Be in control of your work

Focus Group Description

Strong photographs come from clear decisions, not from chance or automation. In this focus group, Morten Qvale leads a practical discussion on how technical understanding gives photographers real control over their images. The session connects analogue thinking with digital practice and shows why fundamentals still matter.

First, we will look at how analogue photography trains the eye and sharpens decision making. Understanding exposure, light, and process forces photographers to slow down and think, and that mindset carries directly into digital work. Next, we will discuss how over reliance on automation can weaken intent, especially when photographers stop questioning what the camera decides for them. Then we will turn to consistency: control helps photographers repeat results, refine style, and work with confidence both in the studio and on location.

Throughout the session, participants will raise their own technical challenges and habits. By doing so, the discussion stays grounded in real practice rather than abstract theory.

About the Mentor

Morten Qvale began his photography career after founding a fashion magazine in 1983, which led him to work closely with leading fashion photographers of that era. Through studying the work and discipline of Ansel Adams, he deepened his understanding of exposure, control, and photographic intent. His experience spans studio and location work, with a strong emphasis on mastering fundamentals as the foundation of strong imagery.

Format
This is a 40 minute interactive roundtable discussion. Morten will introduce key ideas through examples. Then he will guide a participant led conversation focused on control, clarity, and practical understanding.