The Big Picture is the third album by contemporary Christian music artist Michael W. Smith, released in 1986. The title comes from "Pursuit of the Dream," in which it is heard a few times, but also applies to the variety of themes for young people to learn about from the songs. That track instructs on pursuing goals, and other themes include the folly of escapism ("Lamu"), sexual abstinence before marriage ("Old Enough to Know"), and maintaining a positive self image ("You're Alright"). Track 9. "Tearing Down The Wall" opens with a reverse snippet of Amy Grant's "Emmanuel".
Background vocals – Michael W. Smith, Chris Rodriguez, Wayne Kirkpatrick and Chris Harris
Background vocals (6) – Chris Harris, Philippe Saisse, Marty McCall, Lisa Bevill, Tammy Taylor, Leah Taylor and Bridgett Evans
Production[]
Producers – Michael W. Smith and John Potoker
Executive producers – Michael Blanton, Dan Harrell and Brown Bannister
Production coordinator – Kimberly Smith
Engineering and mixing – John Potoker
Assistant engineers – Jim Goldberger, Tim Hattfield, Nick Delre, Tony Volante, Bob Vogt, JB, Bill Heath, Mike Clute, Clark Schleicher, Ken Criblez, Keith Odell, Ed Goodreau, Rob Feaster, Jeffrey Dovener and Spencer Chrislu
Recorded at The Power Station, Media Sound, Sigma Sound and Soundtrack (New York, NY); Bullet Recording and Emerald Sound (Nashville, TN); The Bennett House and The Castle (Franklin, TN); Blue Jay Recording (Carlisle, MA)
Mixed at Blue Jay Recording (Carlisle, MA)
Mastering – Ted Jensen at Sterling Sound (New York, NY)
Art direction and design – Ken Hunter and Thomas Ryan
Photography – Beverly Ann Moore
Grooming – Jody Morlock and Julie Miller Overstreet
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