What makes a great photo?

[unpopular]

A great image is one that at first you don't like, one that is more than just the knee-jerk reaction - one that makes you consider the photographer's world view - that transcends beyond what is immediately within the frame.

A great image is one that makes you think about what you feel, not just feel without thinking.

 

[Sw1tchFX]

There's a huge difference between a good and great photograph. There are billions of good photographs in the world, but only a few great ones.

 

[zcar21]

For instance, take a look at this picture.
loverofbeauty: Hiroshi Sugimoto, Tyrrhenian Sea, Priano, 1994
I can't tell what's great about it.

And who says it's a great photo?

Here's what the washingtonpost said about it: "...what Sugimoto invites you feel in the presence of his oceans primeval is, quite simply, awe."
Critic Review for Hiroshi Sugimoto on washingtonpost.com