I remember reading an interview of William Eggleston in which he said that there is no need to describe a photograph. I think Robert Adams wrote that most photographers are comfortable talking about the circumstances leading to, rather than explaining what they want to show by way of a particular photograph. No amount of words can do justice to a good photograph, which, while incorporating interesting composition and good light, also leaves an inexplicable element that draws us in. It reflects the symmetry and asymmetry we see and the order and disorder we experience in the world around us. A good photograph, itself, tells a story.
Why then, do I like reading about photography? Reading along with looking at scores of photographs has helped realize personal artistic likes/dislikes and can help development of a unique style which is essential for any artist.
What makes a photograph art? Art has to be about life and art has to be original. Toting a camera, lenses and a heavy tripod around the national parks to reproduce the works of Ansel Adams, albeit in color, may not result in art. Although, the photographs can impress a bunch of folks and one might even be able to sell prints, its not necessarily art. Master photographers over the years have developed their own unique styles, which are readily identifiable from their work. While one can and should learn from them, an artist should bring something unique into his/hers photographs.
Resources for reading about photography:
1. Frank Van Riper's Camera Works Column
2. Michael Johnston's Sunday Morning Photographer Column
3. Susan Sontag's book On Photography
4. Robert Adam's book Why People Photograph
5. J.Colberg's Conscientious weblog
6. Auspicious Dragon weblog
7. del.icio.us links I've tagged with photography
Previous | Next
