Good Form in a Shared Space

I’ve been thinking about something that pops up now and then, especially in photography groups and online communities.

Let’s say two photographers, on different days, take the same photo. Not just similar — I mean really similar. Same subject. Same angle. Same lighting. Maybe even the same moment of the day. And viewed side-by-side, they’re essentially identical.

Here’s the thing: even if I’ve taken that photo myself, and even if I think I’ve done a good job with it, I generally won’t post it on the same platform where someone else just shared theirs. To me, that’s a matter of good form.

Why? Because once it’s been shown, it’s been seen. I’m not trying to compete with someone who already captured that scene. I’m not trying to prove I was also there, or that I saw it better. The image may be mine, but the moment in the conversation isn’t.

Sure, someone could argue that every image is unique — different pixels, different sensors, different edits. That’s true. And from a technical standpoint, there’s always a way to find differences. But when we share photos with others, we’re not just posting pixels. We’re sharing presence. And I try to be mindful of how I show up.

If I do have a photo that’s nearly identical to one already posted, I might:

Keep it for myself, or use it as a learning exercise.

Share it privately, or on a different platform where the context is different.

Look for a variation — a tighter crop, a different processing choice, a more personal take.

For me, this isn’t about rules or unwritten laws. It’s about respect — for the other photographer, for the audience, and for the photo itself. There's no harm in stepping back and letting someone else's image stand on its own.

That’s not to say others should do the same. But in my experience, being a little intentional in how we share makes the community stronger and more enjoyable for everyone.

— Larry