If you’ve ever scrolled through a gallery of images online and struggled to remember a single one, you’re not alone. Many pictures, while technically flawless, fail to stand out because they lack a deep connection to the subject.Mastering the technical side is important, but knowing your subject can elevate your work from forgettable to exceptional.
Coming to you from Scott Choucino with Tin House Studio, this thoughtful video breaks down why understanding your subject trumps technical perfection. Choucino emphasizes that many images, even well-executed ones, lack impact because the photographer doesn’t connect with their subject. For example, a great fashion photographer isn’t just skilled with a camera—they understand the nuances of fashion itself. The same goes for portrait photography or wedding photography. Success comes when you combine technical skills with an intimate knowledge of your subject. Without that understanding, even a perfectly lit shot can feel hollow.
Choucino draws from his own experience reviewing countless portfolios while working with agents. He explains that many portfolios feature technically perfect but uninspired work. The missing ingredient? A meaningful connection to the subject. Choucino points out that clients don’t care about your technical skills if you can’t communicate the essence of what you’re photographing. For instance, a wedding photo that makes the bride feel beautiful is worth more than a flawless shot with perfect bokeh but no emotional resonance. He also highlights that understanding your subject requires effort beyond the camera—whether that’s immersing yourself in a culture or diving deep into the context of your work.
Choucino’s solution to balancing subject knowledge and technical skills is teamwork. For large shoots, he relies on a crew where everyone plays to their strengths. The tech handles the camera settings, the retoucher perfects the final images, and the lighting assistant ensures the setup is flawless. This frees him to focus on capturing the right moment and understanding how to frame the subject in its best light. Check out the video above for the full rundown from Choucino.
