Archived posting to the Leica Users Group, 1998/04/09
[Author Prev] [Author Next] [Thread Prev] [Thread Next] [Author Index] [Topic Index] [Home] [Search]Thanks for the numerous comments. Since there were so many I will just make some general remarks: 1)What qualifies me to criticize Eric? Nothing. I even don't have to qualify for it (e.g. by showing my own pictures). I simply use my natural right for free speech. BTW, to offer the possibility to criticize me - Jun Nakajima was so kind to exhibit two of my pics on his website. 2)Why do I criticize Eric's pictures? Because HE has the courage to make his work available for viewing and discussion (as do I, although to a less extent since I have no own website). It is not my fault if he or others dislike my thoughts. So, thanks to Jorg Willems for saying my thoughts are a 'pitiful exercise of self-importance or an example of a misguided "Berliner Schnautze"' and for offering his mothers advice that 'if you don't have anything nice to say, don't say anything at all'. I exercise my sense of humor. 'He starts contributing when he explains why, how and what could be improved' (again Jorg Willems - we should be proud to have him on the LUG). 3)Is it simply 'you like it or not'? Definitely no. I used the term unimpressive. What distinguishes the impressive from the unimpressive is whether there is compassion for the subject or not. Means you have to have empathy to be a good photographer. It is whether you are able to transmit feelings to the viewer. If HCB's pictures are impressive THAT is what makes them, not technical quality, which is the least important thing. 4)How could one define picture quality? My simple answer is - by comparism. If you compare a lot you finally find out. Christian