Let’s say that I wander around in Glacier Park until I find a “pretty” scene. I choose a pleasing composition, carefully select my camera settings (manual, always!), and wait for the best light. But when I press the shutter, I am taking a copy of something that is already “pretty.” In this case, I’m just a technician, and there are thousands of technicians with cameras out there. Not much different than some guy pressing the button to Xerox a glossy calender.

In some cases, this is where I begin the image making process. But in many cases, this is where a lot of self-described “photographers” end their efforts. I see these guys over and over at art shows. Oh look, yet another “picture” of flowers in front of Mt. Reynolds in evening light. Gag me with an Instamatic.