This week's poll, which you can find on the home page, tackles the question of what you see as the principle purpose of photography.

Assuming we are happy to settle on photography having two main tasks, which do you think is the more important - its ability to record or its channel as a creative medium?

Most of us take pictures for the sake of it, because we enjoy the process. We adjust shutter speeds and add filtration for effect, and we like looking at the results. Others use photography to record what things look like so they can show people who can't experience those things or places, or to show future generations.

There is some cross-over in that shots that record do not have to be completely 'straight', but in general there are two distinct categories.

So, which is more important? Creative shots that we enjoy and that maybe simulate an emotional response, or straight record shots that convey more factual information?

Not an easy one this week, but go scratch your head and give me an answer.

If you want some examples this is what I'd call creative photography and these are record shots - of a certain style! Just examples though, not all encompassing.

Thanks all

damien