I ran across the portfolio of Lee Page (leepage.com) today and was reminded of what great photography really does. A professional photographer like Lee is thinking beyond the requirements of good lighting and instead concerns himself with accentuating the mood that the ad or article is emanating by adjusting the color cast, camera angle, props and model. The two pictures below are a good example of how small differences can change the feel of a picture entirely.
What stories do you think these pictures tell? What's the mood, the setting and the time of day?
In the end, as creative/art directors we can only do what our budget and timeframe allow. But if your message really hinges on the images you are using consider spending a little more time and money to get a picture that engages, that brings the reader in and informs them before the first line of copy is read.
If you know of other really great creative individuals, drop me a line. Thanks for reading!

