Great video, Scott. Being in this industry for over a decade now, I've worked with all the mayor agencies for all types of international clients I could have wished for. Through the years I found out myself that creativity isn't necessarily narrowed down to just one type of medium, which was in this case a stills camera. I tried directing films, and shortly after I got directing jobs. I tried animation, I got animation jobs. I started doing art direction, now working as an art director. All of these media I'm using my own signature. The point I'm trying to make is, don't limit yourself to just one medium. I found out that by letting go of this 'photographer label 'my creativity got way better and more creative. It's not about you working as a photographer with your signature. It's about you as an image maker with your signature. Never forget that. Sorry for my horrendous English, but I hope I get the message across.
I would have to agree with this. My ego is so set on being a photographer. I love telling people "it's all I do." As I look toward my photographer mentors who are STILL shooting (Craig Cutler) I see they have all made this shift out of their comfort zones into a more creative visual space whatever that might be. You are right when you talk about everyone pointing a camera at something, and you are right that the results are mostly the same... BUT realistically they are not. What are we actually selling? (WE) are selling (US) and I would buy that any day.
About 20 years ago, when digital photography started arriving, many photographers were already struggling. I saw many studios closed down one by one, some of them were not completely gone, but to work at home to cut the costs. The most unforgettable moment I saw with my own eye was, when my photographer friend took me to visit his photographer friend, that photographer was coming out of his taxi, yep, he said that when there was no photo work coming in, he has to drive a taxi to survive 🙁 he even tried to sell me some old studio lights. I suppose, it’s not too bad to be a RUclipsr for some side income, knowing that you’re sharing useful personal experiences or secrets of the photography trade, people always love “knowledge”, frankly speaking nowadays, people simply too lazy to read books, they love to learn something quick, which what RUclips videos are all about.
Unfortunately, the ''fear"" isn't just limited to photographers but has become a permanent part of many people's lives. But what you said about how photography can you and open up new horizons is spot on. even though I don't work professionally as a photographer any more (no money in it) it has been a passport and allowed to glimpse so many aspects of life I'd have only seen via a screen. Scary, exhilarating and utterly compulsive
Thank you for speaking honestly & openly about the “fear” that all photographers face everyday. I worked for 17 years as a photographer, certainly NOT for the money, but for the passion that I had for doing the work each day. I feel blessed to have had a job that brought me satisfaction, over the years. I am over 60 years old & have recently shot on a part time basis, & hope that I may continue to do so, well into my 70’s. Love your channel. Best wishes in your future endeavours.😊🙏
Thank you for this. I’ve freelanced in ICT for 20+ years because I listened to people telling me my photography was no good. It is frightening whatever you do life is hard but it is harder if you do things that don’t bring any joy. I’m taking the leap of going public with my wildlife photography and whatever the result I will be proud of my efforts to improve my skills and the images I have created, which talk to my voice. I appreciate your teachings and I’m learning.
I worked for 30 years as a registered nurse (in the US), then as a software product manager and felt that same fear every day. The few years I made money from photography gave me hope it would become my Plan A, but it never did. I wish I had RUclips as a plan B back then, but RUclips did not exist for most of that time. I just found ways of doing the same thing, but differently. New location, new subject, new employer. The fear exists for everyone. The only ones not feeling the fear are ignorant of the danger.
I lost my job of 8 years 3 weeks ago, in tech not photography. I am finally hitting the point of managing all of the paperwork that comes with applying for assistance. I have put out around 40 applications for my type of job and so far have had 1 interview! The fear is sprouting because of other circumstances outside of any job that must be completed and cannot be stopped. I have accumulated some equipment over the years and I need to develop my "process" so life gets back in gear. I think the mind needs the "process" to maintain a modicum of sanity! It probably does not matter what the process is centered around, photography or other, just get a process to keep the mind active.
100% agree, and this applies to all freelancing. When I was a software freelancer for 5 years, I’d have those periods of feast and famine and in the latter I tended to start to freak out. I had similarly cushioned myself financially to be able ride out several months of no work (and extremely low overhead working from home), but even at its worst I always had a minimum baseline of work to keep things going. I had to learn to turn that fear into something productive - one month when I knew I was going to have a whole week with nothing to do, I threw together an overdue portfolio site and a couple months later I had my first client come in through it. I’ve found it useful to have a short list of these “backup tasks” that I can jump to when my main pipe of work gets switched off - stuff that would be good to have but isn’t mission critical.
Last month was the worst month I’ve had since going freelance. Thought a lot of ‘is this it? Do I need a real job? Do I need to sell all my kit?’ Then this month beats my best month ever by 30%. The swings and fears are real. It’s part of the roller coaster, and like a roller coaster, you have to trust that you buckled up properly so you don’t get tossed.
Thank you for your honesty and for sharing your thoughts and fears. After 45 years of photography, not a single studio, or commercial photographer I started out shooting with is still in business in my city. A hard and glaring fact is the industry and what is important or popular changes over time. I have witnessed many transitions to part-time photography and the closing down of their brick-and-mortar studios. Many have taken up other streams of revenue outside of photography. A few others seem to have had success with workshops, photo tours, and educational offerings. Being realistic, honest, and keeping my ego in check has helped me realize that like a garden there are seasons for abundant harvest and seasons of dormancy. Riding out the highs and lows can be scary and a bumpy ride. Just realize the industry and clients' needs can change like the wind. You can never anticipate exactly from year to year what they are thinking.
Thank you for sharing and by that I do mean thank you 🙏🏻- your video reminded me of something I read a long time ago: excellence is a habit. Stay with the process and the results will come. Brave of you to share this video!
I’m 6 years in. I used to have a flashy life when I lived in Sydney, well paid job and alll that. Now I’m in Vienna of all places trying to market to German speakers, hoping they speak enough English to work with me. So far it’s work out surprising well. But the last few weeks I’ve had no work and endless bills draining my bank balance... the fear has been pretty strong. But I just have to use it as motivation to take action, stick to the process, do the marketing and I’ll be super busy again in no time. Thanks for sharing, makes it feel better knowing it’s normal for freelancers
portrait photographer in Tasmania Australia and i feel this sooo much , the quiet times are indeed stressful , i have to remind myself not to give up way too often i hope things pick up for you and your business
Thanks for making this video, Scott! Imposter syndrome is hitting me pretty bad this week for me. I know I can do this but it can be tough to see the forest through the trees.
Brutally honest and so down to earth. You say you hate being a RUclipsr... but... you have a very popular RUclips channel purely because of the first sentence of my comment.
I suffered super badly from this phenomenon. Good to hear you're dealing with this so well. For me the solution that works wonderfully right now is, unexpectedly, a part time customer service job. I never thought it would work (I thought it would take up too much time or block my creativity or drain me too much) but here I am. I love/hate it. I love my colleagues, the rhythm, being part of something bigger that just works without me having to push and be self motivated and disciplined. And from there the assignments I do feel much more free. And the free work truly feels free. The office job (customer service) is also actually meaningful, something which I never expected. I work for some wonderful businesses that do good in the world. It's far below my level in some ways, and challenging in others, but I'm feeling content and at peace and much more unafraid, and all of that is great, for now, while finally building on my life instead of withering away in fear and overanalysis.
It’s awesome that you’re transparent about this. A lot of people in your position pretend like everything is amazing and only show their highlights. It’s also comforting to me as a beginner knowing that fear I’m feeling now is a fear that even legit pros like you have. So my fear will never really go away… and somehow that makes everything okay. I can work continue to do my work in spite of the fear.
This is soooooo true. I've been a proffesional stunt performer and coordinator for 23 years, I've just come off a 5 month dead period. I feel that fear and unpredictability constantly
A few years ago I took a night job at a very low wage and my boss told me, Hey I am going to need you to stay longer or your fired, I waived and said, my productivity is at %200, if you want to fire me go ahead, I'll work for myself, I'm a photographer. A few months later I was my bosses boss, then my new boss said, I'm going to need you to work and not sleep, I told him, no thanks, I'll work to get the job done with smashing results and go home. After they tried that multiple times I said, on a snow day where out of a 400 employees 17 showed up and I was one of them, I made today a successful day by doing the job of a couple hundred people in a snow emergency and you want me to stay longer, it's going to cost you how much I pay myself when I'm not here x the number of jobs I have done today. The feared me... because I knew that I was a force and they couldn't mold me. I use that and many other examples as my fuel to push me past that fear, even when I fail for months on end because the truth is, WE LIVE LIFE AND WORK FOR OUR OWN WELL BEING and no employer should change that. In fact they can't if you don't let them. Agent, boss, client or disapproving family member they are all the same on your path to freedom. The Spice Girls once said, "If you're gonna be my representative, gotta get with my plan. Making money is easy but ambition never ends." Or something like that. If you have the fear that you might lose something, then you should already be looking for its replacement. Sorry Lisa lol
LOVE your content, specifically this part points out exactly what we all experience as freelancers. Working as a therapist I too know all the solitions, yet….using them on yourself is another matter. Thanks a lot for underlining how it is, being human🙏
I was self employed in the legal profession for 23 years 8 months and 5 days. What kept me going was it was fun. It was fun working for me, it was fun not having a boss with their boot on my neck. Working with clients was fun. The cut and thrust of court work was fun. It was never work. However I know exactly what you mean when you talk about "The Fear", because I felt that ever day. The fear I could deal with by what you call the process. Plus working for me was fun. I left the legal profession when it was no longer fun. Dealing with clients, their issues, the courts, the fun ended and I knew I had to leave. That ending was a long slow grind that going worst every day. It wasn't the fear that ended it. It had all stopped being fun. For the last 12 years I've been learning photography. That learning and doing has brought the fun back. Every day is fun. I learn new things, I trying new things. I experience new things, all of which is fun. I've had a little bit of professional work which I've enjoyed. Mostly i shoot for me. But it's fun. My wife works and I have a "day job" so the stress of paying the mortgage isn't there. I've been thinking of doing more professional work and leaving my day job. So we'll see. Fear can be a great motivator as long as you have a process to deal with it. For me part of that process that helps survive and deal with the fear. It has to be "fun". However you choose to define that.
I know you said you hate RUclipsr’s, will I for one am glad you are a RUclipsr! Your honesty and candidness is necessary in the world and in photography. Keep up the great work and the TOTALLY CAPTIVATING subject matter! I might start one of these RUclips channels in the near future. Thanks again, truly!
I work in software engineering at a big tech company, and don’t currently own a camera. The advice you just gave is every bit as applicable in my field as it is yours.
Great video and I appreciate the honesty. I love photography, I tried a business with a friend but it didn’t work out and I haven’t tried doing photography as a business since. The fear of being shitty and the fear of success is what holds me back. That and I lack confidence. It sucks but I am trying to overcome all of that garbage as it doesn’t serve my soul. Thank you for sharing.
Thanks for sharing this video mate. I'm an editorial photographer and if I don't get a call from an editor for a few days my internal dialogue quickly goes from positive and ever so grateful to "well, it was good well it lasted" - Of course the phone ends up ringing and the fear resets... or more like gets put on hold for the time being. The AI stuff gives me the fear too. In a previous video you mentioned how we have control over our finances as a freelancer and we know if the business is doing good or bad whereas someone employed might be unaware they are about to be sacked... I feel thats a good thing to remember when trying to get through the mental gymnastics that comes with a life of freelancing. Cheers for your candid wisdom Scott! Big love from Sydney Australia!
I know that fear, its crippling. But its there for a reason, its there to warn you about carelessness or the lack of planning. Because if this does all fall apart, you lose a big part of what makes you, you. Sure, it may present itself as overhead or budget or a move or a career change, but the underlying reason for the fear, I believe, is the relinquishment of the known self. Youre a photographer, you have a passion and a gift, whether learned or innate, for your craft and with the loss of that, you lose a big piece of yourself. The fear then, is not meant to cripple you, its meant as a drive forward. To spearhead through the obsticles, because if you do lose this and you give up aftwards, then what was the point in the first place? Use it, dont dwell in it.
Scott, just remind yourself that creating a RUclips vid is just a different form of creativity. Best quote from Adam Savage: "Focus on the Process, not the Result". I have this on a T shirt and Hoodie, just to remind myself when I find myself in front of a mirror!
Phew, the fear. What if I decided to be a commercial photographer too late, with everyone around me also picking up a camera? What if by the time my work is at the right level, AI will have replaced a lot of commercial jobs? What if I'm wasting my time...working this full time job and spending all my free time test shooting and networking and marketing and planning...what if nothing ever happens? Will I be stuck working for other people forever? What if my style of work never catches the eye of anyone important? Have I already hit the glass ceiling of what I can do? I kind of just deal with it, then lean in and keep on grinding away and remember with enough hard work and dedication, it will happen eventually. Thank you for this video, Scott. It really does help to see that someone in your position also struggles with something similar.
I have a job making gates, crap money close to home, easy going firm but I have nothing invested in it. If I lost the job tomorrow Id be down the beach taking pictures. You on the other hand have rather more of a good reason to be getting the "fear". I should have been an illustrator and had all the opportunity to do it but I just wasted it all away, I've spent a long time wishing Id made better choices but that just makes me depressed so I got a camera a few years ago and it takes up a lot of my spare time and keeps me sane.
I think the fear you describe must be common to all us creative types. The creative brain isn't content to sit still, and is always wondering about the past and looking to the future, which includes worrying about the unknown - which is to say every second in front of you! I applaud you for doing what you love and making it work! I chickened out of a music career way back in college. I looked around and saw people who were much better players than I was, and basically decided that a desk job would be my way, with music and photography as hobbies only, or possibly only a part of my work.
I have a T-shirt that reads, I have a PhD in History and Economics whiskey is why I do photography for a living," on the front. On the back it reads, "Remember, no matter how bad it is, it can always get worse." Somehow, that second bit cheers me up.
Really appreciate this video, I think it’s so true that we all have this fear, for me it’s been building in my 30s, I’m now 35 and want to ensure the financial security for me and my fiancée. 10 years ago I just wanted to get through the day and enjoy life. Once you realise time is ticking and anything could happen to take what you have away, it’s a terrifying thought. I think the right attitude is to do exactly what you’re doing, channel that fear into something healthy and productive, a gym session, a run or a walk, just get ourselves out of our own heads. I also think as creatives we are wired to overthink as we spend a lot of time absorbing and just spending much time in our own heads.
51 years of age, my fear of failure has finally been overcome by my experience of not living the life I wanted for 30 years Also, the remedy for anxiety and ruminating is action and movement. Exercise is spectacular for mental relief
Thank you, Scott, for your honesty! You are so right. Fear paralyzes you and having a routine that you can use in those moments is a must. I would also add journaling to your list. It helps a lot with negative thoughts! Great video, thank you!
PREACH! OMG SCOTT (sorry, I live/work in LA). I feel you my fine photo friend. 2022 was such a blast, I actually began letting clients (that I hated) go. "I was now above the "bullshit line" and everything was rocking", I would NEVER have to worry again about working, and honestly, I was actually a bit burned out... SIX months later (NOW) I am back to freaking out, OF COURSE, I too will never work again and AI has now put us all in an early grave. REPEAT AFTER ME, "Would you like chips with that fish?" (I modified that because you are an Englander). REGARDLESS, the following things have helped me greatly. 1. DEEP DIVE into what causes (my) Catastrophic Thinking. 2. Journaling (turns out this SHIT happens a lot to me AND I am still kicking ass). 3. Yoga/Meditation. LAST ONE... a gratitude practice, that's right sit down and and hand write some heart felt THANK YOU NOTES to everyone you love and work with. LAST LAST, you are always welcome to come surfing with me next time you are in LA :) PEACE SCOTT, THIS VIDEO WAS A BOLD STEP THAT IS HELPING A LOT OF PEOPLE... CHEERS! What's RUclipsr? :)
You're not alone, not just as a photographer but as any (mostly freelance) creatives. This was really helpful for me, I get a similar crippling fear on a regular basis and lose sight of the bigger picture. And for what it's worth, I wish I was in your position, look up to you man! Thanks as always for your honest sharing
Nuff respec' for being so frank and open. I can definitely identify. What you said about reflecting on how you started definitely helps to shift one's perspective. I remember using PVC stands and halogen bulbs when I just started; looking around my home studio now helps me to be grateful even when the FEAR is lurking.
Man, I waited to write because I wanted to finish watching all your videos first, but I'm writing now to congratulate you, a really nice share, right dose of irony and sincerity. At certain points in the video I laughed as mad man, when you talk about fear it seems like a piece of theatrical comedy, a monologue that has a dose of subtle drama. However, I didn't know you as a photographer, I came across one of your videos a month ago and was very surprised by the very different approach from the rest of the photographers on RUclips. The thing that among others gives you a lot of credibility is that you are first and foremost a professional photographer and, as one of the very sporadic things, also a you tuber. So you talk about work, about the reality that those who work in the world outside of RUclips live. Another thing is that you use the "old" Canon cameras by choice, for practicality and for savings, this is one of the biggest anomalies in the world of photography and ever-new technological tools such as cameras. All of this would be nice but not impressive if it weren't for your work to support all the theories, high level of interesting and unique images. I must admit that seeing your videos, your work ethic and the quality of the works brought me a new and fresh inspiration to better refine and define my style. Thanks for so much clarity on the things one needs to know, concrete, real and practical. Your channel is unique in its approach, rest assured.
I think this is fairly universal for those who have turned a hobby or passion into their income source. I lost my ability to continue the process during the pandemic part through brain fog and fatigue but also other factors such as that controversial 48/52 thing.. The fear now is of my ability to work in a conventional scenario! I too have a mountain of gear in my unit to re-home and also rarely heed my own advice. What really hurts is that I had the work, unlimited work, but I broke and couldn't pull it back. Your candour as always is appreciated, don't be so harsh on the RUclipsr you, especially if it performs some form of catharsis and generates revenue!
My fear is right after I send the photos to the customer - and I am waiting for feedback and/or the posts to start appearing on their Instagram or websites - and since most of mine are SMALL businesses, they are busy - and do not reply for awhile sometimes....
Been out shooting black and white street photography today seeing what can be found with single 50mm lens so its getting close and trying to do zero post processing. To simulate fear of losing kit and picking up the daily shooter for fun and giggles. Found a plastic picture frame so its next to me so people can hold frame and i take the shot and post to Facebook. Reminds me to buy some more cards. Make memorable days is the key and document test experiences to keep the spark burning
i watched the whole thing- yes the fear is real. in my opinion, The answer is always pivot- evolve. Sometimes we just don't know what it is yet and right now is a very weird time in life. I always found myself to be a true "photographer", but now I mostly run a real estate media business (my version of you being a youtuber). 20% is photography the rest is something else. Just how it is. We are really media creators so I'm just accepting it.
I’ve literally just watch this sat outside A&E with my partner who just been knocked down off of her bike and broken her arm. We are both self-employed and she’s gonna be out of action for 6 to 8 weeks. I definitely have the fear. I’ve just moved into a bigger studio and my overheard are double amount of last month? I’ve definitely got the fear. I feel like the comfort is knowing that other people have the same fears. Great video Scott 👍👍
After 20 years of working in a prison in a job I did just for the money, I took a leap of faith, retired early and now I’m a freelance photographer. The money isn’t consistent and neither are the assignments, but I do appreciate slow days in a warehouse/studio with my dogs. It could be worse.
Raw yet so real!! thanks. But also an apology. Ive been binge watching Tin House for months. yet never paid comment once. Never done a like and yet here i am in awe of what you have just said. Ive been a photographer for 15 years, launched a new studio and yeah work flows, and then boom the sound of silence. WTF why does nobody book me. And there the answe sits! you have just served me a huge slice of humble pie. thank you thank you thank you!! now prepared to be stalked!! liked and talked about 😀 Routine i believe you said!!! Thank you . im ex Pom living in Perth Western Australia. The most isolated capital city on Earth!! I think routine is demograhic, geograpic and horrific when you are this isolated and trying to be a creative. 🙏
You hit the nail on the head... it kills creativity. I am in this rut and have been for too long. I subsidise by labouring this is where I am. I cant be creative I am blocked!
May perhaps be your best, most meaningful presentation (yes, RUclips!) yet. My fear, if I’m honest, is two fold. 1. Fear of rejection. When I don’t market, I do not get rejected. I also get no work. Am able to get by but live somewhat comfortably in this frozen state. 2. Fear of having to study and learn all the stupid (spelled: vital!) business things like copyrights, pricing, digging through weeds looking for someone to hire me. (And I’m generally not averse to education; I do have a masters in filmmaking). But it’s 2:30 am and I’m awake on my back in bed watching and replying to YOU!
My workflow and my style grown so much the last year thanks to therapy... learning to manage and understand how mind and emotions works is such a BIG help in an artistic carrier.
Bang on! Hammer on the nail! I completely related to this and I am actually feeling better that you talked about it. It's is relief to know it's not justme.
Thank you for your openness with us. Many of us have these fears, but as you said, many people would trade what they have to be in our shoes wherever we are in our journey. Let's continue to press forward.
It's great to see someone that appears to have it all together be so open about the reality; I get this all of the time and when you're sitting there on your own it's easy to think that nobody else is going through the same thing. I shoot property and it's so hit and miss at the moment' I'm constantly going through my work wondering if it's good enough and whether I'm just a big fraud but then a bit of good feedback or praise diffuses those feelings for a little while.
I've been having a quiet month or so since the start of the year, however having started freelancing last year July and having had a ton of work I let my admin and marketing slide. For the past three weeks I've finally finished my website. I've started looking at my marketing process (only been week one for that matter), setting up my day rates (I also work in the film industry where you tend to have day rates), setting my headshot package rates and descriptions. Next it'll be my contemporary portraiture side that I want to setup and do test shoots for - which is a bit of a bugger cause I can't afford a studio at the moment and my house (house share) I have tried shooting in and it is a PITA!!!! PITA of note. But, I've kept myself busy catching up with the stuff I should've done last year already. It is also great to see all my work, even some commercial work on my site all in one place. My next immediate plan is to see about an abandoned, albeit safe, building where I can do some test shoots in with backdrops. Oh and edit the wedding video I shot. Godamit I should've said no on that one. The fear...absolutely I have it. Add to it the current revolution stage of Ai imagery taking hold (wrote an article why it's not a silver bullet). I decided there is nothing I can do apart from creating the habits that the person I want to be has - and focus on doing those things. Oh and try and have some fun along the way - forgetting about the outcome and trusting in the process of practice and doing.
Awesome video Scott, really hits home! We cant feel exactly the same everyday, there has to be "downs" so we can appreciate the "up´s". I just keep grinding, although i hate that "3pm fear". Best Regards HT
Great video Scott, touched on some very relevant points there. There was one I feel you missed when comparing one’s work & work lifestyle to others, at least online, a lot of it is smoke & mirrors and should be taken with a pinch of Salt.
For me, this is the best video you've done! Thank you! I had 'the fear' so bad at the beginning of this year. It feels debilitating and hopeless... I feel better knowing that it is something that happens to us all!! I'm happy to say I have since landed a job that will pay for the year amongst others to top me back up.
I feel my fear of doing more photography is linked to my vision. That I don't see myself doing more but I'm doing photography somehow. And I can see why people are wanting to hire me... Then there's showing up. My vision is changing for the better for photography. I'm choosing to do it more. I too have a small family and easy by day as long as bills are paid and I'm living another day I feel that's a start then being lesser than I am now. But with a vision that I anchor and climb the rope up to the top to get an anchor secured for the next climb I feel helps with my fear.
Fear stopped me to do all the things I wished I've done in my life. Including thinking about the things I've wished for my life. Now I'm a hobby photographer. Every time I'm full of fear, I grab my camera and go out taking pictures. It's too late for me to get a pro photographer. But I've made some pictures I really like …
You’re an absolute legend and inspiration man! I see all I’ve ever wanted sitting behind you I dream of having my own studio space to create in. As of now I fertilize extremely wealthy people’s homes I get to see some amazing places just wishing and dreaming one day I could be inside one and that my art can take me there. Thank you for all the amazing advice you give in your videos and keep on pushing on.
the process and having discipline is key. the fear however remains day in and day out. I haven’t mastered youtube but i am trying to figure out what i can do to be one . much like your situation.
Love your bit about the process. I seem to recall a video a while back where you mentioned you weren’t a natural photographer or didn’t start with “the eye”. Can you elaborate more about your journey and the process of learning how to take a competent photo?
Love that you have time to be a RUclipsr 🙏 can't tell you ho much I enjoy watching and listening to you!you are an inspiration and you make me laugh which is a bonus 👏
that was real. you mentioned in one of your video, you watched zack arias, and you remind me a lot of him, how real you are, and how you can share the truth no matter how bad it is...i wish he comes back every day, problems really got to him it seems...got best advise and reallity checks from you in the last week or so i follow you...what you do for us is actually amazing keep that in mind...thank you
Freelancer fear. All freelancers get the fear at some point and always between gigs. I have been a freelance live event tech for 25+ years and every year after the crazy busy Xmas/New year gigs Jan/Febuary is often a lean time for work and just when I think that I will not get another gig I get a call/email. And the same applies between gigs the stupid irrational fear kicks in. I have learned to laugh at it now because there is always another gig. It's just your mind messing with you. I love my work but I deal with the gaps by doing other things I love such as Photography and I try to treat the gaps in work (provided the gaps are not TOO big) as an opportunity to do something for me at my own pace. Something I learnt many years ago was as a freelancer the more ''strings to your bow '' the more work you get. Learn other skills in your industry if you can this will multiply your work offers/opportunitys. The freelance fear will always be around. Some people cannot deal with it and end up getting a full time job working for an employer. But if you can balance the freelance fear with being your own boss and running your life to your own schedule. It beats working for a crap employer on a crap job any day. Been there, done that.
Ah man, great video. I'm sorry you're feeling the fear but I'm also relieved to hear I'm not alone. Definitely something I've always had, like I'm sure every other freelancer, whatever the industry. It usually rears its ugly head in January when everyone has the blues and can't be bothered to book people like me. It comes at various other times for genre-related reasons too. But I've got it right now and it's been building steadily since COVID as my business simply is not the same as it was in March 2020. I see my services as a 'nice to have' and these days, clients simply have more pressing priorities to spend their depleted money on than getting everyone's headshots done. But this morning, I shut it out, put a gag on that mofo and cracked on. Because, as you very rightly say, I'm lucky to have been doing my hobby as a job for over 12 years. So I'll diversify, change and keep plugging away. Keep going man, we can't get real jobs!
I loved this rambling, so honest and straight to the point.... no situation is perfect and no life is perfect, you managed to put the right words in the right places.... thanks for opening your mind and heart for us to partake on your trip.... And, if it helps... YOU are my favorite youtuber at the moment... im always waiting for the next upload from you.
Hey man, having a warehouse and a cat is not too shabby! But yea, I have these concerns too. I haven’t had a day-job in over a decade, but if working part-time at a coffeeshop means I get to pay the mortgage and create images I love, then I’ll do it. There’s no shame is honest work.
Scott you are knocking it out of the park with these videos. So real, we all need this. I’m right on the cusp of being really busy and the fear has never been bigger 😅
This is honesty and exactly how I feel. Stay strong. I wish you could share your work plan or timetable for the work week. I know you mentioned some of it in the end but is there a system
This reminds me when I was bombing my statistics class and I asked a classmate how she was doing in it, as I was sure was killing it since she always answered questions and was asking questions, just for her to tell me that she was completely failing.
Have been a photographer 20+ years, some months a picture framer, that’s back breaking. now I’m more of an artist in photography, multi media and video. Still a picture framer when I need to be…
I could have written the video for you. Luckily, I still have my day job. But that’s not the goal. I haven’t shot a PAID gig all year. But my studio rent is still due. Every other photographer in the city is offering “headshots”.. in between all the other stuff they’re shooting. I’m still establishing a reputation but I can’t do that if no one is shooting. So…. 4 months. What to do? I force myself to send out emails and introduce myself to faceless people at companies in the area. I started up a company many years ago and now I can remind myself how much slogging was involved. I listen to motivational videos that remind me I can do it if I stay the course. What don’t you do? Quit. But the fear is always there.
If you are looking for some 1-2-1 help, head over to here www.tinhouse-studio.com/product-category/coaching/
Great video, Scott.
Being in this industry for over a decade now, I've worked with all the mayor agencies for all types of international clients I could have wished for. Through the years I found out myself that creativity isn't necessarily narrowed down to just one type of medium, which was in this case a stills camera. I tried directing films, and shortly after I got directing jobs. I tried animation, I got animation jobs. I started doing art direction, now working as an art director. All of these media I'm using my own signature. The point I'm trying to make is, don't limit yourself to just one medium. I found out that by letting go of this 'photographer label 'my creativity got way better and more creative. It's not about you working as a photographer with your signature. It's about you as an image maker with your signature. Never forget that.
Sorry for my horrendous English, but I hope I get the message across.
I would have to agree with this. My ego is so set on being a photographer. I love telling people "it's all I do." As I look toward my photographer mentors who are STILL shooting (Craig Cutler) I see they have all made this shift out of their comfort zones into a more creative visual space whatever that might be. You are right when you talk about everyone pointing a camera at something, and you are right that the results are mostly the same... BUT realistically they are not. What are we actually selling? (WE) are selling (US) and I would buy that any day.
About 20 years ago, when digital photography started arriving, many photographers were already struggling. I saw many studios closed down one by one, some of them were not completely gone, but to work at home to cut the costs. The most unforgettable moment I saw with my own eye was, when my photographer friend took me to visit his photographer friend, that photographer was coming out of his taxi, yep, he said that when there was no photo work coming in, he has to drive a taxi to survive 🙁 he even tried to sell me some old studio lights. I suppose, it’s not too bad to be a RUclipsr for some side income, knowing that you’re sharing useful personal experiences or secrets of the photography trade, people always love “knowledge”, frankly speaking nowadays, people simply too lazy to read books, they love to learn something quick, which what RUclips videos are all about.
There’s nothing inherently “lazy” about learning by watching tutorials 😒
Reminds me of the old joke; "whats the fastest way to earn money as a photographer? By selling your camera gear."
Unfortunately, the ''fear"" isn't just limited to photographers but has become a permanent part of many people's lives. But what you said about how photography can you and open up new horizons is spot on. even though I don't work professionally as a photographer any more (no money in it) it has been a passport and allowed to glimpse so many aspects of life I'd have only seen via a screen. Scary, exhilarating and utterly compulsive
Thank you for speaking honestly & openly about the “fear” that all photographers face everyday. I worked for 17 years as a photographer, certainly NOT for the money, but for the passion that I had for doing the work each day. I feel blessed to have had a job that brought me satisfaction, over the years. I am over 60 years old & have recently shot on a part time basis, & hope that I may continue to do so, well into my 70’s. Love your channel. Best wishes in your future endeavours.😊🙏
Thank you for this. I’ve freelanced in ICT for 20+ years because I listened to people telling me my photography was no good.
It is frightening whatever you do life is hard but it is harder if you do things that don’t bring any joy.
I’m taking the leap of going public with my wildlife photography and whatever the result I will be proud of my efforts to improve my skills and the images I have created, which talk to my voice.
I appreciate your teachings and I’m learning.
I worked for 30 years as a registered nurse (in the US), then as a software product manager and felt that same fear every day. The few years I made money from photography gave me hope it would become my Plan A, but it never did. I wish I had RUclips as a plan B back then, but RUclips did not exist for most of that time. I just found ways of doing the same thing, but differently. New location, new subject, new employer. The fear exists for everyone. The only ones not feeling the fear are ignorant of the danger.
I lost my job of 8 years 3 weeks ago, in tech not photography. I am finally hitting the point of managing all of the paperwork that comes with applying for assistance. I have put out around 40 applications for my type of job and so far have had 1 interview! The fear is sprouting because of other circumstances outside of any job that must be completed and cannot be stopped.
I have accumulated some equipment over the years and I need to develop my "process" so life gets back in gear. I think the mind needs the "process" to maintain a modicum of sanity! It probably does not matter what the process is centered around, photography or other, just get a process to keep the mind active.
👏👏👏 Nice to hear some realistic, down to earth, honesty on RUclips. Thank you for the advice. 👏👏👏
100% agree, and this applies to all freelancing. When I was a software freelancer for 5 years, I’d have those periods of feast and famine and in the latter I tended to start to freak out. I had similarly cushioned myself financially to be able ride out several months of no work (and extremely low overhead working from home), but even at its worst I always had a minimum baseline of work to keep things going. I had to learn to turn that fear into something productive - one month when I knew I was going to have a whole week with nothing to do, I threw together an overdue portfolio site and a couple months later I had my first client come in through it. I’ve found it useful to have a short list of these “backup tasks” that I can jump to when my main pipe of work gets switched off - stuff that would be good to have but isn’t mission critical.
Last month was the worst month I’ve had since going freelance. Thought a lot of ‘is this it? Do I need a real job? Do I need to sell all my kit?’ Then this month beats my best month ever by 30%. The swings and fears are real. It’s part of the roller coaster, and like a roller coaster, you have to trust that you buckled up properly so you don’t get tossed.
Thank you for your honesty and for sharing your thoughts and fears. After 45 years of photography, not a single studio, or commercial photographer I started out shooting with is still in business in my city.
A hard and glaring fact is the industry and what is important or popular changes over time. I have witnessed many transitions to part-time photography and the closing down of their brick-and-mortar studios.
Many have taken up other streams of revenue outside of photography. A few others seem to have had success with workshops, photo tours, and educational offerings.
Being realistic, honest, and keeping my ego in check has helped me realize that like a garden there are seasons for abundant harvest and seasons of dormancy. Riding out the highs and lows can be scary and a bumpy ride. Just realize the industry and clients' needs can change like the wind. You can never anticipate exactly from year to year what they are thinking.
This is about the best you have done in a long while, its transforming, liberating and inspiring. God! Hang in there for your quality fans like me
Thank you for sharing and by that I do mean thank you 🙏🏻- your video reminded me of something I read a long time ago: excellence is a habit. Stay with the process and the results will come. Brave of you to share this video!
I’m 6 years in. I used to have a flashy life when I lived in Sydney, well paid job and alll that. Now I’m in Vienna of all places trying to market to German speakers, hoping they speak enough English to work with me. So far it’s work out surprising well. But the last few weeks I’ve had no work and endless bills draining my bank balance... the fear has been pretty strong. But I just have to use it as motivation to take action, stick to the process, do the marketing and I’ll be super busy again in no time. Thanks for sharing, makes it feel better knowing it’s normal for freelancers
portrait photographer in Tasmania Australia and i feel this sooo much , the quiet times are indeed stressful , i have to remind myself not to give up way too often
i hope things pick up for you and your business
Do more RUclipss. They're good. Straight talking no BS talking head saying it how it is. More please.
Thanks for making this video, Scott! Imposter syndrome is hitting me pretty bad this week for me. I know I can do this but it can be tough to see the forest through the trees.
Brutally honest and so down to earth. You say you hate being a RUclipsr... but... you have a very popular RUclips channel purely because of the first sentence of my comment.
I suffered super badly from this phenomenon. Good to hear you're dealing with this so well. For me the solution that works wonderfully right now is, unexpectedly, a part time customer service job. I never thought it would work (I thought it would take up too much time or block my creativity or drain me too much) but here I am. I love/hate it. I love my colleagues, the rhythm, being part of something bigger that just works without me having to push and be self motivated and disciplined. And from there the assignments I do feel much more free. And the free work truly feels free. The office job (customer service) is also actually meaningful, something which I never expected. I work for some wonderful businesses that do good in the world. It's far below my level in some ways, and challenging in others, but I'm feeling content and at peace and much more unafraid, and all of that is great, for now, while finally building on my life instead of withering away in fear and overanalysis.
It’s awesome that you’re transparent about this. A lot of people in your position pretend like everything is amazing and only show their highlights.
It’s also comforting to me as a beginner knowing that fear I’m feeling now is a fear that even legit pros like you have. So my fear will never really go away… and somehow that makes everything okay. I can work continue to do my work in spite of the fear.
This is soooooo true. I've been a proffesional stunt performer and coordinator for 23 years, I've just come off a 5 month dead period. I feel that fear and unpredictability constantly
A few years ago I took a night job at a very low wage and my boss told me, Hey I am going to need you to stay longer or your fired, I waived and said, my productivity is at %200, if you want to fire me go ahead, I'll work for myself, I'm a photographer. A few months later I was my bosses boss, then my new boss said, I'm going to need you to work and not sleep, I told him, no thanks, I'll work to get the job done with smashing results and go home. After they tried that multiple times I said, on a snow day where out of a 400 employees 17 showed up and I was one of them, I made today a successful day by doing the job of a couple hundred people in a snow emergency and you want me to stay longer, it's going to cost you how much I pay myself when I'm not here x the number of jobs I have done today. The feared me... because I knew that I was a force and they couldn't mold me.
I use that and many other examples as my fuel to push me past that fear, even when I fail for months on end because the truth is, WE LIVE LIFE AND WORK FOR OUR OWN WELL BEING and no employer should change that. In fact they can't if you don't let them. Agent, boss, client or disapproving family member they are all the same on your path to freedom. The Spice Girls once said, "If you're gonna be my representative, gotta get with my plan. Making money is easy but ambition never ends." Or something like that.
If you have the fear that you might lose something, then you should already be looking for its replacement. Sorry Lisa lol
I am gonna save this and watch it every morning, as motivational video. Not kidding...
LOVE your content, specifically this part points out exactly what we all experience as freelancers. Working as a therapist I too know all the solitions, yet….using them on yourself is another matter.
Thanks a lot for underlining how it is, being human🙏
I was self employed in the legal profession for 23 years 8 months and 5 days. What kept me going was it was fun. It was fun working for me, it was fun not having a boss with their boot on my neck. Working with clients was fun. The cut and thrust of court work was fun. It was never work. However I know exactly what you mean when you talk about "The Fear", because I felt that ever day. The fear I could deal with by what you call the process. Plus working for me was fun. I left the legal profession when it was no longer fun. Dealing with clients, their issues, the courts, the fun ended and I knew I had to leave. That ending was a long slow grind that going worst every day. It wasn't the fear that ended it. It had all stopped being fun. For the last 12 years I've been learning photography. That learning and doing has brought the fun back. Every day is fun. I learn new things, I trying new things. I experience new things, all of which is fun. I've had a little bit of professional work which I've enjoyed. Mostly i shoot for me. But it's fun. My wife works and I have a "day job" so the stress of paying the mortgage isn't there. I've been thinking of doing more professional work and leaving my day job. So we'll see. Fear can be a great motivator as long as you have a process to deal with it. For me part of that process that helps survive and deal with the fear. It has to be "fun". However you choose to define that.
I'm not even it full time and I think like this. I know it'll continue. It's good to hear I'm not the only one. And it's part of the process.
I know you said you hate RUclipsr’s, will I for one am glad you are a RUclipsr! Your honesty and candidness is necessary in the world and in photography. Keep up the great work and the TOTALLY CAPTIVATING subject matter! I might start one of these RUclips channels in the near future. Thanks again, truly!
I work in software engineering at a big tech company, and don’t currently own a camera. The advice you just gave is every bit as applicable in my field as it is yours.
Great video and I appreciate the honesty. I love photography, I tried a business with a friend but it didn’t work out and I haven’t tried doing photography as a business since. The fear of being shitty and the fear of success is what holds me back. That and I lack confidence. It sucks but I am trying to overcome all of that garbage as it doesn’t serve my soul. Thank you for sharing.
Thanks for sharing this video mate. I'm an editorial photographer and if I don't get a call from an editor for a few days my internal dialogue quickly goes from positive and ever so grateful to "well, it was good well it lasted" - Of course the phone ends up ringing and the fear resets... or more like gets put on hold for the time being. The AI stuff gives me the fear too.
In a previous video you mentioned how we have control over our finances as a freelancer and we know if the business is doing good or bad whereas someone employed might be unaware they are about to be sacked... I feel thats a good thing to remember when trying to get through the mental gymnastics that comes with a life of freelancing.
Cheers for your candid wisdom Scott! Big love from Sydney Australia!
I know that fear, its crippling. But its there for a reason, its there to warn you about carelessness or the lack of planning. Because if this does all fall apart, you lose a big part of what makes you, you. Sure, it may present itself as overhead or budget or a move or a career change, but the underlying reason for the fear, I believe, is the relinquishment of the known self. Youre a photographer, you have a passion and a gift, whether learned or innate, for your craft and with the loss of that, you lose a big piece of yourself. The fear then, is not meant to cripple you, its meant as a drive forward. To spearhead through the obsticles, because if you do lose this and you give up aftwards, then what was the point in the first place? Use it, dont dwell in it.
Scott, just remind yourself that creating a RUclips vid is just a different form of creativity. Best quote from Adam Savage: "Focus on the Process, not the Result". I have this on a T shirt and Hoodie, just to remind myself when I find myself in front of a mirror!
Phew, the fear.
What if I decided to be a commercial photographer too late, with everyone around me also picking up a camera? What if by the time my work is at the right level, AI will have replaced a lot of commercial jobs? What if I'm wasting my time...working this full time job and spending all my free time test shooting and networking and marketing and planning...what if nothing ever happens? Will I be stuck working for other people forever? What if my style of work never catches the eye of anyone important? Have I already hit the glass ceiling of what I can do?
I kind of just deal with it, then lean in and keep on grinding away and remember with enough hard work and dedication, it will happen eventually.
Thank you for this video, Scott. It really does help to see that someone in your position also struggles with something similar.
I have a job making gates, crap money close to home, easy going firm but I have nothing invested in it. If I lost the job tomorrow Id be down the beach taking pictures. You on the other hand have rather more of a good reason to be getting the "fear". I should have been an illustrator and had all the opportunity to do it but I just wasted it all away, I've spent a long time wishing Id made better choices but that just makes me depressed so I got a camera a few years ago and it takes up a lot of my spare time and keeps me sane.
I think the fear you describe must be common to all us creative types. The creative brain isn't content to sit still, and is always wondering about the past and looking to the future, which includes worrying about the unknown - which is to say every second in front of you!
I applaud you for doing what you love and making it work! I chickened out of a music career way back in college. I looked around and saw people who were much better players than I was, and basically decided that a desk job would be my way, with music and photography as hobbies only, or possibly only a part of my work.
You've quickly become one of my favorite channels, and this video is exactly why. Thank you.
I have a T-shirt that reads, I have a PhD in History and Economics whiskey is why I do photography for a living," on the front. On the back it reads, "Remember, no matter how bad it is, it can always get worse." Somehow, that second bit cheers me up.
Really appreciate this video, I think it’s so true that we all have this fear, for me it’s been building in my 30s, I’m now 35 and want to ensure the financial security for me and my fiancée. 10 years ago I just wanted to get through the day and enjoy life. Once you realise time is ticking and anything could happen to take what you have away, it’s a terrifying thought.
I think the right attitude is to do exactly what you’re doing, channel that fear into something healthy and productive, a gym session, a run or a walk, just get ourselves out of our own heads. I also think as creatives we are wired to overthink as we spend a lot of time absorbing and just spending much time in our own heads.
51 years of age, my fear of failure has finally been overcome by my experience of not living the life I wanted for 30 years
Also, the remedy for anxiety and ruminating is action and movement. Exercise is spectacular for mental relief
Thank you, Scott, for your honesty! You are so right. Fear paralyzes you and having a routine that you can use in those moments is a must. I would also add journaling to your list. It helps a lot with negative thoughts! Great video, thank you!
PREACH! OMG SCOTT (sorry, I live/work in LA). I feel you my fine photo friend. 2022 was such a blast, I actually began letting clients (that I hated) go. "I was now above the "bullshit line" and everything was rocking", I would NEVER have to worry again about working, and honestly, I was actually a bit burned out... SIX months later (NOW) I am back to freaking out, OF COURSE, I too will never work again and AI has now put us all in an early grave. REPEAT AFTER ME, "Would you like chips with that fish?" (I modified that because you are an Englander). REGARDLESS, the following things have helped me greatly. 1. DEEP DIVE into what causes (my) Catastrophic Thinking. 2. Journaling (turns out this SHIT happens a lot to me AND I am still kicking ass). 3. Yoga/Meditation. LAST ONE... a gratitude practice, that's right sit down and and hand write some heart felt THANK YOU NOTES to everyone you love and work with. LAST LAST, you are always welcome to come surfing with me next time you are in LA :) PEACE SCOTT, THIS VIDEO WAS A BOLD STEP THAT IS HELPING A LOT OF PEOPLE... CHEERS! What's RUclipsr? :)
When I get The Fear it lasts for days and I’m currently going through it.
You're not alone, not just as a photographer but as any (mostly freelance) creatives. This was really helpful for me, I get a similar crippling fear on a regular basis and lose sight of the bigger picture. And for what it's worth, I wish I was in your position, look up to you man! Thanks as always for your honest sharing
Nuff respec' for being so frank and open. I can definitely identify.
What you said about reflecting on how you started definitely helps to shift one's perspective. I remember using PVC stands and halogen bulbs when I just started; looking around my home studio now helps me to be grateful even when the FEAR is lurking.
Man, I waited to write because I wanted to finish watching all your videos first, but I'm writing now to congratulate you, a really nice share, right dose of irony and sincerity. At certain points in the video I laughed as mad man, when you talk about fear it seems like a piece of theatrical comedy, a monologue that has a dose of subtle drama. However, I didn't know you as a photographer, I came across one of your videos a month ago and was very surprised by the very different approach from the rest of the photographers on RUclips. The thing that among others gives you a lot of credibility is that you are first and foremost a professional photographer and, as one of the very sporadic things, also a you tuber. So you talk about work, about the reality that those who work in the world outside of RUclips live. Another thing is that you use the "old" Canon cameras by choice, for practicality and for savings, this is one of the biggest anomalies in the world of photography and ever-new technological tools such as cameras. All of this would be nice but not impressive if it weren't for your work to support all the theories, high level of interesting and unique images. I must admit that seeing your videos, your work ethic and the quality of the works brought me a new and fresh inspiration to better refine and define my style.
Thanks for so much clarity on the things one needs to know, concrete, real and practical. Your channel is unique in its approach, rest assured.
Thank you for sharing this. Being humble and willing to be vulnerable is hard. Sharing it is harder.
I think this is fairly universal for those who have turned a hobby or passion into their income source.
I lost my ability to continue the process during the pandemic part through brain fog and fatigue but also other factors such as that controversial 48/52 thing..
The fear now is of my ability to work in a conventional scenario! I too have a mountain of gear in my unit to re-home and also rarely heed my own advice.
What really hurts is that I had the work, unlimited work, but I broke and couldn't pull it back.
Your candour as always is appreciated, don't be so harsh on the RUclipsr you, especially if it performs some form of catharsis and generates revenue!
I know the fear, I still fight with it daily thank you for this
My fear is right after I send the photos to the customer - and I am waiting for feedback and/or the posts to start appearing on their Instagram or websites - and since most of mine are SMALL businesses, they are busy - and do not reply for awhile sometimes....
So true. I find organizing and just cleaning up helps a lot also. Learning something new is also good.
Been out shooting black and white street photography today seeing what can be found with single 50mm lens so its getting close and trying to do zero post processing. To simulate fear of losing kit and picking up the daily shooter for fun and giggles. Found a plastic picture frame so its next to me so people can hold frame and i take the shot and post to Facebook. Reminds me to buy some more cards. Make memorable days is the key and document test experiences to keep the spark burning
i watched the whole thing- yes the fear is real. in my opinion, The answer is always pivot- evolve. Sometimes we just don't know what it is yet and right now is a very weird time in life. I always found myself to be a true "photographer", but now I mostly run a real estate media business (my version of you being a youtuber). 20% is photography the rest is something else. Just how it is. We are really media creators so I'm just accepting it.
I’ve literally just watch this sat outside A&E with my partner who just been knocked down off of her bike and broken her arm. We are both self-employed and she’s gonna be out of action for 6 to 8 weeks. I definitely have the fear. I’ve just moved into a bigger studio and my overheard are double amount of last month? I’ve definitely got the fear. I feel like the comfort is knowing that other people have the same fears. Great video Scott 👍👍
This might be the most genuine truthful video iv ever watched… keep up your great work you’ve helped me through so much the last 2 years so thank you.
After 20 years of working in a prison in a job I did just for the money, I took a leap of faith, retired early and now I’m a freelance photographer. The money isn’t consistent and neither are the assignments, but I do appreciate slow days in a warehouse/studio with my dogs. It could be worse.
Raw yet so real!! thanks. But also an apology. Ive been binge watching Tin House for months. yet never paid comment once. Never done a like and yet here i am in awe of what you have just said. Ive been a photographer for 15 years, launched a new studio and yeah work flows, and then boom the sound of silence. WTF why does nobody book me. And there the answe sits! you have just served me a huge slice of humble pie. thank you thank you thank you!! now prepared to be stalked!! liked and talked about 😀 Routine i believe you said!!! Thank you .
im ex Pom living in Perth Western Australia. The most isolated capital city on Earth!! I think routine is demograhic, geograpic and horrific when you are this isolated and trying to be a creative. 🙏
Congrats Scott !!! By far, yor best video. The synthesis applies to any activity. Anyway, that fear is a part of the process.
You hit the nail on the head... it kills creativity. I am in this rut and have been for too long. I subsidise by labouring this is where I am. I cant be creative I am blocked!
May perhaps be your best, most meaningful presentation (yes, RUclips!) yet.
My fear, if I’m honest, is two fold. 1. Fear of rejection. When I don’t market, I do not get rejected. I also get no work. Am able to get by but live somewhat comfortably in this frozen state. 2. Fear of having to study and learn all the stupid (spelled: vital!) business things like copyrights, pricing, digging through weeds looking for someone to hire me. (And I’m generally not averse to education; I do have a masters in filmmaking).
But it’s 2:30 am and I’m awake on my back in bed watching and replying to YOU!
My workflow and my style grown so much the last year thanks to therapy... learning to manage and understand how mind and emotions works is such a BIG help in an artistic carrier.
You had me at, "I hate RUclipsrs" ❤
Bang on! Hammer on the nail! I completely related to this and I am actually feeling better that you talked about it. It's is relief to know it's not justme.
Thank you for your openness with us. Many of us have these fears, but as you said, many people would trade what they have to be in our shoes wherever we are in our journey. Let's continue to press forward.
Yup. I've got the fear. And when I was in the corporate world I had a similar fear.
"Comparison is the thief of joy" - Theodore Roosevelt
It’s a really good thing to hear this from someone like you. Means more than you know. Thanks Scott.
It's great to see someone that appears to have it all together be so open about the reality; I get this all of the time and when you're sitting there on your own it's easy to think that nobody else is going through the same thing. I shoot property and it's so hit and miss at the moment' I'm constantly going through my work wondering if it's good enough and whether I'm just a big fraud but then a bit of good feedback or praise diffuses those feelings for a little while.
I've been having a quiet month or so since the start of the year, however having started freelancing last year July and having had a ton of work I let my admin and marketing slide. For the past three weeks I've finally finished my website. I've started looking at my marketing process (only been week one for that matter), setting up my day rates (I also work in the film industry where you tend to have day rates), setting my headshot package rates and descriptions. Next it'll be my contemporary portraiture side that I want to setup and do test shoots for - which is a bit of a bugger cause I can't afford a studio at the moment and my house (house share) I have tried shooting in and it is a PITA!!!! PITA of note.
But, I've kept myself busy catching up with the stuff I should've done last year already. It is also great to see all my work, even some commercial work on my site all in one place.
My next immediate plan is to see about an abandoned, albeit safe, building where I can do some test shoots in with backdrops. Oh and edit the wedding video I shot. Godamit I should've said no on that one.
The fear...absolutely I have it. Add to it the current revolution stage of Ai imagery taking hold (wrote an article why it's not a silver bullet). I decided there is nothing I can do apart from creating the habits that the person I want to be has - and focus on doing those things.
Oh and try and have some fun along the way - forgetting about the outcome and trusting in the process of practice and doing.
Awesome video Scott, really hits home!
We cant feel exactly the same everyday, there has to be "downs" so we can appreciate the "up´s".
I just keep grinding, although i hate that "3pm fear".
Best Regards
HT
Great video Scott, touched on some very relevant points there. There was one I feel you missed when comparing one’s work & work lifestyle to others, at least online, a lot of it is smoke & mirrors and should be taken with a pinch of Salt.
For me, this is the best video you've done! Thank you! I had 'the fear' so bad at the beginning of this year. It feels debilitating and hopeless... I feel better knowing that it is something that happens to us all!! I'm happy to say I have since landed a job that will pay for the year amongst others to top me back up.
I feel my fear of doing more photography is linked to my vision. That I don't see myself doing more but I'm doing photography somehow. And I can see why people are wanting to hire me... Then there's showing up. My vision is changing for the better for photography. I'm choosing to do it more. I too have a small family and easy by day as long as bills are paid and I'm living another day I feel that's a start then being lesser than I am now. But with a vision that I anchor and climb the rope up to the top to get an anchor secured for the next climb I feel helps with my fear.
Thank you ...... Scott, at least I know that I'm not alone. Thank you.
Fear stopped me to do all the things I wished I've done in my life. Including thinking about the things I've wished for my life. Now I'm a hobby photographer. Every time I'm full of fear, I grab my camera and go out taking pictures. It's too late for me to get a pro photographer. But I've made some pictures I really like …
Why too late?
Never too late! maybe its too late to become the next Ronaldo but not a pro photographer.
The fear is real brother, thanks for letting me know that I'm not the only one
You’re an absolute legend and inspiration man! I see all I’ve ever wanted sitting behind you I dream of having my own studio space to create in. As of now I fertilize extremely wealthy people’s homes I get to see some amazing places just wishing and dreaming one day I could be inside one and that my art can take me there. Thank you for all the amazing advice you give in your videos and keep on pushing on.
the process and having discipline is key. the fear however remains day in and day out. I haven’t mastered youtube but i am trying to figure out what i can do to be one . much like your situation.
If only I saw this 3 years ago. Came to same conclusions, but God, was it hard.
Love your bit about the process. I seem to recall a video a while back where you mentioned you weren’t a natural photographer or didn’t start with “the eye”. Can you elaborate more about your journey and the process of learning how to take a competent photo?
Love that you have time to be a RUclipsr 🙏 can't tell you ho much I enjoy watching and listening to you!you are an inspiration and you make me laugh which is a bonus 👏
that was real. you mentioned in one of your video, you watched zack arias, and you remind me a lot of him, how real you are, and how you can share the truth no matter how bad it is...i wish he comes back every day, problems really got to him it seems...got best advise and reallity checks from you in the last week or so i follow you...what you do for us is actually amazing keep that in mind...thank you
Yep, I know what you are talking about, I have that once a month and it stays with me for a couple of days :))))
Freelancer fear. All freelancers get the fear at some point and always between gigs. I have been a freelance live event tech for 25+ years and every year after the crazy busy Xmas/New year gigs Jan/Febuary is often a lean time for work and just when I think that I will not get another gig I get a call/email. And the same applies between gigs the stupid irrational fear kicks in.
I have learned to laugh at it now because there is always another gig. It's just your mind messing with you. I love my work but I deal with the gaps by doing other things I love such as Photography and I try to treat the gaps in work (provided the gaps are not TOO big) as an opportunity to do something for me at my own pace.
Something I learnt many years ago was as a freelancer the more ''strings to your bow '' the more work you get. Learn other skills in your industry if you can this will multiply your work offers/opportunitys. The freelance fear will always be around. Some people cannot deal with it and end up getting a full time job working for an employer. But if you can balance the freelance fear with being your own boss and running your life to your own schedule. It beats working for a crap employer on a crap job any day. Been there, done that.
Thanks for these videos, they help us all get through. Keep your content going man :)
Ah man, great video. I'm sorry you're feeling the fear but I'm also relieved to hear I'm not alone. Definitely something I've always had, like I'm sure every other freelancer, whatever the industry. It usually rears its ugly head in January when everyone has the blues and can't be bothered to book people like me. It comes at various other times for genre-related reasons too. But I've got it right now and it's been building steadily since COVID as my business simply is not the same as it was in March 2020. I see my services as a 'nice to have' and these days, clients simply have more pressing priorities to spend their depleted money on than getting everyone's headshots done. But this morning, I shut it out, put a gag on that mofo and cracked on. Because, as you very rightly say, I'm lucky to have been doing my hobby as a job for over 12 years. So I'll diversify, change and keep plugging away. Keep going man, we can't get real jobs!
I loved this rambling, so honest and straight to the point.... no situation is perfect and no life is perfect, you managed to put the right words in the right places.... thanks for opening your mind and heart for us to partake on your trip.... And, if it helps... YOU are my favorite youtuber at the moment... im always waiting for the next upload from you.
Hey man, having a warehouse and a cat is not too shabby! But yea, I have these concerns too. I haven’t had a day-job in over a decade, but if working part-time at a coffeeshop means I get to pay the mortgage and create images I love, then I’ll do it. There’s no shame is honest work.
Scott you are knocking it out of the park with these videos. So real, we all need this.
I’m right on the cusp of being really busy and the fear has never been bigger 😅
This is honesty and exactly how I feel. Stay strong. I wish you could share your work plan or timetable for the work week. I know you mentioned some of it in the end but is there a system
Such an interesting and important message. Thanks! 👍
Yep we all have the same issue, its the cost of being your own boss, you get boss worry ...
Thank you, I appreciate your honesty and I really look forward to your videos.
Trust the process and the results will come! Love it!
This reminds me when I was bombing my statistics class and I asked a classmate how she was doing in it, as I was sure was killing it since she always answered questions and was asking questions, just for her to tell me that she was completely failing.
Good video mate same problem just went 3 weeks with out selling a canvas or a print no work and when my ptsd or fear kicks in I go dive
Have been a photographer 20+ years, some months a picture framer, that’s back breaking. now I’m more of an artist in photography, multi media and video. Still a picture framer when I need to be…
Love the honesty. Thanks for sharing.
I could have written the video for you. Luckily, I still have my day job. But that’s not the goal. I haven’t shot a PAID gig all year. But my studio rent is still due. Every other photographer in the city is offering “headshots”.. in between all the other stuff they’re shooting. I’m still establishing a reputation but I can’t do that if no one is shooting. So…. 4 months.
What to do? I force myself to send out emails and introduce myself to faceless people at companies in the area. I started up a company many years ago and now I can remind myself how much slogging was involved. I listen to motivational videos that remind me I can do it if I stay the course. What don’t you do? Quit.
But the fear is always there.
Totally!! Your advice is always solid.