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The Difference Between a ‘Good’ and a ‘Great’ Photograph

A traditional style boat plying a Kyoto canal near the end of the cherry blossom season.

The difference between a good and a great photograph is subjective and can vary depending on the viewer’s perspective. However, there are some general characteristics that distinguish a great photograph from a good one.

Sydney Opera House. Photo by Travel Photos Director and Head Photographer Andrew Blyth

A good photograph typically exhibits proper exposure, sharpness, and composition. It may capture a beautiful subject or a unique moment in time, and it can evoke emotions or tell a story. Good photographs are technically sound and pleasing to the eye, but they may not necessarily stand out or leave a lasting impression.

Flying displays at the first Benalla Airshow held in 2023
Flying displays at the first Benalla Airshow held in 2023

A great photograph, on the other hand, goes beyond technical proficiency and captures something truly exceptional. It can convey a powerful message, evoke strong emotions, or challenge the viewer’s perceptions. Great photographs are often the result of a combination of technical skill, creativity, and intuition. They may break the rules of composition or experiment with lighting and exposure in innovative ways. They can be timeless and leave a lasting impact on the viewer.

Lockheed C-130J Hercules of the Royal Australian Air Force doing a night time flare drop
Scenes at the Avalon International Airshow

In summary, the difference between a good and a great photograph is the ability to evoke emotion, convey a message, or capture something truly exceptional. While a good photograph can be technically sound and pleasing to the eye, a great photograph goes beyond technical proficiency to tell a story or challenge the viewer’s perceptions.

Cherry blossoms in Gion Kyoto
Cherry blossoms in Gion Kyoto