In my last post I mentioned that I never thought that I would spend so much time viewing other people’s images.  There is a benefit to viewing photos made by others, and an art to how we do it.

The obvious benefit I suppose is that you get to see what other photographers are doing.  If you do it with the right frame of mind, it can make you a better photographer.  In my opinion, the right frame of mind is to allow those images to create a gauge for you in which to measure how other people will view your pictures.  If you browse the photos made by several other photographers, think about what goes through your mind.  It is a good barometer for what others will think when they view your pictures. You say you don’t make pictures for others, only for yourself?  Then why do you share them with everybody you can.  We all want some sense of acceptance for our work.  Human nature. I am not now nor have I ever suggested you copy the work of others. I have never done that and I hope you won’t either.

Many years (1980s I believe) ago a photographer went to a location where Ansell Adams once made a picture.  It was mostly the same except there was tree in his photo that was not there when Ansell made his photo.  You guessed it he cut down the tree.  He was caught and given a fine, and certainly made to look like an un-original fool.  It never pays to try to be just like somebody else.

The art of viewing the imagery of others is to keep an open mind.  In the end you may decide the image is junk, but look at it the way you would want others to look at your pictures.  The golden rule of photography.  Let it roll around your palate and try to savor it. I think it is better to want to like an image by another photographer, than to want to hate it. If you comment, be kind. If they are asking for constructive criticism give it.  Do so with kindness and the realization that every picture has a story and a purpose.  If there are aspects of the image that you do not like, blend those opinions with what you do like.

Back when I had my website, for a (very) small fee I would critique the images of others.  I really never liked doing it but I always tried to remember two things. The first was how would I feel if I was that person. You owe it to them to let them know how you feel, but do so with the kind and generous attitude of a good teacher. The second thing to remember is that in the end, it is just your opinion.

I would suggest that any photographer who is beginning to realize some success, learn how to look at and comment on other people’s pictures.  It’s a journey that teaches you as much about yourself, as it does about someone else’s photography.

I’ll leave you today with just three pictures. They fit the three basic nature categories of wildlife, landscape and macro.

Soar like an eagle.  The American Bald Eagle

Primeval. The Hoh Rainforest of Washington State.

Foxtail Barley Grass. Morning dew and rust colored grasses.

You may want to pay a visit to the galleries of award-winning wildlife photographer Suzi Eszterhaus’s  to fill your senses with all things wild.

For older Earth Image’s posts try   Visual Melodies….Listening To The Music

Have a special day and we’ll talk again soon.                                                                           Wayne