Argument Quote by Edward Weston
“Arguments against photography ever being considered a fine art are: the element of chance which enters in, — finding things ready-made for a machine to record, and of course the mechanics of the medium. I say that chance enters into all branches of art.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: Photography and the Fine Arts, Edward Weston, 1935
Chance and mechanical processes are inherent in photography, just as they appear in all art forms; thus, photography’s reliance on these elements does not disqualify it as fine art.
In simple terms: Photography’s randomness is shared with other arts; it remains fine art.
Key Takeaway
Accept chance as part of artistic expression.
Themes
art theory
photography
fine art
Mood
reflective
analytical
thought‑provoking
Type
philosophical
critical
When to use this quote
- gallery curation
- art education
- creative workshops
- photographic practice
Key Concepts
chance
mechanics
creativity
Questions to Reflect On
- Can intentional composition outweigh randomness?
- How does technology shape artistic value?
A Different Perspective
Some argue that intentionality is lacking in photography.
