Reply To: "Real" photographers are dumb

[Moga]

Obvious troll is obvious.

But, just for fun, I think I have some troll food in my bag here…

The thing about photography, as with any type of art, is that it has it’s own inherent language. Every aspect of a photograph carries with it a message that will influence the viewer’s perception of the image – subject matter, lighting, color, composition, aspect ratio, etc. Much of this language is inherent to the human psyche and cross-cultural, such as darkness symbolizing fear or ignorance or evil, and light symbolizing knowledge or life or goodness. Sometimes the symbols are culture specific, like religious iconography or certain colors. Also, the language can change it’s meaning over time.

The problem with most fauxtogs is that they don’t know or care about this language. They don’t realize that they are unintentionally mocking their subjects by putting them into an unflattering pose or highlighting their flaws. They use post processing effects without understanding how it changes the perception of the subject. They are the artistic equivalent of walking around Italy reading from the Olive Garden menu and thinking that means they can speak Italian.

Professional photographers know this language. They will craft the image to express the message they want. They understand that not everyone will read the image the same way, and will act accordingly. This, on top of all of the technical knowledge they need to learn, is what makes them a pro. It’s true, most of them will reach a comfort zone and generally create the same thing over and over again. However, sometimes someone will try something different, and if they understand this language, if they aren’t just fumbling in the dark, they will create something new and amazing.

So, to answer your question, a good picture speaks to you. And it is not misheard.