"Painting with light..."

I find keeping that in mind, while seemingly obvious, helps me keep my vision and my creative process on track. Thinking that way also allows me much of the same freedom as a painter. It prevents me from getting too locked in on the many restrictive "rules" of photography, and in turn persuades me to try new ideas that often lead to the "mistakes" you refer to. This is how we learn...

At some point, most serious shooters develop (at least if we decide to make the effort) a "philosophy" about photography and guidelines that govern our approach to it.

With this, there are no universals, and the vastly different ways we perceive the art of picture taking have resulted in MANY colorful and sometimes heated discussions on the subject over the years...

Some folks say a great photo should ALWAYS be able to stand on its own. I've never been convinced that that's true.

While I believe you can always appreciate a single image, I think its REAL power and meaning often become unlocked when you learn of the circumstances of its creation, or more about the life of the person who made it, or see it in a group of other photos by the same person or by others working the same theme. Much like paintings...

You get what I'm saying? Simply, photography, like ANY art, is very subjective. The same image can excite or repulse viewers, can label you a creative genius or a dismal failure. It really depends on who is doing the talking. And also whether you are creating an image for yourself or for others, or both...

I think your shot is interesting. There is no doubt it plays with light and movement. But I agree with Seb that partial sharpness on your subject's face might make it better.

That's normal with these kinds of shots. Most viewers like to be able to focus on something sharp and recognizable as well as something blurred and more emotional. It's a tough balance that comes from trial and error. You should keep trying...


Quote Originally Posted by Norman
Hello All,

This is my first post on the new format boards, although I have been reading in the background.

I took this picture on purpose with a slow synch flash to capture "mood" rather than a definative portrait. We were with friends at a real swanky resturant the decor & mood, not to mention the food was elegant & sophisticated. I took this picture to show motion in the hope that emotion would be conveyed.

Or is it a crappy picture?

Art is so subjective, or is it.

No manipulation, just a tiny crop

Regards

Norman