Prof Robson’s Philosophy of Photography Answers

1. Does Prof Robson’s philosophy of photography apply ONLY to cell phone (iPhoneography) photography?

No.

2.  What are the four areas of Prof Robson’s philosophy of photography?

1. understanding and using composition

2. seeing light as its own entity and separate from subject

3. being fully present and paying watchful attention

4. understanding that a camera is only a tool and knowing how to use it

3.  According to Prof Robson, what is the main goal of every serious photographer?

That your images will be able to stop your viewer(s) and lure them to come take part in your vision and really look at the story each of your images tell.

4.  What are some of the decisions a photographer makes with EVERY image EVERY time?

The composition and lighting structures.

5.  How much have you ever paid attention to the light? It’s direction? It’s color?

I pay attention to the light every time I take out my camera. Sometimes you have to adjust the ISO or change your location depending on the lighting. It is one of the most important things.

6.  What does the word photography literally mean? (This is not the dictionary definition of what photography is–it is the literal “translation” of what the word actually means. You will have to do a bit of research…)

The word photography derives from the Greek photos ("light") and graphe ("drawing"). The term was coined by Hercules Florence, a French painter and inventor, who used it in his diary to describe the process. Photos is also the root of words such as photon or photophobia (fear of light).

7.  Why is it so important to be present (or mindful) to produce a quality image?

You could lose a great shot if you are not fully present.

8.  How much of your attention is usually split between multiple places? What are the advantages and disadvantages of that?

It will make learning the art and fun of photography far slower and much harder. Your fractured attention will also make it very difficult (if not impossible) to communicate a powerful story to your viewer.

9.  How much of producing a quality image is in the control of the photographer? How much is solely under the control of the camera?

Only a little bit. Most all of it is under the control of the photographer.

10.  Why do most people (who don’t know any better) think that the camera totally controls an outstanding image?

Because most people think that the better the camera, the better the image.

11.  How has your viewpoint and understanding of this article changed your understanding of photography?

It makes me feel confident that no matter what camera I have, I can take a great photo.