“Photography is picture-language, the only language that can be understood anywhere in the world. This makes it precious and unique. When I find an interesting subject, I never assume that the first view is also the best. Most likely, provided I have time, further study will reveal other and often preferable possibilities for effective rendition. I pay particular attention to the influence of light and shadow, perspective, background, and scale. Then I take a series of pictures, all slightly different, from which I later choose the best. Other aspects which I find necessary to consider for the production of good photographs are simplicity of composition and imagination in regard to rendition. Nothing is more likely to dilute the effect of any image than inclusion of pointless background.
I never photograph a subject unless I consider it photogenic. In this respect, qualities to be considered by me are color, light, contrast, perspective, motion, background, and overall tone. Because unless these qualities are well represented, the photograph may be important in regard to content but can never become an artistically satisfying picture. I avoid subjects that have been photographed successfully before, unless I feel I can do even better. Lastly, I believe that a creative photographer must have the courage to go his own way. Only if I feel free from prejudicial rules can I produce photographs that I can be proud of.” Andreas Feininger (1906 - 1999)