shoot from the hip | rutherfordton, nc photographer

Wise Geek says “shoot[ing] from the hip means to make a snap decision in a matter of seconds. There is no time for the conscious mind to weigh options or look deeply into the situation. The first idea for a course of action becomes the last and is implemented immediately. People who tend to be risk takers are usually more comfortable with shooting from the hip, while people who are more conservative in their approach to life will often prefer to investigate possible outcomes rather than going with a shoot from the hip approach.”

Since becoming a photographer, I often use this approach to my work…I jump in with both feet and never look back…I move from location to location adjusting to light, backgrounds, moods, etc, without every really looking back or even considering the decision. It is a very unconscious part of myself…a part that I so rarely use. I am normally a planner…I plan everything (to my demise some say)…but, when actually shooting a session, I usually rely on instinct as my guide. Now don’t get me wrong…I spend a great deal of time planning a session, thinking through ideas and poses, and praying for the outcome that will make my clients happy. But, as for the actual process…I let instinct be my guide.

Now…one more thing…in the photography world, shooting from the hip is quite literally that…taking your camera away from your face and shooting blindly at your target. This has never been something I wanted to try…until the other day. I had to wake my sleeping boy, and I took it as an opportunity to get some nap pics of him…he is growing up so fast, and I know someday…the napping will be over. The first shot was taken from the hip…no looking at all…I saw the shot I wanted, and knew if I allowed myself to move, the moment would move on to. The second was more planned…which do you like better…for me…I like the unplanned one…even though my focus is not quite right! Which is your favorite???

I will be taking a slight blog break…see you this weekend!!!