The Changing Art of Making Photographs Technological Progress Eliminates Science from the Craft
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The Changing Art of Making Photographs Technological Progress Eliminates Science from the Craft
Back in the day, photography was not only a creative art form, but also a masterpiece of scientific techniques and knowledge. Young people learned the craft of capturing images from the pros at esteemed art schools, fine-tuning the skills of composition, lighting, camera settings, film and chemical reactions. Thanks to modern technology and 21st century digital cameras, this has all changed, according to Mel Lindstrom, an accomplished, international award-winning commercial photographer based in San Francisco.
San Francisco, CA — Back in the day, photography was not only a creative art form, but also a masterpiece of scientific techniques and knowledge. Young people learned the craft of capturing images from the pros at esteemed art schools, fine-tuning the skills of composition, lighting, camera settings, film and chemical reactions. Thanks to modern technology and 21st century digital cameras, this has all changed, according to Mel Lindstrom, an accomplished, international award-winning commercial photographer based in San Francisco.
“The science of making photos and using film has been eliminated. With digital cameras and computers, you no longer need to understand the camera’s reaction to light and optics and how this affects the different settings,” said Lindstrom, who has taught photography at the Academy of Art in San Francisco and San Jose State University, and is a sought-after guest speaker for his expertise in the field. “We used to have to decide many things ahead of time, and now the camera automatically does it all for you.”
This is the good news, he explained. Because of these advancements, photographers now can focus solely on the art of achieving an image, something that can’t be taught or phased out with modern technology. At the end of the day, the camera is simply a tool used to achieve a photograph. While the science of operating a camera is no longer appreciated or necessary, in Lindstrom’s professional opinion, this does not take away from the art of photography.
“Like in any business, technological advancements are change agents in the field of photography,” explained Lindstrom, who has a full-service professional photo studio along the City’s bustling Fourth Street corridor. “We have to embrace and go with the trends in technology to remain successful commercial photographers.”
Building a professional career and taking award-winning photos still requires more than point-and-shoot techniques, even with the assistance of computers. While much of the process is now automated and calculated, photographers forever will require a keen attention to detail, unique perspective on composition and the creative ability to capture the true emotion, spirit and essence of the subject to make beautiful art. Lindstrom possesses these talents. Already this year, he has won 26 creative awards, ranging from national ADDYs® to top marketing honors from the American Medical Association.
Lindstrom has built his career specializing in people. Known as a people photographer, he captures portraits of individuals from all walks, ranging from CEOs to construction workers, telling poignant stories of those he shoots.
Advancement is good. According to Lindstrom, technology is nothing to be frightened about “if we realize it is just another tool to achieve the image.”
To view Lindstrom’s state-of-the-art work, visit www.melphoto.com. For more information go online or call 415.979.9340.
Mel Lindstrom Photography
With a passion to constantly develop his personal style, Mel Lindstrom continues to produce award-winning images for ad agencies, design firms and clients throughout the world. Lindstrom has held numerous art shows, has taught at the Academy of Art in San Francisco and San Jose State University, and been a guest speaker for professional organizations such as the APA, ASMP, PAPA and others. For more information, visit www.melphoto.com or call 415.979.9340.