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I was recently given a copy of Annie Leibovitz’s “A Photographers Life.” It not only covers her work that’s been displayed in such magazines like Vanity Fair, but also shots that have never been featured on any cover. In it is a perfect print. The subject is not Richard Avedon, but his work horse: an 8X10 view camera. Though the lighting is simple, a soft box slightly raised and to the left, it is distinctively Leibovitz. And though the  subject isn’t human, it is distinctively Avedon.

It arguably takes three things to make a photograph: a photographer, subject, and lighting. If any one of these is exceptional it can become a good photograph. 

Very briefly, a good photographer will not only have what’s referred to as, “The Eye.” But will also be familiar with their camera and equipment. By combining talent (whether natural or trained) and their familiarity with their tools they will be to make the most out of the subject and lighting.

A good subject does not have to be beautiful. Or, it can be beautiful in a completely subjective way. There are many things that can make a great subject. It can be lines, tones, or shapes. It could simply be a facial expression or body language. The relationship between the photographer and subject can vary, but there is always a relationship.

There is also a relationship between the subject and the lighting. Photography in its barest definition is the documenting of light. An infinite number of subject and light combinations exist in the world. Like young lovers, when the right combination comes together, its magical. And like old lovers, a photographer can spot that magic in an instant. The can even anticipate it.

Of course, when all elements are good, they make for a great photograph. But it is still not a perfect print. Have you ever bought a movie because you knew you’d watch it more then once? You knew that you would enjoy it every time you popped it into your DVD Player? A perfect print requires a fourth relationship and that is with the viewer. If that image you captured resonates with a viewer, elicits an emotion. You’ve done it. Maybe you own a perfect print. If you do, you can think of it right now. Great photographers will do this. They may not even be conscious of it. But if they are, they make it their goal to be consistent at it. It becomes a never ending struggle and desire.

There are other portraits of the late Avedon that capture his mischievious smile better. Liebovitz has made greater images that will be mentioned first in her life’s work. But when I view that simple shot of a camera it brings to mind the entirety of both their works. I look at it for a long time. It’s perfect.

"Luck favors the prepared."

-Edna Mode

Story also printed in Bakotopia magazine, issue 31, 6-26-08