Rear Window – © John Neel

Besides all the things we know and think about photography, there is a phenomenon that seems to be a requisite for some of the best photographs ever made.

That phenomenon is the thing that I love most about photography. It is what some of us call luck, a fluke, a good fortune or a happy accident. Some believe that it just happens. Others anticipate it. Most have to work to get it. It counts on being in the right place and being in the right moment. It is about realizing that something photographic is about to occur. It is about the now, its presence, and its significance.

I believe it can be all of the above and more. For me, it is the key to great imagery. It is what I work with and count on. It is why I am addicted to this medium.

A good photographer knows that something interesting is imminent, present and/or just about to happen. It is something in the air, the light, the dynamics of the present moment that somehow comes together in order to fabricate a special instant of time and space. When it happens, somehow you know it, you see it or you sense it and you click the shutter and pray that you captured it. With film, that meant a period of anticipation before the results could be realized. For those who have used film the anticipation added an element of reward in itself.

It is also the subtle details like the glint in an eye, the shape of a hand, the reflection of a cloud, a rip in the fabric, the repetition of shapes, colors or tones, and their the implied interconnection, which add significance, clarity and surprise with their sudden presence in the final image. They are the hidden details, which were likely not recognized before the shutter was fired. To me, these elements are the unexpected bonus. They are what make the image more fascinating and most magical.

That amazing thing is called “serendipity”. Serendipity in photography is the magical element that sets one instant of time and space apart from another. The reward of chance is in what it reveals, implies or projects. Serendipity is the “Angel of Chance”.

Street Portrait – © John Neel

The recognition of chance is an art that a good image-maker understands and uses to advantage. Chance is one of the things that elevate the ordinary into the extraordinary. It is the thing that heightens the experience. It may be that it is the experience.

Chance doesn’t make you less of a photographer. Understanding it and anticipating it only makes you a better photographer.

I count on the serendipity that chance imparts. For me, it is simply a part of the seeing. It may be the biggest part of all.

“Like all photographers, I depend on serendipity … I pray for what might be referred to as the angel of chance.” 
            — Sally Mann

I cover many photographic topics and techniques in my book.  – Great Photography Gift Idea for the Holiday.

Please have a look at some of my other posts here.

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