When a Photo Doesn’t Turn Out, Pass It Off as Art: Why This Is a Myth

In the world of art, and especially photography, we often hear remarks like “If it doesn’t turn out, pass it off as art.” It might be funny, but if it’s meant seriously, it reveals a misunderstanding of how art is actually made. In our photography, why can’t we just “play the artist”? And why isn’t chance alone enough?

Just because a photograph looks imperfect doesn’t necessarily mean it’s bad. And just because you see a black and white photograph with distinctive grain doesn’t automatically make it art. 

Art isn’t random 

At first glance, some artistic photographs might look like random snapshots that even a beginner could take. But the reality is different. A complete novice can’t recreate that kind of “chance.” An experienced fine art photographer can, at any time. That’s one of the key differences. 

Besides technical mastery, what sets a fine art photographer apart is their intention. Whether it’s a signature style or a deeper artistic message, that intention comes through in the image. Often, even someone who isn’t deeply involved in photography can see it too.

When a photograph tells a story

Take the work of young and talented photographer Marie Tomanová as an example. Her raw, authentic images have been exhibited around the world and have gained the recognition of the professional photography community. Still, I’ve seen online discussions in amateur circles where people dismiss her work as garbage, claiming even a child could take similar photos. My response? Try it yourself.  

Try taking a truly bad photo

If you think art is just luck or that “anyone can do it,” try this simple task—Try to take a truly bad photo on purpose. One that gets everything wrong: 

• Poor composition
• Blurry
• Bad exposure
• Wrong colors

You’ll quickly find it’s not as easy as it sounds. Experienced photographers have a clear intention and often perceive composition, light, and color instinctively. They often don’t need to follow the rules consciously. On the other hand, an amateur follows the rules blindly and focuses mainly on the technical side. But a true artist isn’t afraid to break the rules.

Convert to black and white and add grain?

This is advice nearly every photographer hears when their images fall flat. Sure, black and white photography is more forgiving. But that doesn’t mean that every failed photo belongs in a Magnum or 400 ASA portfolio. 

Let’s take a look at the work of Antonín Kratochvíl. His photos might not meet the strict technical standards of some online photo forums, but they have that rare X factor. Something that elevates them to another level. A failed shot won’t get you there.  

The X factor

So what is the X factor? It’s hard to define, but when a photo has it, even someone outside the world of photography can feel it. It comes from intention, vision, and emotion. Random or forced images don’t have the X factor and never will.  

Art is never an excuse. It’s not a label to stick on failed shots. Not everything that looks unusual or technically flawed is automatically art. And not everything that’s technically perfect has artistic value. The key is intention, meaning, and authenticity. A true artist can break the rules because they’ve already mastered them. And that’s something that can’t be faked.