Photography as Art

by Kathleen Messmer

Photography is not just a technical skill; it’s also an art form. As a photographer, I believe that my camera is not just a tool; it is an extension of my creative self.

When I was a kid I hated going to art class because the extent of my artistic abilities was drawing stick people, and not very well at that. Consequently, when I found a camera in my hand, suddenly, I had potential as an artist…at least in my mind.

One of my favorite subjects to shoot is nature. I love how nature can surprise you with its colors, textures, and patterns. I try to capture the essence of nature in my photographs to evoke the feelings of peace, wonder, and awe that I experience when I’m in nature. Occasionally, I turn those shots into abstracts using apps on my phone.

When I approach photography as an art form, I look for the beauty in the mundane, the extraordinary in the ordinary. I try to find unique perspectives, angles, and compositions that can turn a simple subject into a work of art.

But I also enjoy experimenting with abstract photography in-camera. I use light, shadows, reflections, and shapes to create surreal, dreamy, and sometimes eerie images that challenge the viewer's perception of reality to the point that they’re asking themselves, “What the hell is that?” I find that abstract photography allows me to express my emotions and thoughts in a more subjective and personal way. And the beauty of it is the viewer has the power to make it whatever they want it to be in their mind.

Photography is not just about the technical aspects of exposure, aperture, and shutter speed. It's about the creative choices we make, the stories we tell, and the emotions we evoke. As a photographer, I feel privileged to be able to capture moments of beauty, to freeze time, and to share my vision of the world with others.  How about you? What’s your story?

Come and join us on one of the outings or, on one of the Weekday Wanderings, or in one of the portfolio groups. It’s fun, you’ll learn something about yourself and your photography that you may not have known before. Where else can you find yourself and explore your talent for free?