Meaning: This quote by Herb Ritts, a renowned photographer, provides insight into his meticulous and selective approach to the photographic process. Ritts was widely recognized for his black-and-white portraits and fashion photography, and his attention to detail and dedication to the craft is evident in his words.

Ritts' mention of editing contact sheets and creating work prints reflects his commitment to thoroughly reviewing his photographs before finalizing them. Contact sheets are essentially a series of small prints of all the images captured on a roll of film, providing a comprehensive overview of the shoot. By carefully examining the contact sheets, Ritts was able to select the images that best captured his vision and artistic intent. This process of editing and selecting the most promising shots demonstrates Ritts' discerning eye and commitment to achieving the highest quality in his work.

Moreover, Ritts' reference to having his own lab and printers highlights his autonomy and control over the printing process. Having the resources and facilities to develop and print his own photographs allowed him the freedom to experiment and fine-tune the images to his exact specifications. This level of independence and hands-on involvement in the printing process speaks to Ritts' desire for precision and the ability to realize his artistic vision without compromise.

The luxury that Ritts mentions in being able to go through the contact sheets for black-and-white, make work prints, and hone them down is indicative of the time and resources he invested in perfecting his images. This hands-on approach, from initial selection to the final print, underscores Ritts' dedication to achieving the highest standards of quality in his photography. By taking the time to create work prints and assess them on a larger scale, Ritts demonstrated a commitment to refining his photographs and ensuring that they met his exacting standards.

Ritts' emphasis on the importance of seeing the work prints "big" suggests the significance of scale and visual impact in his artistic process. By viewing the prints at a larger size, Ritts could better evaluate their composition, tonality, and overall aesthetic appeal. This attention to detail and the desire to optimize the visual impact of his photographs further illustrates Ritts' dedication to the craft and his pursuit of excellence.

In conclusion, Herb Ritts' quote encapsulates his meticulous and dedicated approach to photography. His careful selection process, hands-on involvement in printing, and commitment to refining his images reflect his unwavering pursuit of artistic excellence. Ritts' words provide valuable insight into the thoughtfulness and precision that characterized his work, and serve as a testament to the level of craftsmanship and attention to detail that defined his photographic practice.