This is my newest personal favorite shot (it will last until I have another new favorite!) I love when I am able to use things to help frame a photo of a home, like the tree and stone wall in this instance. I find it makes for a much more interesting picture. Since I haven’t had the opportunity to research this particular home, which is in my hometown of West Hartford, CT near the Bloomfield line, I thought you might enjoy learning about my photography background.
I have been a shutterbug my entire life, but my focus has always been personal. Like many, I have always enjoyed capturing family moments and vacations over the years. It was satisfying to me to be the one at a family event that could be relied upon to capture it and share the memories with others. With the advent of Instagram, I began to learn more about editing photos in terms of adjusting the exposure, saturation and contrast, as well as how to compose and crop a shot so that it makes the most of the elements in the picture. I have had various cameras over the year, but frankly at this point I love to shoot with my iPhone. iPhone photography has become increasingly popular, and many claim that the iPhone takes as good of a shot as many DSLR cameras. Not having a DSLR, I can’t really confirm or deny that, but I choose to believe the reviews! I love having a camera in my pocket at all times – it has made photography accessible for everyone, and the various editing apps have allowed amateurs like myself to create some beautiful photos.
I became interested in architecture photography in the spring of last year, with my primary focus being the front door (thus the name!) or entry of the home. I looked for interesting architectural details, color, or other elements that make a homes front entry look special, whether it be potted plants, a wreath, wonderful light fixtures, statuary or whatever other creative option a homeowner might use. I have since expanded into full house portraits, choosing to take most shots face on. I still snap a door up close if it is particularly interesting (or if the rest of the shot is decidedly uninteresting!) While I continue to love taking shots of what I call “everyday homes” I have also developed a specific interest in historical architecture now I strive to share a good balance of both. What is everyday today will one day be historical, and I find my followers truly enjoy the mix.
From one amateur photographer to another – don’t let your lack of experience or knowledge stop you! Just start shooting and learn along the way. The opportunities are endless, and there is always something new to learn or try, no matter how experienced you are. If you are already an avid photographer, how did you start and what do you use to shoot? What are your photography passions?
My name is Deb Cohen, and I am a lifelong resident of Connecticut, a lover of all things historic and New England, and a realtor who helps buyers and sellers achieve their real estate goals and dreams. When I’m not working, I enjoy life with my husband, our two adult children, and our two rescue pups. Renovating and decorating our historic home, dating to 1800, is another favorite pastime.
I love taking pictures of houses too! When documenting houses for my job, I have been trained to use the corner view, which allows you to see the most of the house in one shot. But I love playing around when just taking pictures for fun. I think front-on pictures are sometimes the most engaging but I’m not sure why. Maybe because the houses look inviting, like we can just walk in the door? I enjoy looking through your house photos. A nice peak at the East Coast 🙂
Thanks, Susie! The corner shot certainly makes the most sense in terms of capturing the majority of a home! I think you are right on why the front view can be more engaging – it sort of begs you to come on in or makes you wonder who lives there!