Since the background is as important as the subject, you mustn't let it default by chance. You must control not only vertical and horizontal, you must be aware of the depth of field (or lack of it) that you want in the background.

What you're shooting at doesn't matter, the real question is: 'Does it give you joy?'

I don't see light as something that falls, but as a positive force.

Try to go out empty and let your images fill you up.

Always shoot it now. It won't be the same when you go back.

Had I not been told to look, I would have quite, ignorant of what was really there, because I had 'made plans' and was wearing visual and emotional blinders that limited my perceptions and my vision.

Be aware of every square millimeter of your frame.