Happy Tuesday!
If you’ve been keeping track, you’ll know I missed last week :( So that just means I’ll have two in a row for you this and next week!
This week I’ll be chatting with you guys about trusting your creative instincts.
I’m apart of a few photography groups on Facebook where photographers of all skill levels are members… Often I’ll see newer photographers post photos for critique and sometimes it just makes me cringe! Don’t get me wrong, constructive criticism is definitely awesome for improving your skill and technique with any craft, but it can also be discouraging.
Art, by its essence, is subjective. This is something that a lot of creatives forget. I understand trying to master a specific technique and reaching out for assistance in that regard, but too much critique can stifle your creative instinct. How will you be able to discover what YOU like if you’re constantly asking for critiques? It’s important to learn to be confident with your style (while still striving to improve) and understand that not everyone is going to like what you do. And that’s okay!
Especially is this the case when it comes to photography. Do you know how many different styles of photography there are? I don’t, but I know there a lot! Lol. I also know that they all don’t appeal to me, and that my work doesn’t appeal to everyone either. Someone who is more drawn to studio fashion photography may not be interested in my work- and that’s okay. Does that mean I need to change my work to suit them? Not at all :) It just means that I’m not for them.
Likewise with new photographers, it’s sooo important to find your creative voice. Otherwise your portfolio will be all over the place (which is how a lot of us get started anyway so no shame if that’s where you currently are :) In order to attract your ideal client though, your work should be a genuine reflection of you and what you like. That way, when someone is drawn to your work it’s because you both enjoy the same types of things.
It IS a process though, and definitely one that takes some time so don’t be too hard on yourself :)
I can’t wait to share what I have for next Tuesday! Be sure to check back in next week :)
‘Til next time,
-Danni