Who Said Anything About Perfection?

When I was young, growing up in the gym, “perfect 10” was a term often thrown around in the gymnatics world. That’s what the judges are looking for. That’s what you’re team is hoping for. A “perfect 10.” From the moment you raise your arms to salute the judges, all eyes are on you and the judging begings. Literally. The judges look for any imperfection, even if it’s just a slight wabble, they will see it and deduct from your score. And getting a “perfect 10” is no longer going to happen. But that didn’t mean we would give up because the routine wasn’t perfect. We’d keep going, and finish strong because that’s what we trained for, even if it’s not going to end with a perfect score.

Everyone is looking for perfection, in one aspect or another. As the times have changed, we start setting more realistic goals, as we are coming to learn that being perfect, really isn’t a thing.

So with that being said, in the world of artistic expression, in this case, photography; whose to say what’s perfect? Perfect lines? Perfect lighting? Perfect composition? Sure! All of these skills are key ingredients in producing something beautiful. But is it a perfect 10?

As I continue to learn and expand my skillset in the world of photography, even when I know that the image is a little over exposed, or too warm or too cool; it doesn’t that mean the photo doesn’t count, or “isn’t good.” It’s just different. Could a stronger photo be taken, most likely. But in that moment, I saw something, and I went out to grab it. Not all flaws make something “bad,” but rather, unique.

My goal is to take intriguing photos. Photos that make you take a second look, to look a little deeper and question “what am I looking at?” I love to challenge myself to find something “pretty” and make it interesting. But shooting for that perfect 10, isn’t on my list.

Who are the judges when it comes to art? Who determains what is perfect? Not all judges have the same criteria. One judge’s perfect 10, may not be the same as yours, and that’s exactly how it should be!