A Picture is Worth a Thousand Words
Photography is an art of observation, and it has little to do with the things you see and everything to do with the way you see them. Elliot Erwitt
A common question I get when someone learns that I’m a wildlife photographer is, Do you sell your work? Yes, I do, but that’s not my main purpose.
My mission is to tell stories about wildlife, to educate, to inspire, to celebrate the wonder of nature. I’m a visual storyteller, I believe images have power. To that effect I am constantly working to improve my craft to create a compelling photograph. When our hearts are touched, we are more inclined to care. When we care we are more inclined to protect.
One of the ways to learn if I’m hitting a cord is comments from viewers and critiques from judges. Photography competitions are a valuable source of feedback. My local camera club invited members to submit an image for review this week. I submitted the image below of Olominia, the legendary king of the Rongai pride in Kenya’s Maasai Mara, as he rubbed his face on the back bumper of a safari vehicle.
Peekaboo ©kathykarn
I have 2 versions of the moment. The one above where a woman in the vehicle leans out of the vehicle to see what our cameras were focused on. Another before the peekaboo moment where Olominia appears to be enjoying a chin rub alone in secret. I invite you to have a look at these 2 images. If you’re willing, I’d love to hear your reactions before you read mine at the end of the post. What works? What doesn’t? Next week I’ll share the feedback I get from the club’s judges.
Olominia ©kathykarn
The image brings back a memorable moment for me that I treasure. However, is it interesting for the person who wasn’t there?
A lion, so close! Does this stir emotional reaction?
The lion’s position conveys the “ahhh” of a good scratch. Does the viewer feel it too?
It was early morning; the light wasn’t great. Does that reduce the impact, make these “non photos”?
I like the first image with the woman, but she’s so well camouflaged in her safari clothing against the green of the truck is she even noticed? Does it add to a surprise element or is she too invisible to make an impact?
Do your eyes go from the lion to the sign, to the woman?
I didn’t see the Canon sticker until I downloaded the image. I loved that surprise; the play of a wildlife animal and a camera advertisement tickled me. Photography is indeed a partner for wildlife.
