In preparation for my upcoming holiday later this year, I decided to enroll in a photography lesson to enhance my picture-taking skills. Understanding the functionality of the camera was a great starting point, as tutorials on YouTube, though informative, often provide high-level explanations that can be lengthy and difficult to focus on, especially for beginners.
The session I attended was concise, lasting 45 minutes, which allowed for a quick transition from discussion to hands-on practice. It not only covered the technical aspects of photography but also emphasized the importance of artistic vision, encouraging a deeper level of observation. I thoroughly enjoyed the experience, and for those in Melbourne, I highly recommend Guy Little as a photography instructor - you can find more information about him here.
We began our practical session with a stroll along Elisabeth Street towards Flinders St, capturing the beauty of Melbourne, a truly remarkable city for photography.
After that, we made our way to Flinders Street and snapped some pictures in front of St Paul’s Cathedral, where we encountered a group of birds, tourists, and a statue of Captain Matthew Flinders that the birds were also interested in.
Next, we made our way to Flinders Street, a place in Melbourne that I particularly love. It embodies the essence of Melbourne that people often envision, and there is a good reason for that perception. I've actually painted a picture of it, although not from the corner looking down Flinders Street. You can view the painting here.
Then I did something I haven’t in a very long time, go into a church. St Paul's is a very beautiful structure. I have a genuine appreciation for churches as they hold a certain special aura, closely related to the devotion which built them. I am of the belief that when something is created with a higher purpose in mind, it becomes more than just a structure. If one's intention is to honor a deity, the creation will be made with genuine devotion rather than mere financial gain. This concept has been evident throughout history, where despite the changing god(s), the devotion remains the same.
During our visit, we witnessed a theatrical rehearsal taking place, providing an opportunity to capture some atmospheric photographs.
With my atheism still intac, we went to Fed Square, which was initially disliked when constructed. However, it is now embraced, and I believe that the choice to establish this area has been clearly justified. The place was bustling with people enjoying themselves. being the introvert I avoided them and took pictures of the structures.
Then I got distracted taking pictures of the birds of Fed Square.
To finish our photography excursion we finished in Flinders St Station. I really enjoyed going from taking pictures as a way to document a thing, to doing so to express a feeling. I’m not there yet, but I’m on my way to try and perfect an art.
Byron
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