Average Quote by Ralph Waldo Emerson
“Pay no heed to the average photographer's remarks upon "flat" and "weak" negatives. Probably he is flat, weak, stale, and unprofitable; your negative may be first-rate, and probably is if he does not approve of it.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: Self-Reliance, 1841
Criticizing shallow criticism, the quote urges trust in one's own artistic judgment over mediocre opinions.
In simple terms: Trust your own eye, not the average critic.
Key Takeaway
Value personal standards over popular opinion.
Themes
individualism
artistic integrity
confidence
Mood
defiant
confident
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- photography exhibitions
- personal projects
- gallery submissions
- artistic collaborations
Key Concepts
subjectivity
self‑assessment
creative autonomy
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you differentiate constructive feedback from envy?
- What standards guide your creative decisions?
A Different Perspective
Mediocre critics may occasionally spot genuine flaws.
