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It's possible to think of photography as an act of…

“It's possible to think of photography as an act of editing, a matter of where you put your rectangle pull it out or take it away. Sometimes people ask me about films, cameras and development times in order to find out how to do landscape photography. The first thing I do in landscape photography…” quote by Michael Kenna
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“It's possible to think of photography as an act of editing, a matter of where you put your rectangle pull it out or take it away. Sometimes people ask me about films, cameras and development times in order to find out how to do landscape photography. The first thing I do in landscape photography is go out there and talk to the land - form a relationship, ask permission, it's not about going out there like some paparazzi with a Leica and snapping a few pictures, before running off to print them.”

Michael Kenna

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Kenna emphasizes that photography is a relational act, requiring respect for the subject and a mindful, ethical approach rather than mere technical execution.

In simple terms: Photography should be respectful and thoughtful.

Key Takeaway

Approach nature with humility and permission.

Themes

photography ethics nature

Mood

contemplative inspirational educational

Type

philosophical artistic environmental.

When to use this quote

  • landscape shoots
  • artist statements
  • workshops

Key Concepts

environmental respect visual storytelling

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does your mindset change when you view a scene as a partner?
  • What responsibilities do photographers have toward their subjects?
A Different Perspective

Technical focus alone can ignore the subject’s agency.

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