Exploring Negative Space: A Foggy Holiday Photoshoot in Baton Rouge

As a photographer, I typically lean towards a "fill the frame" approach. I’ve often subscribed to Robert Capa's belief that "if your photos aren't good, you're not close enough." This philosophy has led me to capture tightly composed images, leaving little room for negative space. However, during my recent holiday visit to Baton Rouge, LA, I encountered a unique opportunity that prompted me to explore the art of negative space photography.

Walking through the thick fog that enveloped the landscape, I realized the potential for creating captivating images using intentional empty space. Negative space is the area around and between the subjects of an image — an element that can hold tremendous power when used thoughtfully. In a world where clarity and detail are often prioritized, fog creates an atmosphere that encourages the viewer to see what’s hidden behind the veil.

On my first day of shooting, I inadvertently left my white balance settings untouched, resulting in a strikingly blue image. Surprisingly, I found this unexpected outcome delightful; the blue tones highlighted the moody essence of the fog and transformed a simple mistake into art. This experience taught me that sometimes, embracing imperfection can lead to compelling results.

Fog, much like haze used on film sets, enhances depth in photographs. It acts as a visual layer, allowing light to bounce off objects at varying distances. This interplay results in a sense of dimension that draws the viewer into the image. By juxtaposing sharp subjects against the softer background created by fog, I was able to enhance the dimensionality and intrigue of my photographs.

During this shoot, I took photos of the same subject multiple times, making slight adjustments each time to observe how those small changes affected the outcome. This process reinforced the idea that photography is all about exploration and experimentation. Each slight tweak unveiled new perspectives and inspired creativity.

Ultimately, my foggy holiday shoot became an educational experience — a chance to stretch my creative muscles and redefine my approach to photography. By embracing negative space, I discovered new ways to convey emotion and atmosphere in my work.

I encourage fellow photographers to challenge themselves in a similar way. Step into the fog, explore the empty spaces, and see what stories unfold.