Sometimes a super crisp, focused image is great. Other times I see something different than the whole shot. It is those moments that make a good image, but they are sometimes hard to discern. I like to go back to Photoshop and try and see if I can create what I “saw” when I was in the moment. You might be surprised!

Take, for example, this image I shot recently in Copenhagen. I got up before the sun was up and took in this 1/4 mile canal before the crowds even arrived. I immediately saw the expanse of old, colorful structures huddled together and recognized it as a beautiful place. But as I sat there trying to discern what really caught my eye, I realized it was just a detail of the grand scheme that I found so intriguing. One can’t look at a single structure and simultaneously see its reflection, much less all the buildings at the same time. Instead, our brain fills in the gaps through hundreds of “images” made by our eyes in seconds.

But what happens if we replicate the eye, one or two images at a time? That’s something to consider. And in considering this wonder of the eye/brain connection, I began exploring what one, two, or three images alone would look like. And this explains the “Nyhavan Blur.”

Now, I know this is not for everyone. There is, however, a certain pleasure in seeing just one or two details at a time. What do you think? Better yet, I challenge you to try this out. Look up from your screen and look across the street or room for just a second. Now close your eyes and think about what details you saw. Repeat the process with a shorter look. What stood out? What emotion did it evoke from you?

That is how I approach photography. Something triggers a response so I stop, slow down, look closely, and try to zero in on what it was that caught my eye. Then, and only then, will I lift my camera and try to frame and capture that detail. The rest of the scene can simply remain a figurative blur!

Here’s another one. What was it that you think captured my eye?

Here, it was the contrast of colors: green and blue. When looking up the path, those colors were but a blur until I raised my eyes toward the trees and sky. It’s quite interesting to look at the world around you in this manner and I encourage you to give it a try.