The Power of Intention in Photography: Thoughts from Tom Marsh’s Talk

Photographer Tom Marsh made a powerful point in a talk a heard him give last night— that intention lies at the heart of every photograph. He also demonstrated just how differently we can interpret an image once we’re given a statement of intention from the photographer. It made me wonder: is it actually helpful to know what the photographer intended, or is it better to leave interpretation completely open?

Tom, a West Yorkshire-based photographer who runs Yorkshire Photo Walks and various workshop sessions, gave a fascinating talk to Ilkley Camera Club. His presentation had two main parts.

In the first, he outlined a framework for evaluating a photograph’s qualities — looking at the subject, the visual design (the composition, colour, and form), and the content or message. The second half focused on something more philosophical: the photographer’s intention. Tom showed us how a simple statement of intent can radically alter the way we read a photograph.

I completely agree that having an intention is vital. A photographer might aim to tell a story, create a mood, provoke emotion, or simply capture beauty. But the bigger question that Tom’s talk left me thinking about was this:

Is it important to know the photographer’s intention before viewing the work, or should we, as viewers, work that out for ourselves?

Personally, I lean towards not knowing. Part of the joy of looking at art — whether a photograph, a painting, or a sculpture — is the process of discovery. I don’t think everything should be handed to the viewer “on a plate.” When we have to interpret and feel our way through a piece, it becomes more personal and engaging.

Every viewer brings their own experiences and emotions, so each interpretation is unique. Sometimes a photograph might resonate with someone in a way the artist never expected — and that, to me, is one of the most beautiful things about art.

That said, I also think Tom is right: understanding an artist’s intention can deepen our appreciation of their work. But maybe that understanding shouldn’t come from a single statement attached to one image. Instead, it could come gradually — through getting to know the artist, seeing more of their work, and learning something about their life and creative journey. Over time, we start to form a kind of relationship with the artist, and it’s within that context that their intentions become clearer and more meaningful.

Tom’s talk was excellent — insightful, thought-provoking, and full of inspiration. I’d highly recommend booking onto one of his workshops or hearing him speak if you get the chance. This whole question of artistic intention feels like a conversation more photographers — and camera clubs — should be having.

More to follow up:

Tom’s website tommarshthephotographer.co.uk

Yorkshire Photo Walks yorkshirephotowalks.com