As a very new member of HGCC, I came away from my first critique session somewhat disillusioned, after constant references to sharpness, focal points, balance, etc. While these technical elements can add greatly to producing a satisfying image, they are not the heart.
Prior to the second session, Glenn asked us to consider the question, “How does this image make you feel?” In other words, we were asked to think about the emotional pull of the images. The result, I felt, was a much more rewarding exchange of ideas and thoughts.
I was pleased to read his latest contribution, What makes a good photograph?, the expansion of his thoughts on this very important question.
The examples he cites demonstrate clearly the belief that unless “the viewer is drawn into the image at an emotional level, rather than (merely) at a visual one”, the image is lacking.
I would take this one step further and suggest that, in order for this to occur, there must be an initial emotive response from the photographer before the shutter is pressed.
Many of my images possess all of Jensen’s flaws, quoted by Glenn, and I am sure many more will do so. However, I am constantly striving to share not only what I saw through the viewfinder, but my feelings at that fleeting moment in time.
When I have to submit an Artist Statement, I always include the following:

Each image is the culmination of an emotive response.
It is a moment already in history.
It is a legacy of how I see the world.
It is but a footprint in time.

I am in awe of some of the images produced by HGCC members, and I am constantly learning from them. Consequently, it was gratifying to read Glenn’s article and the affirmation it provided for my own beliefs.
Thanks Glenn.