Normally I just read these threads and almost never post except for the
odd question seekign information but I find this subject thought
provoking and decided that I would offer my repsonse to Boris' question.
I believe that there is not a single definition for the term "snapshot".
I believe that the definition is contextual.
First I believe that Don's original post is true. As the two root words
imply a snapshot is a photograph that is done quickly and without much
thought at the time of the shot. This definition makes no implication as
to the quality of the photograph, just how it was taken. With this
definition a snapshot can be a good or even great photograph.
The second definition, to me, is pejorative in nature and conveys the
sense that the photograph is not of great value because of its technical
aspects or subject matter or both. (i.e. "It is just a snapshot.")
There may be other definitions (oh, the joy of the English langauge!)
but these are the two that come to mind to me.
Larry
is this a snapshot?
http://www.amherst.edu/magazine/issues/05winter/war/capa.html
basically, my suggestion is "nevermind the definitions".
best,
mishka
On 7/23/05, Don Sanderson <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote:
I would say it is a quickly taken shot to record a person,
place or event.
It would be given very little thought as to the technical
details.
Critical focus, composition, exposure, equipment choice,
etc. would all take second place to simply making an
exposure of the "moment".
A not "pre-concieved" shot. Unlike a shot where the picture
is first in your "minds eye" and THEN, AFTER considering
the best way to achieve what you have in mind, make the
exposure. The latter is to me a photograph, the former
a snap shot.
Not unlike "shooting from the hip" versus careful aiming
when using a firearm.
Don
> -----Original Message-----
> From: Boris Liberman [mailto:[EMAIL <mailto:%5BEMAIL> PROTECTED]
> Sent: Saturday, July 23, 2005 2:33 PM
> To: [email protected]
> Subject: What is snapshot? (seriously)
>
>
> Hi!
>
> Shel responded that my latest PAW was a good snap, nothing more... While
> I accept what he said, he made me thinking...
>
> What is a snap shot, really??? What is an opposite of snap shot???
> Technically, with modern AF cameras the time spent taking the picture
> itself is rather short... So what is a snap shot anyway ...
>
> Let us be constructive, ladies and gentlemen. I realize this can grow to
> a long thread and I want it to be peaceful...
>
> Thanks a lot in advance...
>
> Boris
>
What is snapshot? (seriously)
<http://www.mail-archive.com/pentax-discuss%40pdml.net/msg265432.html>
Boris Liberman
