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The Challenge of Creativity

Creativity implies something created which further entails the production of something new. One can argue with considerable vigor that there is practically nothing in terms of subject matter that has not been photographed by one artist or another. So how do we as contemporary photographers create something new or different? Carelton Watkins photographed Yosemite before Ansel Adams was born. Margarethe Mather produced marvelous pictorial images that Edward Weston used as a strong influence on his early photography. The distinction was the style which the successor used to differentiate him or herself from the earlier imager.

Thus it becomes a matter of how do we arrive at a style that separates us from other photographers. In order to define yourself as unique and worthy of the sophisticated collectors consideration you must see and present your images in a very personal way. You are different from Weston, Adams, Man Ray, Strand and all the other giants of 20th century photography. The challenge is to accept those differences and use them to your advantage in producing your own style.

Here are some suggestions that may assist you on your journey towards a personal style:

Look at lots of art, drawings, paintings, sculpture, and photographs. Decide what you like or dislike about each piece and why. Make a mental note of your tastes. An example would be - the art is too cluttered for me and it would have more appeal if there was less information. (The extremes are Adam's Clearing Winter Storm and Weston's Nautilus Shell. Both are spectacular images but from an entirely different perspective and style.) Take some time and try to discover what is really important to you. What do you love? If you have a deep reverence for the environment you probably should not become a Weegee. It is pretty obvious that something that really touches your heart and soul is most likely to emerge in your images in a passionate and positive way. Hone your technical skills both with the camera and darkroom so that they are not an inhibitor to the ultimate goal - that of producing the image.

Finally, find other artists, of any kind, and share your work and thoughts with them. Their feedback and encouragement will assist you in your growth as an aspiring artist.

Rod Dresser