Photographing Light

Light is one of my favorite subjects to photograph.  This is why:  

"In the right light, at the right time, everything is extraordinary." - Aaron Rose

 “The artist vocation is to send light into the human heart.” – Robert Schumann

Temple of ECK, Contemplation Trails, Chanhassen, MN
"...the Light of God is symbolically represented in most religions. Stained glass, precious stones, and skylights are common in religious structures. Native American celebrations, as well as those of certain other religions, use fire and drums, as well as chanting, all examples of light and sound. Each ceremony represents the effort of people to speak to God in their own way..."http://www.eckankar.org/light.html

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

“Light gives of itself freely, filling all available space. It does not seek anything in return; it asks not whether you are friend or foe. It gives of itself and is not thereby diminished.” 
― Michael Strassfeld

Virginia

“A picture must possess a real power to generate light and for a long time now I’ve been conscious of expressing myself through light or rather in light.” – Henri Matisse

“There are two ways of spreading light… To be the candle, or the mirror that reflects it.” – Edith Wharton

The Sky is Not the Limit; Your Imagination Is

Think you need to travel the country to get great photos?  Not so.  Start in your own backyard...where you live.  There is plenty to see and do.  Places you may know about, but tourists can't seem to find. You know, those off the beaten path spaces that you visit when you want to be alone.

If there isn't any of those to your knowledge, any location will do.   This local venue could've been seen and photographed numerous times but no one is viewing it quite like you.   We all see life through our own filters, lenses, and experiences so no two people will be alike.  They will look at the same photograph and see it completely different.  We are wonderful, unique beings!

Ocean View Pier, Norfolk, VA

Another angle, another effect of Ocean View Pier

Ocean View Pier at Night

Even as we learn and grow, what we observe may transform so a photo you took in the past, may show much diversity and contrast today compared to then.

Another tip:  photograph what you love and that love will shine through.  For me, the beach is a sacred space.

Crabbing at Sunset on Chix Beach

Whatever your pleasure is, it's there waiting for you.  What's taking you so long?  Go out and claim it whatever it may be!

The sun will never set exactly the same way or with the same colors.