The simplicity of photography lies in the fact that it is very easy to make a picture. The staggering complexity of it lies in the fact that a thousand other pictures of the same subject would have been equally easy.
John SzarkowskiRead
Photography is the easiest thing in the world if one is willing to accept pictures that are flaccid, limp, bland, banal, indiscriminately informative, and pointless. But if one insists in a photograph that is both complex and vigorous it is almost impossible
Interpretation
What this quote means
Photography can be simple if one settles for mediocre images, but creating impactful photographs is a challenging endeavor.
This quote reflects the idea that while anyone can take a photograph, capturing a compelling image that resonates emotionally or intellectually is a much greater challenge. It highlights the difference between taking snapshots indiscriminately and creating thoughtful, dynamic photographs that engage the viewer more profoundly.
Themes
PhotographyArtComplexityCreativityVisuals
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be shared during a photography workshop to inspire participants to seek depth in their work.
More from John Szarkowski
All quotes →Photography is a contest between a photographer and the presumptions of approximate and habitual seeing. The contest can be held anywhere.
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