland area. I am amazed at the amount of color still available in your forest from the moss-covered trees to the beech trees still holding onto their leaves, or the brown/orange of the leaves on the ground. Lovely images in this one, especially the one at 7:33. Really enjoyed it as always!

[@ChrisSalePhoto]

Cheers Paul - I think the time away from KZbin has really helped. I am certainly enjoying putting the videos together, something that was missing throughout 2021.

[@marycarron5118]

Hi Chris, this is my first time on your channel and from the beginning your words resonated with me. I am an amateur photographer and for me going out with my camera is a way of seeing the beauty of the world and immersing myself in that beauty. I really do find that when I'm out with my camera I can switch off from the worries of daily life and just get lost in the process of taking photographs. I am trying to let go of expectations and just have fun. I'm looking forward to following your channel and being inspired by you.

[@TimberGeek]

I always preferred a 3 axis head like that but to date haven't tried a geared model. I've currently got a Manfroto 3 axis with tension knobs I picked up used.

[@ChrisSalePhoto]

Hi Raphael - Julian Baird had been on at me for ages to try a geared head. Of course he was right, he always is!

[@Ktizo_Images]

Nice insight and nice images. Not a bad combo Chris. Thanks!

[@ChrisSalePhoto]

Thanks Gary - the images in this video were OK, I was quite pleased with them. Woodland is an area that I continue to work on. Appreciate you taking the time to leave a comment.

[@nickyfoulkes8476]

The title reminds me of Rudyard Kipling "I have six honest serving me" & apply them to photography.

[@hughwolfe1176]

Hello Chris, excellent video as usual… Sometimes I’ll shoot an image to remember the day, other times it’s just beauty I want to share. Rarely will I rapid fire a scene as I don’t see the point, just more to decide amongst which one gets the edit.

[@ChrisSalePhoto]

Both excellent reasons for taking photos Hugh, I find it fascinating to hear what motivates other photographers. I think sometimes I need to get back to what first attracted me to photography.

[@teevorian]

Hi thanks for the nice video, really insightful. I have a different perspective on the "why" concerning making most income from selling the images vs teaching. I think that if photography is like meditation, then the images that result from that meditation can lead back to that "safe space" that emotion the calmness or the beauty, that is also stored in our memories, and that the images become stabilizers for memories that were gathered in the here and now, sooo, another important why can be to teach that kind of meditation and the means to communicate to ourselves with the images we made, and that would justify teaching as one of the most valueable business cases, also, from the global perspective of making stunning images: the more people you train, the more competitive photography becomes, and the higher the standards and capabilities will become.

[@ChrisSalePhoto]

An excellent and fascinating insight. You have given me a lot to think about there, which I will need some time to digest properly. Regarding the meditation aspect... my favourite images all have a feeling of calmness and tranquility, I am not one for drama. I expect that is my motivation to practice photography showing through in the final result. What do you think?

[@keithpinn152]

Hi Chris: This was a very thought provoking video indeed. When I look at this subject I start with "why" photography as a hobby to begin with. My academic and employment history was not the most conducive environment to develop my creative side. In my early years in photography, I took images to capture the visual 'history' of our family. Over the years, as our ability to travel became easier photography gave us a reason to travel, or as my wife says....we travel to take picture. Now that I am retired, I turn to photography to continue develop my creative side and the skill that I am now working on is being able to capture an image that actually reflects the feeling of the moment through the establishment of a clear subject within the image. Great video and I look forward to our continued discussions within the Members Community. Cheers, Keith

[@ChrisSalePhoto]

Hi Keith - when it comes to an individual photo, do you ever stop to think "why am I taking this?" It has helped me to better understand the scene in front of me and to focus on what I like while eliminating what I do not.

[@keithpinn152]

That is an interesting and complex question. Most times, it is to capture a moment of time that I want to document.

[@huwalban]

Excellent advice Chris, and for me a key fundamental behind every image that I create and then subsequently process. I also ask a further question - what are the elements in the scene that interest me? I find that the two questions together FORCE me to be more selective with my compositions, and technique. Hope that you are keeping well sir.

[@ChrisSalePhoto]

Very good point Huw, if answering the question can trigger even a slight change in our approach, then is was well worth asking!

[@Chris-NZ]

Happy new year Chris ;) . A very interesting vlog and many points that resonated with me . I’ve found that the virus of unknown origin has created an irrational, fear in me of going out to take photos. Glad you got yourself the geared head I changed over about three years ago after watching a Vlog Gary G did , definitely couldn’t go back except on the occasions when lightness of equipment is paramount. Beautiful woodland area , love all that moss. Cheers from NZ

[@ChrisSalePhoto]

Hey Chris, Happy New Year! (we can stop doing this now I think). :) Sorry to hear that Covid has stopped you taking photos. Yeah, I am a convert to the geared head - Jules had been on at me to try one for ages and once again it turns out he was right!

[@adamlawonphotography5219]

Another great video Chris hope you are well, love the content.!!!

[@ChrisSalePhoto]

I am very well thank you Adam - pleased that you enjoyed this one.

[@brianbeattyphotography]

Great message in this one Chris, needed to hear it today. I like the final image. It looks great given the conditions and time of year. I've always struggled in the winter months for all the reasons you mentioned, and completely agree regarding gear. I find that some of my favorite images are from my $90 50mm lens, not the pricier zooms. But - a great tripod does make a huge difference. Having a sturdy setup with a great ballhead really made a difference in clarity, sharpness, and confidence in photos I take. It's nice knowing that there's not a big chance the final image will have any motion blur! Best of luck with the workshops this year. If I'm ever in the LD I'll check back in!

[@ChrisSalePhoto]

Thanks Brian - even though my tripod is a great lump of a thing, it is worth lugging around just for that feeling of confidence when you set it down. I realised a couple of years ago that my tripod is probably my most important bit of kit. I am comfortable using cheaper, cropped sensor cameras but I'd hate to have to use a cheap flimsy tripod.

[@HylkedeJongh]

Great content and awesome photographs Chris. Your question intrigues me for a long time. Of course there is, in your case, a business interest. But if it's only for the money than you would be better of in the IT-branche I assume. What is it that people are attracted to landscape and nature?🤔 I'll let you know when I've got the answer...😂 In the meantime keep on going 👍😎

[@ChrisSalePhoto]

Hi Hylke - you are right of course, if it were all about the money then IT is a much more lucrative option. Being a pro landscaper is all about the lifestyle, and while that might be the case I do still have bills to pay. Selling a few prints and zines certainly helps. It's not ALL about the money, but it is a factor. I hope that makes sense?

[@neilt]

Thanks Chris, an interesting topic. I'm finding myself drawn more toward KZbinrs who consider the more philosophical side of photography rather than the nuts and bolts of getting spectacular images, and you've regularly covered these issues. Hope you're recovering well.

[@ChrisSalePhoto]

Thanks Neil, I appreciate that - as a heads up, tonight's video is a little less cerebral. It does me good to mix it up at a little.

[@broken12367]

Personally I don’t subscribe to this notion of woodland photography being difficult in winter. You have to look past the obvious and there are so many intimate and beautiful shots to had everywhere. It just takes a bit more patience to find them.

[@ChrisSalePhoto]

I see where you are going with that, and am inclinded to agree with the principle - but if you have to look beyond the obvious and have more patience, doesn't that suggest it is more difficult? Either way, I find woodland photography difficult whatever the season.