“Photography records the gamut of feelings written on the human face, the beauty of the earth and skies that man has inherited, and the wealth and confusion man has created. It is a major force in explaining man to man.” ~Edward Steichen
“I just think it's important to be direct and honest with people about why you're photographing them and what you're doing. After all, you are taking some of their soul.” ~Mary Ellen Mark
Steichen's quote is very true in my opinion. With the different types of photographs in the world, we are all shooting for different things. Nature photographers seek the challenge of conveying beauty and awe, while portrait photographers are more looking for emotion and a story behind the face. Portraits where the subject's eyes are just locked on the lens seem to cause a deep connection with the viewer. The viewer of the portrait is instantly forced to read that person's eyes and guess what that person is feeling, thinking or trying to convey with their glare.
On the other hand, I disagree with Mark's quote to a certain extent. I do believe that most people should be notified if you are taking a photo of them. There are two different "whys" to why you are taking the photos though. The reason as to where it will be published or where their picture will be used should be discussed with the subject. But the purpose you are trying to get out of the subject, or the intent of the photograph should stay in your mind. Say you are trying to capture the grumpy and down feeling of an old man, you probably won't go up to the guy and say "Hey! You look like a grumpy old bump on a log which is exactly what I am aiming for...can I take your photo?" Some things should just rest silent in the mind of the artist.
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