I had the exceptional opportunity to spend time with Chase Jarvis. Not only is his own work enough to “stop you in your tracks” but he is also motivated to add “cultural capital” by sharing his insight and tips.

He covered these 6 points:1.    L O O K  at the shot without your camera: Look it over, walk around and see what’s there. He mentioned that at this stage even the camera is constricting, so just look with your eyes (and mind) open to the shot and possibilities.

2.    Visualize the shot: From seeing it as it appears now, visualize the final shot that you want. This will drive it through all of the other phases of making your photograph: capturing the shot, post production, printing and even where it will be used.

3.    Fanaticize how to improve the shot: He said this is where you might add in elements into the shot or more likely simplify and remove. Look at the simple elegance of Excusado by Edward Weston in 1925, a stunning example below.

4.    Make it exceptional: Turn it on its head!  He discussed that if you’re even asking “how can I make it exceptional?” you’re already on your way to making it so.

5.    Close the creative gap: (the gap between one’s vision and ability to render that shot.) Study, shoot, learn, practice, follow his blog.

6.    Bang the street! Bang your shutter! Take thousands of shots. Don’t be afraid to blow it, just get out and shoot tons and tons of shots and learn from these.

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