Reel and Raw - The Important of Authenticity in Photography

Photography Guides

13 Feb

Photography is a powerful medium for capturing life's moments and preserving memories. However, in an era of digital manipulation and filtered images, it can be challenging to maintain authenticity in your photography.

What does it mean to be authentic in photography?

Being authentic in photography means capturing images that are true to life, and that reflect the reality of the subject in a genuine and honest way. It means avoiding manipulation, filters, and other forms of post-production that alter the essence of the image. Authentic photography captures the true essence of a subject or scene, whether it be a portrait, landscape, or street scene.

An authentic photograph should accurately represent the subject as it appeared at the time the photograph was taken. This should be without any added elements or modifications that change the essence of the image. It should be an honest representation of what was in front of the lens at the time the photograph was taken.

In a world where images are increasingly filtered and manipulated, authentic photography stands out as a refreshing and truthful representation of life. By focusing on authenticity, photographers can create images that are not only beautiful but also meaningful. These images capture the complexities and realities of life in a way that resonates with their audience on an emotional level.

To help you add realness and depth to your images, here are 7 tips for adding authenticity to your photography:

Use natural light

Using natural light can be an effective way to add authenticity to your photography. Here's how:

Work with the sun: Take advantage of the sun's position in the sky to create interesting and dynamic lighting in your images. Early morning and late afternoon light, known as the "golden hour," is often considered the most aesthetically pleasing and warmest for photography.
Use shadows: Shadows can add depth and texture to your images, and can help create a sense of place and time. Pay attention to the direction of the sun, and how it creates shadows on your subject.
Avoid using flash: Flash can often create flat and artificial-looking lighting. Instead, try to work with the existing light in a scene, and use reflectors or diffusers if necessary to help shape the light and add depth.
Experiment with different light sources: In addition to the sun, there are many other natural light sources that can add interest and authenticity to your images. For example, you could try shooting under streetlights at night, or capturing the light of a campfire.
Stay away from overly-processed images: The more you manipulate an image in post-processing, the less natural and authentic it will look. Try to get as much of the desired look as you can in-camera, using techniques like exposure compensation, ISO, and white balance.

Remember, the goal of using natural light is to create images that look as close to what you see in real life as possible. By working with natural light in a scene, you can create images that are true to your subject, and that communicate your personal vision and perspective.

Embrace the imperfections

Embracing imperfections is a great way to add authenticity to your photography. Here's how:

Embrace the beauty of imperfection: Imperfections can add character and personality to your images. Look for elements that may not be considered perfect, such as wrinkles, blemishes, or quirky details, and highlight them in your images.
Don't be afraid of clutter: Clutter can add a sense of realism and context to your images. Rather than striving for a clean and sterile look, try including elements in your images that reflect the messiness and complexity of real life.
Show reality, not perfection: In today's world, it's easy to get caught up in the idea that everything has to be flawless. But the reality is that life is messy and imperfect, and it's these qualities that can make your images feel real and relatable.
Capture candid moments: Candid moments are often more authentic and revealing than posed shots. Try to capture people in their natural state, without trying to control every aspect of the scene.
Embrace the unique: Rather than striving for generic and uniform images, embrace the unique qualities and quirks of your subject. Highlight the things that make your subject special, and try to capture those qualities in your images.

Remember, perfection is often overrated. By embracing imperfections in your work, you can create images that are true to your subject, and that reflect the complexities and realities of life. Your images will be more relatable and engaging, and will better communicate your personal vision and perspective.

Don’t over edit in post-production

Limiting editing is an invaluable aspect of creating authentic and natural-looking photographs. Here's how:

Minimize post-processing: The more you manipulate an image in post-processing, the less natural and authentic it will look. Try to get as much of the desired look as you can in-camera, using techniques like exposure compensation, ISO, and white balance.
Use manual mode: Shooting in manual mode allows you to have full control over your camera settings, and can help you achieve the desired look in-camera, without relying on post-processing.
Experiment with different techniques: In-camera techniques like intentional camera movement, multiple exposures, and creative use of depth of field can help you create original and authentic images.
Avoid over-editing: Over-editing can make your images look unnatural and unrealistic. Try to keep your post-processing minimal, and avoid using excessive filters or effects that detract from the natural look of your images.
Stay true to your vision: At the end of the day, authenticity comes from staying true to your own vision and style. Don't try to mimic the work of others or conform to someone else's standards. Instead, let your own unique perspective guide your photography.

Reduced editing and shooting in-camera helps you create images that are true to your subject, and that communicate your personal vision and perspective. By minimizing post-processing and staying true to your vision, you can create images that are real, raw, and engaging, and that better reflect the complexities and realities of life.

Get up close and personal

Getting up close and personal with your subjects is a great way to add authenticity to your photography. Here's how:

Fill the frame: By getting in close to your subject, you can create images that are more intimate and engaging. Fill the frame with your subject, and try to eliminate any distractions or background elements that detract from the focus of the image.
Show details: By getting up close, you can capture details and textures that might be missed from a distance. Pay attention to the small things, like the wrinkles on a face, or the texture of a leaf, and try to highlight these details in your images.
Create a sense of intimacy: Close-up images can create a sense of intimacy and connection between the viewer and the subject. Try to capture the emotions, expressions, and feelings of your subject, and let these emotions guide the mood and tone of the image.
Use a macro lens: A macro lens is specifically designed for close-up photography, and can help you achieve stunning and detailed images of small subjects.
Experiment with different perspectives: Don't be afraid to get creative with your perspective. Try shooting from above or below, or from a unique angle, to add interest and creativity to your images.

Getting up close and personal with your subjects is a great way to capture intimate, engaging, and authentic images. By filling the frame, showing details, and creating a sense of intimacy, you can create images that are real, raw, and engaging. These images will better reflect the complexities and realities of life.

Experiment with different perspectives

Experimenting with different perspectives is a great way to add creativity and authenticity to your photography. Here's how:

Change your viewpoint: Try shooting from a low or high angle, or from a unique perspective that is different from the norm. This can add visual interest and creativity to your images.
Look for patterns and symmetry: Look for patterns and symmetrical compositions in your subject, and experiment with shooting these patterns from different angles.
Play with reflections: Reflections can create interesting and unique perspectives, and can add an extra layer of creativity and interest to your images.
Use leading lines: Look for leading lines in your subject, such as roads, rivers, or fences, and use these lines to guide the eye and create dynamic compositions.
Zoom in and out: Experiment with different focal lengths and try zooming in and out to create different perspectives on your subject. This can help you create images that are more engaging and dynamic.

By experimenting with different perspectives, you can create images that are more visually interesting, and that better reflect your own unique vision and perspective. Don't be afraid to try brand-new things, and don't be afraid to challenge yourself and step outside your comfort zone. The more you experiment, the more you'll learn, and the more you'll be able to create images that are real, raw, and engaging.

Capture real emotions

Capturing real emotions is a great way to add authenticity and depth to your photography. Here's how:

Be present and attentive: In order to capture real emotions, you need to be present and attentive to your subjects. Pay attention to their expressions, body language, and interactions, and be ready to capture these moments as they unfold.
Build a connection: Building a connection with your subject can help you capture more genuine and authentic emotions. Get to know your subject, listen to their story, and try to understand their perspective.
Look for candid moments: Candid moments often capture real emotions in a way that posed or staged images cannot. Look for moments of laughter, joy, or tears, and be ready to capture these moments as they happen.
Avoid stiff poses: Posed or stiff images often lack the natural and spontaneous energy of real emotions. Try to capture your subject in a more relaxed and natural state, and let their emotions guide the mood and tone of the image.
Use available light: Natural light can help create a more relaxed and intimate atmosphere, and can make it easier to capture real emotions. Try shooting in available light, such as window light, or use a soft and diffused light source to create a more natural look.

Capturing real emotions is a great way to create images that are genuine, raw, and engaging. By being present and attentive, building a connection with your subject, and capturing candid moments, you can create images that better reflect the complexities and realities of life. These images will resonate with your audience on an emotional level.

Stay true to your vision

Staying true to your vision is an invaluable aspect of adding authenticity to your photography. Here's how:

Find your style: Take the time to discover your unique style and vision as a photographer. This can be a process of trial and error, and may involve experimenting with different techniques and genres.
Stay true to your values: Make sure that your photography aligns with your values and beliefs. Stay true to what you believe in, and don't compromise your vision for the sake of popularity or commercial success.
Be original: Avoid simply copying the work of other photographers, and strive to create images that are original and unique to you. Don't be afraid to take risks and try out different things.
Embrace your flaws: Embrace your flaws and imperfections, and use them to your advantage. Don't strive for perfection, but instead try to create images that are true to your vision, and that reflect your own unique perspective and style.
Trust your instincts: Trust your instincts and listen to your inner voice. Don't be afraid to make mistakes, and don't be afraid to push the boundaries and try various things.

Staying true to your vision is important for maintaining authenticity in your photography. By finding your style, staying true to your values, being original, embracing your flaws, and trusting your instincts, you can create images that are real, raw, and engaging. These images will reflect your own unique vision and perspective.

Remember, authenticity is a personal and subjective quality, and what works for one photographer may not work for another. The most significant thing is to stay true to your own vision and style. This will enable you to constantly strive to create images that are meaningful and reflective of your own experiences and perspectives.

By using natural light, embracing imperfections, shooting in-camera, getting up close and personal, experimenting with different perspectives, capturing real emotions, and staying true to your vision, you can create images that are real, raw, and engaging. Don't be afraid to push the boundaries and try various things. Always strive to create images that are true to your vision and that reflect your own unique perspective and style. With these tips, you can create images that are not only beautiful but also authentic, and that truly capture the essence of life.