Today, a friend sent to me by email an article from the Guardian that I would like to share with you. I found it interesting but was reminded of a something I have been struggling with for a while.

The topic is about how digital imaging is causing photography, in it's true sense, to become a dying art form. As I have been known to take a few photos in my time, I find this troubling. I have avoided the switch to digital because I feel that it makes things too easy. Anyone can get a digital camera and within a few hours create a flawless piece of work that could grace anyone's walls. It makes it so easy for a so-so photo to become something extraordinary. And where is the skill in that?

Yes, some will argue that you can do the same with traditional photography but the truth is, if you have a poor negative, there is usually not much you can do to improve it. The skill comes in producing a negative that makes a great photo. If you do not develop that skill, then there is nothing you can do to save it usually.

Don't get me wrong. Digital does have its advantages. It is more environmentally sound and creates less clutter. Unfortunately, that does not outweigh the feeling that I get that digital imaging just creates one more excuse not to have a specialized skill. In a way, it just feel common.

Perhaps I just have a desire to feel like I have done something special with tools that allow only my best to become my best and not that everything I do can be a fabulous piece of work. I like the challenge.

Anyway, happy shooting (with a camera) in whatever form it takes!