Still Photography: A Glimpse Into Art Through A Lens
Photography is only as good as the photographer taking the shot. Or is he? It is not really for me or you to decide. It is up to the viewer to decide if the photographer’s work moved them or not. That being said, the difference between a good photographer and a great one is his or her ability to move the masses. These great photographers are always in the right place when they need to be awaiting the perfect shot.
After purchasing a large photograph of my children to hang over the fireplace, the photographer showed us the picture in a low light room with music playing in the background. I have to say I was holding back the tears. We would have paid double for the picture if they had asked. My point here is the photography can move the soul.
Although photography has come a long way since the flash bulb, it is still an art form. The cameras are smaller, lighter, faster and smarter. The larger digital cameras do just about everything except wash the dishes. Ironically, it sill boils down to the skill of the photographer to get the right shot at the right time.
What does it take to catch the perfect shot? Lighting, positioning, a crazy angle and maybe even a rabbit’s foot are all ingredients to get it right. Sometimes, it might be the littlest detail that matters most like a single tear on the face of a child. A picture of the woods just before dark has a much different meaning than seeing the same picture just after the sun comes up.
Ansel Adams, in my opinion is one of the greatest photographers of all times. He is best known for his black and white collection and they can be seen in many offices, buildings and homes. Ansel was born in 1902 and was with us until 1984. Some of his best works were accomplished in Yosemite National Park. He and another man named Fred Archer developed a system called the Zone System which helped with exposure and contrast. Recently, a man paid $45.00 for a few negatives at a yard sale and was surprised to find that they were the early works of Adams. The negatives were thought to have been destroyed in a fire. The man had the negatives appraised at 200 million dollars.
National Geographic magazine, of which I just renewed my subscription, is famous for its photos. As a young child myself, I was able to take a trip around the world by flipping through the magazine. I am still astonished at the experience.
Another impressive magazine for its photos is “Reminisce.” Reminisce is a magazine witch collects photos from the 30′s, 40′s, 50′s etc. and writes articles based on the back story of the pictures. My grandparents get a kick out of going down memory lane with this magazine. The images are familiar to them and nostalgic
A career in photography might be just what you’re looking for. I would advise any person going into this field to get as much technical training as possible. Then work on your art and craft to take photos that stir the soul. And then, the rest of non-photographer types can enjoy your work where we live, work and play.
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