New media innovations like social media have changed the way I look at the world around me. Specifically, Instagram made me more aware of the change of color and light throughout the day and how it reflects on different surfaces to create unique effects. It has opened my eyes to a new way to take pictures. Most of the pictures on the site are aesthetically pleasing and creatively styled with props. Before using Instagram, I just took pictures with people on special occasions like birthdays. Now, after using social media, I take pictures of everything, not just people. This new media creation has taken me out of my comfort zone. It has helped me find the beauty in the everyday things that would have gone unnoticed by me.
For example, I took a picture of the Unisphere pictured above. Inspired by users of Instagram, I creatively styled it with the branches and leaves surrounding it by stepping back a few feet and slightly tilting my camera up. This allowed me to use up the entire space and not leave any blank spaces.
I remember the day that I took the picture where the window is reflecting on the water. I was surprised that I even noticed it. The water was so still that it looked identical to the real-life version.
With the Instagram app, I am inspired to get creative and I am able to edit my photos without spending significant time learning how to do it. I am able to create great images without a heavy cost. In the pictures above, I slightly edited the shadows, highlights, and increased the saturation to bring out the color. The app's editing feature is simple to understand that I was able to use it without any problem.
In conclusion, new media has inspired me to look at the world more artistically and appreciate being able to see in color.
