Archived posting to the Leica Users Group, 2001/03/22
[Author Prev] [Author Next] [Thread Prev] [Thread Next] [Author Index] [Topic Index] [Home] [Search]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!" __________________________________________________ Do You Yahoo!? Get email at your own domain with Yahoo! Mail. http://personal.mail.yahoo.com/