Pre-Visualization In Photography

Learning to See as a Photographer

It is not at all uncommon to hear photographers talk about “seeing” a photograph. This can be somewhat confusing to those who are on the outside looking in and are not familiar with the concept. Sure, we physically use our eyes to see an object or a person or a landscape but that’s not exactly what we’re talking about here. A photographer’s sense of sight goes well beyond looking with their eyes. Often times, a photographer will observe a scene and see not what it is but rather what it will become. This is “pre-visualization.” It is the process by which a photographer constructs a final version of an image in their mind. This complete and processed mental print is developed BEFORE they ever press the shutter button.

Pre-visualization might sound a little odd at first but it can do so much to improve your photography. When you begin to pre-visualize you will become a more expressive photographer. Your images will develop a style more unique to your own creativeness. You will also become a much more efficient shooter by being able to shoot less and produce more.

Now, let’s talk a little more about the concept of previsualization and how you can learn to see as a photographer.

Learning to See

Pre-visualizing a photograph is not easy. Let’s just get that out of the way on the
The concept of previsualization takes time to understand and requires patience to use. It’s not something that is ever truly mastered. Yet, it is a skill that can you can refine through repetition, trial and error, and a healthy amount of determination. As you learn to see your photographs before you make them be sure you do not shut yourself off from the process. See the photograph but don’t let that be the only photograph. Look for new compositions within the scene as it evolves and changes Think