Public Project
InstaGRAPHER
Copyright Mark Rafaelov 2024
Updated Apr 2016
Location Baku
Topics Environmental, Instagram, iPhone, mobile, Personal, smartphone, Street, Travel
I remember my impression when the very first smartphone was released, especially the built-in camera. Suddenly everyone could make a descent photo without entering the technical settings. All in one device was so smart, there was no need to learn photography technics or take a course of film development. No color correction, no composition basics, no exposure symbols. Of course, there still was a place for wedding, fashion and commercial photographers, but a whole range of photojournalists suffered from rising interest of average photo amateurs. Everyone got a chance to capture next historical event, just using the smartphone.
Quantity took a place over the quality. Well, in some point of view it was a disaster, others saw new opportunities in every way. What for me, I was thinking there is no such device for making a great shot without education or practicing. But seduction was too high and I made a choice in turn of opportunities. 

Day by day I was taking photos of people and still life around me, the process became so easy and quick, that I lost count on frames. Too much shots in a short time actually kill the value of each shot. But the bright side was hiding in the darkest places, like bus station, airports or subway. Places where you can't reach out your fancy camera and start shooting, places with annoying NoPhoto sign. Nobody was paying any attention to me making photos. Quality was not yet acceptable, but I prefer to make a grainy shot rather nothing.

Today I truly believe there is a chance for everyone to become a photographer, using smartphone or other device with built-in camera, the catch is to take a look and get an idea before pushing the button. You can make incredible shots with any phone anytime any place, nobody taking care of, but before you do, just ask yourself for what purpose. If the answer is in quantity of shares and likes, you should reconsider your position, or just be the instagrapher.There is too many of both, anyway.
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InstaGRAPHER by Mark Rafaelov
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