GUEST POST by ecmunson

“Say cheese … somebody kneel down in the front … everybody look this way …NOW!”

So, maybe you are the chronicler at gatherings, directing and organizing people for that group shot.
Or, it’s the low light coming in as dusk approaches that you strive to capture as it bathes the garden
in a magical glow.
Whichever of these scenarios might describe you, you are also practicing one of the ‘fine arts’.
Formal arts education programs do classify photography as one of their media, while most of us
happily pull out our cell phones or, as in past years, 35 mm SLR cameras, giving not a thought to it
being an arts practice.
With intent, purpose, and time spent honing one’s skills though, some of those captures, be they
on our cell phones or today’s digital SLR’s, do have wonderful potential for showing your artistic
vision. As well, our observation and capturing of moments fulfills what are known as the
Seven Psychological Functions of Art …

I. Remembering
II. Hope
III. Sorrow
IV. Rebalancing
V. Self-Understanding
VI. Growth
VII. Appreciation

Look back through some of your cell phone captures and see which of these functions is dominant
for your work. Perhaps there are periods of time when one or two of these were prominent. Or,
are there any of these functions which are notable by their absence from any of the pictures you’ve
taken. What are the key emotional states associated with your shots?
These functions are states of being, a mind-set we can cultivate. Used as visual prompts, you
could embark on an afternoon of Rebalancing, Appreciation, or Self-Understanding. Let these
terms stretch your imagination as you move through your day.
Happy shooting – it’s a journey and glorious adventure through life!

by
ecmunson Photographer, Writer, Creative -Animateur www.studiobydesign.ca

Visit ecmunson’s recent artist talk and tour on the Arts on the Credit’s YouTube!