After reviewing the photography readings and visual storytelling resources, I realized that photography involves a lot more than simply taking pictures. One of the most important ideas I learned from David duChemin’s photography tips was to “get pickier” with photographs. Instead of quickly snapping random images, photographers should think carefully about composition, lighting, and perspective before taking the picture. I also learned how contrast can improve storytelling by using differences in color, shadows, and subjects to create stronger visual impact. Changing perspective by crouching low, shooting from above, or using unusual angles can completely change how viewers experience a photograph.
Another important lesson from the readings was the importance of depth, balance, and lighting in photography. Using foreground objects, strong lines, and background contrast helps create dimension and makes photographs feel more realistic. I also found the information about lighting especially interesting because I never realized how much shadows and natural light affect the mood of a picture. The readings explained how photographers use aperture, shutter speed, and ISO settings to shape the appearance of an image. Even though there are many photography “rules,” I learned that experienced photographers sometimes intentionally break those rules in order to create more artistic and meaningful photographs.
(Heres another personal photo I took while in Costa Rica)
The visual literacy readings and the story behind Migrant Mother helped me understand how photographs can tell emotional stories without using words. A single image can communicate struggle, emotion, and history through facial expressions, composition, and small visual details. The photograph became powerful because it captured a real human moment that people could emotionally connect to. I learned that visual storytelling is effective because viewers often respond emotionally to images faster than they do to written text. Overall, these readings helped me better understand how photographers combine creativity, emotion, and technical skill to create meaningful visual stories.