Kip’s Comments - November 26, 2025

Not ICM, But ISM

Every now and then I dabble in "ICM” (Intentional Camera Movement). ICM involves a photographer moving the camera ever so slightly during a long exposure. Sometimes ICM works, sometimes I am not so sure I like it. ICM is always an experiment.

I had some time today so I checked out the Shell Rock River where the dam creates nice water movement. When I noticed a log creating unique water movement I knew I had to put my camera on a tripod to capture “ISM” (Intentional Subject Movement). (ISM is my term as far as I know.)

Moving Water - Image 1046377

With ICM or ISM each picture is different, even when composed virtually identically (notice the changes in the moving water).

Moving Water - Image 1046388

As the third image shows, an ISM composition without anything being stationary ends up being an interesting abstract photo.

Moving Water - Image 1046384

Of special note…. Where I shot these photos was very near where friends live. After talking to one of them on the phone earlier in the day, I decided to visit the “Better Half” after shooting these pictures.