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.
Previous image | Next image |
Original digital capture
Squares and Circles Week
In a recent Here's a Thought... commentary I discussed the square format and the use of diagonals. This week I'll illustrate a similar idea using the square 1:1 aspect ratio image with circles and curves in the composition.
What I saw that I liked:
These red-capped statues are everywhere in Japan. I particularly liked the round halo behind this one. I believe this is Jizo Bodhisattva — protector of the sick and of little children.
What I don't like in the picture:
I wish I had backed up a bit so I could include the entire infant in the lower right.
What I learned:
This is an example of what can happen when we are not thinking about the aspect ratio in the field. If I had turned on the square format visual guides, I would have realized that I needed to back up just a bit.
2nd Chances: What I might try next
Do you suppose I could add the bottom of this picture with Generative Fill? |
|
