Well, let’s take a look at what is happening here.
1. You invited me into this conversation when you referred to me in your first response on this. You asked why I find the value in this picture. It is a beautiful scene off the beaten path. It has wonderful drama of winter in the mountains, with a nice glowing side light. For me the picture without any wildlife in it already has merit as a solid shot that will touch many people hearts. The fact Tony was lucky enough to add an aspect of the naturally occurring wildlife in the scene is a bonus for me.
2. Now, I see you mimicking what my original comments to you were. This tells me you took offense at them. My apologies, truly my intent was to show that beauty is in the eye of the beholder. Yes I can use my own site (and probably should have as you seem very offended I chose your pictures as the example) or ANYBODYS site as an example. But I never did attack you or your photography. I also didn’t call your comments “Laughable”. Now I understand you think I was attacking you. So be it.
3. I can understand your “discipline” of taking pictures of animals not looking at you. I can even agree with it. But like other photographic “Rules” just because you didn’t follow it, doesn’t mean the end result doesn’t have merit. Heck, just look at some of Steve Bloom’s work (one person who’s nature work I truly admire) and while some of the times he follows that rule…some of his most dramatic work seems to not only have the animal looking at him, but darned near attacking him. My point being that every rule doesn’t have to be followed in lockstep. You do what works for you....Tony makes choices that work for him. Neither is incorrect....just diffrent.
4. I value discussing photography as well…and this IS a forum. Just because we don’t agree is reason to believe that EITHER of us is encroaching on one another’s “breathing room”. Which brings me to my last point.
5. Ok…lets deal with your last statement. Let others be “right” occasionally? That’s not my job. Everyone here who participating in the forum has the right to their approach…its their art and creation, and that inherently makes them right....and I actually LIKE that we differ in opinions. If we didn’t , everyone work would be EXACTLY the same. I don’t WANT us to all agree. The fact I am strong in what I understand in and believe shouldn’t suffocate others…but provide just another perspective in the multifaceted world we live in. Anyone who feels like they need “breathing room” around my opinions….well I would point them more to their own reflection in the mirror more than myself. I don’t need you or anyone to agree with me to be “who I am”, and I would wish only the same stregnth of self to everyone out there.
In closing I totally disagreed with your assessment of Tonys picture. I also respect your right to feel the way you do. I don’t expect you to change for me or anyone…but this is a DISCUSION forum….and all we are doing here is discussing. If you’re reading more into it…that’s your prerogative. I hope it serves you well.
Roman
