Open Thread: Photography

Hosted by a red rose in a black-and-white picture

I will admit this - I am fascinated by photography.  By pictures that get the lighting just perfect, that capture true emotion, that bring colors and movement to life.  I love tricks like the one above that startle the eye and make two beautiful things even more beautiful through contrast.  I love how a good photographer can bring out the beauty in anyone or anything.  (True fact: I hate the way I photograph.  The number of pictures of myself that I can stand, I can count on the fingers of one hand... except when a certain photographer friend of mine is behind the camera.  For some reason, when she takes my picture, I look amazing.)

Sadly, the skill is not mine.  I wish it were.  I've tried.  I can take not-awful pictures.  I'm a perfectly serviceable photographer for, say, capturing the highlights of an annual meeting/awards dinner.  But I lack the eye to know exactly how to craft a beautiful shot, or to recognize the perfect moment and capture it.  (I also lack the $3000 super mega camera, but that's only part of the problem!)

Open thread!  Any budding photographers among us?  What's the best photo you've ever seen?  What's the best photo you've ever seen of you?  What's the most cringe-worthy?  Are there people in your family/friends who always get handed the camera, and are there people who can always be counted on to put their thumbs over the lens?  Do you love getting your picture taken, or do you hate it?  When you do get your picture taken, do you smile or scowl?

Monday Reminder!  While I have fun coming up with pretty pictures and/or interesting “prompt” questions for open threads, you aren’t limited to those!  These threads are open - go wild, talk about whatever moves you!  (Just remember that this is still a safe space, please!) 

And, like on all threads: please remember to use the "post new comment" feature rather than the "reply" feature, even when directly replying to someone else!