Understanding your Photography

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  • čas přidán 22. 01. 2019
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    Every now and then, particularly if the weather hasn't been very good, I spend some thinking about my journey in photography - Am I happy with my progression? What events or things have had an impact on my work? Have there been any notable turning points?
    In this video I talk about three photographs that have represented a significant turning point in my landscape and woodland photography. They aren't necessarily my best images, but they signify a positive change and influence in the direction of my photography. I also briefly mention a couple of other key photos and briefly cover why I think it's been important to reflect and understand the 'whys' in my work.
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Komentáře • 520

  • @CarolinaHawkeye
    @CarolinaHawkeye Před 5 lety +2

    Loved the video. My turning point in photography was after my divorce, I had started hiking more and just taking photos along the way. After a while, I found myself more into the photography than the hikes. I am still improving my photography daily. It's something that for me is therapeutic and yet when I get too busy with work and such I crave it more.

    • @thomasphillips5850
      @thomasphillips5850 Před rokem

      I could not agree more, photography is therapeutic. Good luck to you.

  • @justinkellyphotography4396
    @justinkellyphotography4396 Před 5 lety +16

    I'm new to photography and still trying to find my path. I've often felt uninspired by my local area as it's a desert. Lately I've found myself shooting the landscape almost like a portrait, with a bush or tree isolated against the background. This has truly reflected my mood looking back on it now. Understanding that and noticing that I've begun to develop my own style has been a turning point. Thank you for this video and for sharing your stories. Deeply inspirational and I look forward to more.

  • @ashleykennedy3300
    @ashleykennedy3300 Před 4 lety +2

    Hi Simon, I’m a bit late to the party and only watching these videos now but I just wanted to say that you along with Thomas Heaton and Sean Tucker are the ones who inspire me the most, because I look at your images and they are just perfect and exactly the kind of thing I love in photography. You always manage to touch my heart somehow, well done mate and keep up the great work 👍

  • @scotty4418
    @scotty4418 Před 5 lety +13

    Photography has become my release from the pressure of my job and the opportunity to be own my own for a bit when you deal with people every single day. It also has made me realise the beauty that surrounds us when you stop to look and thats what I equally enjoy and more often the experience of being out there is what I come home with rather than an image, but Ive learned to accept that and just be glad of the opportunity to get out there. Was nice to hear more about your journey Simon and been a pleasure to watch your vlogs and see your wonderful images

  • @analog_presencing
    @analog_presencing Před 5 lety +1

    Thanks Simon for sharing your journey it remembered me about a turning point in my life 6 years ago. Whenever I need to make important decisions I used to wander into nature opening my senses, smelling, hearing, observing my surroundings. It was on one of this hikes, where I was at a crossroads in my life, after spending several hours in the woods that I came to open place in the woods where they had cut down all the pines. My first feeling was sorrow about the loss of the trees when I noticed that they left one birch tree catching the light which must have been hidden by the pines before. When I allowed the scene to sink in the sorrow transformed in something beautiful with the realization that in order to allow this small birch to grow and bloom it was needed to bring it into the light by cutting down the pines. I felt that it was also the affirmation that I needed to make the right decision by letting go of my fears and old convictions in order to allow myself to grow and bloom. I now believe that it also planted the seed for my fascination with trees. Two years ago I started photographing during my hikes and find myself in the process from mastering the techniques into developing my connection with nature and capturing it into an image that will speak to me as it did that day and hopefully by sharing it also will speak to others.

  • @anthonysalas9167
    @anthonysalas9167 Před 5 lety +1

    You are exactly right Simon. Are photographs are what we feel or what we are going through. Keep up the great work, love your photos and channel.

  • @davidbruceod
    @davidbruceod Před 5 lety +2

    Simon, your work is so inspiring on many levels. I just love the feeling of your moody woodland images. There is a melancholy element to them, but that is often the feeling you get while exploring isolated woodlands. There is a sense of isolation, vulnerability, fascination by the complexity of the woodland and it's beauty mixed with the fear of the unknown. And then you find a subject that owns you, you get so transfixed by it that all the other emotions get pushed aside while work to bring forth the image. Thank you for allowing us to tag along.

  • @ashstubbings2603
    @ashstubbings2603 Před 5 lety +10

    I can't believe this is the first of your videos I've ever watched!! Where on earth have I been?? You mentioned the word 'magical'. That's how I felt about your photos.

    • @SimonBaxterPhotography
      @SimonBaxterPhotography  Před 5 lety

      Welcome, Ashley! Thank you for your kind words :)

    • @chuckyzzz
      @chuckyzzz Před 5 lety +2

      Ashley, Wait until you catch up and Explore "The World OF Meg" It is special and says a lot about Simon and is passion for detail.

  • @wcwendychapman
    @wcwendychapman Před 5 lety +1

    Excellent - I think that if photography is a passion it is as therapeutic as any medicine. There is nothing quite like being mesmerised by the world around you no matter what form of photography you enjoy. Very enjoyable video.

  • @richardlock6705
    @richardlock6705 Před 5 lety +1

    First Simon thank you for a great video. I am incredibly impressed with the way you delivered the entire thing in one take. You speak with total passion and I find you incredibly inspiring. I have lived in the New Forest for 25 years and really struggled to get a passion for my photography in the Forest. My love is coastal and underwater photography..until now! Watching and listening to you has suddenly changed something in me, and I feel totally motivated to make the most of my privileged position of living in the heart of the National Park. If you ever fancy a shoot in the New Forest please shout. Thank you again

    • @SimonBaxterPhotography
      @SimonBaxterPhotography  Před 5 lety

      Many thanks for your kind words and offer for a shoot in the New Forest. Much appreciated :)

  • @Hirsutechin
    @Hirsutechin Před 5 lety +1

    Videos like this keep me watching your channel and others like it - discussing images and what lies behind them. (and not a bit of gear discussion anywhere, hurray!)

  • @WayneRobertsonPhotography
    @WayneRobertsonPhotography Před 5 lety +16

    Great video Simon. Lots of nice stories and images, and a lovely story at the start of the video!

  • @stevemozzie6497
    @stevemozzie6497 Před 5 lety

    My turning point was retirement and a comment made by another photographer. He thought that my images weren't up to much, that's true … they weren't. I was determined to take a "slow" path to improving the technical side of my photography and enjoy both the ups and downs that would come my way. I love taking photographs, exploring the creative side of my personality. There are millions of photographers who are better than I am, have access to amazing locations. I don't care. My journey, my images, my learning. Love it. Your woodland work is inspirational. Thanks Simon.

  • @seantuck
    @seantuck Před 5 lety +53

    Great video mate. Lovely to hear these stories.

    • @deankorbin5640
      @deankorbin5640 Před 2 lety

      i guess im randomly asking but does anybody know a way to log back into an Instagram account..?
      I somehow forgot my password. I love any assistance you can offer me

    • @finnleydeacon5683
      @finnleydeacon5683 Před 2 lety

      @Dean Korbin instablaster :)

    • @deankorbin5640
      @deankorbin5640 Před 2 lety

      @Finnley Deacon i really appreciate your reply. I found the site on google and I'm trying it out atm.
      Looks like it's gonna take quite some time so I will reply here later with my results.

    • @deankorbin5640
      @deankorbin5640 Před 2 lety

      @Finnley Deacon It did the trick and I now got access to my account again. I'm so happy:D
      Thanks so much, you saved my account!

    • @finnleydeacon5683
      @finnleydeacon5683 Před 2 lety

      @Dean Korbin you are welcome xD

  • @PointBlankZA
    @PointBlankZA Před 5 lety +2

    Thank you, Simon. having spent the last 2 weekends deep in the forests here by my place, and only walking away with a handful of mediocre shots, but identifying some great potential but still feeling really despondent, I feel more inspired now. It really is a case of pushing on, getting up early, walking, and learning, and coming back to get the right shot...
    I will be back on the trails this weekend!

    • @SimonBaxterPhotography
      @SimonBaxterPhotography  Před 5 lety +1

      Many thanks! Yes, it's hard work and woodland/forests is one of the most challenging genres but there's great rewards to be had :)

  • @leslielanderkin8301
    @leslielanderkin8301 Před 5 lety +1

    Those of us who also love the woodlands understand completely your love and fondness for a particular tree or scene. Leslie

  • @MarkRomine
    @MarkRomine Před 5 lety +1

    First congrats on the engagement!!! What a wonderful backdrop, I'm sure the two of you will never forget that moment and that place. Your woodland images are so sublime, you are truly a master at one of the most difficult genre's of landscape photography. Enjoyed seeing all of these and hearing the stories behind them!

  • @WilliamLesourd
    @WilliamLesourd Před 5 lety

    Your photo treatment has always been subdued to retain the true atmosphere of the scenery and this is one of the reasons I truly enjoy your channel.
    One of the other reason is how much Meg is enjoying each one of your hikes.

  • @CR416
    @CR416 Před 5 lety +1

    Sitting in the car having a coffee after a very cold and snowy day photographing Loch Ard. I really enjoyed the video and can completely relate to your images, the mood created by the light and mist is what I have been trying to capture for a while. First class, thank you.

  • @colinfreear4749
    @colinfreear4749 Před 5 lety +1

    Stunning Simon.What a great understanding of our woodlands you have. Keep the video's coming.

  • @nickyfoulkes8476
    @nickyfoulkes8476 Před 5 lety +3

    Congratulations on your engagement & wish you both a long & happy life together.
    I took up photography as a hobby 5 years ago. With a back problem I find it difficult at times, but you have inspired me personally to explore woodland photography & not just landscape images. Here in Devon, we are sadly not blessed with much deciduous woodland & snow or haugh frost are rare.
    I strive to improve the standard of images I take and print them to go on the staircase walls. I find this helps you to see your progress as you take something better.
    You have probably become a world renowned woodland photographer & your images are stunning. Don’t stop inspiring us all to get out there & do it.

    • @SimonBaxterPhotography
      @SimonBaxterPhotography  Před 5 lety

      Thank you very much for sharing your thoughts and kind words, Nicky. Much appreciated!

  • @Bazzo61
    @Bazzo61 Před 5 lety

    Thank you Simon for being so open and honest about your emotions. I've watched every one of your videos since the beginning and it's clear how your relationship at a personal level with photography has evolved and how it's mirrored your own changing feelings. All your photographs, but especially the ones in this video, are not just beautiful but really capture the atmosphere of the location and moment.

  • @martinjn2920
    @martinjn2920 Před 5 lety +1

    A superb video Simon, a lovely insight into how you found your raw material to work with.
    For me, it was the realisation that I could stop and look at what was around me, by doing this I could see what I wanted to photograph rather than just shooting hundreds of images which were poor boring and not reflective of what could be achieved with a bit of calm consideration.
    Thanks for taking the time to do these videos and for sharing them with us.

  • @searam1
    @searam1 Před 5 lety +1

    Cheers, Simon! I just realised that I have been a subscriber of yours from the beginning and since then, I have discovered a handful of awesome photographers from the UK that I love. But, you are my favourite and I wanted to tell you that. Every time I look at my print of Guardians of the Forest, I have to smile! You have given me a sense of the magick that is Britain even though I live in Atlanta! I love your moody compositions and look forward to discovering the next, and the next... Thank you, my friend, and also know there is another "spinal sufferer" on the other side of the pond that gets to live life through your lens.
    Sean

  • @marcusgodlund
    @marcusgodlund Před 5 lety

    This is the reason i started follow your channel to be honest, there is thoughts and a story/feeling behind each frame you shoot. Great work and keep it coming!

  • @wendybee9160
    @wendybee9160 Před 5 lety +1

    I agree with you. It depends on what mood you are in as to what you shoot that day. I get inspirited by your work. so keep up the great job.

  • @dannynash5713
    @dannynash5713 Před 3 lety +1

    You are very gifted in articulating the meaning in not only how you view the philosophical side of your photography but also in how and why you craft your images the way you do. The images here are, if I may, “exemplary!” Wonderful video Simon! ✊

  • @christalbot9873
    @christalbot9873 Před 5 lety +1

    I have just started woodland photography, as my challenge to learn something new this year, your images fantastic and your videos are an inspiration, so glad I have found your channel.

  • @scrumpyhead2000
    @scrumpyhead2000 Před 5 lety

    One thing I am absolutely sure about you Simon is that your photography comes from the heart. Regards from Somerset.

  • @cotswoldphotographers
    @cotswoldphotographers Před 5 lety

    Thank you so much for sharing this with us. I find your journey truly inspirational and your ability to wear your heart on your sleeve extremely humbling. Looking forward to enjoying your work throughout the year 👍

  • @brucerobertson6196
    @brucerobertson6196 Před 5 lety +1

    Thank you Iam just a old retired guy with a camera inspiration comes in many forms your photos and videos are windows to another world I learn a little bit more with every photo Or video I see

  • @perjensen6396
    @perjensen6396 Před 5 lety +1

    I enjoy watching and hearing your videos, it gives something to think about and then it is some fantastic pictures you take.

  • @divinerdetective44
    @divinerdetective44 Před 5 lety +1

    I see atmospheric images such as the ones you're talking about as magical more than somber or depressing. They're just another facet of how Nature shows herself. I feel transported by these types of images.

  • @sarahy5540
    @sarahy5540 Před 5 lety +2

    Loved hearing your stories behind these beautiful, magical images.

  • @ThyWorshipMetal
    @ThyWorshipMetal Před 5 lety +1

    I’ve started looking around the local patches of woodland after watching your videos, everything about your images inspire me!

  • @stevew7719
    @stevew7719 Před 5 lety

    Thank you, Simon. I needed to hear this. What I have taken from this is that you shoot what inspires you and what you feel you have connection with. I have been wrestling with this concept as I find myself trying to please others with what I think they like. You have shown how personal inspiration is a much more authentic driver of quality and progress. Thanks again, and congratulations.

  • @jennifersayers8041
    @jennifersayers8041 Před 5 lety +5

    I really enjoyed this episode Simon. The start, which was your proposal to Adele, that was so beautiful, congrats to both of you and a stunning photograph captured too.
    I started photography because I needed something to keep me focused on something else rather than what I was going through at the time. I found out at 20 years of age I was going blind, I'm partially deaf from birth but my sight deteriates from my teenage years. Today I'm lucky to still make out some things I see through a dark tunnel, but I'm more serious about photography more than ever as it's helped me see what I can't see with my own eyes. My camera screen blows me away with what I'm missing out on, the milky way, the sunsets, the wildlife, and different landscapes and waterfalls. Each picture I capture has stored a memory of my moment, the atmosphere, the smell of the air, rain, seaweed lol
    I'm in awe with your stunning photography, you are so gifted with an eye for beauty in all forms. That 40"print of the fallen tree must look amazing every time you walk in the room, stunning. Thank you for sharing. :)

    • @SimonBaxterPhotography
      @SimonBaxterPhotography  Před 5 lety +1

      I'm so sorry to read about the deterioration of your eyesight. That must be devastating but I'm also delighted that you find some solace and comfort in your photography. Thank you for sharing some of your story and your kind words - much appreciated!

  • @ryanstark2350
    @ryanstark2350 Před 5 lety +1

    That Glen Coe shot is spectacular.

  • @annthomstad635
    @annthomstad635 Před 5 lety +1

    Thank you so much for sharing your thoughts! I find your videos really inspiring.

  • @Tuomimaki
    @Tuomimaki Před 5 lety

    Your comments about our photography reflecting our moods made me think about my photos from a different point of view. I appreciate your style of going deeper in to things like who we are at a particular moment and what drives us to do things.

  • @MrCopper4
    @MrCopper4 Před 5 lety +4

    I am no pro but I see beauty in all those photographs you have taken. I would love to have them hanging on my wall for sure.

  • @kasperlarsen577
    @kasperlarsen577 Před 4 lety

    You are a true inspiration! Loving your videos and your photos even more. I use your work as a reference point to my own progression. Still a long way to go and so much to learn. As you describe, especially why some photos are good and others are great. you certainly help in getting to understand that! Thanks!

  • @allansisson355
    @allansisson355 Před 5 lety +1

    Wow, what a great job. Loved seeing the old images again and their meaning and story. Great timing on the 10 sec to by the way. Very cool to have something so important,work out so perfectly.

  • @philipgraham3350
    @philipgraham3350 Před 5 lety +1

    Hi Simon, been following you for a while and was moved to comment on this video. The ability you have to articulate the feelings and artistic process behind your images is a rare skill, and perfectly compliments your work. You have inspired me to consider my own photography turning points, something I haven’t really thought about up to now. I think we all have images we personally like, or even ones that have done well in competitions or whatever, but to reflect on the ones that have shaped our own personal photography journey seems like something well worth doing.

    • @SimonBaxterPhotography
      @SimonBaxterPhotography  Před 5 lety

      Thank you very much for your kind comment, Philip! I'm delighted that you found some inspiration from the video :)

  • @bereantrb
    @bereantrb Před 5 lety +1

    I agree that it's important to reflect seriously on these things. Well done.

  • @irispreciado5142
    @irispreciado5142 Před 5 lety +1

    So great to see your video! I think I'am still on that journey to find myself as a photographer. Thank you so much for sharing, I always learn so much.

  • @fafnorcal
    @fafnorcal Před 5 lety +3

    Well done! Very helpful introspection. Thank you, Simon.

  • @Matty_the_Tall
    @Matty_the_Tall Před 3 lety

    Thank you Simon. Such an inspirational episode. I've been fiddling about with photography for many years, but in the last few years I've felt the need to take it more seriously. We've all been through such a rough time in one way or another, and honestly, anything that gets me outside and into nature is worth it. I really want to learn about some of the finer details, and to be able to make better compositions and to understand why they are better. Your videos are so incredibly helpful in that journey that I find myself on. Thank you for your honesty, your passion and for sharing your incredible talent.

  • @petermcilroy5742
    @petermcilroy5742 Před 5 lety

    Thanks for this Simon. I always appreciate your reflections on why you craft the images that you do. I am increasingly finding more pleasure in trying to convey an emotion through an image, and your style of photography has really helped me develop along that journey.

  • @jlsc4125
    @jlsc4125 Před 5 lety +2

    I always stress to my students, the two basics you have to master to be a good photographer is composition and light. If you don't understand and master those two, you will just be a picture taker.

  • @brandonpidala
    @brandonpidala Před 5 lety +1

    Absolutely stunning work, Simon! I marvel at your ability to find order in chaos with your woodland photography and really enjoyed the insight into some of your favorite images.

  • @chrisr.1803
    @chrisr.1803 Před 5 lety

    I watch photography videos to improve my own photography but you always deliver so much more! Love you and Meg!

  • @lindefraser9148
    @lindefraser9148 Před 5 lety +1

    So many congratulations to you two and Meg! Thanks for sharing such a special moment. I love this image, all of them really. And yes I agree, if we care, the landscape dictates the photo. You were inspired but inspire so many of us. With regard to the Guardians of the Forest discussion - the group went right, you went left. You took the road less travelled then and that has made all the difference.

  • @MadsPeterIversen
    @MadsPeterIversen Před 5 lety +15

    A great video. Loved it and love your photos :)
    A big turning point for me was obviously visiting Iceland for the first time. Spent the last three years as a landscape photographer mainly in the rough Nordic environment. In 2018 I have started being a little full of this kind of photography and have started to turn my eyes towards Denmark again. Greatly inspired by your photography and as a new years resolution I have started exploring Denmark more and just the other morning I spent in lovely hoarfrost and foggy conditions, with a very satisfying result.

    • @MediterraneanBlood
      @MediterraneanBlood Před 5 lety +2

      I think Iceland made thousands of people become landscape photographers, included me...

    • @iemboyshostel
      @iemboyshostel Před 5 lety +2

      Eagerly waiting for the results

    • @SimonBaxterPhotography
      @SimonBaxterPhotography  Před 5 lety +2

      Thank you very much, Mads! Denmark sounds great already - please send some fog and hoar frost this way :)

    • @simontull7511
      @simontull7511 Před 5 lety

      moving to Denmark two years ago from the Middle East sparked a deep passion for landscape photography for me......oh, and I really enjoy your Iceland and Faroes videos...

  • @lefthandedphotographer
    @lefthandedphotographer Před 5 lety +1

    A truly heartwarming account of you journey into photography, its touched my inner soul, so much you speak of has brought a tear to my eyes, I too had serious back issues, having to retire early from a job I loved, my mental health plumated to an all time low, moving forward over many years to recovery I spend hours in my local forests, its my default if you like to seek peace and get away from my past, my confidence and serious self doubt takes it toll, I've won a few competitions, last year I was awarded Dumfries and Galloway visual artist of the year, so maybe I'm good at this, maybe, but whatever you feel a camera and a few hours in the forest makes for a better place, your a true inspiration, best wishes from South Scotland

    • @SimonBaxterPhotography
      @SimonBaxterPhotography  Před 5 lety +1

      Hi Duncan. Thank you very much for your very kind response. I'm sorry to read that you've also had back troubles but it's great that you also enjoy the forest for therapy. Congrats on your award too!

  • @davidprendergast5389
    @davidprendergast5389 Před 5 lety

    I love your work Simon. A key turning point for me in my landscape photography was walking down an old muddy track early one morning on my way to an old ruin of a manor house in Ireland. It was misty but the sun had risen and I thought the best light had passed. Half way down the track the fog thickened and the low winter sun went behind the ridge behind me. I turned around and was stunned by the sudden beams of light piercing the mist and creating all sorts of interesting shadows and contrasts. It took me right back to the early mornings of my childhood working on a farm near Pendle Hill in Lancashire, when I would walk up muddy tracks amidst such natural glory on my way to collect the cows for milking. Only now I had the skills and equipment to capture the moment. Probably one of the finest mornings in my photographic journey to date.

  • @MrLiverpool84
    @MrLiverpool84 Před 3 lety

    I love how you talk so much about the emotional side of photography, rather than just the technical element. Fantastic.

  • @iemboyshostel
    @iemboyshostel Před 5 lety +1

    Another great video Simon... thanks for sharing your thoughts and your journey with us... great learning for me personally by watching your videos day after day

  • @stevecush100
    @stevecush100 Před 5 lety

    Thoughtful and considered presentation which strikes a real note with me. So much more enjoyable to watch and listen than some from other photographers who seem too intent on promoting themselves. Thank you.

  • @thomasbowan7864
    @thomasbowan7864 Před 5 lety

    I love that you found the most important thing that most photographers never will. The quest of shooting a marriage of your heart and what you want to see in your camera. Everyday is a new feeling and a moment to tell a new story with your camera. Love it

  • @MrSemi01
    @MrSemi01 Před 5 lety

    Thank you for this great video and your explanation of your images reflecting your mood makes so much sense. I've only got into photography in the last 3 years and I have followed you since you started out making videos, but never commented. Thank you for these.

  • @bowemarch8239
    @bowemarch8239 Před 5 lety +1

    Truly some of the best landscape photos I have seen. Right, I’m off to my local wood.

  • @Kate39813
    @Kate39813 Před 5 lety +2

    So glad I watched this. I was starting to feel so disillusioned with all the great shots on insta of the mountains of Scotland and Wales and the fells of the Lakes. I decided last year to just stay local and shoot the Yorkshire landscapes that I love so much. It is where I feel happiest and most comfortable. Watching your vlog I guess has just given me the affirmation that I needed so I thank you

    • @SimonBaxterPhotography
      @SimonBaxterPhotography  Před 5 lety +1

      Thank you, Kate! If the Yorkshire landscape is where you are happy then please do keep shooting there. There was once a time where I used to look at photos from epic locations and be riddled with envy but I now I'm not phased in the slightest. Yorkshire has so much to offer - we're very fortunate to live here :)

  • @RoseKerin
    @RoseKerin Před 3 lety

    Thanks Simon. Just listening to some of your videos while I'm working. So many lessons and advice from you still to be had. Such wisdom and inspiration is always needed to help others. Thanks so much.

  • @canuckdon
    @canuckdon Před 5 lety

    Simon, I really appreciated your insightful comments and seeing these wonderful images again. You are an inspiration to thinking photographers. Thank you!

  • @howardallen5390
    @howardallen5390 Před 5 lety +1

    It's always inspiring to hear you talk about your images and how photography is so important to you and so intertwined with your life. Great way to propose: I proposed while we were out walking as well, I had to clear up some dog mess and thought while I'm down here I may as well propose.

  • @pgtips4240
    @pgtips4240 Před 5 lety +2

    Hi Simon, I have only recently come across your channel and I remember seeing those woodland pictures and thinking, this guy's good. Those woodland images are simply stunning, I really love the composition and the way the light disperses through the scene. They look tac sharp too. Great stuff, take care.

  • @andrewfrost8866
    @andrewfrost8866 Před 5 lety +2

    Beautiful Simon!!

  • @jeff_freestone
    @jeff_freestone Před 5 lety +1

    Great video. I was really excited when I saw the title of this as I too like reflecting on my photography- where it’s going, staying true to myself and I’m still trying to find my style and also how I process images. I feel I’m not there yet but I’m also not in a rush. I want it to happen naturally without being forced. I feel if I rush it there’s less chance that I will develop my own style and just end up copying someone else’s. it’s amazing to see where you have come from and your almost only recent journey into photography however you have managed to produce a handful of award winning images. Just an amazing story and one you should be very proud of.

  • @demacf6805
    @demacf6805 Před 5 lety

    Simon, Loved the video and your commentary, but was truly blown away by your photos! I was transported into those places, and the feeling I got was wonderfully peaceful. Thank you!

  • @mike76rob
    @mike76rob Před 5 lety +1

    Awesome video Simon. I find I often relate to your videos and understand them, as well as finding the images you take amazing. From this video especially it has made me think a little more as to my own photography, I am amateur at best but I enjoy taking images and feel a need to get out there and capture better images to improve, better light, better composition etc. I love both landscape and woodland but like yourself I find more intimacy in woodland, gnarly, twisted or broken trees have always resonated with me even when I am just hiking I'll veer off path to see them and walk around them. I am at this minute living where I work (to save up funds for another big adventure) but I am a van lifer and long distance hiker at heart. Sine taking on van life I have discovered I am not the extrovert I thought I was but a bit of both, introvert and extrovert with perplexed me until I started, like yourself, looking at the images I was taking. Most are lonely barren places, beautiful but without people or myself, singular trees in a full forest. I understand your photography and I think that's why I enjoy the videos so much.
    Megs pretty cool as well :-D

    • @SimonBaxterPhotography
      @SimonBaxterPhotography  Před 5 lety

      Thank you for taking the time to leave such a kind comment, Mike! Very much appreciated :)

  • @Spiros_Pandis
    @Spiros_Pandis Před 5 lety +1

    VERY glad to have come across your channel! I love the feeling in your photos - you speak of your own emotional investment in the scenes that you capture but what I find truly powerful is that all the elements in each photograph come together and evoke a strong, emotive response in me as the viewer (and countless others too, I'm sure!)

  • @jenniferrose250
    @jenniferrose250 Před 5 lety

    Your photographs have a magic that is very special. Watching your videos has reignited my interest in nature photography. I enjoy hearing about your journeys and the back story of each photo....thanks for sharing!

  • @danielwheeler423
    @danielwheeler423 Před 5 lety +2

    What a compelling video, Simon. I feel I resonate with so many things you speak of, even if I think my own photography doesn't show it now, you constantly push me and many others in a direction that can only be beneficial. Great to hear some of the stories behind your wonderful images :-)

  • @adagioseven
    @adagioseven Před 5 lety

    This is the first of your videos that I've seen. As a person with ADD, there aren't many videos over 2 minutes that keep my attention. This one certainly did and it was because I related to it on numerous levels. I am a farrier by trade and photography is my hobby. It's also my escape. I do my best work when I'm alone and isolated from people, business, noise, etc. Thanks for creating this video. I'm glad to know that there are like minds out there. You have a gift.

  • @larryselvidge901
    @larryselvidge901 Před 5 lety

    Both your still work, and your videos, continue to grow and deepen in meaning. A pleasure to watch and share. Well done.

  • @tommimakinen1128
    @tommimakinen1128 Před 5 lety +1

    A great video! I am really inspired with your photos, and the stories behind them! I really love the moodiness of your woodlands.
    I myself have actually two turning points in my photography. One was when I picked up my old dslr again after many years of it collecting dust, and decided to take these walks around my local area with the camera, just to get myself out of the house, as I was in middle of a long period of depression.
    I particularly remember one of the early walks, when I had this picture in mind with one silver birch and the mist on the lake near me. It was really hard to get myself up and out of the house before sunrise (in a middle of Finnish summer, when there's a sort of sunrise around 0400 in the morning) to catch the one shot I had in mind. I did get the shot, and pleased with myself I was going to just turn back and go look at the capture on a big screen. But funnily enough, I decided against it, to walk around the lake and just see if there's something else to capture. Few hours later, I captured a shot that I still consider possibly my best image -at least it means most to me. As it reminds me that there is always, always something more to be found, when you keep on going, and the best stuff is often found when you just keep your eyes open.
    My second turning point was my first trip to Scotland in 2017, and funnily enough, not for the locations, but because the photos from that trip were the first ones that I actually learned to utilize lightroom properly. That did change the way I think my photos on location, as I realize that some things are found in the post-processing.
    And of course, finding different (mainly landscape) photographers at youtube has had a major impact on my photography, and you keep inspiring me to grab my gear and get out, instead of getting them covered by the dust again! So a major thank you for that, Simon!
    And oh, the shot in the first story can be found here: flic.kr/p/PAF6qx
    (I did not actually ever post that shot that I was going to shoot that morning.)

    • @SimonBaxterPhotography
      @SimonBaxterPhotography  Před 5 lety

      Thank you very much for your kind words and sharing your story, Tommi! It's been great to slowly read through all the wonderful comments :)

  • @RudixSA
    @RudixSA Před 5 lety

    Thanks for sharing this with us Simon, I love all your videos but this one got me thinking about my own photography and why I love what I love. You lit the spark of self-examination that is often needed to allow you to move forward. I "need" a turning point as I feel I am stagnating and loosing drive so the timing was perfect. Great stuff!

  • @ant_hart
    @ant_hart Před 5 lety +1

    For me, it’s all about the story behind the photo.
    I love your style of photography and knowing the images are much more than just that makes them even more appealing to me :)
    Great video mate 👍🏼

  • @alistaircassidy
    @alistaircassidy Před 5 lety

    Just a lovely video and great to hear your insights into what motivates you in your photography and what draws you to a scene. For my perspective, I am not naturally a morning person at all but there is little better than the sense of achievement of actually getting out early and to somewhere beautiful like Rannoch Moor in time for sunrise. To be by yourself with the camera is just so tranquil, taking the time to compose a shot and to just take a breathe, something that can sometimes be very challenging in modern life. Watching videos from people like you and Thomas is a real inspiration and motivator to me and, I am sure, many others to get better in our own photography. Thank you.

  • @MaartenGruijters
    @MaartenGruijters Před 5 lety +1

    thanks for posting your very personal story, you inspire me to look further and also closer to my surroundings,
    any tree is scrutinized

  • @PaulGJohnsonphotography
    @PaulGJohnsonphotography Před 5 lety +12

    A very eloquent and inspiring video Simon

    • @allandavies1187
      @allandavies1187 Před 5 lety +2

      C'mon Paul. Get out there now and make more of your funny and entertaining vlogs...

    • @chuckyzzz
      @chuckyzzz Před 5 lety +1

      @@allandavies1187 "Paul is Good" A very laconic style. From the Business World, "Winners Mix With Winners" Hence Paul & Simon.

    • @allandavies1187
      @allandavies1187 Před 5 lety +1

      @@chuckyzzz Of course!

  • @petergill
    @petergill Před 2 lety

    Thanks Simon. Your deeper exploration of photography really speaks to me and I’m left inspired to keep going with my photography (after a couple of years being uninspired) I’ll be watching more of your videos here.

  • @AnVoPhotography
    @AnVoPhotography Před 5 lety

    Thank you for sharing those special moments with us. I love your photography and your videos. So inspiring.

  • @johnbentley1056
    @johnbentley1056 Před 5 lety +2

    Great storytelling. I loved the video and images. For me photography is a nice stress relief. It gives me a nice excuse to get out. I am fortunate that where I live in Australia I have the choice of seascapes, mountains and rainforest all close to home. I find a sense of peace in the forests listening to the running water and often don't even take a photo. I especially find rainforest difficult to photograph. I think after watching your video I am inspired to stick a prime on my camera and explore these local places more. Thank you for sharing.

  • @grassland5165
    @grassland5165 Před 5 lety

    Thanks for the great video. Keep Exploring. The last 18 months I experienced life challenges while transitioning to "full time" photography. But one of the things that has helped me is your magnificent photography of your local woodlands area, inspiring me to continue my photography efforts in the local area here, that few photograph.

  • @TheycallmeWade
    @TheycallmeWade Před 5 lety

    You are hands down my favourite woodland photographer I love the melancholy side of nature it seems so bleak but so beautiful at the same time. My turning point was an image from 14 years ago a sunrise shot from a local headland looking over the rocks into a cumulonimbus cloud with light rays bursting through, I was so happy I had it turned into a large canvas and gave it to my wife as a gift it still hangs in our home, technically its terrible blown highlights black shadows but I’ll never replace the feeling it gave me, when I saw it on canvas I thought wow how beautiful is nature and quite proud.

  • @Leffe49
    @Leffe49 Před 5 lety +1

    Great video Simon. Loved the whole contents of it and those stunning photos you showed. I Hope you soon are back in the Woodland again, with your Camera and Meg.

  • @ajinjosetd
    @ajinjosetd Před 5 lety +1

    great video Simson. Always loved your videos and images that inspire me every time. thank you for sharing your thoughts.

  • @guywright7388
    @guywright7388 Před 5 lety +1

    One of your best. Every insightful.

  • @michaelcarrithers6811
    @michaelcarrithers6811 Před 5 lety

    Thank you so much for that, Simon. Your videos are getting better and better, with no end in sight, and the metaphor of a journey seems just right. Maybe when you feel it's ripe, you could give us a video about, well, your videos? But thanks, whatever you do.

  • @simontull7511
    @simontull7511 Před 5 lety

    Really good to hear your thoughts and feelings surrounding some of the key photographs in your journey, Simon. Thanks as ever for sharing.

  • @jamesclark1152
    @jamesclark1152 Před 5 lety +1

    Thanks once again Simon for sharing your journey with us. I always look forward to viewing your channel and always come away feeling inspired. I just love the way you are able to express your emotions and feelings about the images. I have been studying photography for many years, sometimes as a professional. More recently I seem to have lost my motivation and lack of direction. Your videos are helping me regain that excitement once again. Keep them coming Simon and maybe one of these days I may join you on one of your workshops.

  • @russellschundler6559
    @russellschundler6559 Před 5 lety

    Great video ... your images capture feeling more than most I've seen. There is something magical about fog, moss, subtle highlights and woodlands that comes together uniquely in your work. Thanks for sharing it.

  • @alanm.1368
    @alanm.1368 Před 5 lety +1

    Very enlightening insight Simon. Love your images and I too love Glencoe it is a magical place. Congratulations on the engagement.

  • @trueaddict8733
    @trueaddict8733 Před 4 lety

    Simon, this is the first video I've ever watched on your channel. All of these photos are quite striking, and I love that you allow the smaller details and your intuition to dictate what you end up shooting. I'm the same way. Your photos are fucking inspirational. Well done mate.

  • @petroverba6054
    @petroverba6054 Před 5 lety

    Thank you for great video. Photographs become "deeper" when photographer digs deeper in himself. When you understand who you are, what you like, what your passion is , what resonates with you become more emotionally deep person. And it affects your photography. I think landscape photographers more or less introverted people.
    And this "depth" in photographs attract people. I cant explain it in words , but you feel this depth through photograph.
    I'm photographing since 2013 but only in 2017 I felt the turning point. I studied landscape photography online course and I felt that something triggered inside of me. That was a start of transition from using "rule of thirds, leading lines, foreground-midground-foreground" to actually feeling the landscape. I exactly understand what you are talking about. All that " N composition tips and tricks" slowly started to move into holistic picture. I still at very beginning of my journey, but I feel that I groped the way.
    And yours CZcams channel and Thomas Heaton's really help me to continue my way.

  • @stuartfergus943
    @stuartfergus943 Před 5 lety

    Excellent video Simon, I can tell photography means a lot to you. You have inspired me to visit my local woodlands and spend more time there to help understand and find my own style .

  • @GSPhotographics
    @GSPhotographics Před 4 lety +1

    Stunning Images .. The mood you create in a scene is an art in itself and a skill that is very rare. Your passion comes across in your videos that its not all about the photo but its about being there in the moment. Great Videos and images Simon.. Very inspirational .. Thank you

  • @thinusschoeman6461
    @thinusschoeman6461 Před 5 lety

    Thank you Simon! I found the video so full of honesty and integrity, but also inspiring! Keep it up!