There is no definitive formula for judging whether a photograph is successful. We often fall into “wishful thinking,” interpreting images based on what we hope to see and remembering the challenges faced during the shoot rather than objectively evaluating the final result.
Technical quality is perhaps the easiest aspect to judge, although even here, what is considered “good” or “bad” can vary depending on how well it serves the ambiance and atmosphere of the image.
Most commercial photographs can be assessed based on how well they fulfill their communicative purpose. For example, a poster or magazine cover should be striking and convey its message quickly. However, many of these images, while clever, are superficial and quickly forgotten.
In contrast, other types of photography, where ambiguity and strangeness challenge the viewer, allow for continuous discovery. This doesn’t mean you must love everything quirky and obscure, but through careful observation, you can develop your ability to critically analyze.
Responses to photography change over time. Live with your images for a while (perhaps with a pinboard display at home) to avoid the bias that your latest work is always the best. Similarly, it’s a mistake to follow current popular trends uncritically.
It’s better to strengthen your own perspectives and abilities until they gain recognition for what they are. Remember that while people claim to want new ideas and approaches, they often judge them by yesterday’s standards.
Much professional photography is commercialized art, where success can be measured financially. Personal projects, however, allow the most daring and forward-thinking photographers to express their concerns. Another path is that of the academic, who pursues their practice—often referred to as research—in addition to their teaching and administrative duties. They can also receive support through grants and funding from various organizations, which is another way to measure success. Artistic success can then be seen in the pleasure and stimulation of the shooting process and satisfaction with the outcome.
