A guide that is not serious but useful (we hope)

Imagine yourself in an art gallery or scrolling through Instagram. You're looking at two photographs. The first seems to tell a story, transporting you to a world where even the shadows have secrets to share. The second... let's just say it reminds you of a quick click at a family barbecue. Here are some clues to recognize a master photographer from a shutter button enthusiast:

1. The magic eye

A good photographer sees beauty where the average person sees a pile of old stones or a sleeping cat. The play of light, the unexpected perspectives, the fascinating textures... all of it becomes a work of art under their lens. The average photographer? They immortalize those same stones, but they look like a set from an old TV show.

2. The story in the image

A high-quality photograph tells a story. You can almost feel the wind blowing through a portrait's hair or guess the silent conversation between two objects. An average photographer often captures a moment, but misses... that little "je ne sais quoi" that makes you want to lose yourself in the image.

3. Technical mastery

The exceptional photographer doesn't leave exposure or focus to chance. He plays with settings like a Michelin-starred chef with spices. The average photographer, on the other hand, relies on automatic with the faith of a lottery player.

4. Photoshop treatment

A great photographer uses digital tools to enhance an already successful work. The average photographer? They add an overly saturated filter that transforms a blue sky into a fluorescent pool.

5. Public reaction

When faced with a photo by an exceptional photographer, people murmur, marvel, and stop breathing for a moment. When faced with an average photo, people comment: "Oh, that's nice... Did you take it with your phone?"

In conclusion

A truly good photographer transcends simply capturing a moment to create an emotion, a reflection, a work of art. The average photographer, on the other hand, often captures... well, just a moment. But let's be honest: even they deserve encouragement (and a training course or two). After all, it's by taking pictures that you become a photographer.