A simple little trick to get more out of your shoots is to use selective focus. The idea behind selective focus is that instead of trying to shoot the whole scene with everything in focus, you “select” which part of the scene you would like in focus. Giving a more interesting take on a otherwise straightforward scene.
A great example here is using the same lens the same framing and even the same exposure.
Shot down at Cronulla Rock pool using the chain around the pools edge with the camera around 10cm from the chain with a 16-35 mm lens.
The first shot is focused on the near object (the chain) giving a completely blurred out background and if you didn’t know where it was shot it could literally be anywhere in the world.
The second shot is with everything exactly the same except this time we focus on the far object (the horizon) This time you get a completely different look at the same scene and there’s no grey area to where you are, as the location is super obvious this time. Special thanks to the seagull for adding to it as well.
So as you can see, with this simple technique you can get two completely different shots without too much effort at all.
It’s just a great way to get the most out of your expeditions and to enjoy the great world of photography that little bit more.
Til next time and happy shooting
Chris
Chasing Light by Chris Lane 