Shoot! That's the Point, with John Weiss

Do you carry a point 'n shoot camera with you?

When I made the decision to carry a point 'n shoot camera at all times, my life in photography changed dramatically. Visual delights I'd never seen before magically appeared. Why? Because without a camera on hand, I'd unknowingly shut my eyes: not looking, not seeing. The very act of simply carrying a camera made me incredibly more alert and aware of the world around me.

Here's a perfect example of how the point 'n shoot camera enriches my visual world. I saw this man in New York about 10 days ago. I’m certain that without a camera I would not have noticed him, or at least would have paid him scant attention. Instead, I thought, “Aha, this is a photograph waiting to be made.” More than that, I had a great conversation with "Louis."

I found out he uses Fuji instant film, charges $20 per picture, and that he enlists his friends to seek out flashbulbs. Thanks to that little camera, my visual world has opened up in truly remarkable ways. Everywhere I go, it goes. And now I wonder: Will you start carrying a point 'n shoot with you?

Learn more about maintaining your motivation from John in his workshop
Revitalizing Your Photography

July 11 - July 17, 2010

Visit his web site gallery.me.com/jjdoublejj to see what he's up to.