So what are the rules? and is it even neccesary to have any? I really do think they help define your practice, even as a guide to your hobby. They defintiely help to focus you more as to the what or why of the thing.
Personally, I have always struggle with the question. “What kind of photographer are you? I like so may things, some things/subjects just hit the spot. so that’s why rule number1 has to be…
Rule 1 – Shoot the things you love!
So for me with a background in fine art, a love of image making, colour and form are always high on the list. That’s one reason why you will see an abundance of flowers on this site. As a close friend once pointed out “they are quite sexy” I am sure that comment stuck in my mind over the years.
Rule 2 – Get out and shoot.
There is no excuse, although getting out of a warm bed can be a really hard thing to do. If you know you can get the shot or series of images there is really no reason. Apart from maybe your own personal safety in really bad weather not to go and do it. It chimes with what another friend once said when asked what kind of people they liked, their response was “…people that do things…”.
Rule 3 – Use what you have got.
This relates just as much to gear as to the scene in front of you. So yes don’t buy gear you really don’t need for the sake of it and more importantly. On a cold January day (like today) when the sky is nothing but grey and the light way way too contrasty. Maybe it’s time to look for some close ups where lighting plays less of part than a sweeping landscape. Or maybe do some night shooting like here.
Rule 4 – Get it right in camera aka don’t over edit.
This can be a fine line sometimes. Especially when you have struggled to get what you thought would be a great shot to line up on a large scren later. You have a really good chance if the aperure, exposure and composition is good that you won’t need to reinvent it in Lightroom later. When I find myself in that position it’s usually time for a tea and a rethink.
So what are the rules? I hope that gives you some inight.