October 7, 2010
Pet Peeves
Lightroom vs Photoshop, does it matter?
Nikon vs Canon vs Fuji…who cares!
Film vs Digital…who cares even more!
Those who think the cost or bulk of their equipment reflects how good of a photographer they are.
People who think a prime lens is the key to a great image.
People who think art is a competition; and for them to win, someone else must lose.
“I’m only an amateur” (said in an apologetic voice)
Photographers who complain that photography isn’t taken seriously as an art form, and who then act like a photographer rather than an artist.
People who think that an artist statement needs to sound like a dissertation on the unintelligible, and then go on to prove it.
Photographers who worship processes and equipment more than the art.
Those who don’t understand that photographing a unique subject is not the same as creating unique work.
Artists who take themselves and their art too seriously.
Well meaning people who want to tell you how they would have created your image.
People who look others art and say “anyone could have done that!”
People who are threatened by other people’s success.
Artists who have MFA’s and want you to know about it.
People who mistakenly think that a degree in art makes you an artist.
Photographers who follow “the rules.”
Photographers who say there are rules that must be followed.
Caring what others think of your work and producing work to please others.
And lastly this one just makes me sad: Those who do not believe in themselves and their ability to be creative.
Cole
Many of the above comments have enriched my life and the appreciation of my photography in the last year via a special friend. He has taught me to believe in my ability, to trust myself – among other interesting things that I learn each time we go shoot. I’m so glad he reads your blog and that he’s now sending me off to read your blog too. My world is a better place.
Cole,
Well said. I think many artists start out worrying about several of these things. But as they mature and grow as artists they realize that those things just don’t matter. Art should be fun and enjoyed, not stressed over or bragged about.
Matt
Cole, your thinking here is simply superb. It is also common-sense although a lot of people does not understand it.
One of the things I like the most from following your blog (apart from watching and learning from your fantastic works) is that you share with us the way you understand the photography which is very similar to mine.
Best wishes!!
Cole, if only everyone could see with the same clarity that you have given voice to here. Sadly… the points you have made are the norm and not the exception. Even sadder still is the probability that the people who would most benefit from this insight never will… as it is doubtful that they are a part of your audience.
Kind regards,
Laird
Sot true!
Great reminder of what is really important, we all need that once in a while….
Hermosa tu clarividencia sobre el concepto de Arte y libertad artística. Un saludo.
Beautiful your vision on the concept of art and artistic freedom. Best regards.
Great list. Love the one about artist statements.
Cole,
These are right on target… and such a complete list of distractions and “downers”! I might add a few for consideration:
1) Displaying photographic work in art shows that are almost always juried by painters or museum curators… many of whom believe using Photoshop (post-processing, in general) is not an artistic, creative step.
2) Knowing that any recognition in these shows will be limited to what’s left after oil paintings, pastels and watercolors (and probably sculpture) are given awards.
3) Art shows that exclude photography as a medium.
Great notes Cole. I have been unsuccessful in motivating myself lately to get out there with my camera for some of the reasons you list. It’s hard, for me anyway, to really look inward and find out what type of photography I want to pursue.
wonderfully stated. thank you!
Beautiful writing… Big thoughts!!!
Thanks for share with another amateur 🙂
Xavi
Cole,
I’m thinking that maybe our philosophies have met even though we haven’t personally. Your techniques and explanations have already put some ideas into my head. I’m sure that I’ll be back. So enjoyable!
Thanks,
Jim
Thanks Jim, there are a lot of us like-minded people around!
Cole
Finally a photographic blogger that I can relate to. One of my peeves about photography magazines is how the editors slate to death a budding photographers image, saying they have broken all these so called imaginary rules. Only to then heap praise on an artists portfolio who have broken the same rules. Furst noticed this in 1978 when I began to read AP.
Cheers Dean
Thanks Dean, nice to have you reading and sharing your thoughts and experiences!
Great list and bang on target.
I am so glad I found this thank!