Square Snaps: To Crop or Not to Crop?

In the fast-paced world of photography, every shot tells a story, capturing moments that offer a glimpse into the photographer’s world. But before any photo hits your feed, there’s a crucial decision every shutterbug faces: to crop or not to crop? This choice isn’t just about technical adjustments—it’s about how we use cropping in photography to frame our stories and shape our visual narratives. Let’s dive into the debate through a detailed look at one photo showcased in two ways: its original square format versus a cropped rectangular format.

To Crop or Not to Crop: That Is the Question!

Woman in kimono reading at traditional Japanese temple with lantern and Shimenawa.
Woman in kimono reads quietly at serene Japanese shrine.

Taking photos in a square format does present it’s challenges. When you snap a photo, the format you choose can significantly affect your shot’s impact. Take, for example, a photo I took with my Hasselblad 503cxi medium format camera using the standard 80mm Carl Zeiss lens and Ilford FP4 film rated at ISO 125. The fine grain quality of the Ilford FP4 film provides excellent detail retention, allowing for some flexibility to crop a bit if needed without losing image integrity. In its original square format, while not bad, I wondered if right third of the photo was helping anything. Yes, the subject is technically in a good position according to the rule of thirds, but she’s not facing inwards.

Traditional Japanese shrine, and example of cropping in photography

Switch it up to the rectangular crop, and the story changes a bit. This version pulls in more of the shrine above her head, stretching the scene and adding a new layer of depth. Now, the vertical lines of the architecture become more pronounced, changing how we view the space around her and what it emphasizes. Taking the rule of thirds into account again, the subject is locate mostly on the lower right 1/3 part of the photograph, and she’s facing to the left, inwards. I thought this improved the image.

Real Talk About Cropping in Photography

Real talk about cropping in photography: Personally, I’m a fan of getting it right on the first try, filling up my frame just the way I want from the get-go. Why fuss with cropping later when you can nail it during the shoot, right? But let’s be real: cropping is a hot topic in the street photography scene. One time a “street photographer” with an overly high opinion of his own work had a meltdown on Meta’s “Threads” for a small crop I made to one of my photos. Yes, seriously. Some folks think it’s almost sacrilegious to snip anything away, arguing that the magic lies in the original composition.

What the Greats Did

Now, let’s talk legends. Henri Cartier-Bresson is often hailed as the king of the perfect shot, famously known for his “decisive moment” and supposedly anti-cropping stance. But here’s a twist: even he was not immune to cropping when needed, like in his iconic “Behind the Gare Saint Lazare.” It goes to show that even the greats knew when breaking the rules could make a good shot great.

Cropping: A Creative Decision

Depending on what you’re shooting, the decision to crop can really shape your narrative. Landscape photographers might crave that wider frame to capture sprawling vistas, while portrait photogs can benefit from the snug intimacy of a square shot, focusing all attention right where it needs to be.

Every crop (or lack thereof) tells its own story, playing with aesthetics and impact in ways that can either amplify your message or muddle it. It’s all about how you want to tell your story, balancing the technical with the artistic to craft something truly memorable.

The Bottom Line

The great cropping debate isn’t just about trimming edges—it’s a core part of how photographers define their style and communicate their vision. So next time you’re about to snap a shot, think about not just what you see but how you want to showcase it. Your creative choices define your narrative, so make each decision count and let your unique voice shine through your work. Whether you crop or keep it OG, remember: it’s all about how you frame the world through your lens.

Black and White Film Photography at Ogawa Suwa Shrine

Traditional Japanese shrine with lanterns and cherry blossoms in black and white photography.

The making of a B&W film photograph

Since it was cherry blossom season, I recently, I took a visit to the nearby Suwa Shrine in Ogawa-town, Iwaki City, Fukushima, Japan to engage in some black and white film photography. It’s a place steeped in culture and tradition, and it presented a perfect moment for some heartfelt photography.

The Scene

Tucked beneath the gentle bloom of cherry blossoms, the shrine was adorned with traditional decorations, including lanterns that swayed slightly in the breeze. Each element seemed to tell its own story. Among these serene surroundings, I captured an elderly woman in a moment of prayer, her gesture of reverence connecting her with generations past.

Technical Choices

For this particular occasion, I chose my reliable Hasselblad 503cxi, a medium format film camera that’s fantastic for capturing detailed and well-balanced images. I used the standard Carl Zeiss 80mm lens and a yellow contrast filter. I shot on Ilford FP4 film, developed in Kodak HC-100 developer solution “B,” known for bringing out fine grain and high sharpness, which added a timeless quality to the image.

Perfecting the Exposure

To ensure the exposure was just right, I used a Sekonic light meter for an incident light reading. I walked up to the shrine and pointed the dome of the meter back towards where I planned to take the photo from. This method helped me accurately capture the soft, diffuse light, emphasizing the detailed textures of the scene without harsh shadows or overblown highlights.

From Film to Digital

After developing the film, I scanned the negatives with my Fujifilm X-T4 digital camera using a Fujifilm XF 80mm macro lens . This hybrid approach allows me to combine the authenticity of film with the convenience of digital technology, ensuring that the unique character of the analog image is preserved while facilitating editing and sharing. Rest assured, I will be making a full analog darkroom print of this later, however.

Looking Ahead

This photograph goes beyond simple documentation; it’s a narrative that invites reflection on cultural significance and personal devotion. I’m also planning to create a darkroom print of this image to deepen its visual narrative further. I’ll be sure to update the blog with that experience and the reflections it brings.

I hope this image and its story resonate with you as they did with me. It’s a reminder of how photography can connect us to the enduring aspects of human culture and spirit. Join me as we continue to explore the power of photography to capture and celebrate these moments.

The Warm Charm of Film Photography vs. Digital Photography

Film vs. Digital Photography comparison highlighting nostalgic charm and modern convenience
Monochrome capture of an industrial riverside complex with towering silos and parked freight train.

Film vs. Digital Photography: Timeless Charm Meets Modern Convenience

In the age of Instagram and high-tech digital cameras, it’s easy to forget about the humble beginnings of photography. Today’s fast-paced, digitally-infused world has given us unprecedented access to images and the tools to create them. Yet, despite this digital revolution, there’s a resurgence of love for good old film photography. Film vs. Digital Photography presents a fascinating contrast between nostalgia and modern convenience, captivating photographers worldwide.

The Unique Allure of Film Photography

Film photography requires a more intentional approach, making each shot feel deliberate and meaningful. Shooting on film is often seen as a slower, meditative process. Without instant previews, photographers must trust their skills and make careful decisions for every frame. Techniques like the “Sunny 16” rule and Ansel Adams’ Zone System are cornerstones of the craft, along with creative practices like pushing and pulling film during development.

Film’s tactile qualities add to its charm. Handling film rolls, loading them into the camera, and developing negatives create a physical connection to the process. The result? Images with distinctive grain, tonal richness, and a timeless quality that digital methods struggle to replicate. These tangible characteristics make film photography feel like a bridge to the past, preserving moments in a way that feels uniquely authentic.

The Sleek Convenience of Digital Photography

Digital photography has revolutionized the accessibility and efficiency of capturing moments. With no limits on exposures, photographers can take hundreds—or even thousands—of images without the worry of film or development costs. Instant feedback through digital previews allows photographers to make quick adjustments and refine their shots on the spot. This makes digital photography ideal for beginners looking to learn and experiment.

Advanced features in digital cameras, such as autofocus, high-speed burst mode, and 4K video, provide unmatched versatility. These tools make it easier to capture fast-moving subjects, intricate details, or creative compositions that might be challenging with film. The flexibility of digital photography is one of its most significant advantages.

Creative Control Through Post-Processing

One of the standout benefits of digital photography is the ability to enhance and transform images through post-processing. Software like Adobe Lightroom and Photoshop unlocks creative possibilities that are difficult to achieve with film alone. Photographers can adjust exposure, manipulate colors, and add effects with precision and ease. These tools make digital photography an essential medium for commercial projects and artistic endeavors.

Comparing Costs: Film vs. Digital Photography

When weighing the costs of Film vs. Digital Photography, there are trade-offs. Film cameras are often less expensive to purchase upfront, especially on the secondhand market. However, the ongoing costs of buying film rolls and paying for development can add up over time. Digital cameras require a higher initial investment, but they eliminate recurring costs, making them more economical in the long run for frequent shooters.

Emotional Connection to the Medium

Film photography fosters a deeper emotional connection to the craft. The slower, deliberate process of capturing an image on film encourages mindfulness and a heightened appreciation for composition and lighting. Each shot feels precious, a stark contrast to the rapid-fire approach often used in digital photography.

Digital photography, while less tactile, offers its own emotional rewards. The ability to instantly capture, share, and preserve memories strengthens connections with others. The medium’s immediacy and accessibility make it an invaluable tool for storytelling and documentation.

Finding Balance: A Hybrid Approach

For many photographers, the choice isn’t one or the other—it’s both. Film and digital photography each have their strengths, and combining them can offer the best of both worlds. Film is often reserved for personal or artistic projects, while digital excels in fast-paced environments and commercial work. This hybrid approach enriches the creative process and allows photographers to explore the unique advantages of both mediums.

Custom Prints to Showcase Your Work

If this exploration inspires you, custom prints of your favorite film or digital photographs are available. Whether you’re drawn to the nostalgic charm of film or the dynamic possibilities of digital, these prints are perfect for preserving your vision. Contact us here to order high-quality prints that showcase your unique style.

The Final Word: Film vs. Digital Photography

The debate between Film vs. Digital Photography ultimately comes down to personal preference. Film offers a nostalgic, tactile experience that connects photographers to their craft in a deeply meaningful way. Digital photography brings unmatched convenience, creativity, and flexibility to the art form. Both mediums contribute uniquely to the world of photography, and the passion behind each shot is what truly matters.

Ballantine’s Scotch Whiskey

You seriously lose all sense of time when you are in the “zone.”  I started this at 4 pm in the afternoon, finished it around 8:30 pm and it seemed like only 2 hours had passed.  Anyway, I purposefully chose a blue background as a complementary color to the orange-ish color of the whiskey.  When put into a small shot glass, you get yellow for some reason but whatever, just went with it.  I usually don’t draw this out in charcoal but in this case I wanted accurate proportions on everything so I skipped laying it out with a brush.

Ballentines Scotch Whiskey
Ballentines Scotch Whiskey – F4 Oil on canvas