It did NOT come naturally for me. In fact, I'm still working on it. But, I will say that the more you pick up your camera, the more natural it becomes. Now I find myself finding unexpected beauty in things that before I would never even have given a second glance.
A few things I do:
1. Look for beautiful natural light. We just bought a new matress. When I walked into the store, the first thing I thought was, "What amazing light!". lol. If I'd had my camera with me, I'd had whipped it out and done a mini-session with my boys right there among the Tempurpedics!
2. Scout for locations everywhere you go. The best tip I've seen about locations is 'think small'. You don't need anything spectacular to have a spectacular photo. A small patch of grass with wildflowers on an empty lot in your neighborhood would be perfectly fine.
3. Don't be afraid to break the rules. Yes. Usually the rule of thirds is the most visually appealing way to compose, but not necessarily. If it looks good to you, go for it!
4. Focus on details. It's those little details that make up the big picture and usually tell a more interesting story. An old window. A rusted garden fence. A little one's eyelashes. Their chubby fingers pointing to their favorite book. Those are the things that make up life.
5. Experiment with angles. Photograph the same subject from standing on a stool, laying on your belly, on your knees, from the side...about the only angle I'd stay away from is up the nose...never seen a flattering up the nose shot. lol.
6 Don't compare your work to others! I saw this the other day: 'Comparison is the thief of joy.' There is always someone out there who knows more, does more and does it better! Work to please yourself. Chances are, if you like it, someone else will too.
