Hmm, controversial stuff Ben. I don't entirely subscribe to your school of thought. I don't agree that photography cannot be taught, much as I don't agree that painting, or any other creative talent cannot be taught. Sure, you cannot take someone who has no underlying talent, and make them an artist (in whatever medium). I could study the piano for decades under expert tuition, and never get any better than I am now - i.e. a total inability to play. But, if the spark of talent is there, a good teacher, I stress the word GOOD, can bring out the talent in new ways and expant the pupil's ability.
Just as with any walk of life, there are some who are good at their job, and some who are not. It is wrong to tar all with the same brush. I recently did a photography course, the tutor did a good job of teaching the basics to the class. Was he ever going to turn any of us into the next Bob Carlos Clarke? No, never. Did he improve that understanding and ability of the pupils in the class? Yes.
You cannot teach creativity, but you can inspire people to do better than they would otherwise achieve.
Duncan
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