8. Sheep Syndrome

I'm becoming increasingly disenchanted by the competitive nature which is slowly consuming the field of amateur photography. Whilst I appreciate that each of us shares a desire to capture some unusual shots, there's nothing more boring than a succession of images from the one location each posted within days or sometimes hours of each other.
The consistent postings of multiple images to a group forum is also irksome. Facebook provides timelines for that purpose. There is absolutely no need to monopolise a group site with personal postings on an intermittent basis.

At the risk of sounding like a cranky old woman, I admire those who can move beyond the flock mentality and break the mold. We've experienced some classic quests:  waterfalls; sunflowers; canola; fog;  long exposures; star trails; waves; the Opera House, to name a few. The beauty of each is not in question, only the attitude of the people who race out on a road trip the minute an image is posted in an endeavour to get a better shot than the one first posted.

The competitive drive extends from locations to equipment. Who has the most impressive gear ? Who can stitch the greatest number of images ? Who can gain access to private locations ? Who has captured the longest exposure ? Who has shot with the most well known photographers ? Who has the most powerful lens ? Who can afford the most expensive trips ?  How about " Who loves photography for the pleasure it brings ?".

A sameness is creeping over most of the images, with most people emulating the same ideal. Currently long exposures are the flavour of the month, with skies and water devoid of any semblance of normality. The single tree rears its head time and time again, masked behind the aura of minimalism.

I love photography which challenges the norms and displays a unique style. I'm still searching for mine so that is my quest for the moment and if its a solo one, then all the better.