I grew up admiring pictures in the National Geographic magazines. Those were the images that inspired me to take on photography as a hobby. Those pictures were seldom ‘perfect’, they were riddled with noise, highlights were blown and some were soft - but they all had character and each one told a story that intrigued me. I believe a photo is like a person, little imperfections and quirks that give it personality. Love your work.
The only thing that would improve that photo of the reindeer would be if the light was coming down from above, i.e. UFO. LOL. All images shown here are fantastic. I especially like the one looking down the beach towards the church (castle?). Thanks Thomas.
@Fred Eric sorry dude i don't know what i was thinking when i replied to your comment i should have checked and yes you are probably right judging from the motion blur and the depth of field it had no chance of being shot at f11 and was shot at a slower shutter speed
Man you have concluded photography in 2 sentence “full of contradictions” and “shoot for yourself”. Best RUclips video about photography I have ever seen.
When you spoke recently at Liverpool and showed your Nevada picture and your one from the Galloway Forest and the Reindeer picture, the strongest aspect for me was what you said tonight on your vlog, its that moment in time that you find yourself in and being fortunate to capture it as its never to be repeated.
I shoot a lot of things that often seem trivial to more "serious" photographers, like sunsets and clouds in general, for example, and I'm obviously nowhere near as good or famous as Thomas. But this is exactly the mindset I approach my photography with - that even though it's a very trivial subject, often even considered kitsch, I'm still capturing something that only existed for a very brief while and it's gone forever, never to be repeated again - not exactly the same, anyway.
Thank you Thomas for reminding us all that we are human. Your sincerity and humility/confidence is refreshing and a huge part of your charm and success. Please know how much you inspire us to get out and shoot and strive to be better. YOU ROCK!!!!
i absolutely love this. I'm a college student with just a cheap camera I was lucky to pick up and because I have no formal photography training, everything is trial and error. Some of my favorite shots are those that I took on a whim somewhere local near my campus and "uninteresting", thinking they'd be nothing special. Thanks for the inspiration thomas!
This is why I watch all of your videos, your down to earth approach and enthusiasm for your photography is infectious. It inspires me to just go out and take more photographs.
The moment is all that matters I couldn't agree more, we record a moment in time to allow that moment to endure. You are a star and an inspiration Thomas.
You are true. When an image tell us a history, the technical part disappear, it don't matter. It's a question of heart. All those images are incredible! Great video!
Interesting one this Tom - I think your last statement is so true. I do think people get caught up in the technical aspects too often and forget about the fact that photography is an art. Agree with the comments on the reindeer and it is a stunning Image. It reminds me of an image that won a recent wildlife award of buffalo that was similarly blurred and conveyed the movement. Not sure about the out of focus landscape though. Personal opinion but for me a landscape image needs to be in focus / no camera shake where it matters (maybe not throughout). But if it is get the Image out of focus or not at all then fine - just not sure it ends up being one you would showcase? Very thought provoking.
Can't tell you how much I LOVE this video! All the memories and stories of when I took certain shots came flooding back to me and reminded me why I love photography! Each image tells a story and isn't just about quality. Thanks so much!
I so agree with your sentiments in this video. Only you as the photographer understand the mood, that moment when the scene unfolded, you understood the emotions as you saw it. I so enjoyed your photos.
Tremendous appreciation for this video. I try to remind myself of this all the time. And it's been a long time - 51 years of photography, now age 75. Thank you, Thomas. A totally inspiring presentation.
Both the reindeer and the lake photos are once in a lifetime photographs. Like you say, it’s about capturing the moment/scene, blink and you miss them sometimes. Excellent photos, love this video 👍🏻
Love this video. A great photo should tell a story, maybe a story open to interpretation, but a story nonetheless. Story is more important than anything else in a photo or other artistic expression. Imperfection is often part of that story. Your photos tell great stories.
Seems to me there are photographers who perhaps get more satisfaction from the kit and process more than the resulting image. Not everyone has ‘the eye’ or perhaps ‘the soul’ to capture an image with feeling so I guess striving for technical perfection becomes the goal. I bet we all know someone who has a huge passion for photography and they have the kit but who’s images just don’t hit the spot. Achieving soulful, emotive and creative images is for sure the hardest part of photography. Thanks for your brilliant videos Tom, which inspire us to achieve better.
Val, I completely agree with your comments. I guess that if sales and marketing could bottle and sell "soul and passion" they would make millions. Thomas has more than his share of both. We are fortunate to be able to get something of an insight into both.
Hi Thomas, i am soooooo pleased you did this video. I totally agree with you that photography is a personal thing and images dont have to be pin sharp to evoke emotions, feelings, thoughts, memories or whatever in the viewer. Photography is so much more than technical abilty. Your reindeer image is very special. Your honesty is refreshing.
This video needs to be shown to every camera club, salon and international judge just before they start reviewing submitted images. It might reduce some of the atrocities committed in the name of judging when some technically perfect, but dull image is preferred to an imaginative, creative one with some flaws. Thank you Tom.
„Don’t shoot for anybody other then yourself“ This is the best line ever... Came across your channel a few weeks ago. I am not really into Landscape Photography. But I gave it a try and I must admit your pictures are stunning, your videos are well made and the way you talk is calming. Thanks for all the input Sir. Greetings
I struggled a lot with water droplets on an image in my last vlog. I agree with the points you make here Tom, if we get too caught up in this aspect of the shot and worry about whether it’s technically correct, we’d end up not getting out and shooting at all!
Very well said Tom! We capture moments in time and light that lasts but a few seconds but not always perfect but you are always there! Thanks again for the vid! Cheers Craig .
This, Mr. Heaton, is by far the most eye-opening video I have watched. I have loved photography for the most part of my life and what you have shared is truly awe-inspiring. Thank you!
I say hats off to Thomas. It's just just the image that you've captured in your photos, its the whole story of what you had gone through to get to the point of pressing that button. Keep up the great work. 👍
You always manage to post a video on a topic when I need to hear it most! Thanks for all your input and inspiration to help me progress my photography.
I enjoy watching your videos on weekend mornings because they inspire me to get out and take some landscape photos. The videos don't have the same impact if I watch them on weekday nights but still enjoy them. Thank you - Steve from Toronto
Thomas that second image in the storm over in Ireland is so bloody amazing. Atmospheric and inspiring, love it. Now can you please straighten your window blind :)
Trevor, You're an absolute riot! I feel a kindred relationship with you because many acquaintances tell me the same thing about my character. A description that I believe would apply to you as well. That remark? It is, "Mitchell, you ain't right!" I revel in it, and hope you do, as well. Thank-You, Mike
If ever something needed to be said....THIS! It's so easy to get so wrapped up in trying to get an image perfect, that the picture itself is lost completely (I know I'm guilty of it myself). If the intention of a photograph is to convey a mood, a feeling, a sense of being there - I'd say all of your examples hit the mark 100%! Thanks for making the point, the video - and keep up the great work.
The last image is wonderful. It reminds me of the chiaroscuro you see in a Caravaggio painting. The sharp contrast with blur create so much energy! Thanks for this video
I really love this episode because it hits so close to home. I have so many images that mean so much to me because of how it came to be. The story behind the photo. Thank you for sharing this with us. You truly are an inspiration.
I was actually feeling extremely down with my mental health today and have been feeling rather useless creatively of late but this actually made me feel really inspired. I promise myself to give it a good go again. thank you for this. Perfect timing was perfect.
Thank you for saying this, I’ve spent way too much time OBSESSING over perfection and it’s not about that, I’ve recently switched gears and have been really concentrating on striking and moving images to the best that I can but technical is second seat to that. It’s so great to hear it from you as well.
Exactly this. Too many people are busy wondering if they should spend thousands on new lenses or the latest bodies or shooting brick walls at different apertures to verify that their latest purchase was the right move. Forget all that, grab the nearest camera to you, Go out have fun and tell your story. Maybe it will get slated on forums full of pixel peepers, maybe it wont attract many likes on flickr but none of that matters. Just go capture memories. The only person you need to please is yourself. Great video 👍
I'm a bit late, but Tom is spot on here. Some of the best technical images can sometimes be boring with a lack of soul & atmosphere. I think Tom summed it up perfectly.
Thank you Tom, so many seem to think that if an image isn’t technically perfect then it has no place in a collection. If this was the case then we would have no ICM imagery to enjoy and that’s just one example, there are many more.👍 People listen to you so please keep spreading the word and encourage us all to just “enjoy the moment”.👌
"Don't shoot for anyone other than yourself" , I think that is great advice. Also something I have to always remind myself. Thanks for your channel and all of your advice!
True! Aside from my personal experiences, there are several photographers I follow, who show these "imperfections" quite often. As you said though, for those interested in the content and mood, the imperfections fade away. When I know the photographer did that on purpose, that actually indicates "bravery" to me. Lack of light, lack of 100% focus, excessive color, etc., can also add a sense of mystery, to draw your viewers in. Thanks for pointing this out, Thomas.
Thank's Tom. Well said. Some of the finest photographs of all time are not technically perfect and yet the formula for success is the ability to relay a powerful message to the viewer. It is the lens man that most always determines the destiny of an image, and those who strive for perfection quickly come to the realization that some photographs simply work for their faults and not their virtues.
I’ve been watching a TON of videos lately trying to learn all about ISO, aparature, shutter, composition, lighting... you name it! But this is by far the most helpful video ive seen. Striking photos and as you say, the imperfections doesnt matter!
Wise words Thomas, it is about the photographer and the moment. I would rather have an imperfect image than miss capturing the moment. Keep the vlogs coming, love them and your photos no matter the perfection.
Just watching this now - really don’t see how ppl can be so pedantic about these pictures they’re amazing pictures and stories. I’ve only just started learning this and hope I can get a fraction of the quality of these photos! Thanks for reassuring us lesser beings with this vid. Much appreciated advice!
Great advise! And much appreciated. It serves as a reminder to me in my new passion for photography: contradictions, challenges but lots of rewards in capturing the moments.
Bravo. My "old photo club" would have torn apart anything that was not pin sharp wall to wall and technically perfect. Soul, mood, atmosphere, drama, creativity ,softness, unique perspective, character, unusual, motion blur , capturing the moment. Things that differential one from the crowded photo world. Great message Thomas.
I love the way you emphasized the "perfection is not all" message by placing an upstanding sprig of hair on the top on your head as a flaw as you delivered the post.
Loved this video! Sometimes it's not even about just that moment, but the entire adventure from planning the trip all the way to getting back home after.
You are right. It is composition and emotion that makes an interesting and memorable photo. Thank you, and please, continue with making your videos for us.
Could not agree more. I have seen technically perfect images that have no soul or story. "Perfection" is when you have made your point or gotten your feeling across. Life is not perfect, nor should photos of real life have to be. Excellent work, Tom.
I couldn't agree more Thomas. Your message is spot on. Dwelling on technical perfection at the expense of a meaningful image or maybe even risking not getting the shot at all is a major mistake in my view. That reindeer shot is a perfect example. As you say, in a competition most judges would mark that down for the reasons you stated and miss the fact that it has mood and atmosphere in abundance and actually conveys something other than "I have great gear and shoot correctly focused and exposed images". An excellent video.
Cheers Mr Heaton! It's refreshing to hear these kind of comments. I see too many competition photos - many technically perfect and beautiful - but without any soul.
Hi Thomas! The courage to show imperfection is true love for what you do. Having said that the reindeer image is probably one of the most magical picture I have ever seen. It reveils just about everything about that area and its people. I would instantly hang this image in a large size up on my wall. Thanks for sharing!
What a nice guy. These have to be the best landscape photography tutorials I have seen on RUclips by a country mile. I can so relate and connect with this guy in so many ways as he says the same things I am thinking but puts it across so eloquently. Nice one Tom.
Loved this vid - thank you. Had a rubbish day on Dartmoor failing to get a single image today. Felt downhearted and then remembered your oft spoken words - it was a great walk and just good to be outside in an amazing place. Another day for the pic... thanks Thomas.
Well said, Thomas; This is why I hate showing my efforts to other photographers - They minutely scrutinise for technicalities & dust spots, 'trying to be helpful'; whereas the people to whom I'm hoping to sell a framed print look at it from a sensible distance, as if it's on their wall, and either like it or not. The image speaks to them, or it doesn't. I very rarely carry a tripod, being an 'opportunist' photographer for whom 'the moment' is everything - But, inevitably, I do strive mightily to get the nitty-gritty right 😊
Thank you for this video. There is so often that I am nervous to share a photograph because what is seen on social media is perfection. However, what the viewers do not see is how much I learned and grown as a photographer, the new teachings I am able to implement with each and every photograph I take. There is so much I am learning and it may be at a slower pace and that's okay. Great images :) Love the stories you have shared behind them.
Thank you for sharing your moments. it takes a unique person to have unique photos... Someone that thinks outside the box and comfortable to break the rules. Loved them all and thank you again for allowing me ,and others, to have the "not so sharp" photo and be proud of it..! looking forward for more videos.
We spoke about you at our little TOGs group earlier and this video just about wraps it up in an instant. Do it because you love it, not because of what others will think of it! Keep up the great work Fella and thank you!
Well said Thomas..."Travel, explore, shoot local, develop your own style, try new things, the truth is, is all about what happen in the moment, that split second that you press the shutter and capture what is in front of you".
This video is inspiring for me. I'm a beginner photographer, and I'm always looking for perfection. like you said, sharpness, focus, all those stuff. Some old pics isn't that sharp, that perfect, but tells a history about that moment. This video inspired me to take a look and review some of my photos and see as the all picture, the context. And after all, a good photographer is not always made from perfection. Thank you! I love your channel!
Wow how refreshing. We can always count on you to bring us back down to earth and have a reality check!! It seems like everyone is going for a magazine cover shot every time they click the shutter button. It really takes the fun out of photography and the experience as a whole.
I am just an enthusiastic photography lover and to me all these images looks fantastic and have their charms exactly because of the “flaws” you mentioned. Sometimes I have the feeling we are too harsh on ourselves and we constantly look for perfection that most of the times Is only present our minds. Loved this video.
I am really happy that you created this video to explore the subject of our never-ending quest for perfection. A couple of years ago I reached the stage in my life and photographic journey to finally understand that the quest for perfection is a fool's journey and that the drive for perfection should never overpower the act of creativity. When I listen to Miles Davis render one of his Jazz masterpieces is it the mood, the atmosphere of the notes that draws me in, or I am listening to every note to determine if he has rendered it to perfection. Its the atmosphere and mood of the music that wins every time and the same can be said for our art of photography. The aim should not be pixel peeping, the aim should be to tell a story that engages the viewer and sometimes the only wayt to do that is comes with imperfections. Great video Thomas.
I would happily hang any or all of those "imperfect" images on my wall Tom. The mood and feeling of a photo is far more important than pin sharp or perfect exposure
I remember that post about the water drops. I didn't look too hard for them because I expected to see a ruined shot. I didn't find a ruined shot so I quit looking. The reindeer shot was something I'd brag about to my friends, but they may not get it. I sure get it. Maybe it was something of a "lucky shot"(considering all the movement and light), but once in a while you get one like that. I have gotten just a couple that when brought up on the computer made me want to thank someone.
Spot on - those of us with old, consumer and "the best I could manage" gear love to be out therein the rain and chaos.... NONE of my images are razor sharp and ALL of them have noise at 100-iso... But I was there to catch the fox stare at me through the bluebells with a young hare in its mouth.... eye to eye, the camera would have ruined it, so this one only exists in my head, never to win a prize. Bless you, Tom
I grew up admiring pictures in the National Geographic magazines. Those were the images that inspired me to take on photography as a hobby. Those pictures were seldom ‘perfect’, they were riddled with noise, highlights were blown and some were soft - but they all had character and each one told a story that intrigued me. I believe a photo is like a person, little imperfections and quirks that give it personality. Love your work.
That reindeer image is absolutely incredible Tom! Great video.
Cheers, dude.
+1 on that.
Totally agree with sweat brother.
I second that, dare I say my favorite image of yous, which is interesting as it is not a landscape
The only thing that would improve that photo of the reindeer would be if the light was coming down from above, i.e. UFO. LOL. All images shown here are fantastic. I especially like the one looking down the beach towards the church (castle?). Thanks Thomas.
I wish my out of focus photos would look like this!
Yazoo Tavu Word!
@Fred Eric sorry dude i don't know what i was thinking when i replied to your comment i should have checked
and yes you are probably right judging from the motion blur and the depth of field it had no chance of being shot at f11 and was shot at a slower shutter speed
Man you have concluded photography in 2 sentence “full of contradictions” and “shoot for yourself”. Best RUclips video about photography I have ever seen.
When you spoke recently at Liverpool and showed your Nevada picture and your one from the Galloway Forest and the Reindeer picture, the strongest aspect for me was what you said tonight on your vlog, its that moment in time that you find yourself in and being fortunate to capture it as its never to be repeated.
I shoot a lot of things that often seem trivial to more "serious" photographers, like sunsets and clouds in general, for example, and I'm obviously nowhere near as good or famous as Thomas. But this is exactly the mindset I approach my photography with - that even though it's a very trivial subject, often even considered kitsch, I'm still capturing something that only existed for a very brief while and it's gone forever, never to be repeated again - not exactly the same, anyway.
Thank you Thomas for reminding us all that we are human. Your sincerity and humility/confidence is refreshing and a huge part of your charm and success. Please know how much you inspire us to get out and shoot and strive to be better. YOU ROCK!!!!
i absolutely love this. I'm a college student with just a cheap camera I was lucky to pick up and because I have no formal photography training, everything is trial and error. Some of my favorite shots are those that I took on a whim somewhere local near my campus and "uninteresting", thinking they'd be nothing special. Thanks for the inspiration thomas!
“Don’t follow the rules and don’t shoot for anybody other than yourself”. Beautifully said Thomas. Thank you again for the inspiration!
This is why I watch all of your videos, your down to earth approach and enthusiasm for your photography is infectious. It inspires me to just go out and take more photographs.
The moment is all that matters I couldn't agree more, we record a moment in time to allow that moment to endure. You are a star and an inspiration Thomas.
You are true. When an image tell us a history, the technical part disappear, it don't matter. It's a question of heart. All those images are incredible! Great video!
Interesting one this Tom - I think your last statement is so true. I do think people get caught up in the technical aspects too often and forget about the fact that photography is an art. Agree with the comments on the reindeer and it is a stunning Image. It reminds me of an image that won a recent wildlife award of buffalo that was similarly blurred and conveyed the movement. Not sure about the out of focus landscape though. Personal opinion but for me a landscape image needs to be in focus / no camera shake where it matters (maybe not throughout). But if it is get the Image out of focus or not at all then fine - just not sure it ends up being one you would showcase? Very thought provoking.
Can't tell you how much I LOVE this video! All the memories and stories of when I took certain shots came flooding back to me and reminded me why I love photography! Each image tells a story and isn't just about quality. Thanks so much!
Couldn't agree more Tom. It's not just about picture detail, it's about capturing the energy of the location.
You've put into words something I've never been able to do. It's that moment that makes you feel alive and in the moment. Great video, thank you!
I so agree with your sentiments in this video. Only you as the photographer understand the mood, that moment when the scene unfolded, you understood the emotions as you saw it. I so enjoyed your photos.
"Don't shoot for anybody other than yourself." I really needed to hear that today. Thank you!
The one with spray over the rocks is one of my favourites of yours. Great approach to photography. Capture the moment! Another great video, thanks
Tremendous appreciation for this video. I try to remind myself of this all the time. And it's been a long time - 51 years of photography, now age 75. Thank you, Thomas. A totally inspiring presentation.
Just found you. Love this video! Makes this 73 year old, new to photography relax a bit and just enjoy the journey.
Both the reindeer and the lake photos are once in a lifetime photographs. Like you say, it’s about capturing the moment/scene, blink and you miss them sometimes. Excellent photos, love this video 👍🏻
Love this video. A great photo should tell a story, maybe a story open to interpretation, but a story nonetheless. Story is more important than anything else in a photo or other artistic expression. Imperfection is often part of that story. Your photos tell great stories.
8:12 I never knew Santa had headlights on the sleigh. That was the story I saw. 🙂
Seems to me there are photographers who perhaps get more satisfaction from the kit and process more than the resulting image. Not everyone has ‘the eye’ or perhaps ‘the soul’ to capture an image with feeling so I guess striving for technical perfection becomes the goal. I bet we all know someone who has a huge passion for photography and they have the kit but who’s images just don’t hit the spot. Achieving soulful, emotive and creative images is for sure the hardest part of photography. Thanks for your brilliant videos Tom, which inspire us to achieve better.
Val, I completely agree with your comments. I guess that if sales and marketing could bottle and sell "soul and passion" they would make millions. Thomas has more than his share of both. We are fortunate to be able to get something of an insight into both.
Another inspirational that encourages the rest of us to keep going out and recording what strikes us even if it won't be the photo contest winner.
Hi Thomas, i am soooooo pleased you did this video. I totally agree with you that photography is a personal thing and images dont have to be pin sharp to evoke emotions, feelings, thoughts, memories or whatever in the viewer. Photography is so much more than technical abilty. Your reindeer image is very special. Your honesty is refreshing.
This video needs to be shown to every camera club, salon and international judge just before they start reviewing submitted images. It might reduce some of the atrocities committed in the name of judging when some technically perfect, but dull image is preferred to an imaginative, creative one with some flaws. Thank you Tom.
„Don’t shoot for anybody other then yourself“ This is the best line ever... Came across your channel a few weeks ago. I am not really into Landscape Photography. But I gave it a try and I must admit your pictures are stunning, your videos are well made and the way you talk is calming. Thanks for all the input Sir. Greetings
I struggled a lot with water droplets on an image in my last vlog. I agree with the points you make here Tom, if we get too caught up in this aspect of the shot and worry about whether it’s technically correct, we’d end up not getting out and shooting at all!
Very well said Tom! We capture moments in time and light that lasts but a few seconds but not always perfect but you are always there! Thanks again for the vid! Cheers Craig .
This, Mr. Heaton, is by far the most eye-opening video I have watched. I have loved photography for the most part of my life and what you have shared is truly awe-inspiring. Thank you!
I say hats off to Thomas. It's just just the image that you've captured in your photos, its the whole story of what you had gone through to get to the point of pressing that button. Keep up the great work. 👍
Best photography podcast episode EVER! I mostly photograph wildlife and my intention is to share experience, not a perfectly sharp image.
You always manage to post a video on a topic when I need to hear it most! Thanks for all your input and inspiration to help me progress my photography.
I enjoy watching your videos on weekend mornings because they inspire me to get out and take some landscape photos. The videos don't have the same impact if I watch them on weekday nights but still enjoy them. Thank you - Steve from Toronto
What a wonderful breath of fresh air. The points you make are spot on and not said enough. Thanks Thomas.
Thomas that second image in the storm over in Ireland is so bloody amazing. Atmospheric and inspiring, love it. Now can you please straighten your window blind :)
Trevor,
You're an absolute riot! I feel a kindred relationship with you because many acquaintances tell me the same thing about my character. A description that I believe would apply to you as well. That remark? It is, "Mitchell, you ain't right!"
I revel in it, and hope you do, as well.
Thank-You,
Mike
I had to back and look but not before fixing my own
I watched THOMAS’ face and his image. Never notice the window blind. Perfection isn’t perfect.
If ever something needed to be said....THIS! It's so easy to get so wrapped up in trying to get an image perfect, that the picture itself is lost completely (I know I'm guilty of it myself). If the intention of a photograph is to convey a mood, a feeling, a sense of being there - I'd say all of your examples hit the mark 100%! Thanks for making the point, the video - and keep up the great work.
The last image is wonderful. It reminds me of the chiaroscuro you see in a Caravaggio painting. The sharp contrast with blur create so much energy! Thanks for this video
I really love this episode because it hits so close to home. I have so many images that mean so much to me because of how it came to be. The story behind the photo. Thank you for sharing this with us. You truly are an inspiration.
I was actually feeling extremely down with my mental health today and have been feeling rather useless creatively of late but this actually made me feel really inspired. I promise myself to give it a good go again. thank you for this. Perfect timing was perfect.
Thank you for saying this, I’ve spent way too much time OBSESSING over perfection and it’s not about that, I’ve recently switched gears and have been really concentrating on striking and moving images to the best that I can but technical is second seat to that. It’s so great to hear it from you as well.
Exactly this. Too many people are busy wondering if they should spend thousands on new lenses or the latest bodies or shooting brick walls at different apertures to verify that their latest purchase was the right move.
Forget all that, grab the nearest camera to you, Go out have fun and tell your story. Maybe it will get slated on forums full of pixel peepers, maybe it wont attract many likes on flickr but none of that matters.
Just go capture memories. The only person you need to please is yourself.
Great video 👍
I'm a bit late, but Tom is spot on here. Some of the best technical images can sometimes be boring with a lack of soul & atmosphere. I think Tom summed it up perfectly.
Thank you Tom, so many seem to think that if an image isn’t technically perfect then it has no place in a collection. If this was the case then we would have no ICM imagery to enjoy and that’s just one example, there are many more.👍
People listen to you so please keep spreading the word and encourage us all to just “enjoy the moment”.👌
"Don't shoot for anyone other than yourself" , I think that is great advice. Also something I have to always remind myself. Thanks for your channel and all of your advice!
Well done, Tom! Your comments regarding images with FEELING are spot on! Keep up the good work and sharing !
The photographers job is to take the image, the viewer job is to interpret the image as they see it, great video Thomas.
True! Aside from my personal experiences, there are several photographers I follow, who show these "imperfections" quite often. As you said though, for those interested in the content and mood, the imperfections fade away. When I know the photographer did that on purpose, that actually indicates "bravery" to me. Lack of light, lack of 100% focus, excessive color, etc., can also add a sense of mystery, to draw your viewers in. Thanks for pointing this out, Thomas.
Thank's Tom. Well said. Some of the finest photographs of all time are not technically perfect and yet the formula for success is the ability to relay a powerful message to the viewer. It is the lens man that most always determines the destiny of an image, and those who strive for perfection quickly come to the realization that some photographs simply work for their faults and not their virtues.
I’ve been watching a TON of videos lately trying to learn all about ISO, aparature, shutter, composition, lighting... you name it! But this is by far the most helpful video ive seen. Striking photos and as you say, the imperfections doesnt matter!
Wise words Thomas, it is about the photographer and the moment. I would rather have an imperfect image than miss capturing the moment. Keep the vlogs coming, love them and your photos no matter the perfection.
Just watching this now - really don’t see how ppl can be so pedantic about these pictures they’re amazing pictures and stories. I’ve only just started learning this and hope I can get a fraction of the quality of these photos! Thanks for reassuring us lesser beings with this vid. Much appreciated advice!
Great advise! And much appreciated. It serves as a reminder to me in my new passion for photography: contradictions, challenges but lots of rewards in capturing the moments.
Bravo. My "old photo club" would have torn apart anything that was not pin sharp wall to wall and technically perfect. Soul, mood, atmosphere, drama, creativity ,softness, unique perspective, character, unusual, motion blur , capturing the moment. Things that differential one from the crowded photo world. Great message Thomas.
I love the way you emphasized the "perfection is not all" message by placing an upstanding sprig of hair on the top on your head as a flaw as you delivered the post.
You're a great teacher Thomas and that's why you have so many subscribers. Thanks.
your videos always has the most beautiful music. the reindeer in the head light is absolutely spectacular.
Loved this video! Sometimes it's not even about just that moment, but the entire adventure from planning the trip all the way to getting back home after.
You are right. It is composition and emotion that makes an interesting and memorable photo. Thank you, and please, continue with making your videos for us.
Could not agree more. I have seen technically perfect images that have no soul or story. "Perfection" is when you have made your point or gotten your feeling across. Life is not perfect, nor should photos of real life have to be. Excellent work, Tom.
True words of wisdom from a master! Constantly inspired by your words, actions, and images! Many, many thanks, Thomas!
I couldn't agree more Thomas. Your message is spot on. Dwelling on technical perfection at the expense of a meaningful image or maybe even risking not getting the shot at all is a major mistake in my view. That reindeer shot is a perfect example. As you say, in a competition most judges would mark that down for the reasons you stated and miss the fact that it has mood and atmosphere in abundance and actually conveys something other than "I have great gear and shoot correctly focused and exposed images". An excellent video.
You have hit the nail on the head with this video Tom.
Cheers Mr Heaton! It's refreshing to hear these kind of comments. I see too many competition photos - many technically perfect and beautiful - but without any soul.
Excellent!!! Your message is worth repeating over and over.
This is so true and cements a view that great art is mainly about emotion in the viewer. Thanks Tom , keep inspiring us
Really like the words you concluded the video with...your soul's reflection.
Hi Thomas! The courage to show imperfection is true love for what you do. Having said that the reindeer image is probably one of the most magical picture I have ever seen. It reveils just about everything about that area and its people. I would instantly hang this image in a large size up on my wall. Thanks for sharing!
The reindeer photo is just pure magic! This one reeeeally has a character and a story!
What a nice guy. These have to be the best landscape photography tutorials I have seen on RUclips by a country mile. I can so relate and connect with this guy in so many ways as he says the same things I am thinking but puts it across so eloquently. Nice one Tom.
Loved this vid - thank you. Had a rubbish day on Dartmoor failing to get a single image today. Felt downhearted and then remembered your oft spoken words - it was a great walk and just good to be outside in an amazing place. Another day for the pic... thanks Thomas.
Well said, Thomas;
This is why I hate showing my efforts to other photographers - They minutely scrutinise for technicalities & dust spots, 'trying to be helpful'; whereas the people to whom I'm hoping to sell a framed print look at it from a sensible distance, as if it's on their wall, and either like it or not. The image speaks to them, or it doesn't.
I very rarely carry a tripod, being an 'opportunist' photographer for whom 'the moment' is everything - But, inevitably, I do strive mightily to get the nitty-gritty right 😊
This video just changed how I approach landscape photography. Thank you for sharing your perspective; it definitely resonates with me!
Thank you for this video. There is so often that I am nervous to share a photograph because what is seen on social media is perfection. However, what the viewers do not see is how much I learned and grown as a photographer, the new teachings I am able to implement with each and every photograph I take. There is so much I am learning and it may be at a slower pace and that's okay. Great images :) Love the stories you have shared behind them.
This is one of the best photography videos on RUclips.
Thank you. How true... the memories and the moment are the most important.
Really well done, Tom. I loved your explanation of all this, and will forever remember your brilliant words about the art of photography.
Thanks for this insightful video! It's so true that the feeling and the drama of the photo is much more important than the technical perfection.
Thank you for sharing your moments. it takes a unique person to have unique photos... Someone that thinks outside the box and comfortable to break the rules. Loved them all and thank you again for allowing me ,and others, to have the "not so sharp" photo and be proud of it..! looking forward for more videos.
We spoke about you at our little TOGs group earlier and this video just about wraps it up in an instant. Do it because you love it, not because of what others will think of it! Keep up the great work Fella and thank you!
Thanks for the inspiration! You truly motivate and bring emotion to your vlogs. The passion shows and counts for what it's worth.
One of the best videos about photography ever.
Well said Thomas..."Travel, explore, shoot local, develop your own style, try new things, the truth is, is all about what happen in the moment, that split second that you press the shutter and capture what is in front of you".
Stuff technically perfect... Love all these images... Proof that the moment is far more important... Look forward to more of these!
I love that you did this video 👌photography is about the story not the buttery smooth crispness it's the emotion it delivers ! Great work
as a newbie, I feel more motivated than ever after watching this. thanks tom!
This video is inspiring for me. I'm a beginner photographer, and I'm always looking for perfection. like you said, sharpness, focus, all those stuff. Some old pics isn't that sharp, that perfect, but tells a history about that moment.
This video inspired me to take a look and review some of my photos and see as the all picture, the context. And after all, a good photographer is not always made from perfection. Thank you! I love your channel!
Great speech, Thomas! You are talking right from my heart.
Those are awesome shots :D
Wow how refreshing. We can always count on you to bring us back down to earth and have a reality check!! It seems like everyone is going for a magazine cover shot every time they click the shutter button. It really takes the fun out of photography and the experience as a whole.
I love your work Thomas. I am envious. Such talent!
I am just an enthusiastic photography lover and to me all these images looks fantastic and have their charms exactly because of the “flaws” you mentioned. Sometimes I have the feeling we are too harsh on ourselves and we constantly look for perfection that most of the times Is only present our minds. Loved this video.
As often you are right ! Photography is not only aesthetic, that’s why this is Art... I think Your second is one of my favorite !!!
I am really happy that you created this video to explore the subject of our never-ending quest for perfection. A couple of years ago I reached the stage in my life and photographic journey to finally understand that the quest for perfection is a fool's journey and that the drive for perfection should never overpower the act of creativity. When I listen to Miles Davis render one of his Jazz masterpieces is it the mood, the atmosphere of the notes that draws me in, or I am listening to every note to determine if he has rendered it to perfection. Its the atmosphere and mood of the music that wins every time and the same can be said for our art of photography. The aim should not be pixel peeping, the aim should be to tell a story that engages the viewer and sometimes the only wayt to do that is comes with imperfections. Great video Thomas.
I would happily hang any or all of those "imperfect" images on my wall Tom. The mood and feeling of a photo is far more important than pin sharp or perfect exposure
I remember that post about the water drops. I didn't look too hard for them because I expected to see a ruined shot. I didn't find a ruined shot so I quit looking. The reindeer shot was something I'd brag about to my friends, but they may not get it. I sure get it. Maybe it was something of a "lucky shot"(considering all the movement and light), but once in a while you get one like that. I have gotten just a couple that when brought up on the computer made me want to thank someone.
One of your best videos and a great advice. Not as an excuse for bad pics but as an view an the story behind a pic.
Spot on - those of us with old, consumer and "the best I could manage" gear love to be out therein the rain and chaos.... NONE of my images are razor sharp and ALL of them have noise at 100-iso... But I was there to catch the fox stare at me through the bluebells with a young hare in its mouth.... eye to eye, the camera would have ruined it, so this one only exists in my head, never to win a prize. Bless you, Tom
Your Images tell a story and i am constantly finding reassurance watching your videos, thankyou ✌🏽
Well said that man, can’t please everyone all the time, I’ve always loved everything you do!
Your videos are fantastic Thomas. Please never stop!