In the Flash

'In the Flash' explores the intersections of photography with various aspects of culture, technology, and personal expression. It covers topics like the impact of social media and AI on photography, the creative process, industry challenges, and personal stories from the field, offering insights into both the technical and philosophical dimensions of photography.

Social Media and Virality AI and Technology in Photography Creative Process in Photography Personal Expression and Storytelling Professional vs Amateur Photography Cultural and Social Commentary Industry Challenges and Ethics Personal Development and Career Historical Perspectives and Influences Event and Documentary Photography

The hottest Substack posts of In the Flash

And their main takeaways

How the NFL Sent me to Photograph My First Ever Football Game

963 implied HN points • 09 Feb 24
🎾 Sports Photography American culture Visual storytelling
  1. The author had an unexpected opportunity to photograph an NFL game despite not being a fan of American sports, offering a unique perspective on capturing the event.
  2. Preparation for the photography shoot involved visual research on American football imagery, using different equipment from the usual professionals to create distinctive photos.
  3. The experience of photographing the game provided insight into the community bond and excitement of sports events, drawing a parallel between the fervor of sports fans and religious followers.
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How to Edit Your Own Work

569 implied HN points • 31 Jan 24
🎨 Art & Illustration Photography Editing Creativity
  1. Editing in photography involves choosing images, while processing is post-work.
  2. Photography doesn't end after the shoot; editing is a crucial step that requires different skills.
  3. Editing requires focus and intent, contrasting with the more instinctive act of taking photos.

My Favorite Music of 2023

884 implied HN points • 26 Dec 23
🎶 Music Reviews Recommendations Playlist
  1. The author shares their favorite music of 2023 including a variety of artists and genres.
  2. Music has played a significant role in the author's life, from childhood experiences to discovering new artists and albums.
  3. The post provides links to the Spotify playlist of the best music of 2023 and recommends other music writers on Substack.

Year in Review, 2023

786 implied HN points • 20 Dec 23
🎨 Art & Illustration Photography Creativity Feminism Technology Personal Development
  1. The author is thankful for the support and growth of their newsletter in 2023, especially from paid subscribers.
  2. Some of the most popular posts in 2023 focused on topics like viral fashion images, AI photography, and photography do's and don'ts.
  3. Personal stories and reflections on topics like vulnerability in photography and feminist representation also resonated with readers.

The Muddy Schadenfreude of Burning Man

1926 implied HN points • 08 Sep 23
🎭️ Culture Events Art Opinion Criticism Entertainment
  1. There is a collective backlash against Burning Man due to global warming leading to muddy conditions, criticized by journalists and intellectuals.
  2. Burning Man is not just about drugs and orgies; it also features art installations, interactive experiences, and a sense of wonder.
  3. Despite criticisms, Burning Man offers an escape from daily life, a space for freedom, creativity, and a reset from societal norms.

The Problem of AI Photography is Not the Medium, It's the Message.

3695 implied HN points • 25 Apr 23
🎨 Art & Illustration Photography AI Ethics Creativity Aesthetic
  1. The problem with AI photography is not the technology itself but the lack of creativity in the message
  2. The photography industry is facing challenges with AI technology affecting artistic integrity and empathy
  3. Artificial intelligence in photography raises concerns about originality, ethics, and the future of creative expression

A Search for Vulnerability in Photography

2004 implied HN points • 20 Jul 23
🎨 Art & Illustration Photography Creativity Intimacy Writing Emotions
  1. Photography can serve as a shield to hide personal fears and insecurities, but writing can bring out vulnerability more easily.
  2. Starting a newsletter allowed the author to express intimate thoughts and emotions that were hard to convey through photography.
  3. Transitioning from amateur to professional photography can lead to a loss of personal storytelling and a shift towards voyeuristic work.

The Anatomy of Photographing a British Party

1179 implied HN points • 13 Jun 23
🎨 Art & Illustration Photography Visual Arts Event coverage
  1. Photographing parties can be a way to capture unique stories through observation of interactions and details.
  2. Adapting photography styles to different party atmospheres, like from New York to London, can result in new and creative visual approaches.
  3. Incorporating various inspirations like paintings, songs, or movies can enhance the storytelling and artistic elements in event photography.

Tick Tock to Photography’s Day of Reckoning

805 implied HN points • 10 Feb 23
  1. Photography is evolving with the rise of TikTok and vertical videos.
  2. Professional photographers are facing challenges adapting to new social media platforms.
  3. The future of photography storytelling may involve incorporating video and audio content.

When Photos Go Rogue on Social Media

825 implied HN points • 16 Dec 22
  1. There can be a difference between a photographer's intentions and how viewers interpret photos on social media.
  2. Photography can be a medium where intent and creativity play important roles.
  3. Exploring the impact and perception of photos online can provide valuable insights.

What Happens in Vegas (on Christmas) Gets Photographed

648 implied HN points • 26 Dec 22
  1. The post discusses documenting Christmas events in Las Vegas through photography.
  2. The content is part of a paid subscriber publication about intent and creativity in photography.
  3. Readers are encouraged to subscribe to access the full content.

Welcome to In The Flash

609 implied HN points • 14 Dec 22
  1. The newsletter 'In The Flash' explores intent, meaning, creativity, and inspiration in photography.
  2. The author, Dina Litovsky, shares stories, insights, and secrets from her experience in the photography industry.
  3. Paid subscribers of the newsletter get access to bonus content, community discussions, full archives, and special announcements.

The Strange Reality of Being a Woman Photographer Online

530 implied HN points • 19 Dec 22
  1. The article discusses misogyny faced by women photographers online.
  2. It addresses the impact of social media criticism on women photographers.
  3. The publication highlights the challenges unique to female photographers in the online sphere.

Music That Inspired Me In 2022

353 implied HN points • 30 Dec 22
  1. The author found a new passion for music that reignited their excitement like a teenager.
  2. They recommend music from artists like Rosalia, Shygirl, and DJ Python for unique and engaging sounds.
  3. The music of 2022 offers a diverse mix of genres and styles that evoke different emotions and experiences.

Glitterati in a Flash — How I spent a Month Photographing High Society Parties

353 implied HN points • 10 Dec 22
  1. Photographing high society events involves tactics like misdirection and speed to capture candid shots.
  2. Photography can provide a voyeuristic glimpse into the world of the rich and famous, highlighting disparities between different social classes.
  3. Using off-camera flash can create a dramatic effect on images, highlighting subjects while darkening the background.

The Highs and Lows of Nude Photography on Album Covers

393 implied HN points • 16 Oct 22
  1. Nude photography on album covers has been used by artists of all genders, with varying degrees of success and intent.
  2. The portrayal of nudity on album covers can range from empowering to objectifying, depending on the artist's approach.
  3. Album covers play a significant role in visual art, even in the age of streaming, where they add a dimension to the music experience.

Becoming a Photographer Because of My Mom, and Despite Her

471 implied HN points • 09 May 22
  1. The influence a mother can have on shaping a child's career path.
  2. The struggles faced by the author in pursuing a photography career despite parental disapproval.
  3. The complex relationship between the author and their mother, marked by tension but also love and influence.