Soft Focus Black and White

I was watching a documentary today that covered the life of a famous photographer who made a statement that summed up how I often feel about my photos. He said, “The finished photo image is often much more than just the result of a mechanical process, it can also be the result of some artistic vision.” In the case of photojournalism, where realism and truth is key, I understand that the original image should not be altered, and in fact publication style-guides state that as a requirement for it to be published. But, otherwise, when the photo is used by the originator to present a specific artistic view, then I say, “have at it.” Thanks to digital post processing software today, it’s possible to alter an original photo’s appearance in subtle or dramatic ways. I prefer the subtle. Here are several examples, I call it “soft focus.”