Click here to see a larger version of this photograph.
When you run out of subjects to photograph you can always turn to that forgotten dream subject. The always underestimated cow. Yes, you read that right. The cow.
The options are there people. They live on sweeping landscapes, they are available for portraits without the hassle of prearranged appointments. You feel like shooting some photos and they are there all the time, every time. No questions asked.
You feel like going all “fine art” on them and they will not flinch. The first photo you see here was the result of shooting a large herd in Sterling Connecticut. I whipped out my 135 f/2 and started framing some creative compositions. They didn’t mind. In fact I think they enjoyed it. Cows are curious. They knew I was doing something with a strange shiny machine of some sort. They were cool about it.
They add perspective to landscape work that makes it dramatically better than just the land and sky. For example the following image entitled “The Supervisor” was taken in Griswold Connecticut and if you imagine the photo without the cows it just dies. Falls flat.
To see a larger version of “The Supervisor” click here.
The choices of scenarios and compositions that a group of cows offers a photographer are vast. A great way to hone your skills at all types of photography can be learned by practicing the art of photographing cows. Trust me it works.
For example. The following picture is called “The Three Amigos“.
To see a larger version of “The Three Amigos” click here.
To get better at your portraiture just head on down to the local farm and find yourself some cows. They love people. Whenever I see a herd of cattle in a field and I pull over to look at them, inevitably a few if not all the cows come walking right over to me. It’s uncanny. This is when you can really work on your portraiture skilz.
The following are a couple of my favorite cow portraits.
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Finally one in living color. I like his haircut.
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The bottom line is this. If you want to become a better photographer……….photograph more cows.
{ 3 comments… read them below or add one }
Dude…I’ve said it before…you take cows to a WHOLE new level…seriously. THe personality and character you capture in these animals is unreal…they could be in any number of the “California cows are more happy” campaign ads. Here in Merced we’re surrounded by thousands of cows, and now I must try this sometime soon…I feel I need a small break from street and while macro and landscape always offers alternatives, I NEVER thought of the cows around here! Great post, fantastic pictures, wonderful inspiration Tom!
Great post Tom! I have shot cows before and they are incredibly peaceful creatures which remind me very much of humans in a sort of way. And great images, especially your shot “The Supervisor”. Great work buddy!
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I love the composition and b&w conversion on those pics!