© 2019 Rachel L. Shumate | All rights reserved.
They say that photographers become partial to certain images that they take, and truly how could we not? One could argue that the downfall to this is that you fail to see the flaws in the image and therefore present a less than laudable piece of work to the world – or rank poorly in competition, as my mentor once told me.
However, you could also argue that not every photograph needs to be competition-worthy and that what some see as flaws could simply be chalked up to expression, or the artist’s portrayal. It really depends on your audience – a panel of diehard judges at a photography competition, a curator at a gallery, or simply those that see your framed pieces on the walls in your home.
Regardless, when photography is a passion, you are not just recording an image for the sake of its beauty or interest. You capture the essence of time and the memories encompassing the moment. This reigns true not just for portraits, but for fine art photography as well. For all of my work, I can tell you who was with me when I took the image, where we were, and what we did that day. So while others just see a pretty picture, I have a glimpse of a memory.
As with anything, affection can soften flaws in the eye of the beholder. I believe this is a good thing… for where would we find ourselves in this hard and coarse world if it weren’t for the warm and fuzzy feelings of love?
The story behind this image: “Recurring Dreams”
When I was small, my family would take me to Krape Park (in Freeport, IL) when we went to visit my grandparents. We would feed the ducks, I would frolic on the playground, and I would always score a ride or two on the merry-go-round, courtesy of my grandpa.
Many years have since passed and I was amazed that the merry-go-round is still there. It is now fifty cents to ride instead of the dime it cost “back when I was a kid.” I took this photograph when we went to visit my grandma for her 90th birthday; sadly my grandpa passed away when I was eight years old.
I have actually entered this image into PPWV’s competition and it didn’t do poorly, nor did it receive a blue ribbon merit. Admittedly, it doesn’t hang on my walls either. I just happen to like it simply because it is nostalgic and brings about memories of my childhood and family. I reiterate, beauty is in the eye of the beholder.
