The Rashomon Effect

What's the best gear... or further insight into the ratings rant

I read this article last night in the current issue of Outdoor Photographer:

http://www.outdoorphotographer.com/content/2007/sept/dh_rashomon.shtml

It speaks to so many issues that are repeated themes here in the forums. What's

the best gear? Which lens? What flash? And so on and so forth.

The article reflects on human nature and the need to walk a fine line between

opposing opinions. There's really no right or wrong. But, the article gives

interesting insight in the process of deciding how to proceed with critical

review of gear and equipment. No matter what, someone will probably be offended

and offer comments that gives the editorial staff a major headache. Just say,

"Mac or PC. Nikon or Canon."

So, too, are all the agonized forum questions plaintively asking for advice on

the right camera or lens. And, don't get started on the rating system. Just read

between the questions and comments posted to the forums.

The author has good points to make. It would be useful to spend a moment reading

the article. By the way, if you don't read the article:

"Back in 1950, the brilliant Japanese director Akira Kurosawa made the film

Rashomon, which is considered one of the great classic films. In this film, a

crime occurs, but its story is told in flashbacks as recounted by the main

characters. Each person tells a different story to the judge. Which one is the

truth? Plus, a couple of observers of the court recast the stories again." Rob

Sheppard, Outdoor Photographer.

Seems a obvious thesis and conclusion to me.

[...and it reminds me I haven't seen Rashomon in too many years.]