more thoughts ...

Different, yet allied, aims, means and purposes of taking photographs pose challenges in how we define and value the many categories that fall within 'photography' and the fine lines that exist between many of these genres and fine art.

Today, portable personal devices, aided by apps, software technology, etc., ease the recording of images and a gazillion people capture photos everyday …  we scroll through their shared images and vicariously enjoy the experiences of others … we love these snapshots and we would hate to live without them now.  Plenty people take good photos, but few extend their desire or energies beyond their simple wish to purposefully record special moments … and/or share online.

Commercial photographers and Documentary photographers each have an essential job to do and creativity is a perquisite to success within each of these domains and perhaps we can agree these photographers, with their subject matter already clear, float between originality and utility.  Street photographers capture fleeting moments... and the viewer is transported to time, place and emotion, and to respond accordingly.

Fashion photographers and Portrait photographers can often have a fairly specific job description. With an emphasis on finding an expression of ‘beauty’ or 'meaning' within each pursuit leads us to acknowledge the balance of their work often lies between artistry and task approval. The subject matter for many of these photographers is often largely pre-designated and often ‘needs’ to be effectual to be deemed successful. 

Fine art photographers, and artists that use photography in their artworks, are free to combine their knowledge, skills, techniques, methods, ability, and creativity to express concepts and emotions and ask the viewer to contemplate images for deeper meaning.   Images are proffered for an extended experience and to challenge the viewer to appreciate levels of artistry, to examine apparent corporeal appearance and uncover its implications, to strive to understand the intangible, to discern poignancy, to question meaning, and to respond to the artists’ emotion.  Perhaps we can agree that Fine art photographers extend their work … 

beyond function

Using non-figurative, conceptual, or abstract photography to conjure tangible impressions and sensations, the artist tasks the viewer to ponder the meaning and story held within their chosen representations. 

Equally, the viewer can discern conceptual meaning by looking beyond what might initially appear prima facie/clear-cut images or seemingly unambiguous representations for a deeper awareness and profound response to an idea or emotion.

we would love to know your thoughts ... 

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