In the realm of photography, where every image tells a story and captures a moment frozen in time, there exists a hidden narrative that seldom surfaces in the spotlight. As a career photographer, I stumbled upon a revelation, a long time ago, that transformed my perspective on the art and craft of visual storytelling. It’s a secret whispered among the professionals, a truth that shapes the perception of those who admire their work from a distance.
The revelation begins with a simple truth—professional photographers only share a tiny fraction of everything they shoot. The curated portfolios and stunning galleries that grace the pages of magazines, websites, and social media feeds, are but a carefully selected glimpse into their creative universe. It’s this curation that often elevates these photographers to an almost mythical status in the eyes of their admirers. The question that inevitably arises is, how do these artists consistently produce such high-quality images?
Good question.
The answer lies in the unspoken failures, the countless shots that never see the light of day. Professional photographers, myself included, just like anyone else, experience failure, and at times, they fail miserably. The difference lies in their choice not to showcase these failures. In a world where success is often measured by public recognition, the decision to keep the bloopers hidden can create an illusion of unwavering perfection.
It’s a simple equation—professional photographers shoot a lot and share a little. Their creative process involves experimentation, trial, and error. Behind the scenes, there’s a dance with imperfection, a journey of refinement that leads to the creation of a masterpiece. This revelation doesn’t diminish their talent but rather humanizes their craft, making it more relatable for enthusiasts.
On the flip side, hobbyist photographers, driven by passion and a desire to share their joy for the craft, often adopt a different approach. They shoot a little and share a lot. Every snapshot, whether flawless or imperfect, finds its way to social media or personal blogs. The emphasis is on the joy of sharing rather than the pursuit of technical perfection. This candid openness creates a different kind of connection with the audience, fostering a sense of community and shared experiences.
Another crucial piece of advice that has reshaped my photographic journey is the importance of focusing on what truly inspires and magnetizes me. The law of attraction isn’t exclusive to life’s grand pursuits; it extends to the creative process as well. Instead of spreading my efforts thin across subjects, scenes, and scenarios that fail to spark my enthusiasm, I’ve learned to hone in on what captivates me.
Becoming a specialist in a few subject niches rather than a generalist in many has been a game-changer. It’s about recognizing the unique voice I bring to certain themes and allowing that voice to resonate authentically through my work. This approach not only deepens my connection with the subjects I photograph but also adds a layer of authenticity to the stories I tell through my lens.
In conclusion, the journey of a photographer is as much about self-discovery as it is about capturing the world through a viewfinder. Unveiling the secrets behind the lens involves embracing the failures, understanding the balance between sharing and refining, and aligning creative pursuits with personal inspiration. It’s a journey that transforms the act of photography from a mere skill into a profound and deeply personal form of artistic expression.
Click.
Jack
