Rick Sammon: Making Images with Impact
Here’s a quick photo tip: When you see a subject you want to photograph, ask yourself: “How can I capture an image that others might not take—a unique photograph that stands out from the crowd?”
That’s what Susan Sammon and I set out to do on a recent visit to a tulip farm in Upstate New York. Instead of snapping the usual flower photos, we aimed for something more creative.
My Creative Vision: Painterly Tulips
I envisioned a painterly-style photograph, as tulip fields often look like brushstrokes on canvas. I also wanted a unique perspective, shooting low to the ground with the goal of creating what I call an “image with impact.”
Gear I Used
To bring this vision to life, I used:
- iPhone 16 Pro
- Reeflex 220° fisheye lens
- Platypod Accessories:
- Extreme – Basic camera support
- Traveler – Compact/lightweight ball head
- Disk – Versatile mounting plate
- Grip – Sturdy smartphone holder
Behind the Shot
While tiptoeing through the tulips (so to speak) I found a group of tulips that felt just right. Placing my setup on the ground, I composed the shot with the sun directly behind the tallest tulip—a backlighting trick that gives a beautiful glow to the subject.
Here’s a behind-the-scenes look at my setup.
After setting my iPhone’s self-timer, I captured a few frames.
The photo at the top of this post is the final image, enhanced with a painterly finish using Topaz Impression by Topaz Labs.
Learn to Shoot Creatively With Only Your iPhone
Want to explore more creative techniques like this? Check out my KelbyOne class:
Travel Photography Using Only Your iPhone
Susan’s Creative Eye
Before I go, a shoutout to Susan Sammon, who also loves exploring creative angles. Here's a fun iPhone selfie she captured during our tulip adventure.
And here's one of Susan’s unique "looking up" shots—beautifully capturing the magic of these flowers.
Good luck with all your photography. – Rick
