Photography isn’t just about taking pictures; it’s a long-term process that requires consistency and a mindset focused on growth. Whether you’re shooting in the streets, capturing travel memories, or experimenting with landscapes, adopting the right habits can make all the difference.
Coming to you from Roman Fox, this thoughtful video explores how persistence and effort often outweigh raw talent. Fox emphasizes that photography is a “numbers game,” where the amount of time you spend shooting directly affects your success. While some people may have natural talent, hard work beats talent when talent doesn’t work hard. By dedicating more time to shooting—whether daily or weekly—you can refine your skills and produce better results. Fox shares that he often shoots more in a week than others might shoot in a month, showing the impact of consistent practice.
The video also discusses the importance of walking when shooting, especially in urban environments. Walking gives you the opportunity to discover hidden spots, explore new angles, and uncover unexpected moments. Skipping public transport or shortcuts and instead walking through a city allows you to spot scenes you might have otherwise missed. Fox recommends planning a route through your city and sticking to it, noting that photographers often log between 20,000 and 40,000 steps in a single day. This simple habit helps you see more of the world and increases your chances of finding compelling images.
One key piece of advice is to always carry a camera. You never know when you’ll come across something worth capturing, whether it’s on your way to the store or during a casual outing. While a smartphone camera can be a useful backup, having a dedicated camera with you offers more creative control. It doesn’t matter whether your camera is high-end or a budget model from years ago—what matters is having it ready when inspiration strikes.
Fox also touches on the importance of empathy when photographing people in public spaces. Most people aren’t familiar with street photography, and they might feel uncomfortable being photographed. He suggests simple gestures like smiling, making eye contact, or explaining why you’re taking the photo to put others at ease. Being respectful and mindful of others’ feelings can help you avoid negative interactions and ensure your work reflects an ethical approach. Check out the video above for the full rundown from Fox.
