The camera sees more than the eye, so why not make use of it?
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.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote reflects the process of artistic photography as a journey of discovery and expression.
Edward Weston emphasizes the importance of the creative process in photography, where the initial idea begins with a sense of discovery. This journey continues as the artist observes and captures the subject through their unique perspective, culminating in a final print that represents a faithful duplication of their vision and emotions, without any alterations post-capture.
Themes
PhotographyArtDiscoveryExpressionCreation
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be used in a photography workshop to inspire attendees about the creative process.
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
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
Photography to the amateur is recreation, to the professional it is work, and hard work too, no matter how pleasurable it my be.
Edward WestonRead
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