Point of View

I've recently been looking for ways to improve myself as a photographer and as a person overall. I've realized that for me, how I operate day to day is based on perspective. Everyone has one, but yours is what makes you uniquely yourself. In an industry where we are bombarded with information on how to be the best version of ourselves as artists, how-to videos, equipment reviews, and others, it all lacks one thing: discovery of self.

While technical application ensures you can execute, it's your perspective that begins to set your work apart. Your viewpoint gives your work a voice and allows it to evolve. This is the one aspect that can transcend any project you decide to take on. Although the story, subject, and location might vary, your perspective remains the consistent element you can depend on and embrace.

For me, I'm digging deeper into myself to truly understand my own thoughts, feelings, and motivations, as well as to establish a solid foundation of confidence in who I am and what I can achieve. This journey of self-exploration has been both enlightening and challenging, as I confront different aspects of my personality and my experiences that shape my view of the world. With this realization, I've found myself comparing myself less to others and instead appreciating the unique qualities and strengths that I possess. It’s a transformative process that encourages a shift in focus from external validation to internal acceptance.

Have you ever followed a tutorial to a T, completing every instruction and detail, yet still questioned why the final result didn’t evoke the same feelings or satisfaction as the example? Wonder why? The answer is perspective. Each person brings their own unique viewpoint and emotional context to any creative endeavor, which can really alter the outcome. The tutorial may provide a roadmap, but the journey is uniquely yours, fueled by your experiences, emotions, and interpretations.

Similarly, have you ever captured an image or created a piece of art that was visually pleasing; shit, it might've even been technically impressive, but beneath the surface, it didn’t resonate with you? The answer, once again, is perspective. The way a piece looks can sometimes overshadow its emotional impact, leading to a disconnect between the creator and the creation. This dissonance often comes from a lack of personal connection to the subject matter or the intention behind the work.

When you reach this level of understanding in perspective, it creates room for a richer appreciation of both the creative process and the outcomes it produces. It encourages us to delve deeper into our own experiences and emotions, fostering a greater sense of authenticity in our work. By embracing our individuality and recognizing the subjective nature of art and creativity, we can shift our focus from mere replication to genuine expression, ultimately leading to a more fulfilling creative journey.

It's just as crucial as mastering ISO, Shutter Speed, and Aperture. It breaks the glass ceiling all fo us reach in our work. While not every project demands your complete perspective, even contributing just 1% of your unique insight is more valuable than 100% of someone else's. An imposter is defined as someone who pretends to be another person—so how could you or I feel imposter syndrome when we're simply being ourselves?

I'm still learning as I'm typing this, and by no means do I have it figured out. I do, however, understand that it is my foundation of self that will carry me through the feelings of doubt, ignorance, loneliness, and whatever else you or I may experience as an artist.Your point of view is uniquely yours, and your perspective is a secret weapon. You'd be a fool not to use your superpower.