Joel Tracksdorf

My Scholarship entry - A 'place' I have visited

Australia | Thursday, July 4, 2013 | 5 photos

In my room is a poster of the Afghan Girl, the classical National Geographic photo by Steve McCurry. I consider this the perfect photo as it was taken in a time before digital cameras and computerized effects allowed easy adjusting of images. With the advent of digital cameras and computer effects it is possible for almost anyone to manufacture images to make them better than they actually are.

In spite of this my interest in photography really took off with the introduction of digital cameras and the possibility to play with lighting effects, exposure and colours. It added a new dimension and fun to taking photos for me as going over photos uploaded onto computer later was almost as fun as capturing the photos themselves. It also gave me an appreciation of how amazing classical photos like the Afghan Girl are and provides a pinnacle to aspire to in my photography, to take quality photos in the first place without the need to use digital photo effects.

I have not had any training in photography and an experience like this would provide an amazing opportunity to be mentored, absorb techniques and enhance my skills to create better photos for others and myself to enjoy.