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
Context Week
My predisposition is always first to get closer and reveal the details. There is an intimacy to being close that I like. However, there are times when this habit to zoom in or step closer is a mistake because it removes the context that tells the story. This week will consist of context examples from the Albany Rural and Oakwood Cemeteries in Albany, New York where context is the most important part of the image.
What I saw that I liked:
These old cemeteries are filled with statuary like this. Very interesting and a glimpse into earlier times.
What I don't like in the picture:
Again, I moved in too close for this first shot above. There is no contest and the only clue we have to the purpose of this statue are the wings. It's an angel, but where?
What I learned:
Backing up and changing the angle a bit reveals the large cross behind here. Also, her wings are now more prominent. We could be in a churchyard, but at least we know it is a religious institution of some kind.
2nd Chances: What I might try next
Lightroom did a great job of finding the background so I could darken it just a bit. That and too bad I cut off her foot. Could I use AI to fill with a replacement foot? |
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