I used to be very much against photography as an "artform" a few years back, angry that "snapping a picture" would be considered in higher regard than painting or drawing. But, after taking a photography class (a requirement for my major) and knowing several photographers as friends, I know better now and realize that it is indeed an art form to respect. It takes a lot of skill (and sometimes great luck) to get a shot that captures the essence of the moment and the beauty in everything that exists. Knowing what to concentrate on, what to print and how to print it, it's more than just a snapshot. Some see it as collecting history. Though I agree with magellan's view that having a profession that advances society may make a profession "great", I also see how something like photography is important. To be able to look back and appreciate the past and the beauty of something that you didn't see before is a worthy cause; if you don't see the beauty in life, how can you appreciate it?
