First, I have to say when I first saw the shot at the announcement of the winner it gave me an uneasy feeling. I thought it fabulous, but could not put my finger on the source of my disquietude. This episode, although far from any proof of wrongdoing, only adds to my discomfort.
Now, to the gate. I have a suspicion it may be some of the cause of my 'puzzlement', although I never examined it closely before, as it doesn't look right somehow. Rustic, it certainly is, solid it may still have been, but what good purpose would it be serving placed as it is and how is it so perfectly positioned, given the complete lack of posts, hinges or latch? My experience of most country 'furniture', even when well maintained, is that it rarely sits perfectly.
It almost looks too good. Too picturesque, as though out of a scene from 'The Quiet Man', manufactured to create a Holywood representation of a rural idyll.
I honestly do hope that the photographer can show himself simply to be a great and genuine artist (if it proves to be the case I will feel my own share of shame at having had doubt). However, it will sadden me much more if it is all a set up. Such a thing would be an insult to all those who spend many, many thankless hours just to capture a special moment. Their work will inevitably always be under a shadow, especially if the result is magnificent.
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Get busy living, or get busy dying...
