blithelydoubting

<blockquote>

<p>people are persuaded to believe sound principles in much the same way they are persuaded to believe unsound principles</p>

</blockquote>

<p>Lex, while I wish this were true, I just don't think it is. People that are committed to an idea that is not logical build up walls against sense on that topic. This is usually why they believe the idea in the first place, b/c they didn't listen to both sides of the discussion.</p>

<blockquote>

<p>To dismiss those who do not share all of your beliefs is to risk losing potential allies. Most of us can't afford that.</p>

</blockquote>

<p>With this, I agree entirely. I wouldn't dismiss a person b/c I disagree with him/her on a few topics. But, on that topic, sometimes it is easy to dismiss the idea. (e.g. fairies are in my garden)</p>

<p>P.S. very interesting portfolio</p>

<p>Thanks all, for the insights.<br>

Starvy,<br>

Thanks again for looking at examples from my own photography. It's hard to get a critique from the gallery unless it is a nude or a stunning work of art.</p>

<p>How does one get focus like this: <a href="../photo/9529194&size=md">http://www.photo.net/photo/9529194&size=md</a><br>

Is it the photographer or the equipment? I don't get it. I never seem to get such clear photos.</p>

<p>Why do you guys insist on arguing with the conspiracy theorists? Ideas that are not conceived in reason will not be swayed by reason. Save your finger joints for more productive conversations.<em><br /> </em></p>

<p>Walt,<br>

I do heartily agree. I also voted for Mr. O and I have not seen the strong moves for "change" that I was "hoping" for. So sadly, It will be a long time before we can keep the crazies out of our lives. (eg. religious people and Ian)<br>

On a photographic note: I don't understand why anyone should have control over the photons bouncing off of people and monuments. iow, I should be able to photograph anything I want to photograph. (however poorly done)</p>

<p>Hi all,<br>

I realize that this thread is long dead, but I have to go on record pointing how ridiculous this is. Why should a photographer have to abide by someone's worries about soul stealing etc. It is not true that photos take souls, so what does it matter? Also, I really don't think that the light bouncing off of a person should be owned by that person. Do you? Just ridiculous.</p>

John,

 

Yes, that's what i'm getting at. That being said, i am not suggesting that people limit their answers, just put the practical bit in too. I personally think it's great to read the ramblings of a seasoned expert. It's just that I printed this thread earlier today, for a bit of lavatory learning, and it was not the straight talk i had hoped for.

 

Thanks and thanks,

John,

By the way, I admire your portfolio.

John,

 

As I said before, I am only a mediocre photographer. This is why I did not want to answer the question, but if pressed I would say: No, I don't think photoshoping is not dishonest unless you claim it is unmanipulated. I do not see intrinsic value in unmanipulated images other than "street cred". I think passing on experience is just a easy as passing on technical info. Just talk about what you do and why. I would have to say that those would be "correct" answers, while musing on the obscurities of finding ones self through technique would be incorrect.

 

Walt,

 

I have to disagree about "What can't be learned is taste." acquired tastes are not just for the tongue. Surly your tastes for photography have changed and improved from the time you started to now. I know mine have. I have begun to appreciate things about photography that i would not have even cared about before.

 

 

P.S. I probable came off combative in my post before, but I'm actually quite affable. Sorry.

Shay,

Sorry, I can't answer your question since I am only mediocre, at best, but I would like to say that I like your question. It seems designed, with subtleties that some may not be picking up on. Are you philosophically trained?

 

I have noticed that most of the responses to questions like yours are geared toward "finding yourself", "doing your own thing", "express your meaning", etc. - as if photography is not something that can be learned, it must be stumbled upon while on a journey of interpretive dance.

 

This type of stuff is not helpful for those of us still learning. Oh wait... I forgot, "one must never stop learning". Photography knowledge is infinite and mysterious.

 

I know, I'm not going to make friends with this type of post, but i am sick and tired of that type of "advice".

I can not say much about you photography, as I am rather new to the art. However, websites are something about which I know. That being said, the site is perfect for the subject i.e. photography. The site will act as an effective portfolio without extra distracting elements. Keep it.