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
Waiting for the Light Week
We can't always wait for that gorgeous light that brings a touch of magic to a landscape, but when we can the reward is worth it.
What I saw that I liked:
Famous structures like Shiprock have been photographed to death. With a little luck, however, this moment might bring something of importance in the image.
What I don't like in the picture:
The above is perfectly moment-less. Flat, the opposite of dramatic, downright blah.
What I learned:
On the drive down to Shiprock from Cortez (where we were staying) it rained buckets. No, it rained barrels. We anticipated poor photography at Shiprock, but we went anyway. Just as we approached in those last half-dozen miles, the clouds started to break-up and when we arrived we found the best clouds and shadows you could ask for. There is light, and then there is LIGHT!!! I guess the lesson here is that the weather is constantly changing. Maybe it's better to forget about chasing the light and instead chase the clouds. |
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