[Mike McCarty]

Marvin,

I cannot deny the experience that you have connecting with your sitter. For me, at it's best, I think I too make a connection with my sitter. It just so happens that my connection takes place the day before I start painting.

I would not presume to denigrate painting from life. I just think each should be celebrated for the good they offer. I do get slightly agitated when only the worst of photography is held up as the only comparative. And, I'm not suggesting that the ladies above were doing that. For something that offers so much there are precious few who will defend it.