In the latest episode of The Perceptive Photographer, I found myself thinking about Steve Jobs. You know that classic moment in his presentations when he'd pause, turn back, and say, “Oh, just one more thing…”? It was his signature move—something small that ended up being hugely impactful. And it got me thinking about photography.
That idea—just one more thing—has stuck with me. It’s become a way to look and critique my own work, and in this week’s podcast, I dig into how paying attention to one more detail, one more adjustment, one more question can fundamentally shift the power and clarity of a photograph. That “one more thing” doesn’t always mean doing more. Sometimes it’s about refining. Sometimes it’s about taking something away.
Questions I’ve Been Asking Myself Lately
In the episode, I posed a few questions that I’ve been leaning on lately. I thought I’d share them here in case they’re helpful for your own work:
- If I could change one thing about this photograph, what would it be?
This is my go-to when something feels “almost” right. It helps me figure out whether it’s a technical tweak or a deeper emotional shift that’s needed. - What’s the one thing I want people to see in this image?
This question gets to the heart of intention. If someone scrolls past this photo, what do I want to stick with them? - If I could ask one question about this photograph, what would it be?
This one flips the perspective and gets me thinking like a viewer. What story am I telling? What do I hope someone feels or wonders when they look at it?
Clarity and Intention: The Ongoing Work
One of the biggest takeaways for me lately is how valuable it is to clarify what I’m trying to say with a photograph. That doesn’t mean spelling it out—but it does mean being honest with myself about what I want the image to do. When I take the time to articulate that, either to myself or in writing, the photograph almost always improves.
Here are a few ways I try to stay intentional:
- Simplify the frame – What doesn’t need to be here?
- Zoom in on the details – What could I make just a little better?
- Pause before I press the shutter – Why this image, right now?
Book Club News
Also check out the launch of my new Photography Book Club. I’m really excited about creating a space to read, reflect, and talk about photography in a more intentional way. Whether it’s through the book club, a workshop, or just chatting through email or social media, I hope you’ll find ways to dig deeper into your own work, too.