Photography derives from the Greek word ‘fos’ – meaning light and ‘grafo’ – to write. The write part is especially curious as there isn’t writing involved in taking a portrait – today that is. In the 16th century however, a camera obscura box was used for drawing images, allowing light to project an image through a box onto a screen to be traced. Today, Webster defines photography as the art or process of producing images by the action of radiant energy and especially light on a sensitive surface. Not only are people not tracing to create portraits today, most are not even using film – but instead favoring digital technology to capture still live.
I firmly believe there is art involved in almost every photograph, the perspective, meaning and level of art that goes into each portrait is what makes it special – and unique. What one person may see as just a pretty picture of a 3 year old girl eating her first ice cream cone may mean something different to that little girls dad. Or her 87 year old grandma that may not get to see many more ice cream cones melt in that girl’s hands.
Every portrait created is a moment in time that for all intents can’t be replicated. Sure, we can try to achieve a similar result and duplicate it, but it will never been the same as the original. And a unique moment in time especially rings true for a bride to be, as she walks down the isle toward her new life and partnership. Or later when they share a frosting-covered kiss as their family cheers/laughs in excitement. These moments are special and skilled photographers have been capturing them for hundreds of years.
I have been fortunate to be a part of some very special moments recently. My 2nd godson’s first portraits. A loving couple’s editorial engagement art. A delightful senior with a natural beauty that belongs in front of a fantastic sunset. And of course our kid day event where we got to meet and photograph so many new little faces. Without the art of photography, I wouldn’t get to meet these wonderful people and share in their lives. It’s a delightful privilege and I not only thank them – but also tip my hat to the generations of portrait artists that have come before me and the ones from today I am inspired by. Who inspires me most? My business partner, and friend, Brian. But that’s another blog for another day!
For some icing on my cake, today we received this note from a model, we created his portfolio last fall/winter…
Jeremy! My guy, hows it going? I’m sure business is still great with you and Brian! I just wanted to write and see how you guys were doing and say thanks! I feel like you guys did so much to help me launch my career and man IS IT MOVING FAST! I cant believe how fast things are just falling in place and every time I show people my card they say WHO SHOT THESE! So big big kudos to you and Brian, anywho, talk to you later—jordan
Yeah, this thing called photography pretty much rocks. 🙂
Off to St. Louis today to shoot a salon grand opening, everyone have a great weekend!
