Unlearning the Lies You’ve Been Told About Photography

It's time to debunk some of the misconceptions that might be holding you back from exploring your full creative potential.

Coming to you from Jason Vong, this straightforward video tackles some of the biggest lies in the photography community. Vong starts by challenging the belief that dedicated cameras always produce better photos than smartphones. He argues that in many cases, particularly for casual snapshots, smartphones outperform DSLRs or mirrorless cameras. This is because smartphones come with advanced software that automatically enhances colors, balances exposure, and processes images on the fly. However, dedicated cameras still have their place, especially if you enjoy the process of photo editing and want more control over the final image. The larger sensors in these cameras offer greater dynamic range and better performance in low light, making them essential for those who want to push their images further in post-production.

Another significant misconception Vong addresses is the idea that full frame cameras are inherently superior to other sensor sizes. He emphasizes that it's not the sensor size but how you use it that matters. Many professionals opt for APS-C or even smaller sensors because these cameras suit their specific needs, such as portability or cost-effectiveness. Vong points out that brands like Fujifilm, which don't produce full frame cameras, have built a strong following due to their excellent color science and film simulations. These features provide a quick and effective way to achieve a vintage look without the need for extensive editing.

Vong also discusses the myth that you should always shoot with your lens wide open to take advantage of the background blur that fast lenses offer. While it's true that wide apertures can create beautiful bokeh, Vong explains that this approach can sometimes blur important context out of the image. Instead, he suggests using aperture settings as tools to enhance your composition, depending on the story you want to tell with your photo. For example, stopping down can bring more elements into focus, providing greater context and depth to your images.

The video continues to explore other common myths, such as the idea that negative space is always a bad thing in composition and that on-camera flash should be avoided at all costs. Vong encourages viewers to rethink these "rules" and consider how these elements can be used creatively. Negative space can be useful, especially in graphic design or when you want to leave room for text in your image. Similarly, on-camera flash, often dismissed as amateurish, can be used to create unique and interesting effects when applied thoughtfully. Check out the video above for the full rundown from Vong.