See Santa Barbara Through a New Lens
Eye See Santa Barbara Takes Residents and Visitors Alike on Photography Tours
Most can relate to that subtle feeling of disappointment in realizing that the many hundreds of photos you took of your picturesque vacation don’t quite capture the essence of what you saw.
For those of us habitually in that boat, there is Eye See Santa Barbara, a photography tour that takes participants through different Santa Barbara landmarks while teaching the basics of photography. Founded and run by Andreina Diaz, who received her degree from Santa Barbara’s Brooks Institute of Photography, Eye See S.B. employs a hands-on approach to learning the principles of composing a photo, as well as technical methods for shooting and editing. All levels of experience and all types of cameras, from DSLRs to iPhones, are welcome.
Started this past April, Diaz’s two-hour tours — which focus on either the Santa Barbara Mission, the County Courthouse, the harbor, or Stearns Wharf — average six to eight people and run Friday-Sunday. “People really get to experience the location, see their images transforming,” she said. “And the best souvenir that they will take away … is the pictures that they will take during the course.”
Here are a few of Diaz’s top photography tips:
Focus on your target: Though it’s easier said than done, being cognizant of exactly what you want to capture in your photo is vital to revealing your point of view to others. “Fill the frame with what really captures your eye,” Diaz said.
Figure out your approach: Ask yourself questions to help yourself understand why you’re taking the photo. This will allow you to figure out how to properly capture your subject in the way you see it with your eyes.
Just have fun: “Enjoy what you see, and just enjoy taking pictures,” said Diaz. Your enjoyment and how you feel about photographing your subjects reflect in the quality of your pictures.
