"If I am at a party, I want to be at the party. Too many photographers use the camera to avoid participating in things. They become professional observers"
- Robert Mapplethorpe
About this Quote
In this quote, photographer Robert Mapplethorpe is revealing his belief that being completely present and engaged in a party or occasion is more vital than simply recording it through a video camera lens. He criticizes photographers who utilize their electronic cameras as a guard to distance themselves from the experience, rather of actively participating in it. Mapplethorpe recommends that this detachment can cause a lack of authenticity and genuine connection with the subject or event being photographed. He emphasizes the value of being totally immersed in the minute and experiencing it firsthand, rather than just observing it from a distance.
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