JB & Susan Harlin

I was recently asked to comment and then was drawn into a discussion on the art of photography and the influence of competition. Specifically, how people’s artistic creativity is swayed by making photographs for the purpose of competing against each other for the satisfaction of winning a blue ribbon.

I am very much against being a member of any large club or organization. Why? Because I feel there is too much of a tendency to become trapped in an endless loop of trying to fit into someone else’s idea of what art should be. Creating images for the sole purpose of winning some contest, for me at least, is a recipe for killing creativity, imagination and individuality, thus turning you into just another ho-hum shutter clicker.

Art is a very personal thing. You cannot please everyone, so why even try to please anyone? You need to please yourself first and foremost. Your art is an expression of what you see and feel. It has nothing to do with what anyone else likes or dislikes. So, why torture yourself by trying to entertain someone else’s idea of what your image should contain, or not contain? Especially if the only reward is a sixty cent ribbon!

It is very important to hone and understand the craft of photography. This is the easy part. You have to understand the craft of your chosen medium. This is true of any creative activity, from wood carving to painting. If you do not understand how to use your equipment and you are not able to learn the ins and outs on your own, by all means, take a class, join a club or group. But, once you attain a basic mastery of the craft, get as far away from external artistic influence as you possibly can. Yes, you also need to learn a few artistic basics. You need to study art theory and understand a few fundamental concepts concerning composition and the artistic view. But, you do not need an endless influence molding you into what someone else views as art. Edward Weston said something to the effect that, “composition is only the best way of seeing.” The creation of art has no hard and fast rules. What suits you is the only thing that matters.

Another reason that I steer away from large clubs and organizations is because they tend to be obsessed with equipment. Remember, amateurs talk about equipment. . . artists talk about art. Learn the craft as quickly as possible, then get on using, and improving that craft in order to create your art. Also remember, a poor craftsman always blames his tools. And speaking of tools, keep in mind that a poor craftsman makes poor images no matter how good the equipment. A well rounded craftsman can make admirable, even stunning images with the worst of equipment. You should own the finest hardware you can afford, but never forget, the camera does not make the photo, you do! Get the equipment and craft of photography out of the way as quickly as possible and get on with making your art! The only thing that matters is the finished image.

And speaking of the finished image, personally I could care less if anyone likes any one of my photographs. Any image I make is not created for anyone but me first and foremost. My photography is mine, and mine alone. If you don’t like it, then don’t bother. If you do like it, then why not do all of us a favor and buy it, and hang it on your wall?

JB