Images
As a photographer I look for unposed images that capture the essence of a particular moment. The impulse of when, where, why, and what to photograph is filtered by an arts background and a deep respect for nature. Photography fills a cathartic need to find meaning and substance and to explore and expand awareness. Stilled images inform in this process of life-long learning. A well-composed photo corrects flaws in blindsidedness. We can see more through the lens than with our own unaided, ever-distracted eyes. Animals and people, plants and landscape, all deserve to be closely observed as this is a wondrous, complex, ever-changing poetic and perishable place, but also an enriching and rejuvenating world.
As a photographer I look for unposed images that capture the essence of a particular moment. The impulse of when, where, why, and what to photograph is filtered by an arts background and a deep respect for nature. Photography fills a cathartic need to find meaning and substance and to explore and expand awareness. Stilled images inform in this process of life-long learning. A well-composed photo corrects flaws in blindsidedness. We can see more through the lens than with our own unaided, ever-distracted eyes. Animals and people, plants and landscape, all deserve to be closely observed as this is a wondrous, complex, ever-changing poetic and perishable place, but also an enriching and rejuvenating world.
Photos are also propaganda of sorts as we often capture images that serve to speak for us.
Many years ago I witnessed two photographers, Anne and Rob visiting a nursing home to photograph the residents as part of a community art project. Even though they took pictures of the same people in the same setting, their finished works reflected a stark difference in perceptions. Anne created warm images and captured the underlying spirit of the frail residents. Rob’s images were cold and distant and framed the residents in a hauntingly end-of-life manner. Anne interacted with the residents before taking pictures; Rob kept his distance and hid behind the lens. The resulting images reflected their attitude toward the subject matter. Anne was photographing goodness, Rob was photographing grittiness. Taken together, they offered an insightful exhibition, a balance of good and grit. Photos mirror and magnify our illusive reality.
Many years ago I witnessed two photographers, Anne and Rob visiting a nursing home to photograph the residents as part of a community art project. Even though they took pictures of the same people in the same setting, their finished works reflected a stark difference in perceptions. Anne created warm images and captured the underlying spirit of the frail residents. Rob’s images were cold and distant and framed the residents in a hauntingly end-of-life manner. Anne interacted with the residents before taking pictures; Rob kept his distance and hid behind the lens. The resulting images reflected their attitude toward the subject matter. Anne was photographing goodness, Rob was photographing grittiness. Taken together, they offered an insightful exhibition, a balance of good and grit. Photos mirror and magnify our illusive reality.
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