Creativity is defined as originality, therefore every image we make can be perceived as such. Subjectivity has many synonyms: bias, prejudice, even preconception. It is objectivity we must strive for when viewing innovative ideas and techniques. If an image does not stir you visually or emotionally, perhaps it is due in part to preconception. Typically, photographers (like most artists) are an insecure lot and as such, they fall victim to fear of non-acceptance. We tend to emulate those individuals, styles and techniques that we consider successful and accepted by the masses, perceiving this as the definitive way to do things.

We all have different photographic aspirations and goals. If one such goal is to make your hobby into a viable business, you better know the marketplace and have the ability to produce a wide range of images that photo editors are currently buying. Professionals must produce images that are both technically correct and sellable - their livelihoods depend upon it. However, this is not to say that creativity should be stifled.

All photographers strive to produce unique, creative images, and at some point in their careers have used the images (or styles) of others that they admire as templates for their own photographic endeavors. However, those who study the psychology of what makes an image visually stimulating to the human mind can set their own standards in designing a creative image that is fulfilling to both creator and viewer. They understand that a successful image is one with both visual and emotional impact, where all of the technical and aesthetic ingredients come together to invoke a response. It's an image that's crafted to transcend the viewer from their world into the world that has been put before them. This is key to success, and much has been written on the subject of human visual perception, interpretation of color, composition and other visual stimulus. If you desire to produce creative images that are accepted by the masses, then mastering the technical side is not enough - you must also understand and embrace the nuances of visual impact.

To look at your own work objectively, severing the emotional connection associated with it is extremely difficult and no easy task. The maker will always have a different viewpoint, and the image that took weeks to accomplish under adverse conditions will always have some emotional strings attached to it. This emotional connection is the very reason portfolio reviewers from stock agencies and publications prefer not to have the maker present. Images are judged solely on merit, creativity, and technical proficiency. The circumstances, emotional involvement and rational behind them are immaterial. The NPN image critique galleries can provide valuable insight on how well an image will be received by those with no emotional attachment to it.

In viewing photography, there is no separation of aesthetics and technique, as both comprise the entity. However, a creative image with true visual impact, even one of a common subject, will always stand on its own.

See you in the field.

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Editor's Note - Charles' extensive list of corporate clients includes Atlantis Marine World, where he is the principal photographer. His images can be seen on story boards, postcards, in editorial print, and advertising media including the web, movie theater screens, posters, brochures, billboards, and more.

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