The Social Facet of Photography By Gord Barker

     I think that photography as a form of creative expression has a strong appeal to the individualist. Fundamentally, the act of making photographs is just me behind a camera making creative decisions within the technical capacity of the tool at hand. Later it's just me in front of a computer screen editing and organizing images. Perhaps some will be printed for display and sale or some will just be posted to social media. Much of the reality of the photographic journey is that of a solitary existence.  

    However, as much as we may admire the romantic concept of the rugged individualist, no one exists as an island. For me there are facets of the craft which have as much, if not more, importance than the simple creation of visual images. One of these is the social aspect of photography. 

     

     I firmly believe that the greatest attribute of photography is its immediacy. The immediacy of creating the images but also the immediacy of sharing them.

     For me, part of the fun of the craft is in sharing and marketing the results of my efforts. It's great to meet people who are kind and appreciative of what I do.

      A friend has suggested that sociability in going for a walk can be achieved with dog ownership. I agree. But a camera doesn't require me to stop at every tree and hydrant and ultimately requires far less maintenance! That's not to say that I won't stop to  pet a friendly canine and chat with its owner while out on my photographic meanderings. 

     So one of the often overlooked aspects of the craft is its ability to get me out the house and associating with people. One of my photographic heroes, Gary Winogrand said "It's about the work. It's always about the work." While that's a good slogan to ensure continuous improvement in the pursuit of the craft, I would argue that it's also about the people. Without they're kindness and support, the practice of the craft is almost meaningless. 

                                 ...more later