Getting The Minimal Viable Photo

For an assignment many years ago at the Orland Sentinel, I was tasked to make a photograph of the new band uniforms for a high school marching band.

What struck me most about the uniform was the crossing bandoliers with a large chromed centerpiece connecting the two straps. I used it as a reflective device to show a small group of band members with instruments in the centerpiece. The colors were vibrant reds with gold and silver trim.

The newspaper insisted that I get the ID of every person in the photo, although the curved surface of the centerpiece distorted their identity. I turned around and made a quick photo of about six musicians who were reflected in the uniform and got left to right.

After the roll of Ektchrome slide film was processed in my absence, it was sent to the editor’s desk to choose which photo would make into the paper.

All my effort in arranging musicians in a reflected pattern that shows them to an advantage was not chosen. The editor had chosen the quick, overexposed, slightly out-of-focus frame to use for identification to use as a stand-alone photo.

After I heatedly explained why that photo could not be used because of all its faults and original purpose, the editor reluctantly used the reflection photo. The one I’d worked so hard to make.

I’m afraid that photo is lost somewhere in the bowels of wherever the Orlando Sentinel photo archive ended up. Hopefully, the only one saved is the one I purposely made.

Using the Minimal Viable Product (MVP) approach, which focuses on starting simple, learning through feedback, and improving incrementally, can be an effective method for photographers to enhance their craft.

First, define the purpose of a photograph. Knowing whether the goal is to capture emotion, document an event, or create visual appeal simplifies decisions about tools and techniques. The idea to concentrate on the single most visible element of the band uniform moved the focus to the unique design of the new uniforms.

Practice by making small batches of photos, reviewing them critically, and seeking feedback. If a photo lacks depth, refine your composition or lighting in the next attempt. Each iteration builds skill and confidence. Embrace mistakes as opportunities to learn and improve, turning failures into stepping stones.

The MVP method works for any subject—portraits, landscapes, or street photography—by focusing on purpose, simplicity, iteration, and gradual growth. It’s a practical path to creating better photographs through deliberate practice and refinement.

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