Hello, photographer. Have you turned on the movie mode in your HDSLR? I waited almost a year before doing so with my 5D Mark II. Why? Because I knew it was a different world and I wasn't ready to go there. I was, and am still, convinced that excellent stories can be told in a series of still images. But motion pictures have their own special way of telling stories, too.

Still photography and motion photography. Which world to live in? Both are possible in a variety of pro and prosumer Digital SLRs, but does that mean you should do both? Answer: no. There's more involved than just switching between modes on your camera while on a shoot. We're talking about different forms of communication and different creative approaches and different production processes and goals. Not to mention gear and techy considerations!

Still images and films represent two extremes. Then there are hybrids that blur lines. To make clear distinctions, I want to examine the extremes & overly generalize. Then you can navigate the middle on your own. Find out where your 'sweet spot' is as a creator of visual media. I'm in the process of figuring this out myself.

A story in a single frame is excessively different than moving images that support a narrative arc--beginning, middle, end, with tension and resolution. I've created a lot of stand alone images, themed galleries, and some photo stories. But with my recent production of the micro-documentary film ExChange, I've taken the opportunity to reflect on just how different these two mediums are.

I hope these simple observations can help you navigate where to take your Creative-Self.

Single images

• Creative approach: passively receive images, reactive to world around us, can be created by wandering or exploring somewhat aimlessly. Images don't need to match each other in any way. (Studio & editorial work is an exception to this. And photo essays blur the boundaries)
• Made solo. (Even with an assistant, you're still in total creative control)
• Still or stopped light.
• Viewers interact actively with the image. They have to pause and think about it.
• There's a Decisive Moment in a single image that determines whether or not you "got the shot".
• Story within a frame.
• Different laws and permissions.
• Gear: camera + one lens = enough.

Films: micro, short and feature length
(This likely applies to hybrid stories, too, that mix stills & motion)

• Creative approach: proactive creation, planning & purpose, consistency is necessary.
• Made collaboratively: producer, director, DP, editor, sound/audio, graphics, animation, writer, etc. Light moves and changes.
• Viewers passively receive the message.
• No decisive moment, visuals are just one part of a greater whole.
• Linear story.
• Different laws and permissions.
• Gear: let's just say it gets complicated with HDSLRs. Lots more tripod use with fluid heads and gadgets to move the camera.

Like I said, I've overly generalized here. But I think it's helpful to recognize these differences, especially things like creating solo or collaboratively. Which are you wired for? And things like how the audience interacts with the media are good to be aware of when approaching a project. Well, I'm with you on this journey, so please respond below with any comments, questions, frustrations, joys, and insights. Share your experiences here with us. I really am curious to hear from you. Thanks!

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Disclaimer: While IGVP strives for unity and clarity of vision, each blog author is responsible for his or her own words, links, and references. They do not necessarily represent the many voices and opinions of individuals within the visual peacemakers movement, the Guild, or the IGVP Founders.