I get more questions via email and social channels than I could answer in a lifetime, but occasionally one jumps out at me as incredibly worthwhile to share. The answer to this question is important, and my response is below. Chime in and let me know what you think:
“What’s more important as a photographer… to remove yourself from the photograph, or to make the photograph about you as a photographer?”
-from photographer Jay McLaughlin
In order to make the most successful, effective (read: insightful, moving, impactful, beautiful, etc) image, the photographer must be “present” in the image. Simply put, this is crucial–perhaps MOST important for any shooter– you should strive to make a photograph that no one else in the world can make. And the primary mode of being able to do this is to infuse your personal vision to the image. Period, whether it’s reportage, fine art, or a fashion shoot. Doing otherwise is creating a commodity – something that anyone, or an “other” can make– that can be bought or sold like a pork belly or a barrel of oil.
Making such a photo that no one else can make can take many forms–technical excellence is a part of that–but at it’s essence is the need to reflect a mood that only you can capture or evoke, based on your access, your knowledge, your interpersonal skills or otherwise. So you absolutely must put your fingerprints on the shot. It’s not “about” you (sic), but you are clearly present…
Thanks Jay for the evocative question. Readers please chime in below if you feel inspired, otherwise go make that photo that no one else can make.
There are all kinds of reasons to photograph. From the individual photographer’s style viewpoint the self within image is the true core of originality. If the message comes back to you every time you look at one of your photographs then it has some of you in it. Chase, you inspire me.
Juan
Client’s input is very important, however as a photographer I need to feel that the work I’m doing is “ME”.
Only some people have the ability and the courage to think for themselves. Others just follow and copy. That is why there is a lot of mediocre art out there. While I shoot for the world. I shoot for myself. The photography process is magical, be it a still or motion. the ability to capture that moment is what really makes you different. The photo can be worth a thousand words but if you miss that moment you miss the point. Practice makes perfect
Thanks again! You know how to send out the message.Happy new year all!
We as artists must not let our art and souls fall victim to the “pork belly” image machines. Making junk images that sell for a few dollars may seem like a good idea to make easy money but it is not. As photographers our brand is ourselves be a BMW not a Yugo. Have your name stand for something infuse you vision and your uniqueness into all that you do in 2012. Have a great year and amaze yourself with your work this year.