June Theme Assignment

Reminder: Phones and pocket-style cameras only.

Our next Oak City Clicks assignment is all about Moods & Feelings— Expressive Imagery Conveying Joy, Solitude, Energy, or Nostalgia.

1. Use Natural Light Thoughtfully

Light sets the emotional tone. For warmth, joy, or nostalgia, shoot during golden hour (shortly after sunrise or before sunset) when the light is soft and golden. For solitude or melancholy, try overcast lighting or indoor window light to create moody shadows.

2. Focus on Color to Set Emotion

Colors evoke feelings. Bright, saturated tones (reds, yellows, oranges) convey joy and energy. Cool, muted tones (blues, greys) suggest calmness, solitude, or sadness. Use color filters or edit afterward to push the emotional impact.

3. Compose with Intention

Use negative space to emphasize isolation or introspection. A centered subject with a vibrant background can express energy or happiness. Try the rule of thirds to keep your composition balanced while allowing room for emotional context.

4. Capture Expressive Moments

If people are your subject, wait for genuine facial expressions or gestures that reveal emotion. With your phone, use burst mode to capture fleeting moments—like a laugh, a sigh, or a reflective glance.

5. Blur for Mood

Use your phone’s portrait mode or tap-to-focus with a close subject to create depth and blur the background. This soft focus draws attention to the subject and can make the image feel more intimate or emotional.

6. Edit to Enhance Feeling

After taking the photo, use editing apps like Snapseed, VSCO, or Lightroom Mobile. Adjust contrast, warmth, and saturation to lean into the feeling you're trying to express. Consider grain, vignettes, or desaturation for a nostalgic or somber mood.

7. Pay Attention to Environment & Symbolism

A lone figure on a bench, a shadow on a wall, or sun flares through trees can all hint at deeper feelings. Think metaphorically—use reflections, silhouettes, or framing to layer meaning into your photo.

Happy shooting—can’t wait to see your moods! 📷✨