Archived posting to the Leica Users Group, 2005/06/14
[Author Prev] [Author Next] [Thread Prev] [Thread Next] [Author Index] [Topic Index] [Home] [Search]>We don't all have the concepts or the eye of the masters but we can improve >our pictures - or at least reduce the second- or third-order weaknesses - >by >paying attention to the other factors that make up a good photograph. >If the equipment truly doesn't matter we might as well be using a Yashica >or Ricoh >and have more money in our pockets for other toys. If the >quality of the equipment does make a difference, even if it's a third-order >factor, then a >photo with a good concept, good lighting, good composition >and good technique made with a good camera will be stronger than the same >photo made with a >plastic disposable. We're looking at one variable here, >the equipment, and assuming the others are held constant. Doug This is true, but not the whole truth. I'm not taking pictures in the same way I did fifty years ago when I started learning with my father with the Super Ikonta I see in front of me in the bookshelf.. I hope I've learn more than a little viewing masters pictures -even viewing pictures in the LUG-, viewing lots of paints hung in the museums for the composition and, above all, shooting lots of pictures -many, many thousands- and analyzing the results. All this has nothing to do with the right tools. After achieving this learning some improved tools may improve the picture but, IMHO, not very much. Better sharpness, better bokeh, less vignetting a more clear and bright image improve some physical aspects of the picture but I consider much more important the human and artistic development of the photographer. If not any stupid rich man may buy the best equipment -mostly Leica- and consider himself as *real photographer* instead of making many years of strong efforts of improving in composition, color, subjects study, light essays and many other matter of study that with the indispensable talent make a Photographer. Regards Felix