Day 147 of 366: Embracing Creativity with Autumn Leaves

The Journey of Creativity:

When I started this 366-day project, my goal was to reignite my passion for photography after a long period of inactivity. This journey has pushed me down a more creative path, encouraging me to think outside the box and explore new techniques. A common question I receive is whether I plan my shots ahead of time. The simple answer is no. Instead, I rely on a dyslexia-induced "mud map" in my brain, visualizing images in my head that I then strive to capture and edit to bring to life.

Capturing the Perfect Leaf:

Today’s image is a product of this spontaneous creativity. I’ve been wanting to capture an autumn leaf in high key, highlighting the intricate details within the leaf. This morning, I found the perfect subject—a single leaf hanging by a cobweb, gently spinning in the breeze. Capturing this delicate scene was challenging, but I managed to get the shot I envisioned.

The Editing Process:

Back home, I started editing the image. Despite my initial excitement, the photo seemed to lack something. To enhance the composition, I decided to bring it into Photoshop. I duplicated and rotated the leaf, creating a mirrored effect with two leaves. However, the stark white background made the image feel somewhat flat and devoid of its autumnal magic.

To remedy this, I replaced the background with a blurred photo of autumn leaves that I had taken earlier. This addition brought warmth and context to the composition, enhancing the vibrant orange hues of the leaves and emphasizing their delicate structure. The final image achieved the ethereal, high-key effect I was aiming for, blending the details of the leaves with the soft, blurred backdrop.

Reflecting on the Experience:

Today’s shoot and subsequent editing session were a reminder of the importance of flexibility and creativity in photography. The initial capture did not meet my expectations, but by experimenting with different editing techniques, I was able to transform it into something unique and visually appealing. This process reinforced the idea that photography is not just about capturing moments but also about interpreting and enhancing them to convey a specific vision or emotion.

This project has continually encouraged me to explore new ideas and push the boundaries of my creativity. Each day brings a new challenge and an opportunity to learn and grow as a photographer.