Not all assignments are created equal, but the way you cover them should be. If a photo has my name on it, I’m going to shoot it as if it could be on the front page. I realize how cheesy that sounds and I can already feel my college roommates making fun of me. But ask any photographer and they’ll tell you – one of the worst feelings in the world is seeing a weak photo on the front page with your name on it.
It’s like shooting an air ball, utterly embarrassing.
So when my editor Mark told me I was shooting a pile of salt my first thought was – pepper. No not really. But I consider not saying that a missed opportunity. I was actually really excited about the assignment. I’ve always wondered where those little blue rocks that get all over my car come from and I was pretty psyched to find out. This might sound a little weird. But let me explain.
I think one of the biggest misconceptions in photography is that great assignments yield great photographs. The truth is you can make a really boring picture anywhere. I’ve seen boring pictures from the Cubs Game 7 World Series game.
Some of the most beautiful images I’ve ever seen are made in mundane places; bedrooms, backyards, or sidewalks. As hard as that is to remember when you’re find yourself staring at a pile of tiny minerals it’s important to try, and not be salty.
