Week 31: Distortion
Distortion can transform an ordinary scene into an abstract piece of art. This week we want you to tell your story in an unconventional way.
A slow shutter speed can help create a dreamier focus, while overexposing can offer a high-key more abstract product. Speaking of abstract, this is a great time to use ICM (intentional camera movement) to get streaks and swirls in your scene. Use a mirror, use a prism, shoot OUT of focus, get weird here!
Experiment! Don’t be afraid to try a technique you haven’t tried before. Distortion is all about pushing boundaries, and there are lots of ways to challenge yourself here. Check our Extra Challenge “Vaseline” for something really fun and different! Apply vaseline to your lens for a hazy look, but PLEASE use a filter or saran wrap (glad wrap / cling film) to keep your lens safe!
Think about your subject. Some subjects (architecture, nature, portraits) just lend themselves more naturally to distortion to change the perception.
Tell a story. Don’t forget about the story or the emotion you want your image to convey to the viewer. Do you want to create Chaos? Confusion? Serenity? Amazement? A picture really can be worth a thousand words when done well.
