What inspires you take pictures?
The obvious answer is other peoples photography, and art even, we're probably all inspired and influenced by work we look at and like.
I remember the first time I saw Michael Kennas work, was completely blown away by it, the stillness and the serenity, I thought were just wonderful. After learning a bit more about photography I was also able to appreciate the more technical qualities of his work, the control of exposure, composition, tonal range etc...
Read a lovely article/interview in Black & White Photography magazine about a lady called Jane Bown, her shyness and modesty were noted in the interview, she said how she had photographed so many famous people, it was hard to keep up with them, on many occasions, she didn't know who they were.
I thought her attitude was both humbling and inspiring, and when I got to see her exhibition in London a few weeks ago, I was already a fan, before I even viewed any of her pictures.
So, the question is a deep one. If we are inspired by photographers, are we inspired by their work? By the end product of a print? Or by the person? Both perhaps, or sometimes not. Perhaps the photograph itself is compelling and ground breaking, inspiring, but perhaps things come to light that may make us question the integrity of the photographer.
For example, the recent kerfufle over the Wildlife Photographer of the Year, and his prize being taken away because of allegations of using a 'tame' wolf. The picture was still a good picture, but many peoples attitudes will have changed, because of 'cheating'.
And, what else then inspires you? Films? Music? Memories? Dreams? Literature? Experiences?
I'd like to know. And, apologies in advance, for being nosey.
Sinead
