Photographers often get stuck in traps that drain time and energy without adding value to their craft. These mistakes can be discouraging, leading some to abandon photography altogether. However, identifying these pitfalls early on can save you a lot of frustration, helping you grow without unnecessary setbacks.
Coming to you from Max Kent, this insightful video explores three common photography traps. The first trap involves an obsession with sharpness. When you’re new to photography, it’s easy to think that achieving the sharpest image is everything. Kent describes his own journey of prioritizing technical clarity, aiming for hyper-detailed shots where every element is in perfect focus. But this approach, he explains, often strips images of depth and feeling. High-resolution, crystal-clear shots are valuable when clarity is the goal, but pursuing this approach too rigidly can leave your photos feeling clinical and lacking emotional resonance. He suggests that exploring movement and texture can often convey more atmosphere and storytelling than a razor-sharp shot.
Another significant trap, and perhaps the most relevant today, is the influence of social media. Kent reminisces about a time when Instagram was a space for genuine engagement, where posting infrequently still allowed for meaningful interactions. Now, however, the platform’s demand for daily posts has shifted the focus toward quantity over quality. Many photographers feel pressured to post frequently, which can lead to either burnout or the temptation to alter their style for better engagement. This can distort the creative process, as you might start taking photos simply to please the algorithm rather than pursuing subjects that matter to you. Kent advises against compromising your style for likes and followers. Instead, he recommends finding satisfaction through physical expressions of your work, like prints or exhibitions, which can bring a sense of authenticity and fulfillment that social media metrics can’t provide.
Kent’s journey serves as a reminder that staying true to your creative vision is more rewarding than any amount of social media clout. By focusing on what you genuinely enjoy capturing, you’re likely to find a deeper connection to your craft and produce work that feels true to you. That's just the start, so check out the video above for the full rundown from Kent.
