Do I need to explain ?
I suppose the question for any photographer at some point will be “do I need to explain this image? “. It’s a question that I ask myself everytime I post one of my images on this blog. This image, the image below is a perfect example. Do I need to explain why, I think it’s a great image or should I let it speak for itself ? Alternatively should I let others speak about the image for me ? Do I need to say how for me this image is loaded with both a little bit of humour and much pathos. How it talks about, youth and age and stoicism and all those things wrapped up together. Does it matter that one person is looking quizically straight at me, the man with the camera, acknowledging my presence ? Personally, I don’t think so ! I like images that acknowledge the presence of the camera and remind us of the constructed nature of this medium.
The local country show Ashover Show. Not only had it been raining heavily the past few days, the ground was already wet and boggy but some bright spark had cut through a water pipe feeding stand pipes for the show itself. Being a main thoroughfare this part of the field became progressivley boggy as the day wore on.
I think it all depends on the photograph as to whether you explain what’s going on. When you do say things it sometimes stops the veiwer coming up with their own opinions. If at the very least all you could put is where the image was taken, but no words works excellently. Although when blogging, perhaps words are expected?
It’s a good image, it makes me wonder why no one is bothering to help the couple. I didn’t notice the woman looking at the camera until you pointed her out.
bearmagrills
February 4, 2012 at 9:46 pm
Well bearmagrills the article is pretty much rhetorical but thanks for yuor opinion. I tend to think that I shouldn’t need to explain my images. They should speak for themselves. After all If I wanted to write about life I’d have become an author ! Thanks though for your opinion and onservation and taking the time. Best wishes to you. I do hope you keep coming back.
Andy Greaves
February 5, 2012 at 1:54 pm