Too simple.
Nah. A photograph of the iconic Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco should never be called simple. It’s a phenomenal structure. Mind blowing. Architectural brilliance and back-breaking hard work and miracle.
And.
During my first critique of my first workshop in Guatemala, I was told my images could be on the cover of Real Simple magazine. It was far from a compliment. It was meant as motivational critique toward something more interesting. I fully took it as an insult. And have strived, to this day, to make complexity in the midst of visual structure and peace, my end goal.
There is nothing simple about this image but the gear. A no-fuss Canon point and shoot camera from the early 90’s. Put in the film. Point at the subject. Push the button. Et Voila. I mean, yes, you have to make sure there are charged batteries in the battery compartment and (with this particular piece of equipment) that the film back is taped securely shut to avoid light leaks from the broken mechanism. But, other than that. The camera is simple. The shot? Not so much.
I’ve seen better.
Yeah. I’m sure you have. There are much more technically sound images. Sharper. Different angle. Clearer lenses. The “better” list goes on.
But, from the soapbox, when we decide to make comparisons like that we are taking the magic out of art. We are dissecting the experience of the piece and downplaying the power of visceral response and emotional connection…a long sorrowful breath, a quickened heartbeat.
It doesn’t have to be the best to mean something valuable to us.
(A swoon-worthy mock-up of an SF flat living room with that oh-so-moody Golden Gate standing sentinel above it all.)
This print is FOR SALE. Check out Anything Goes Print Art on Etsy for purchase details.