Improving Your Image Through Visual Communications



Journalist - Photographer - Writer

Thursday, 22 March 2012

Have your say in the photography workshop survey

By Darren Stones

With photography such a big part of our lives today, your opinion is important, and I invite you to participate in my photography workshop survey.

The survey will take 1-2 minutes, and your responses will assist me to develop and facilitate photography workshops to Australians.

Thanks for your input, it's much appreciated.

Photography Workshop Survey

Click here to open and take Photography Workshop Survey in a new window

Or you may prefer to complete the survey via the embedded survey below. Please note that you may need to click on the written text options in the embedded survey to register your answers.

Create your free online surveys with SurveyMonkey, the world's leading questionnaire tool.

Sunday, 18 March 2012

Looking, seeing and photographing in Brunswick

Travel Photography - Advice and Tips

By Darren Stones

There's something magical about using the 10-22mm wide-angle lens. I just love how it allows me to get in close to subject matter and pull in other environmental elements.

During my recent photography walk around Brunswick, which is in the city of Moreland in Melbourne, I felt my creative juices flowing during that Labour Day public holiday. I could have been lounging around at home, however I went investigating to see what I could find.

I love to LOOK, SEE and PHOTOGRAPH. When visiting a new location, there's times when I simply have to stop and absorb the environment. This day was one of those days where slowing down provided me with time to connect with the surroundings.

Brunswick, Victoria, Australia IMG_5980_Brunswick

When doing travel photography, it's important to STOP. Yes, STOP. STOP travelling ... STOP driving, STOP walking. STOP in your tracks, close your eyes and listen. Do this at least 3-4 times for at least 10 seconds within a five minute period and you will begin to better connect with the location you are in.

Sydney Road, Brunswick, Victoria, Australia IMG_6026_Brunswick

I haven't spent any previous time photographing in Brunswick. This opportunity inspired me to think differently than in the past. I think it comes with maturity, and by that I mean photographic experience, knowledge, and know how.

Nobody is born knowing how to create photographs ... but you can learn how to make better photographs whilst on your feet by giving yourself time. Quality is what it's about. Quality time, quality photography, quality experience. And fun.

Tuesday, 13 March 2012

Stuff you see in Sydney Road, Brunswick

By Darren Stones

Labour Day this year reminded me of the days when textile factories in the Melbourne suburb of Brunswick employed local residents. These days, it's a different scene. Sort of a bit arty and definitely multi-cultural.

Something that struck me whilst walking along Sydney Road was how thriving it is, even on a public holiday. People were getting around ... doing stuff.

Sydney Road, Brunswick, Victoria, Australia IMG_5862_Brunswick
Intersection of Sydney Road and Dawson Street in Brunswick, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
Photo: Darren Stones

Sydeny Road, Brunswick, Victoria IMG_6037_Brunswick
Sydney Road in Brunswick, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
Photo by Darren Stones