Every Picture Is a Compromise
Lessons from the Also-rans
Most photography websites show the photographer's very best work. Wonderful. But that's not the full story of a creative life. If we want to learn, we'd better pay attention to the images that aren't "greatest hits" and see what lessons they have to offer. Every picture is a compromise — the sum of its parts, optical, technical, visual, emotional, and even cosmic – well, maybe not cosmic, but sometimes spiritual. Success on all fronts is rare. It's ok to learn from those that are not our best.
This is a series about my also-rans, some of which I've been able to improve at bit (i.e., "best effort"), none of which I would consider my best. With each there are lessons worth sharing, so I will.
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Original digital capture
What I saw that I liked:There was some sort of harvest going on. Could be interesting. What the heck are they harvesting? What I don't like in the picture:However, just leaves on the sidewalk is pretty boring. We need the people. Which lead me to conclude — yet once again — that street portraits are not my strong suit. What I learned:This guy looks more surprised and pissed than he does interesting and inviting. Maybe it has to do with the camo pants and the wicked looking implement. I kept my distance and therefore failed to make any kind of connection with this this guy. And the photograph looks like it. 2nd Chances: What I might try nextThere is no substitute for time and simply talking with someone before you make their portrait. |
