I have a question for my photographer friends. I went to the Portland Art Museum to see the Impressionist show. All the paintings were in well lit halls. Then I went to the photography show and I felt I was in a cave. The lights were down except for the spots on the photographs.
My question is why? Is it because the prints look better in dim rooms with spots? Does it increase their contrast and brightness? Is it because the museum is afraid the prints will fade with normal lighting? Is it because the photo dept doesn't pay its electric bill fully?
I know the museum did this same lighting for an Edward Weston show but not for an Ansel one.
I'm sure one of you know the answer? I hate feeling in a cave looking at photos. It feels like, "Pss, hey buddy. you want to see some photos in the back?"
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