Photography has long been a way for artists to express themselves.

Photos aren't just decorative art.

Photos are a way to communicate a message.

To inspire others to ponder more deeply.

Photos have a way of proposing an idea, a belief, or an open-ended question without having to use any words.

Photos can be deeply impactful, and anyone starting in photography can learn how to exercise their artistic expression with the photos they're already taking.

What is photographic art?

A good photo isn't just about good lighting or good composition. It's also about how well it expresses a message that connects with its viewers.

Art in photography can be seen in two ways:

1. When a photographer creates a photo that conveys a feeling that resonates with you, that's good art.
2. When a photographer creates a photo in a way that invites you to look at the world from a different perspective, that is also good art.

Why should we care about making good art?

When we're intent about creating art, we become better "noticers". The more you pursue creating art, the more you'll become good at noticing things that are around you. Seeing things around you, feeling deeply and expressing it through art is a shared human experience.

When another person encounters that expression and feels moved, inspired or compelled to see things for a different perspective, that experience is art.

It connects us to one another, it stirs something in others, and it invites us to be more open.

Being a great observer of life will naturally lead you to create art that resonates with others. We become better communicators and connectors, which is what good culture is built on.

How to make art with your photography:

Start by studying photos you've already taken.

Look at the imagery in the photos and the metaphors they might be expressing. What part of the image is reflecting a truth about life?

The more you start noticing ideas, feelings and emotions already present in your photos, the more you'll be attuned to finding ways to take more photos like this.

Not sure how to find imagery in your photos?

Here are some simple examples from my photos:

Creating art is good for us

Making art improves our mental well-being. It helps us process complex thoughts and emotions. It helps us bring meaning to things and to organize chaotic feelings. This type of focus is calming and can regulate unruly emotions. It's therapy!

Not only that, but it can also help us become better communicators, better at empathy and it allows us to experience deeper connection.

Who knew a camera could do all this for us?!

Whether you are striving to become the greatest photographer of all time or you're just a regular hobbyist with a phone camera, this practice is for you.

You'll become a better "noticer". And that's what makes a good photographer.

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Recently, I challenged myself to just bring one lens on a nature shoot.

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Hi I'm Gabrielle. I run a full time photography business in Winnipeg, specializing in portrait and commercial photography. This newsletter started with my passion for helping everyday people realize their full photography potential. With a bit of technical and creative help, you too can take better photos with the phone camera you already have.

Find more of my resources here:

​Instagram • My Blog • Patreon • P​hoto Courses​

Gabrielle Touchette Photography

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