What Makes a Photo Great?

How do you know if the photo you made is great, the one, a work of art, the magnum opus?  Well, often times that's the hard part.  We all make good photos from time to time (or at least I like to think so), but what really is the difference between a good photo and a great photo?

Personally, for me, a great photo is one that will mean something to someone, and stand the test of time.  Its a photo that someone will cherish not only now, but 5, 10 and 50 years from now.  Those are the hard ones to make.  Obviously, there is all different kinds of photography with different purposes, but the ones that really wow most folks, are those that hold up over time and stick in folks' minds for many years to come.  I know there are many photos in my mind, that others have taken, that still inspire and awe me.  My personal opinion is that anyone can learn how to use a camera, and anyone can learn how to be a master at lighting or composing, these are all things that with a little effort, can be learned in a short amount of time, but finding your voice and creating an image with impact is infinitely harder.

If this is something you struggle with or would like to think about more, then you must watch the video above.  Its kinda long, but in a nutshell, Scott Kelby and Joe McNally discuss what makes a photo great.  Its hard not to walk away with useful information when listening to either of these two, but this video really resonated with me and Joe brings up several points that I think are often over looked when photographers are out snapping pics (myself very much included).

Seriously, get a good cup of coffee and sneak away from all the hustle and bustle and watch this.