“[Having] something to say” - if this isn’t one of the biggest pieces of advice for someone really trying to be signed with an agency, having consistent clients, what ever their measure of success in this industry is.. then I don’t know what is. I’ve been trying to find my voice through photography, in different ways, but I haven’t found it yet. Still trying though. In any case, thanks for putting in the time to share your knowledge, experience, and input over these years. It’s been tremendously helpful, & I’m thankful I found your channel a few years back. From New York, with gratitude!
WOW! I wish I had this video 10 years ago when I started my architectural/interior photography business. This is so true and such valuable information. Know yourself!! I floundered early on because of internal self doubt and not really knowing who I was.
Hi. Whether we call it irony or marketing algorithms, it is funny the way RUclips has placed, right next to this (for me at least), a ‘how to imitate Saul Leiter’ video... Cheers, Dean
Scott, so what you're saying (I think) is 'become an artist'. What is art that artists create? Well you can go read 'What is art?' by Tolstoy, great shortish book but it's a tough read, TLDR; "Art is anything that communicates emotion". There you go. Compare this with Brian Eno's definition; "Art is anything that you don't have to do". I prefer the former definition.
You have mentioned this before, and I'm glad you repeat it regularly because people need to hear it. I'm at that stage in my career where I know I cannot go on without being authentic and creating my own thing in my way. So that's what I am doing. It is exciting and scary and wonderful!
What if who you are isn't what people want? I think that is where the idea of having to do it all comes from. This advice is also given in the illustration world. I get it and it makes sense, but coming from a design background where we typically try to create a unique voice based on each client / subject. I find it hard to quiet that approach and push to repeat a style or look.
When you said we're all individuals I immediately thought of the Monty Python film, `Life of Brian,' where Brian told the crowd, `You're all individuals'. And one small voice from the crowd piped up, `I'm not.' Haha! Sorry just my own sense of humour. Great advice BTW
Knowing oneself can be quite difficult, photograph the things that interest you, and specialise. I hope people appreciate this channel for all the free advice you give, well done.
Scott I'd like to bring something up and please don't take it the wrong way. I believe what you say is correct about having a style but take your style for example you aren't the only person to shoot products in that style. I'd argue that style has been around for decades. So it might be beneficial to point out the subtleties involved here. Also take for example a person is shooting landscapes or even interiors for a travel magazine on assignment. You're not going to be able to do much of anything in that genre that hasn't already been done before though I do appreciate that some photographers manage to look somewhat unique but again I'd argue it's not THAT different from whats already been done before. Also you do need to be a technician because you have to shoot what the client wants even if you have no real say in the end and I also know you're aware of this.
I ll also add that Steven Meisel who in my opinion is greatest fashion photographer out there because he never had a style he was superb in changing how he shot many times. He was taking a lot from other photographers and implemented to his work.
Hey, Great idea. Can you list some of the photographers below and I will see if I can get them to agree to me using their images to show the differences between our styles of work.
@@TinHouseStudioUK I don't know the names and have no time to research them. I guess what I'm asking is how do you know your photography is unique enough when it's probably always going to be a variation on something else?
@@jasonlamarking I think the main point is that there should be some consistency in your style. It doesn’t matter if someone else already shot something similar. When you shoot and edit long enough, you tend to gravitate to some things over and over again. That doesn’t necessarily mean worldwide your work would be recognized-but maybe locally, or within a genre. As a client I’d want to know who I was hiring was very comfortable and experienced in the style I’m seeking.
Thank you for sharing your photography tip with use. I really needed it for my crochet fashion project. I admire how you think like an artist and express your personality through your food and lifestyle photos. You inspire me to be more creative and original in my work.
Excellent and essential theme, again. The crucial point, how to mind your unique voice, is the sophisticated part. Im case we wanna go on that journey there is one indispensable thing we need: JOY in unveiling yourself. Analysis and studying others is not enough.
This might be one of your most important posts yet! I have always struggled to find my voice. I would be an incredibly happy man if I could find my voice! Thank you
I would say there are probably THREE things that professional photographers (successful ones) share in common: a style (which you touched on), a creative eye (someone who can identify and create compositions that standpoint, and this applies to all genres), and someone who is not overly obsessed with gear. The last part is probably less of a concern, as there are some very good photographers that are also very good technically with cameras and camera tech, but it's probably the least important of the three at least when it comes to things like pixel peeping to see if camera A is better than B, or Lens C is sharper than lens D at 100%. In a way, they find the best for them in terms of gear and it may not be the perfect gear but it gets the job done and any shortcomings they usually find a way to cope with the, or even exploit them in some cases (such as a lens that maybe exhibits more flare than one desires, but is otherwise optically what they want). But I think a style and good compositions/creative eye are the two biggest elements. The third I think can be a point that many photographers also fail on in that they can be very good with the technical and camera settings, but lack in terms of creativity or a defined style they can call their own.
Another superb video! This is so hard for the younger students, to express themselves, when they are being restricted from every direction possible. It takes a lot to be brave enough, especially when every photo one takes is so much in the public eye. Perhaps the key is to do more experimental private work.
I'm so sorry, but I need to point thiS out. Apparently what a lot of successful photographers don't have is a spare S 🤭 Adore your videos and the helpful education you put out there!
So I looked at the greats of photography and worked backwards to where I am. I started with Brooklyn Beckham’s book. I feel sure you meant to talk about him as well as HCB. So now I need to learn to expose for the sky but focus on the Elephant?
I feel there’s an “Emperor’s New Clothes” mindset with some fans of big photographers. As an example, Peter McKinnon isn’t a Rankin level photographer, there are way more talented people not as famous, but he does have a big personality which is why he is so successful in my opinion. Also there is the business side, I know average photographers that are smashing it but only because they are great businessmen. If you can market yourself and have that business acuman you can sell a chocolate teapot.
What an amazing video under 5 minutes! I agree. Unless we as photographers develop our style which is in harmony with our character and perhaps our foundational self going as far back as our childhoods, the camera has basically no value. It is definitely our expression that makes us unique, and we cannot express ourselves if we don't know what and why are we expressing. Also, to keep going in this field, we need the original source of inspiration, and the original source is definitely your evolving self! Amazing insights! Love watching all your videos. The titles of your videos seem normal, attention grabbers for RUclips algorithm, but your videos are well beyond the titles. I hope more people subscribe to your channel for amazing content on almost daily basis.
How do you focus down your niche and still earn enough income before you gain recognition? I find that I have to do at least a few types of photography but doing that takes my time away from narrowing my focus down. But if I set those aside to focus on my niche, I'm not making enough money. How do you make that transition?
I am a walking poloroid... if I can't take a picture on a rowboat with a DSLR and hand my subject a branded hard copy thermal sublimation print in under 1 min without a computer involved, then I've professionally failed! (Actually serious) took all my tech skills to imagine this workflow and make it happen. My dirty little secret is battery-powered pocket routers. If I want to be super fancy, then I get a tablet added for social media integration. That same hard copy can be on my website before I hand my subject a print.
How to build a commercially viable body of work www.tinhouse-studio.com/product/how-to-build-a-commercial-viable-body-of-work/
“[Having] something to say” - if this isn’t one of the biggest pieces of advice for someone really trying to be signed with an agency, having consistent clients, what ever their measure of success in this industry is.. then I don’t know what is. I’ve been trying to find my voice through photography, in different ways, but I haven’t found it yet. Still trying though. In any case, thanks for putting in the time to share your knowledge, experience, and input over these years. It’s been tremendously helpful, & I’m thankful I found your channel a few years back. From New York, with gratitude!
Excellent insight!
WOW! I wish I had this video 10 years ago when I started my architectural/interior photography business. This is so true and such valuable information. Know yourself!! I floundered early on because of internal self doubt and not really knowing who I was.
Hi. Whether we call it irony or marketing algorithms, it is funny the way RUclips has placed, right next to this (for me at least), a ‘how to imitate Saul Leiter’ video...
Cheers,
Dean
Scott, so what you're saying (I think) is 'become an artist'. What is art that artists create? Well you can go read 'What is art?' by Tolstoy, great shortish book but it's a tough read, TLDR; "Art is anything that communicates emotion". There you go. Compare this with Brian Eno's definition; "Art is anything that you don't have to do". I prefer the former definition.
I’d add “the creative act” by Rick Rubin here.
And it takes a real master to be able to put it that simple. Thank you.
You have mentioned this before, and I'm glad you repeat it regularly because people need to hear it. I'm at that stage in my career where I know I cannot go on without being authentic and creating my own thing in my way. So that's what I am doing. It is exciting and scary and wonderful!
What if who you are isn't what people want? I think that is where the idea of having to do it all comes from. This advice is also given in the illustration world. I get it and it makes sense, but coming from a design background where we typically try to create a unique voice based on each client / subject. I find it hard to quiet that approach and push to repeat a style or look.
When you said we're all individuals I immediately thought of the Monty Python film, `Life of Brian,' where Brian told the crowd, `You're all individuals'. And one small voice from the crowd piped up, `I'm not.' Haha!
Sorry just my own sense of humour.
Great advice BTW
Knowing oneself can be quite difficult, photograph the things that interest you, and specialise. I hope people appreciate this channel for all the free advice you give, well done.
Scott I'd like to bring something up and please don't take it the wrong way. I believe what you say is correct about having a style but take your style for example you aren't the only person to shoot products in that style. I'd argue that style has been around for decades. So it might be beneficial to point out the subtleties involved here. Also take for example a person is shooting landscapes or even interiors for a travel magazine on assignment. You're not going to be able to do much of anything in that genre that hasn't already been done before though I do appreciate that some photographers manage to look somewhat unique but again I'd argue it's not THAT different from whats already been done before. Also you do need to be a technician because you have to shoot what the client wants even if you have no real say in the end and I also know you're aware of this.
I ll also add that Steven Meisel who in my opinion is greatest fashion photographer out there because he never had a style he was superb in changing how he shot many times. He was taking a lot from other photographers and implemented to his work.
Hey, Great idea. Can you list some of the photographers below and I will see if I can get them to agree to me using their images to show the differences between our styles of work.
@@TinHouseStudioUK I don't know the names and have no time to research them. I guess what I'm asking is how do you know your photography is unique enough when it's probably always going to be a variation on something else?
@@jasonlamarking I think the main point is that there should be some consistency in your style. It doesn’t matter if someone else already shot something similar. When you shoot and edit long enough, you tend to gravitate to some things over and over again. That doesn’t necessarily mean worldwide your work would be recognized-but maybe locally, or within a genre. As a client I’d want to know who I was hiring was very comfortable and experienced in the style I’m seeking.
Thank you for sharing your photography tip with use. I really needed it for my crochet fashion project. I admire how you think like an artist and express your personality through your food and lifestyle photos. You inspire me to be more creative and original in my work.
Gold!!! ... even as an amateur
Excellent and essential theme, again. The crucial point, how to mind your unique voice, is the sophisticated part.
Im case we wanna go on that journey there is one indispensable thing we need: JOY in unveiling yourself. Analysis and studying others is not enough.
This might be one of your most important posts yet! I have always struggled to find my voice. I would be an incredibly happy man if I could find my voice! Thank you
Great video! Thankyou
Solid gold advise as usual Scott! Def a bit if an ahah moment there for me!
excellent stuff as usual.
I would say there are probably THREE things that professional photographers (successful ones) share in common: a style (which you touched on), a creative eye (someone who can identify and create compositions that standpoint, and this applies to all genres), and someone who is not overly obsessed with gear. The last part is probably less of a concern, as there are some very good photographers that are also very good technically with cameras and camera tech, but it's probably the least important of the three at least when it comes to things like pixel peeping to see if camera A is better than B, or Lens C is sharper than lens D at 100%. In a way, they find the best for them in terms of gear and it may not be the perfect gear but it gets the job done and any shortcomings they usually find a way to cope with the, or even exploit them in some cases (such as a lens that maybe exhibits more flare than one desires, but is otherwise optically what they want). But I think a style and good compositions/creative eye are the two biggest elements. The third I think can be a point that many photographers also fail on in that they can be very good with the technical and camera settings, but lack in terms of creativity or a defined style they can call their own.
Thank YOU!
We need to keep hearing it. Learning comes by repetition.
Another superb video! This is so hard for the younger students, to express themselves, when they are being restricted from every direction possible. It takes a lot to be brave enough, especially when every photo one takes is so much in the public eye. Perhaps the key is to do more experimental private work.
I'm so sorry, but I need to point thiS out.
Apparently what a lot of successful photographers don't have is a spare S 🤭
Adore your videos and the helpful education you put out there!
I need to scan some of my negatives to digital
So I looked at the greats of photography and worked backwards to where I am. I started with Brooklyn Beckham’s book. I feel sure you meant to talk about him as well as HCB. So now I need to learn to expose for the sky but focus on the Elephant?
I feel there’s an “Emperor’s New Clothes” mindset with some fans of big photographers. As an example, Peter McKinnon isn’t a Rankin level photographer, there are way more talented people not as famous, but he does have a big personality which is why he is so successful in my opinion. Also there is the business side, I know average photographers that are smashing it but only because they are great businessmen. If you can market yourself and have that business acuman you can sell a chocolate teapot.
What an amazing video under 5 minutes! I agree. Unless we as photographers develop our style which is in harmony with our character and perhaps our foundational self going as far back as our childhoods, the camera has basically no value. It is definitely our expression that makes us unique, and we cannot express ourselves if we don't know what and why are we expressing. Also, to keep going in this field, we need the original source of inspiration, and the original source is definitely your evolving self! Amazing insights! Love watching all your videos. The titles of your videos seem normal, attention grabbers for RUclips algorithm, but your videos are well beyond the titles. I hope more people subscribe to your channel for amazing content on almost daily basis.
I had trouble finding my voice in this, but I think this video might have helped me work it out. Thank you.
Yes.
How do you focus down your niche and still earn enough income before you gain recognition? I find that I have to do at least a few types of photography but doing that takes my time away from narrowing my focus down. But if I set those aside to focus on my niche, I'm not making enough money. How do you make that transition?
So basically learn from others like the best and there will always be something that points to you.
We also can’t neglect technique, right?
i have watched this 5 times :)
I am a walking poloroid... if I can't take a picture on a rowboat with a DSLR and hand my subject a branded hard copy thermal sublimation print in under 1 min without a computer involved, then I've professionally failed! (Actually serious) took all my tech skills to imagine this workflow and make it happen. My dirty little secret is battery-powered pocket routers. If I want to be super fancy, then I get a tablet added for social media integration. That same hard copy can be on my website before I hand my subject a print.
I also slept through my alarm today and missed the Xmas party. I'm so sad and disappointed with myself! Next year perhaps?
Hello, I am Édgar and I like paw patrol
Hello Edgar, did you go to see Saw Patrol this summer? It was like barbiehiemmer only different.
No voice = GWAC (Guy/Gal With A Camera)
Ah...bummer, I was really hoping you would say: you need a new camera and lenses.😂
Spelling "this" is not part of the necessary skillset, clearly. :P