Toned version of an electicity power grid.

When was the last time you looked up? As photographers, we usually find ourselves looking out on an even plane with the camera held to our eye and our head straight. Occasionally we might squat, sit or lie down to focus on something at ground level but rarely do we point the camera up.

Think of the types of subjects that normally require you to look up to see, things such as the moon, birds or tall buildings. Now bring to mind any photographs of them you’ve taken or seen and you’ll probably realize that they are taken on a relatively flat aspect. We often see photos of the moon is the distance over something, or birds flying low, or a tall building as part of a cityscape. Much less common is the photograph that looks directly up.

The image that accompanies this tip is of an electricity pylon that forms part of Taiwan’s electricity grid. By standing almost directly under it, using a wide angle lens (19mm in this case on a full frame camera) and looking up, I’m able to create a sense of domination. The tower has an imposing feel to it, a real sense of power.

Try this technique next time you’re wandering around the city, or in a forest of tall trees. Remember to look up and photograph what you see. There are plenty of photo opportunities waiting for you.

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