I just recently overheard a self-described “purist” photographer ranting on about how we’re all cheaters and that the photographic masters before us lacked our current luxury–even desire–to “customize” (read: manipulate/photoshop) images. It was “…all about the the composition, a beautiful subject, and a properly exposed picture”.
I call horse-pucky.
Above: Avedon’s instructions to his printer.
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Never. That’s called art.
With regards to HDR you may want to check out Eric Curry’s
work. This man is dedicated not only to this art form but the
historical preservation of our past.
http://www.americanprideandpassion.com/telescope_video.php
http://www.americanprideandpassion.com/b_25bomber_video.php
http://www.americanprideandpassion.com/61_video.php I think it is
amazing to watch the composition, creativity and care put into his
work. Respectfully, The Meltdownman
I’ve read Steve Macleod’s book “The Master Printer’s – a professional guide to b+w darkroom techniques”. It is a wonderful book describing “the old school” way of doing things. From darkroom setup to dodging and burning methods. It is in itself an art form that is being replaced by other art forms in the ways of doing things.
However, we simply cannot dismiss this “old school” of ‘technique’ and replace it with another form. It is but a stepping stone to other creative methods and ideas and it still has its place just like that of the great sculpters and painters from the past.
I would encourage any new photographer to read and understand these older methods and apply them to what is available today. It is such an amazing place this world in which we live in. Tell your story from whatever method you chose and bring it out from behind the lens. I look forward to reading it.
The Meltdownman
Amen brother. Go to the Photo Antiquities Museum in Pittsburgh and look at the examples of various stages of photography. There has been and always will be advancements in photography technology.