Sharpness overrated?

Robin Usagani · Dec 25, 2011

We had that heated discussion recently
http://www.thephotoforum.com/forum/...s-overrated.html?highlight=sharpness+overated

I just took this photo. I missed focus because I wasnt on the right focusing mode. They suddenly ran toward me. I was going to delete it but I just cant. I love the photo too much. So does the content of this photo trumps the softness? Should I not deliver this?

Here is a link to high resolution so you can see how soft it is.
http://usagani.com/img/s9/v14/p104502094.jpg

Rephargotohp · Dec 25, 2011

You've got Motion and E-motion, nothing else needed

cgipson1 · Dec 25, 2011

I like it.. but I would have to see what the original looks like, and what size it might print nicelytoo, to really make a decision. If you gave it to a client, and they loved it, and wanted a large print.. but it would only produce a decent 5x7... that would be a problem. Great shot... a lot is being said there!

Josh66 · Dec 25, 2011

It works for me. Print it.

Robin Usagani · Dec 25, 2011

added the link to the high resolution on the original post.

Josh66 · Dec 25, 2011

After seeing the high resolution photo - I guess it depends on how large they want it. 5x7 or smaller will probably be fine. In a 4x6, the softness would hardly be noticeable.

cgipson1 · Dec 25, 2011

Schwettylens said:
added the link to the high resolution on the original post.

I'd say it's a keeper! Artistic intent was a dreamy, slightly out of focus shot.. like our memories as we get older, details are lost, but the wonder and beauty is still there! That is what you meant to do, right.. Robin? lol!

Robin Usagani · Dec 25, 2011

Even if it was printed big, I feel like it will be a strong image. I dont know. Maybe bitter will chime in hahaha.

LightSpeed · Dec 25, 2011

A new sharpness is overrated thread.

I was curious to know how much sharpness was overrated.
So I made that happen, to be told that the subject was poorly lit. Which of course, I disagree with, given ambient.
I found the exposure to be near spot on this, a soft shot.

That is what Inspired this.
no hijack intended.

Josh66 · Dec 25, 2011

Print off an 8x10 and see how it looks... 5x7 and smaller, I have no doubt that it will look fine. I think 8x10 will probably be OK too, but bigger than that, I'm not sure.

StevenLindberg · Dec 25, 2011

Here's the real question: What does the client care for? If it warms the heart, keep it. If the dreamy, half-awake feeling is what you/they want, keep it. Close your eyes for ten minutes, go look at other photographs. Look at some very sharp, still heartwarming photographs. Then return abruptly to this one. Does it still feel good? If yes, then keep it. Sometimes it's not any more complicated then that. Keep the photos that make you smile, even if they're not ideal. That's how we treat people, isn't it?

RebeccaAPhotography · Dec 25, 2011

There is no client these are schwettys kiddos

Robin Usagani · Dec 25, 2011

LOL.. no.. these are not my kiddos. These are client's kiddos.
http://www.thephotoforum.com/forum/professional-gallery/266917-family-photos-sh-t-load-snow.html

RebeccaAPhotography · Dec 25, 2011

Damn!! My bad! Sorry Robin! At least I do know you have a 3rd hahaha. Merry xmas and sorry bout that screw up hahaha (smacks self in forehead!)

Now that I looked thru they are CLEARLY not your kiddos bahahaha (smacks self in head again)

I do love your set. Nicely done

SCraig · Dec 25, 2011

I think a lot of the time it depends on the subject. In this particular case the (slight) lack of sharpness will likely be overshadowed by the composition of the photo. I have one that is similar:

Very soft, very grainy, poorly composed, but after 30 years it is still one of my favorites simply because of the look of concentration on my niece's face.

Yeah, I'd print it. I think it's a keeper.