Pearls of Wisdom from Contemporary Photographers and other Artists

[Gremlich]

While this is ostensibly photography related, I consider this more philosophy-related

We all can find sage advice and visual philosophy from the Masters like Adams, Bierce, Lange and White. Recently, I finished "The Moment it Clicks" by Joe McNally. It is filled with much experience, worded cleverly, humorously and with conviction. The book overall is inspiring and there are certainly some statements he makes that can serve to goad us all to better efforts, not necessarily in photography, but some aspects of Life. For instance, he regrets not having spent more time with his children when they were little. I can appreciate that, having had to answer the call of my country from time to time during my children's formative years.

So, what I'd like to know from the forum members, is what from contemporary photographers gives you that extra nudge, insight or even a chuckle for your own photography. Let's limit it arbitrarily to photographers working during the transition from film to digital up to present. This isn't meant to demean those who came before digital and established a shiny presence in the artform, this is meant to compliment their contributions.

And I include "other artists" because we can sometimes gain inspiration from other mediums, like painting or even sculpture. One of my favorite artists is Steve Hanks. His watercolors are awesome, the way he uses tones is something I endeavor to bring out in my own images. (Still working on it)

I have three from Joe McNally from the above mentioned book:

"Autofocus is really handy when you've had three pints of Guinness"
-- Joe McNally

or:

"Remember that the hardest thing about lighting is NOT lighting"
-- Joe McNally

or:

"I can't tell you how many pictures I've missed, ignored, trampled, or otherwise lost just 'cause I've been so hell bent on getting the shot I THINK I want." -- Joe McNally


Cheers, I hope that you consider posting your own examples.

And as often as you find them.

Gremlich

[JAS_Photo]

Lol, I am already a big fan of Joe McNally and had the opportunity to attend a two day workshop with him in Calgary in November. He shoots everything tethered so you can see everything on the big screen while he is working. Even mistakes or bad shots. He is known for fantastically complicated shots so in a way it is gratifying to see him at work and he talks constantly while shooting so you understand the thought process. Lol, he has a self deprecating sort of humour and two days spent sitting in a theatre watching him demonstrate lighting scenarios was surprisingly entertaining and as well as informative. He has a bif fan base and with good reason. If you are a fan and can not get enough of the guy, go to Kelby Training. It is well worth the money. He also has a blog that is well run and if you are curious what gear he uses there is a list of that as well.

Joe McNally’s Blog

[Gremlich]

I missed out on getting into the "Flash Bus Tour" workshop.

Mongo sad....

[Andrew]

There are a few photographers that I look at for technical inspirations. Most are mainstream and others are not. Those at the top are few and it would be hard to seperate out just one. But, seeing as that's the direction of the thread, I'll go with Zack Arias. Why, strictly because of his history and attitude. Mostly attitude. I can really relate to this man and what he has accomplished.

I started following Zack in 2008. There is some great stuff in his blog so if you have some time take a look. He started out photographing local rock bands and has branched out into just about anything. If you can get your head in the same place as his then you're in for a treat. Everything from youtube work to critiques of websites. He's been a bit quiet lately. A change in his domain, touring internationally and in the bus, setting up a new studio, etc. Maybe he's just tired. Lots of info, created and runs the One Light Workshop, etc etc. He really gives back to the photography community. Anyway here's a taste. A guest spot for Kelby that didn't turn out quite the way anyone expected. Powerful. Give him a look and hope you like the man and his work. He is not usually this dark. Let me know what you think.

zarias.com :: The blog of editorial photographer Zack Arias » Transform :: A short film for ScottKelby.com

[Gremlich]

Now that guy is an artist. And he's even MARRIED to another one. I really liked the video he did, B&W, somber, well shot, then, that splash of colour at about the 8:50 mark.

Genius.

Instant bookmark, thanx for the tip.

Now, about the $150 of sticks.....