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:At the time, I thought this had all the elements to make a good image — interesting color, balanced composition, sweet diagonal lines. What I don't like in the picture:Too bad it just doesn't work. Goes to show that even when you follow all the standards, it can still suck. What I learned:I knew the light was bland, but I thought I might be able to punch it up in post with some contrast and color intensification. I was wrong. It just became garrish. 2nd Chances: What I might try nextNot gonna waste any more time on this one. I have too many from that shoot that are better and easier. |
