What Makes a Good Picture?

As everyone has been saying, looking at art is completely subjective. In conjunction with this, I would say that there is obviously no specific criteria that photographers follow to make a good picture. I guess, technical rules regarding the camera and remembering to not take pictures of fire hydrants are keys to better quality images, but it is up to the photographer to decide what he takes a picture of. However, when I personally look at photographs I would probably judge "goodness" on the composition, use of color or shades, and uniqueness of the image. The way a photographer frames the image and uses space can easily make or break a photo. Distance to the subject can sometimes be challenging, but generally it seems that closer is better. Vivid colors and sharp distinctions between shades of black, white, and gray are also aspects of an image that increase its appeal. Finally, and I think most importantly, is the originality of the photograph. Like we discussed in class, with digital advances and cell phone cameras we are seeing record amounts of pictures being taken. This being the case, many people are taking pictures of the same subject matter and it gets boring to look at images on repeat. When artists can produce original, new, shocking material it captures audiences, which to me screams success.