Archived posting to the Leica Users Group, 2001/03/22

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Subject: Re: [Leica] snapshot! insult or compliment?
From: Ray Moth <ray_moth@yahoo.com>
Date: Thu, 22 Mar 2001 18:32:42 -0800 (PST)

Henry wrote: Message-ID: 

>Mark wrote:
>I'm trying to figure out just how bad of an insult calling someones 
images an
>snapshot is.
> snapshot (n.) 
>1. an informal photograph, esp. one taken quickly by a hand-held 
camera. 
>2. Hunting. a quick shot taken without deliberate aim.
>3. Informal. a brief appraisal, summary, or profile.
>4. to photograph informally and quickly.
>
>
>Mark Rabiner

I think it can (most often is) be an insult but does not have to be 
(ought not be). Some folks only dig what I call "constructed 
photographs" some only get giddy about what others might call
snapshots. There are some fine snapshots out in the world and about a
zillion times more bad ones. Just because it happened spur of the
moment does not make it worth less as a photo. And all the bad ones
really should not drag the good ones down.

If its a good picture it is just that. Skill is required - not just 
luck. Ted Grant's photo of Trudeau sliding down the bannister could be
a "snapshot" but it sure didn't happen because Ted's a goof.

Its not about locking up a bunch of monkeys with a bunch of 
typewriters.

"Chance favors the prepared mind"
=====================================================================
Several LUGers have pointed out, in recent posts, that a photograph can
only be judged by a third party according to its appearance, not the
circumstances under which it was taken. A picture could be poor because
the photographer had insufficient time, was in an extraordinarily
difficult or hazardous situation, etc. but the end result will not show
this: all we see is a poor picture. 

IMHO, the term 'snapshot' should be considered an insult when used to
describe another person's photograph, especially if that photograph was
displayed or exhibited as a serious piece of work. The commentator is
saying that the picture exhibits the nature of a snapshot, that is, a
picture taken in a hurry without due preparation and forethought. 

Regards,

=====
Ray

"The trouble with resisting temptation is
 you never know when you'll get another chance!"

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Replies: Reply from "mdelman" <mdelman@rochester.rr.com> (Re: [Leica] snapshot! insult or compliment?)