Photography is something we all choose to do willingly, and as such, it should be something that makes us happy. Nonetheless, a lot of photographers are not particularly happy, which is a shame. Why is that, though? This insightful video essay discusses some of the possible reasons.
Coming to you from Evan Ranft, this great video essay discusses the topic of why a lot of photographers are seemingly unhappy. In particular, one thing I think many of us fall prey to is comparing ourselves to others in an unhealthy way and not building a positive environment because of it. It is easy, particularly with the rise of the likes of Instagram, to quickly digest hundreds of images and end up feeling like your skills or creativity are not good enough. However, it is important to remember that people only show their very best work online and that we are all at different stages in our creative journey, and you are not seeing the many hours and failed images that went into that one great photo you saw on Instagram or wherever. It is often much healthier to compete with yourself than with those around you. Check out the video above for Ranft's full thoughts.
Talking about people unhappy about themselves...
Nothing new under the sun
It’s one thing that has amazed me since entering the photography community 4 years ago, how such a positive endeavour can attract so many negative people, or negative online comments.
I believe gear, and the focus on gear is the main cause of this, petty arguments and oneupmanship coupled with people feeling the need to criticise others for their choice of kit.
It serves nothing but putting people off doing photography at all, which helps nobody.
Actually, whilst I agree about everything you said, I'll add to that with two words...
SOCIAL MEIDA
Yes the internet and it’s relative anonymity, coupled with the fact people who are undesirable in person having free reign to talk nonsense to an audience that might actually listen…. Those are definitely a massive factor.
Why are people in general heh? Full disclosure: i didn't watch the vid.
Judging from the comments here you need to do a video on why photography attracts such negative people. I thought this was really good - lots of stuff that made me think. A lot of photographers have terrible mental health. Creativity and depression often go side by side.