Finding a story.

[sojournerphoto]

Exactly. That's the most important part. And that's how the Tibetan Government in Exile picked up the tab for some of my expenses, once they knew I would deliver good, usable pictures.

Cheers,

R.

But going back to your original post Roger, I get the strong impression from reading your various other posts and writing that your interest in Tibet is not rooted in the opportunity to take photographs, but in the place and political situation. Being able to take pictures is a way of expressing a passion you already have.

"Everybody starts off with the most essential quality of a good photographer – honesty to himself. A mother taking pictures of a baby on a beach with a box Brownie has this honesty. No illusions, no pretensions. She is not trying to be arty or clever. She photographs what she likes, simply and directly. All photographers start off with this honesty but most unfortunately lose it as soon as they attempt to become a “better” photographer. Their integrity is swamped by gimmickry and the control of technique. Too often photographers aim for visual effect. Pure boredom. They should forget about being conscious of composition and attempt to be more conscious of feeling. Good photographs come from a photographer having a genuine feeling towards a subject and a desire to record it. If you photograph something that really interests you in a direct and simple way it is a fair bet that your pictures will be more significant."
David Hurn, my bold.

This is not a bad way to think about finding a story

Regards

Mike

 

[Roger Hicks]

But going back to your original post Roger, I get the strong impression from reading your various other posts and writing that your interest in Tibet is not rooted in the opportunity to take photographs, but in the place and political situation. Being able to take pictures is a way of expressing a passion you already have.

Dear Mike,

You are absolutely right. I also care about history, food, motorcycle touring... Starting out with something you care about, and taking pictures, is far likelier to lead to success (however you care to define 'success') than starting out as a photographer and looking for something to photograph. The David Hurn quote is totally appropriate.

Still more to the point, what can you offer anyone unless you have an interest in, and some understanding of, what they do? (Or are?)

Cheers,

E.

 

[John Rountree]

I think you (and many others) could benefit from reading: On Being A Photographer by Bill Jay and David Hurn. The book is a classic and deals with the issue of choosing a subject for a documentary, or ongoing project. BTW, I have seen some weird pricing on this book after Bill Jay died last year. However, you can still buy a new copy in the US for $13.00 USD.

 

[ruby.monkey]

Some great advice, I'm going to Millwall 🙂

Wear a Man U shirt.