Brooks Jensen Arts


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.


Click on the image to see it larger

Previous image  |  Next image

Original digital capture


Click on the image to see it larger

Water Week

I was once advised that there are limitless opportunities for photography at the water's edge. I believe this is true.

Observation #4:

Most often, water allows us to photograph what is above, on, or reflected by the water. But, there are exceptions.

What I learned:

Something deep in our psyche reacts to what we can see below the water's surface. It's as though we are afforded a glimpse at a mystery. I've leaned that these images connect with me on a deeply emotional level. They are rarely comforting, but always intriguing.