What is it that piques our interest? Why do we stop,
pull out the camera, and decide to photograph?



In order to answer these questions, we need to look at photography as a form
of communication. It’s a marvelous language—universal, powerful, and one
that crosses linguistic borders. We see something that we find interesting and
we simply want to share it.



My journalistic background taught me to go a step further, by emphasizing
that images require content that both affects and enlightens the viewer. Since
much of my work is related to environmental causes, I want my work to take
the viewer to places less traveled and even less seen.
The problem is: not everything we wish to photograph is visually pleasing.
In order to communicate effectively, we must learn to compose and craft our
images. And we need good composition.



Why do some images cause us to linger for a more contemplative study? Often
it’s not apparent, but in successful images the photographer has organized
the visual elements in the image to direct our focus and our emotional reaction.
Through the careful use of composition, photographers share their
personal visions and create pathways for a shared vision.