Week 12: Shallow Depth Of Field
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You can only submit a photo that was taken during the week of the challenge. This is the one rule that unites our entire community.
Week 12: Shallow Depth Of Field
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Terrific! Tell us a little about yourself:
You made it! The very last step!
Welcome to the tribe!!
Week 42: On the Ground!
Extra Challenge: Use A Macro Lens

Just the Facts: You have 7 days to take a photo of something on the ground.
Sometimes we need to take a moment to stop and observe the things we often step over without noticing. This week we’re simply capturing some interesting things going on at lower altitudes.
From streets and sidewalks, to cracks and potholes, to bugs and weeds, our job this week is to take the mundane underneath our feet and present them in visually appealing ways.
Please note that you do not need to be on the ground when shooting, you can shoot at any angle, it’s just your subject that needs to be on the ground. Shooting at a low angle, however, will generally yield more dramatic results!
WATCH: Off the Rails ep. 38 - "How to find unique angles" (for patrons)
WATCH: Off the Rails ep. 12 - Have you Over-Procesed? (for patrons)
You can frame this ground object as your foreground, with some interesting context behind it, or you can shoot straight down for an interesting perspective. You can go macro with a dedicated lens or use your phone’s macro mode which often does an excellent job as well. You can shoot your feet (if they are on the ground) or simply put your camera on the ground and show us the floor’s details. Also, ground starts to sound really strange when you say it too many times. Ground.
Don’t forget to pin a BTS photo in your comments so we can all learn from your process!
Posting to Socials? Our hashtag of the week is #52Frames_ontheground
TIPS:
- Use Leading Lines: Pavements, paths, or natural lines on the ground can guide the viewer’s eye into the scene.
- Focus on Textures: Highlight interesting ground textures like gravel, leaves, or cracks to add depth.
- Play with Shadows: Ground-level shadows can create dramatic effects and emphasize shapes or patterns.
- Look for Reflections: Puddles or wet surfaces can reflect light or scenery for dynamic compositions.
- Use Foreground Details: Use objects like leaves, rocks, or small elements in the foreground to frame your shot.
- Capture Motion: Show movement by photographing animals, people, or vehicles from ground level to add energy.
- Symmetry: Look for symmetrical patterns or shapes on the ground for a balanced, pleasing composition.
- Prep: Carry a drop cloth or mat so you can get low without worrying about getting dirty.
- Go Remote: If your camera can link to your phone, use that to get previews of the viewfinder if you don't have a movable screen.
TUTS:
- 7 Tips for low-angle photography
- Check out these photographers' projects on cryptic NYC utility markings, creative use of potholes, and more street markings.
- Get better at ground level wildlife photography.
- Make your own ground pod (not just for wildlife photography)
- The art of the low shot
- 📱 Video tips for shooting low with a mobile phone camera 📱
- 📱 Shooting with a mobile phone? Check out our "Phone Photographers" Facebook Group.
Looking for more inspiration? Check out our previous albums A Different Angle (2020), and Get Low (2023). And as always, The Googles! Oh you sweet Googles.
Extra Challenge: Use A Macro Lens
Think the Main Challenge alone ain't worthy enough of your photog skillz? Sweet - try adding the EXTRA challenge along with the Main Challenge to showcase your abilities.
This week, we'd like to see you Use A Macro Lens with you getting On The Ground.
Do remember, the EC is neither mandatory nor does it enhance your odds of being picked for any 52F honors. It's just an EXTRA challenge for you, if that's something you want to take on in addition to the Main Challenge. We intentionally design the Extra Challenge to be difficult for most, so only take this on if you are looking for an EXTRA challenge. Get it? It's extra. 💖
Photo credit: Thomas Karlsson - Week 25: Macro (2021)
Remember, you are only submitting ONE photo per week. It is not necessary (and sometimes not possible) to work in this Extra Challenge into your submission. It’s extra challenge!
Upcoming Challenges
Remember, you can only submit photos taken during the week of the challenge!Week 42: On the Ground
Extra Challenge: Use A Macro LensWeek 42: On the Ground
Week 42: On the Ground