With the internet, it's easier than ever to hop online, see hundreds of photographs, and compare your work to a bevy of other photographers. But just because you can, it doesn't mean you should. This great video explores the importance of not worrying about the work of other photographers too much.Â
Coming to you from Manny Ortiz, this excellent video explores why you should avoid comparing yourself to other photographers too much. It's easier than ever these days to compare your work to that of others, and that can often leave you feeling inadequate or like you'll never measure up. One of the most important things that I always remember is that we only see the best of everyone's work; there are countless throwaway shots that never see the light of day. And of course, that's not to say you can't learn at all from the work of other photographers. But there's a difference between studying someone else's photos to improve your own versus letting your self-esteem be run down by obsessing over how your work compares to that of others. Don't let yourself get sucked into the social media black hole. Check out the video above for Ortiz' full thoughts.
One photographer I love and follow is Lindsay Adler. Not only does she make compelling imagery, she often shares how she produces the work with photo deconstructions. Right now, I'm no where near as good as she is. But, those deconstruction videos have me well on my way.
Yes it is very important not to compare yourself to others. The problem is that we, as humans, too often find ourselves doing so for several reasons. Throughout the years I have since learned NOT to compare myself, but rather view other photographers works and be inspired to raise my talents via methods I didn't before see. I don' t try to copy their work but see through different eyes what is possible.