“f/8 and Be There” – A Philosophy for Preparedness in Photography
Photography quotes are a dime a dozen, coined by past and present master practitioners, but one phrase has stood the test of time as both a practical tip and a philosophy: “f/8 and be there.”
Attributed to photojournalist Arthur Fellig—better known as Weegee— who worked in the 1940s, this simple phrase carries wisdom for photographers who prefer to be in the heart of the action capturing authentic moments.
But what does it mean, and how can you apply it to your own photography?
The Meaning Behind “f/8 and Be There”
At its core, the saying is a call to prioritise presence and readiness over obsessing about technical perfection:
- f/8: This aperture setting is a solid middle ground—offering a good depth of field and sharpness while letting in a decent amount of light. In the film era, when autofocus and advanced metering weren’t available, f/8 was a reliable setting that allowed photographers to grab a sharp shot quickly without worrying about precise focusing. (Note; many photographers of that era would use zone-focusing, which ensures that anything within a particular zone of distance would render reasonably sharp).
- Be There: This is the heart of the phrase. The most important factor in getting the shot is simply showing up, being present, and having your camera ready.
For photographers, this philosophy is a reminder that successful images aren’t just about gear and settings. They’re about being in the right place at the right time, prepared to capture the moment when it happens.
Applying “f/8 and Be There” to Your Photography
1. Keep Your Camera Ready
You can miss many great shots because the camera isn’t at hand or settings aren’t dialled in beforehand. Whether you’re shooting street photography, travel, or events, keep your camera turned on with a general-purpose setting that allows you to quickly shoot in that light, and for the moments you’re looking to capture.
2. The Art of Anticipation
Being there means more than just physical presence—it’s about observing, predicting, and positioning yourself in the best possible way. If you’re photographing in a bustling urban setting, watch for interesting characters or interactions. If you’re in nature, anticipate how the light might change or where wildlife might appear. The more you train yourself to anticipate moments, the better your shots will be.
3. Focus on the Story, Not Just the Settings
It’s easy to get caught up in the technical side of photography, but compelling images are about storytelling and emotional impact. Whether it’s a decisive moment on the street, a beautiful landscape, or a candid portrait, an image with emotion and narrative impact will always outshine one that’s merely technically perfect.
4. It’s OK not the be Perfect
Not every image needs to be razor-sharp or perfectly composed to be meaningful. Some of the most iconic photographs in history are slightly blurred, grainy, or have elements of chaos—but they work because they convey emotion, movement, or atmosphere. Don’t be afraid to take risks and capture the moment, even if conditions aren’t ideal.
5. Get Out There and Shoot
You don’t improve by endlessly researching gear or waiting for the perfect conditions to happen. You improve by getting out into the world, taking pictures, making mistakes, and refining your approach over time. Wherever you think photographic opportunities present themselves, you must be there to capture them.
A Philosophy for Every Photographer
The wisdom behind “f/8 and be there” reminds us to simplify, be prepared, and—most importantly—immerse ourselves in the moment. Next time you pick up your camera, don’t overthink it. Set your aperture, step out the door, and be present. You never know what incredible moments await!
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