Stremelling technique
Stremel (streh’ mull) – To “Stremel”, it’s been “Stremelled”, I’ve been “Stremelling”.
Definition – the act of making an image largely through the use of luck. Term coined in reference to one Doug Stremel – the luckiest shooter on earth (although one Bruce Snell has also been instrumental in the development of the technique).
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These blown-glass bird baths were on display outside of a garden shop. I went wide with my 17-35mm Nikkor and blindly held the camera underneath them pointing up to the overcast sky. It was all luck from there — no careful framing or focus point selection — just hoping for the best.
I’ve seen both my brother, Bruce, and Doug using this technique and I have to say that they look a little odd doing it. Or maybe they just look a little odd. I don’t know. Anyway, I’ve found myself following their lead on several occasions lately — recklessly abandoning the use of the viewfinder — and it’s almost always worked out well. Go figure.
Wow! I can’t believe I’ve been associated with the “Stremeling Technique” although I am a bit bummed that my name isn’t worthy!?!
As a good Roman Catholic, I’ve always just referred to the technique as my “Hail Mary”…
-Bruce
You guys crack me up. That shot is beautiful!
Bruce: Well, maybe it’s the “Strem(el)(Sn)elling” technique. Does that make you feel better?
Christy: Thanks!
Although I didn’t invent (or perfect) the technique – I’m humbled to have my name attached to it.
Maybe we should call Bruce’s version of this technique something a little different, like – “the Brucedure” or “that technique takes Brucexpertise” or “the Brucexcellence approach” or “before attempting this technique you should consult “his Bruceminence.” Just a thought.
And, Mike, it’s still a wonderful shot!
-doug
Hey man, I was just jokin’. Stremeling has a ring to it.
My favorite part of your post (other than the image of course) is the line: “recklessly abandoning the use of the viewfinder”! I love that part. I’ve built a career on “reckless abandon”.
Just remember… “We don’t need no stinkin’ viewfinders”!
-Bruce
Well, in any case, we have to use “Brucedure” for something. That term is just too good to let go. I’m assuming it’s pronounced “Brew-see-dure” like “procedure”? I love it. It should be a Photoshop action.
Hmmm… can you build “reckless abandon” into a photoshop action? What about “uncontrolled spontaneity”?
-Bruce
man, what a great reminder. i don’t care what we call it, but we should do it more often.