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 soap in his eyes Houston, TX Update: I guess I can call myself an artist now. I certainly never thought any of my photography would be controversial, but maybe I thought too soon. This image originally showed a larger crop, the frame ending just below his stomach, cutting off his arms at the wrist. Some people raised questions about this, not as judgement towards me as I understand it, but as protection against the perverts and slimeballs that no doubt comb the internet. I appreciate the fact that others are concerned, calling to my attention issues that I may have overlooked as I strive for a larger body of meaningful work. I debated whether or not to edit or remove the photo for a good part of my day, continually standing by my decision to post. When I talked to his mother and asked her about it, her hesitation and concern finalized my decision. She appreciates the image for what it is but I understand her and others trepidation and I would never do anything to hurt my son. Our son. We work together in his best interest and it would be vain to think I can use his images as I please without her consent. In the future, as a body of work, the image will be presented in its original form in controlled situations for portfolio reviews and gallery presentations. My internal arguments raised a lot of issues relating to the use of the internet for exposure (no pun intended). There are obvious personal and artistic risks by allowing everyone access to these images. As for copyright concerns, the images are small enough that they can't reasonably be used in any other way. I've had an image stolen before from here but it was used for satire instead of profit, but since I was aware, I asked it be removed and as far as I know they've complied. As for personal risk, well, there's just not a whole lot I can do about that. I'm hardly Sally Mann, but I've seen her children's images and plenty of others exhibited online. The same questions arise but ultimately there's nothing that can be done. The creeps and perverts that generate and seek out child pornography will continue to do so. The only thing I can do is fail to supply them with more material and not put my son at risk. As I said above, I appreciate the concern of people watching out for my and my son's best interest. | |
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Posted by r2blue Archived under: Holga, Black and White, People |
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