Only One Thing You Should Learn When You Start Photography

Pasha Francuz
4 min readFeb 16, 2024

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Do you know what it is?

Downtown in San Francisco, 2024 — (apple iPhone 15 Max Pro)

Even I don’t know. I’m just kidding. Master this one thing, I mean particularly this one, and you’ll find that your photography will soar to new heights, capturing moments that transcend time and space.

Well, this is “Attention”

Attention to the light and shadow
Attention to the details
Attention to the people
Attention to the color
Attention to the rhythm around you

Attention to the cornerstone of photography is the single most important skill that every aspiring photographer should hone from the outset. It is the ability to observe, to notice the subtle interplay of light and shadow, to appreciate the intricate details, and to capture the essence of the scene before you.

It’s not just about what you see, but how you see it.

It’s not just about what you see, but how you see it. By cultivating a keen sense of awareness and a mindful presence behind the lens, you can transform the ordinary into the extraordinary, creating images that speak volumes without uttering a single word.

Colors have the power to evoke emotions, set moods, and convey meaning in ways that words cannot.

Attention to the light and shadow is perhaps the most critical element in photography. Light is the lifeblood of every image, shaping mood, texture, and depth. Understanding how light interacts with your subject can transform an ordinary scene into something extraordinary. Whether it’s the soft glow of golden hour or the dramatic contrast of the harsh midday sun, paying attention to light allows you to manipulate it to your advantage, creating captivating compositions that draw the viewer in.

San Francisco, 2022 — (apple iPhone 11 Max Pro)

Attention to detail is another essential aspect of photography. It’s about seeing the world differently, uncovering beauty in the mundane, and capturing fleeting moments that others might overlook. From the delicate texture of a flower petal to the weathered lines on an old man’s face, it’s the little things that add depth and richness to your images, allowing them to resonate with meaning and emotion.

Apple Union Square in San Francisco, 2024 — (apple iPhone 15 Max Pro)

Attention to the people is equally important in photography, especially in portrait and documentary work. Beyond just capturing their physical likeness, it’s about understanding their story, their emotions, and their connection to the world around them. By building rapport and establishing trust, you can capture authentic moments that reveal the true essence of your subjects, creating images that are both compelling and evocative.

Coffeeshop in San Mate 2021— (apple iPhone 11 Max Pro)

Attention to color is yet another vital aspect of photography that can elevate your images from good to exceptional. Colors have the power to evoke emotions, set moods, and convey meaning in ways that words cannot. Whether it’s the vibrant hues of a sunset painting the sky with warm oranges and deep purples, or the subtle interplay of pastel tones in a still-life composition, paying attention to color allows you to create visually stunning images that resonate with viewers on a visceral level.

Use color to guide the “Viewer’s Eye”

Downtown in San Francisco, 2024 — (apple iPhone 15 Max Pro)

By understanding color theory and how different hues interact with one another, you can use color to guide the viewer’s eye, create visual harmony, and evoke emotional responses that linger long after the image has been viewed. In essence, attention to color adds another layer of depth and complexity to your photography, allowing you to capture the world in all its rich and vibrant glory.

Attention to the rhythm around you is perhaps the most abstract yet profound aspect of photography.

Downtown in San Francisco, 2024 — (apple iPhone 15 Max Pro)

It’s about tuning into the energy of your surroundings and understanding the flow of life unfolding before your lens. From the bustling streets of a city to the serene tranquility of nature, every environment has its own unique rhythm and cadence. By immersing yourself in the moment, you can anticipate decisive moments, capturing images that resonate with energy and vitality.

Well,

San Mateo, 2023 — (apple iPhone 11 Max Pro)

As you notice it’s not about the gear the settings, or the latest photography trends. It’s about attention — attention — attention to the light and shadow, attention to the details, attention to the people, attention to colors, and attention to the rhythm around you. Master this one thing, and you’ll find that your photography will soar to new heights, capturing moments that transcend time and space.

If you like this article please feel free to support me by buying my course: Explore Your Pocket Creativity ©

Dedicated to you. You are the creator. Please, be bold 🖤

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@masterpasha.photography

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Pasha Francuz

I’ll stop you at the moment to see how to eat with your eyes first, with no camera at all! It’s a place where I'll guide you by just slowly observing life …