Gimmickry is like a mask.

It conceals what is underneath. In some cases, the addition of an effect can work to emphasize an idea. In most, it will probably ruin it.

While they can be useful, there are many reasons to not use effects such as textures, odd color or other types of crazy gimmicks. In most cases, they will seem contrived and will likely detract from the basic concept of an image.

Images need to be read. If we cover the content with gimmickry, we lose the context. In some cases, when used skillfully, certain effects can be useful to improve, create, or underscore the experience. If the techniques used to produce an image detract from the message it creates a problem with seeing the image.

The things we do to an image should support the basic concept. Every step in the process of making an image needs to be carefully thought out. If color detracts, we might try creating a black and white. If we want to emphasize the lightness of a cloud, we might make the tones match the concept or contrast it with something heavy. It is all about using what is visible to accentuate what we want the reader to see.

HDR is a great example of what I mean. Crafting an image with too much effect makes the effect more important than the image content.

Art is like any language. When you string words together, they need to make some kind of sense.

The same is true with the structure of an image. When we do it right, the image begins to speak for itself.

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R.