How to Capture a Dragon: The Value of Patience

Enter the Dragon

In photography, every image has a “creating the shot” back story. It's not just about the final product but the decision-making process and the ability to see beyond the obvious. I had the chance to dive into this process with renowned photographer, Timothy Poulton, discussing his captivating image, Enter the Dragon.

He said, “For Enter the Dragon, I focused on the surroundings." The process didn't start with a grand vision but a careful study of the location. It was a blend of elements - a misty fog, a dark mountainside, and a scene in transition. As conditions changed, the light interacted with the clouds, and the colours began to pop.” I had that great feeling that I was about to nail it!”

What's remarkable here is Timothy's attention to detail, patience, and appreciation for the subtle transformations in nature. "The clouds didn't stand out at first," he said. This is a critical point to note. Not every component in a scene will immediately scream out its potential. Sometimes, you must wait, observe changes, and recognise opportunities when they present themselves.

"I waited, watching them shift and eventually form a dragon-like shape. That's when I took the shot." The result? An image that captures the moment and the image that Timothy had hoped for. It's a reminder that patience and timing play a key role in photography. Rushing a shot can lead to missed opportunities, but waiting for the right moment can make all the difference.

Timothy Poulton's approach to photography is refreshingly grounded. He captures incredible images by patiently observing and appreciating his surroundings. It's a simple approach but one that consistently yields extraordinary results.

You can follow more “creating the shot” stories using this hashtag #CreatingtheShot”.