Use a shallow depth of field
Often when I’m feeling a little overwhelmed by what to shoot in places like markets or busy streets, I’ll start by shooting details. I find it meditative and relaxing to concentrate on a single object. One key to capturing details is to use a shallow depth of field to separate the object from the background. In Peru, I saw this wonderful plate of corn. By using a very shallow depth of field—an aperture of f/2.8—I was able to isolate a few parts of the corn. I think this has created a photograph that can be used in many locations. It takes on a abstract look which is what I wanted. I also added a hard light technique to make it really pop.
