I have been a photographer since 1975, and I have witnessed many changes and transformations in the field of photography, from analog to digital, from film to smartphones, and from manual to AI.
I have seen how photography has evolved and adapted to the technological and cultural shifts of the times, and how it has influenced and been influenced by other forms of art and expression. I have also seen how photography has become more accessible, popular, and diverse, but also more saturated, standardized, and manipulated.
As a creative artist, I am always interested in exploring new trends and movements in photography, but I also value the authenticity, simplicity, and realism of photography. That is why I am drawn to the emerging sub-movements of authentic, minimalist, and naturalist photography. I see these movements as a reaction to the “sensationalized” photography that dominates the mainstream media and social platforms. Sensationalized photography is photography that is exaggerated, distorted, or embellished to create a dramatic or shocking effect. It is photography that prioritizes style over substance, appearance over essence, and quantity over quality.
Authentic, minimalist, and naturalist photography differ from sensationalized photography in many ways. They are photography that seeks to capture the truth and beauty of reality as it is, without interference or intervention. They are photography that respects and honors the subject matter, whether it is a person, an animal, a landscape, or a situation. They are photography that uses the camera as a tool of observation and communication, not as a weapon of manipulation and deception. They are photography that challenges and inspires the viewer to look beyond the surface and connect with the deeper meaning and emotion of the image.
Authentic, minimalist, and naturalist photography are not just trends or fads; they are expressions of a genuine desire for more honesty, simplicity, and realism in photography. They are reflections of a changing attitude and awareness among photographers and consumers alike. They are manifestations of creative potential and diversity inherent in photography as an art form. They are reminders of why I love photography and why I continue to practice it with passion and curiosity.
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Jack
