Beyond “Clever” and Ironic Photos

One of my critiques in photography:

Too many photographers strive to make photos which are “ironic” or “clever” in terms of composition, layers, etc.

For example, towards a critique of Alex Webb and the “layered” style of street photography:

Photographers are trying to see how clever they can get with the layers in their photos instead of trying to make deep and meaningful and emotionally-stirring images.

Photos which are simple, severe and strong and great in impact regarding composition is far superior to any street photo with a quadrillion layers, a quadrillion random heads poking out, etc.