Reaction Paper 7

            I chose David Bowman as my favorite photographer for one specific reason.  For several of his photos, he decided to shoot scenic bodies of water, and my most favorite of all were the ones of the 10,000 lakes.  I really loved these the most for two reasons- they were breathtaking as well as meaningful to me.  The shots themselves were beautiful and natural looking.  Bowman didn't really use wacky angles or incorporate very bright colors or sunsets, but the photos were still so pretty.  He shows how to have a lovely photograph without needing to go over the top.  What's even better about these to me is that I've always loved that I live in such a state with so many beautiful lakes.  It's peaceful and since I'm not much of a city person, I don't exactly love the "bustling city" idea.  That is why I love the photographs even more- because they are soothing and relaxing to me, as well as remind me of home.  I have always been a person that prefers taking pictures of scenery over people, though I'm not entirely sure why.  I especially loved our last landscaping project, and I'm hoping to use some of this kind of stuff in the final project since it is my favorite type of photography.  I have found myself in all my time since having a camera that I opt to take pictures of landscapes, and less of people.

            I was not surprised in any way when I read some information about David Bowman.  He is from Minneapolis, Minnesota.  He has a large amount of schooling under his belt, including education in Ireland.  Bowman has a great number of awards, performance and exhibit history, as well as a very impressive variety of gallery locations nationwide in addition to Paris.  It's no surprise that Bowman has so much publication and recognition for his work.  It is clear that this American (and Minnesotan) photographer is proud of his home and desires to flaunt it in his work.  I wouldn't doubt it if many other people choose this man as their favorite photographer as well because I am sure that most people are also proud of this state- as they should be.  I personally thought David Bowman stood out the most, and not many other photographers compared.  I'm a person of simple taste and appreciate when someone takes something from or near the home and doesn't go way out of the ordinary to the point of being completely abnormal.  I am not a huge fan of abstract art or art that does not really make sense because no one can relate to it or have memories, and memories are a fantastic element of photography.  Memories trigger emotion and feeling within us as opposed to random images that do not even compute in our minds.  I personally believe anybody in the world can make "abstract" art, so that's why I treasure those who can bring out natural beauty in life, nature, landscapes, friends, or whatever else it may be.