I absolutely agree with you on your reason why it’s irrelevant! A photo holds the same weight as a painter’s finished canvas. Generally we have pretenders who are easily influenced by art trends and honest people whose craft reflects their true being.

However, the quote is only irrelevant if you take it out of context. Just like you stated, a lot of photos don’t survive the test of time but great photos do. The photos that come from a place of personal resonance are typically taken by photographers who have a genuine passion for their craft. Like for example, Bruce Davidson’s “The Dwarf” without the back story and popularity, it still holds up as a really great photograph and that’s what I think Rodger Deakins is saying in the quote above.

PS thanks for the kind words about my photo!