Believing that you need specific equipment to be considered a real photographer can seriously limit your creativity. Social media and other platforms often push the idea that certain gear or methods define your credibility, but that's simply not true.
Coming to you from Rick Bebbington, this thoughtful video challenges those narratives by breaking down why you don't necessarily need a wide angle lens for effective landscape photography. Bebbington explains how the pressure to conform to equipment norms prevented him from developing his personal style early on. Initially drawn to wide angle lenses because prominent photographers used them, he realized these lenses didn't match his personal vision. Bebbington found he connected much more naturally with images shot at focal lengths closer to human vision, around 35mm, highlighting how less can often mean more when it comes to impactful images.
He further illustrates how misconceptions like needing graduated filters, tripods, or extremely long lenses for wildlife photography can also hold photographers back. Bebbington emphasizes that these tools, though beneficial for specific techniques, aren't universal requirements. The video points out how being overly influenced by external opinions leads photographers to outsource creative decisions, diluting personal expression. It's a gentle push to trust your instincts and prioritize personal experimentation over popular opinion.
Bebbington also addresses the misconception that gear upgrades automatically improve your photography. He candidly shares how repeatedly chasing new gear failed to elevate his work. Real improvement, he insists, comes from time spent shooting, learning through experience, and developing patience. He admits gear excitement can initially boost motivation, but warns that it's temporary—soon enough, new equipment becomes just another tool, not the creative breakthrough photographers hope for.
The video encourages critical thinking about the assumptions photographers often make based on trends. Bebbington suggests actively questioning whether your choices in gear and technique genuinely align with your vision or simply echo someone else's ideas. By reflecting on favorite images you've created, you might discover unexpected preferences, like shooting at a narrower focal length or avoiding tripods altogether, as Bebbington himself prefers.
Another point Bebbington explores is the benefit of intentionally limiting your equipment. He shares his own decision to downsize his gear collection, highlighting how fewer choices can sharpen your focus on composition and storytelling. By removing gear-related distractions, photographers can invest more energy into refining their craft. Check out the video above for the full rundown from Bebbington.
