5 Photography Quotes to Shoot By

Photographers and artists of generations past continue to inspire us not only through their work, but also in their informal lessons on photography. If you’re looking for words of wisdom to keep the desire for film photography burning, here are just a few to get you thinking and shooting.

“There are two people in every photograph: the photographer and the viewer.” – Ansel Adams

Ansel Adams is actually a treasury of inspiring photography quotes. In the quote above, Adams stresses the importance of the viewer—not as a judge of some sort, but as a listener to a photographer’s story. So, when you peer through the viewfinder, think about the story you want to share to your viewers.

“The important thing is not the camera but the eye.” – Alfred Eisenstaedt

A camera is both a tool and a collaborator, but without our direction, it cannot function. Eisenstaedt reminds us that our films and cameras can only take photos of what we see through our creative vision. It also emphasizes the importance of training the eye to “see” a picture before clicking the shutter.

“You cannot depend on your eyes if your imagination is out of focus.” – Mark Twain

Mark Twain, another quote machine, tells us about the importance of imagination in the quote above, which is especially relevant to photography. As an extra to Eisenstaedt’s tip, Twain hints at seeing with eyes that are guided by imagination. Running out of ideas? Look through the viewfinder with a childlike imagination!

“If your pictures aren’t good enough, you’re not close enough.” – Robert Capa

One of the Ten Golden Rules of Lomography tells us to “Approach the objects of your Lomographic desire as close as possible”, and Robert Capa says likewise! Never be afraid to get close to your subject; capture raw emotions, intense expressions, and intricate details to create interesting photos!

“A photograph is a portrait painted by the sun.” – Anonymous

Whoever came up with this lovely quote must be a sun-worshipper and a film photographer! We all know that most films just can’t get enough of the sun. When you’re shooting with film, you learn how to embrace natural lighting, the glare of the sun, and the beauty of outdoors!

Do you have a favorite photography quote? Go ahead and inspire us, comment with your favorite quote below!

written by plasticpopsicle on 2011-05-11 #people #lifestyle #inspiration #photography #photographers #lomography #quotes #analogue-lifestyle