In the post The Art of Noticing, Andy Hawthorne writes about the importance of paying attention when it comes to photography. He describes how his alertness allowed him to capture an interesting and beautiful photo.
In his text, Andy also quotes the photographer Elliot Erwitt:
All the technique in the world doesn’t compensate for an inability to notice.
Wise and true words, which also apply to writing.
When we get hooked on something we're reading, it's often the author's "art of noticing" that draws us into the story. A character portrait, a setting, a situation. A sense of attention to details that transports the reader to that exact moment.
As bloggers, we have everything to gain by sharpening our attention. Every day, no matter how ordinary, is full of ingredients for exciting blog posts. By looking up and listening closely, we can easily contribute to every blog challenge that comes our way.