Many beliefs about photography hold you back more than you realize. Breaking free from common myths can unlock creativity, making photography more enjoyable and your images more compelling.
Coming to you from Rick Bebbington, this insightful video tackles some pervasive photography myths—ideas that you've probably encountered and may even believe yourself. One significant myth is that real photographers only shoot in manual mode. Bebbington hasn't shot manually for years except in specific lighting conditions. His reasoning: the mode you choose should match your shooting style and needs rather than arbitrary standards. Knowing when to use aperture priority or auto ISO efficiently can streamline your workflow without compromising quality. Adhering rigidly to manual mode can distract you from the essence of photography—capturing compelling images.
Another myth the video addresses is the belief that you must always shoot at ISO 100 to minimize noise. Bebbington challenges this, suggesting that modern cameras produce acceptable images at much higher ISOs. He argues convincingly that noise is less noticeable than many fear, especially since most photos today are viewed on small screens. Moreover, noise can add character, paralleling the grain found in film photography, which has recently regained popularity. He also suggests using noise reduction software freely; it’s a tool, not a shortcut. Understanding that higher ISOs can expand your creative possibilities by avoiding overly slow shutter speeds or unnecessary reliance on tripods can significantly enhance your photographic flexibility.
The video also tackles the widely held misconception that better gear automatically translates to better photos. Bebbington asserts that skill development through practice and experience far outweighs incremental improvements in gear quality. While he acknowledges gear does play a role—especially at professional levels—he strongly emphasizes the limited returns new equipment typically provides for most photographers. A high-resolution sensor or rapid frame rate might make shooting slightly easier, but great photos depend primarily on vision, composition, and timing, none of which can be purchased outright. Bebbington recommends investing your resources in experiences or used equipment rather than the latest gadgets, highlighting the practical advantages of affordable gear in creative development.
Expanding further, Bebbington questions the notion that sticking strictly to one genre is necessary for success. Exploring various types of photography—like landscape, street, or portraiture—can drive growth and innovation. Similarly, he challenges the perception that consistent, constant shooting is required to progress. Realistically, constraints in your life mean you won’t always shoot as much as you’d like. Accepting that and prioritizing quality and enjoyment over sheer quantity prevents burnout and keeps photography fulfilling. Lastly, the video advises against rigid adherence to photography "rules," suggesting these guidelines be viewed as helpful tools rather than absolute requirements, allowing greater creative freedom. Check out the video above for the full rundown from Bebbington.
