[Leica] Too many or too few pictures.

[lrzeitlin at aol.com (lrzeitlin at aol.com)]

 When I started newspaper work in 1948 I was handed a 4x5 Speed Graphic and 
six film holders. The photo editor felt?that was more than enough for any 
assignment. It was frowned on to use more than three holders, i.e. six 
shots. Any more would put an intolerable load on processing and editing. I 
was told to previsualize and edit in my mind.


I counted a number of magazine photographers amongst my mentors. They used 
Rolliflexes, not because they could get better quality out of the small 6x6 
cm negative but because they could squeeze 12 shots on a roll of 120 film. 
Leicas were around, of course, but to the best of my knowledge no Boston 
newspaper published a photo taken with one until the mid 50s. And those were 
photos taken during the Korean war.


Being a professional is not a matter of quality. Many amateur Luggers take 
pictures as good as those that call themselves professionals. The advantage 
in not being professional is that you don't have to make a living out of 
your craft. I.e. you don't have to cover your ass. If you take pictures for 
your own pleasure you can march to your own drummer. You need not bow to the 
demands of the buyer.


Larry Z