When I go out shooting I often have an idea in my head of the photo I am hoping to take. The danger is that sometimes I can get so caught up in the shot I want that I miss the beautiful shots around me. It’s like photographer’s tunnel vision. So today’s tip is easy: Keep an eye out for the shot you weren’t looking for.

Last night was a perfect example. I went out at dusk to photograph Venus and Jupiter. Wherever you are in the world, you can see these 2 beautiful worlds, only 3 degrees apart, for the next few weeks.  It’s a gorgeous sight. Just look to the west, just after sundown.

I decided to head out to a park just west of my place where I knew I’d get a clear view. The park is an interesting space because with the right camera angle you can make the shot look like it was taken in an isolated area, when really, it’s right in the middle of a condo complex.

I got my shot, and I was thrilled with it :) Then I packed up my camera for the short walk home. As soon as I turned around I saw what I had missed – 180 degrees from this beautiful, isolated shot of the sky was a veritable forest of condominiums, one of which is my home, framing the CN tower perfectly. All I had to do was turn around and look.

Of course I had to unpack the camera and set up again, but I’m glad that I did :) Always keep an eye out for the shot you weren’t looking for!