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.
|
Original digital capture
What I saw that I liked:Again, an early digital image with the same 6 megapixel FujiFilm S602. This was in the basement of the Alkabo School in Alkabo, North Dakota. What I don't like in the picture:I guess it's important to keep your eye on anyone who might walk into the frame just as you click the shutter. What I learned:The more I thought about this as I was waiting for a moment without anyone in my composition, the more I realized two things: the flag was enough, and it really didn't need to be in color. It's the flag contrasted to the square flag-like heating vents that is the point of this image. Color has nothing to do with it. In fact, eliminating the color makes the connection to the flag even stronger. 2nd Chances: What I might try nextI'll have another version of this flag to discuss next week. |
