I recently came upon some observations made by one of my all-time favorite jazz pianists, Bill Evans. While he was referring to fellow musicians, they have some relevance to our time in which beautiful images are a mouse-click away and almost anyone who picks up a camera calls themself a cinematographer.
Are we witnessing the death of expertise? Or has the development of technology simply killed the mystery by making the process casually accessible to all?
Either way, here’s something to keep in mind: almost every person on earth owns a computer that runs word-processing software. Given that massive volume and opportunity, has it rendered another Shakespeare…or even a new Mickey Spillane?
You can draw your own conclusions as they apply to the world of cinematography…
“I always like people who have developed long and hard, particularly through introspection and a lot of dedication. I think that what they arrive at is usually…deeper and more beautiful…than the person who seems to have that ability and fluidity from the beginning. I say this because it’s a good message to give to young talents who feel as I used to. You hear musicians playing with great fluidity and complete conception early on, and you don’t have that ability. I didn’t. I had to know what I was doing. And ultimately it turned out that these people weren’t able to carry their thing very far. I found myself being more attracted to artists who have developed through the years and become better and deeper musicians. I believe in things that are developed through hard work.”
Right on Bill! I appreciate the expertise and creative evolution which can only come from doin the work…
Agreed.
After 30 years in this crazy business I’m always kicking myself that I didn’t learn many tricks, tips and approaches early on. What I do acknowledge, is the circuitousness of my career has left me with some unique insights and approaches that make my work mine. It’s less derivative and comes from my unique process.
Nick – Those of us of a certain age all came to our positions by different routes…but we put in the time. I think that’s what gives us substance and makes us so interesting and competent.
Wonderful post!
We go through different phases of our artistic career, hopefully maturing over time and developing a more varied and complex taste combined with experience. Every now and then, though, I go back to what inspired me as a teenager and college student, to rediscover that original passion to make sure I haven’t over-refined my technique too much!
Thank you, David! Let’s never stop growing!
Hey Richard, I just wanted to stop by and say ‘Hi!’ …. working with you remains a highlight and a memory of good times …. despite the ‘knuckleheads!”
Best,
Lee