The camera sees more than the eye, so why not make use of it?
Edward WestonRead
Photography to the amateur is recreation, to the professional it is work, and hard work too, no matter how pleasurable it my be.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Photography is viewed differently by amateurs and professionals, where amateurs see it as a hobby while professionals recognize the effort required.
In this quote, Edward Weston emphasizes the distinction between amateur and professional photographers. For amateurs, photography is often seen as a form of recreation—a relaxing and enjoyable activity. In contrast, professionals understand that photography demands dedication, technical skill, and hard work, even if they find pleasure in their craft. This highlights the different perspectives on the same art form based on one's level of involvement and commitment.
Themes
PhotographyAmateurProfessionalCraftArt
In practice
Example use cases
When discussing the dedication required in any creative field during a workshop.
More from Edward Weston
All quotes →The photograph isolates and perpetuates a moment of time: an important and revealing moment, or an unimportant and meaningless one, depending upon the photographer's understanding of his subject and mastery of his process.
Edward WestonRead
Why limit yourself to what your eyes see when you have an opportunity to extend your vision?
Edward WestonRead
Consulting the rules of composition before taking a photograph, is like consulting the laws of gravity before going for a walk.
Edward WestonRead
I start with no preconceived idea - discovery excites me to focus - then rediscovery through the lens - final form of presentation seen on ground glass, the finished print previsioned completely in every detail of texture, movement, proportion, before exposure - the shutter's release automatically and finally fixes my conception, allowing no after manipulation - the ultimate end, the print, is but a duplication of all that I saw and felt through my camera.
Edward WestonRead
People who wouldn't think of taking a sieve to the well to draw water fail to see the folly in taking a camera to make a painting.
Edward WestonRead
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