We take some criticism for not “Tuning” the photographs we use in our McCarthy’s Party social media posts. My cousin David tells me we live in a digital age and the human eye has come to expect vivid displays of colour on our electronic screens. In order to find and maintain an audience, he insists we keep abreast of technology and embrace the artistic opportunities that allow us to enhance photos and maximize our image’s appeal.
“Before tuning.”
“Post Processed”
I don’t disagree and make no judgement towards those who choose to modify their images, but we want our photographs to reflect exactly what our guests can expect to see here in Newfoundland. We use our images as fulfillment pieces and we don’t want to create false expectations. We also spend an inordinate amount of time in the field and realize that eventually we will happen upon those perfect moments – and shooting “clean” ensures you know exactly when it happened.
“… shooting clean…”
As a result, we don’t use any colour filters, we don’t crop our photos, there’s no shadowing, and no artificial enhancement of any sort. We shoot through a clear glass lens’ and try to capture every image as it would be viewed by the naked eye, not a pair of sunglasses.
Recently a fellow shutter bug attended an exhibit by one of Newfoundland’s better-known photographers. While examining one of the prints, a fellow admirer exclaimed; “These photos are so beautiful – its hard to believe they aren’t altered in any way. They say they’re all captured in real light and colour.”
“… real light and colour.”
Now I don’t want to put words in anyone’s mouth, but I suspect my friend (a consummate “Photo Tuner” who produces beautiful pictures) was a little put out by this comment and confronted the exhibiting artist to determine the exact techniques used in the capture and print of these images. Admittedly, there was no photoshop nor any ‘Post Processing’ involved, but all the images availed of the many shades, blurs, tone, saturation, and shadowing tweaks that can be adjusted on the camera and in the field.
My friend shared this story with glee, offering it as confirmation that it was not only okay to tweak my photos, but expected as well.
Surprise, surprise, I didn’t see it that way.
“Real”
“F’real?”
The only way I can justify my time in the field, is through the capture of photographic images and the shared memories they conjure – and we obviously want these to reflect actual experiences.
Furthermore, this conversation started with a woman who marvelled about, and seemed to place a great deal of stock in the fact the artist’s images weren’t enhanced and were true recreations. A sense of value which we hope our audience will also recognize and appreciate in our pictures.
“Keeping it real”, takes on a whole new meaning in the photography world.
“The future’s so bright, I gotta wear shades!”
Thanks for the support and the love of Newfoundland in all her natural glory.
