In an era dominated by digital advancements, photographers, both veterans and novices, face a critical dilemma: the reliance on technology versus the essence of traditional photography skills. It challenges the core principles and techniques that define the art of photography.
Coming to you from Craig Roberts of e6 Vlogs, this excellent video discusses the art of photography in a highly advanced digital age. The video begins with a nostalgic journey, where Roberts recounts starting photography with a manual film camera, the Pentax P30. This model was unique for its time, offering both manual and full program modes, allowing beginners to ease into the complex world of photography without being overwhelmed. His experience with the P30 serves as a metaphor for the broader shift in photography. As he progressed, he quickly moved to manual mode, finding that the hands-on experience demystified the technical aspects of photography. This narrative underscores an important lesson for photographers: there is immense value in engaging directly with the mechanics of photography, beyond the convenience of automated modes.
A critical point raised in the video is the question of whether modern cameras, with their myriad automated features, are diluting the essential skills of photography. The comparison to driving an automatic car versus a manual one parallels this concern in photography. Just as automatic cars simplify driving at the cost of certain driving skills, digital cameras, with features like autofocus, auto ISO, and sophisticated metering systems, might be making photographers overly dependent on technology. The video suggests that this reliance could be eroding the fundamental skills and artistry that define photography.
The call to action is clear: photographers should consider revisiting the roots of their craft. By engaging more with manual settings and understanding the intricacies of their equipment, photographers can rekindle their connection with the art form. The video encourages viewers to watch and reflect on their own practices, asking whether they have become too reliant on technology and what that means for the future of their artistry. Check out the video above for the full rundown from Roberts.
