Professional Photographer Chris J Parker describes 'The Decisive Moment'

Professional Photographer Henri Cartier used the phrase 'The Decisive Moment' when taking a photograph.

"Photography is not like painting", Cartier-Bresson told The Washington Post in 1957. "There is a creative fraction of a second when you are taking a picture. Your eye must see a composition or an expression that life itself offers you, and you must know with intuition when to click the camera. That is the moment the photographer is creative", he said. "Oop! The Moment! Once you miss it, it is gone forever.

In the 21st century, we are witnessing a remarkable transformation in the realm of photography, driven largely by the dominance of digital technology and the pervasive influence of social media platforms. The once slow and meticulous process of creating images, which often required a deep understanding of the craft and significant investment in time and resources, is gradually becoming a relic of the past. Today, photographers, both amateur and professional, find themselves in a fast-paced environment where the ability to capture and disseminate images swiftly is of paramount importance. As events unfold in real time, the art of photography has evolved to keep pace with the rapid flow of information and the immediacy of current events. This evolution parallels the groundbreaking impact that Henri Cartier-Bresson’s Leica camera had nearly a century ago, which revolutionised the way moments were captured and shared with the world.

The first of its kind, a 35mm Laica camera

In this new visual era, photographs have transcended their traditional roles as rare artefacts or mere tools for documenting the exotic and unknown. Instead, they have become ubiquitous, appearing instantly on our smartphones and other digital devices every single day. These images originate from all corners of the globe, showcasing a diverse array of subjects and perspectives, and are created by individuals from all walks of life. With the advent of smartphones equipped with high-quality cameras, the barriers to entry for photography have been significantly lowered. Now, virtually anyone can take on the role of a photographer, capturing the world around them with just a few taps on their screens. This democratisation of photography has led to a surge in the number of images produced, creating a vibrant and often overwhelming visual landscape.

Instant photography using a mobile phone

As a result, images now compete for attention and public approval on popular social media platforms such as Instagram, Snapchat, and Facebook. The sheer volume of photographs shared daily creates a dynamic environment where creativity and originality are constantly tested. Users are not only consumers of visual content but also active participants in a global dialogue about aesthetics, storytelling, and representation. The immediacy of social media allows for instant feedback and interaction, encouraging photographers to experiment with their styles and techniques to capture the fleeting attention of their audience. This constant engagement fosters a culture where photography is not just an art form but a means of communication, self-expression, and social commentary.

Moreover, the rapid evolution of technology continues to shape the landscape of photography. Innovations in camera technology, such as enhanced sensors, improved image stabilisation, and advanced editing software, empower photographers to achieve stunning results with relative ease. The integration of artificial intelligence in photography apps further streamlines the editing process, allowing users to enhance their images with sophisticated filters and adjustments that were once only available to seasoned professionals. As these tools become more accessible, they encourage a new generation of photographers to explore their creative potential and share their visions with the world.

In conclusion, the 21st century has ushered in a transformative era for photography, characterised by the rise of digital technology and the influence of social media. The traditional, labour-intensive methods of capturing images have given way to a fast-paced, instantaneous approach that reflects the rapid changes in our society. As photography continues to evolve, it remains a powerful medium for storytelling, connection, and artistic expression, adapting to the needs and desires of an increasingly digital world.

The decisive moment, candid street photography in Lourdes, France

At Chris J Parker Photography, using high-end photography equipment and editing software is essential for providing exceptional, creative and quality photography services to customers and clients. Chris began his photography journey in 1978, a time when cameras lacked auto-focusing and light metering features. With only 36 frames on a roll of 35mm film and 12 on a 6x6 cm roll, photographers had to compose each shot carefully to avoid wasting film carefully. This practice, I believe, honed the skill of capturing photographs. It's preferable to accomplish as much as possible in-camera rather than relying on computer software. After a shoot, the film was sent to a lab for processing, which took two hours for colour; black and white film was developed in a darkroom. Once dry, a contact sheet was created from all the shots on the film, allowing for close examination with a loupe or magnifying glass to choose the image to be printed. Then, once printed in the darkroom, the photograph was made.