The Photographer is a Judge

Whatever you photograph, you’re making a judgement — whether good or bad. 

For example, every photograph you make is a critique (judgement) of something. 

For example, I really hate seeing fat children — because they are the victim of modern food industries.

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I hate racism. I strive to make photos which highlight the injustice in America. 

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I find homelessness and poverty a huge problem in America. I feel a bit conflicted on this point, because I think that homeless people must take some responsibility for their situation; but at the same time, a lot of homelessness is caused by institutions in America. 

Generally speaking, I think it is better to have a controversial opinion inherit in your photos, than to have no opinion. 

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I think photographers who try to remain “objective”, to “not influence the scene”, are inauthentic. Because the truth is all of our photographs are biased, subjective, and via our own personal perspective. 

And I think this is good. Your photos must be opinionated, biased, and from your own viewpoint. This is what photography is all about; conveying your own perspective with others! (Physically— the compositional perspective of your photos, as well as your moralistic and ethical perspective). 

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So recognize friend — as a photographer, you have a lot of power. You have the power to judge others, society, and the world. Your gavel is the camera. 

ERIC