Setting Up a Dedicated Chat
As my photography journey continued, I realized there was a gap in my process. I wanted honest, constructive feedback and fresh ideas—but not just from any source. That’s when it struck me: why not set up a dedicated chat specifically for brainstorming and refining my work?
This chat became my go-to space for discussing everything from composition tweaks to storytelling ideas. By feeding in specific questions or photos I was working on, I could get detailed insights and suggestions. It’s not just about what’s technically right, but also exploring creative directions I might not have considered on my own.
One of the best aspects of this process is using classic photography references to guide the feedback. By asking the chat to reference foundational works or techniques from the greats—like Cartier-Bresson’s decisive moment or Ansel Adams’ mastery of contrast—I can draw on timeless principles while applying them to my own unique vision. It’s like tapping into a library of photographic wisdom to elevate my work.
Another powerful tool I’ve discovered is using the chat to help plan shots. If I have an idea but need clarity, I’ll ask for suggestions on framing or lighting, and even request a rough sketch of how the shot could look. This has been a game-changer. Seeing a concept visualized beforehand gives me confidence in the execution and often inspires adjustments to make the final image even stronger.
For example, I once shared an early concept for a photo and asked for ways to enhance the narrative. The suggestions I got, inspired by classic composition techniques and visualized in a sketch, led to a completely different take on the shot—one that ended up being much stronger than my original idea. It’s like having a second pair of eyes, endlessly patient and ready to brainstorm at any moment.
