Arrangements Quote by Edward Steichen
“Some day there may be... machinery that needs but to be wound up and sent roaming o'er hill and dale, through fields and meadows, by babbling brooks and shady woods - in short, a machine that will discriminately select its subject and, by means of a skillful arrangement of springs and screws, compose its motif, expose the plate, develop, print, and even mount and frame the result of its excursion, so that there will be nothing for us to do but to send it to the Royal Photographic Society's exhibition and gratefully to receive the 'Royal Medal'.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: 1930s lecture on photographic technology, Edward Steichen
A future where automated cameras handle all steps from capture to exhibition, leaving humans only to submit work for awards.
In simple terms: Machines could do all photographic work, leaving only submission.
Key Takeaway
Embrace automation but retain artistic judgment.
Themes
technology
automation
art
recognition
Mood
reflective
optimistic
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- photojournalism
- gallery exhibitions
- academic contests
- personal projects
- commercial advertising
Key Concepts
photography
mechanization
creative process
Questions to Reflect On
- How would you maintain artistic integrity with full automation?
- What new skills become valuable?
A Different Perspective
May reduce creative involvement and critical thinking.
