“There is only one sun. We can’t all claim to only have one way to use the light, but we can REDEFINE how we choose to express it.”

Why are you passionate about this topic?

Still life is without a doubt my biggest passion in photography. I love taking everyday objects and making them into something more. I love the creative process and the many challenges it brings. It’s constantly making me think outside the box, and forcing me to step outside my comfort zone. I’m clearly obsessed with still life and I’m okay with that.

When did you first learn this technique?

Flowers were the starting point in my still life journey. They were so simple to style and photograph, and I really enjoyed the creative process. After working on flowers for over a year, I decided to take on a few photography projects that consisted of nothing but still life. I started to really notice my still life calling come together during that creative time. That’s when I began to transition into an artist.

What are the tips you would share with anyone trying to achieve this technique?

Still life is about taking the most ordinary of objects and transforming them in the most simplest of ways. It’s all in how you shoot. Here are a few guiding tips I recently shared that will help when it comes to shooting the simple & minimal of still life:

 

• Think simple, not over-the-top. Less is always more. (I have to remind myself of this constantly)

• Styling can be a hassle, especially if you don’t have a clear vision for what you’re working with. Pick an object and style it with one or two different pieces that will compliment it in style, color, and texture.

• Placement is vital. Consider the rule of thirds when it comes to placing your objects in certain areas, but remember to break the rules when necessary. (that’s the fun part)

• Shoot from different angles. Think of your space like a picture frame – work your camera around the object and try shooting it from all four corners. (shooting from above is my favorite)

• Don’t rush the creative process. Works of art take time. Going at a slow pace will be your greatest advantage.

Remember, there are no set rules. Whatever your inner artist is telling you, listen. Whatever your vision might be, follow it. Always be open-minded.

What were the challenges for you in the beginning?

I’ve faced so many challenges throughout my still life journey, and I know I’ll continue to face many more. My most difficult of challenges seemed to stem from my lack of self-worth, both as a photographer and as an artist. A difficult one I faced was thinking I had to have a certain brand of gear or a certain kind of lens before I could pursue my still life dreams. For the longest time, I got in my own way thinking I needed more to do more. The secret to my success was in my hands the entire time: my kit lens. I quickly realized I didn’t need the most expensive camera or the latest lens to create what I really wanted to create. It’s not about what you have – it’s about how you use it. That’s the simple beauty of it all.

(images shot with my 55mm kits lens in natural light)

About the photographer:

Angie is a Lifestyle Photographer and Still Life Artist from the sunshine state of Florida. She is a storyteller of the mundane with a passion for still life, the ocean, and every ordinary thing.

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