Can I just say its refreshing to come across a photographer who has a no bs approach to videos. No stupid intro, no in your face sponsorship, no go buy my presets. Just straight up honest advice. Well done, you've got a new follower.
Really wise words Sean. I think the best thing that Instagram could do is remove Likes. Images should be judged for what they are and the size of the crowd viewing them and liking them. I love sharing my work on Instagram but because I am proud of what I shoot and share at that time and not based on what number of likes I may get.
Trust me I get what you mean, Im not disagreeing but I think keeping likes helps with the algorithm and choosing what to put on someones feed. If their system just notices someone watching a post they wont know if the person liked the post or not so they wont know if they should be showing that same content to the person. This can come in our advantage just like you I take pictures im proud of but I would aslo like to share it with people and having those likes helps the algotithm know who to show my photos to, this is good cus it means that my content is going towards people who would actually enjoy it
True words Sean. As photographers/artists we all need to remember that social media is designed to manipulate our feelings, not to improve our artistic skills. I try to remind myself - cats will always get more likes then us! Stay creative everyone!
Sean, there is almost something spiritual in the way you speak about photography as if creativity was your religion. It is apparent that you see, feel, and think deeply as a human being, and you are mastering generosity over arrogance. What a pleasure to watch and hear you on RUclips. Thank you. When I began my career in photography 45 years ago in the NYC Village music scene, the field was a unique one. You have inspired me to treasure the abundance and availability currently within our field, rather than miss the past rarity of the profession.
Spot on. I process every single image uniquely, never use the same techniques. I have few followers. I find 'styles' boring and I like to enjoy my photography. Enjoy.
This actually has been bothering me a lot lately. I've been taking photography more and more seriously in the last one or two years, i've invested in some gear and a lot of time on tutorials and tips and videos such as this one and i am really enjoying it a lot, my wife finds the things i make beautiful and interesting so spending time or money on this hobby is not causing any problems. Even yesterday we spent about 6 hours in the city center, we stayed out till about midnight to capture a few particular things i've been wanting to capture at night forever and we had a blast, i can't wait to edit the pics... But, there's this thing about having a "style" and "colour consistency" and things like that that i just can't seem to find. Maybe it's a matter of time, maybe i just haven't taken enough pictures yet to develop a style of my own, for now i am just out there shooting anything i find interesting, from street to animals to abstract and portraits, editing it in different ways i find beautiful... Thing is, i don't even know if i WANT to have a style...? I am not a pro, i am not doing it for the money. I am human tho, so i do enjoy some positive feedback and attention when i post my pictures on 500px or photocrowd. So i wonder if i should force myself into some style of photography and editing in order to chase some sort of consistency or should i just go with the flow and do whatever pleases me most? I believe i know the answer already, as forcing anything in creation and art never works... but i guess i need confirmation to "easy my subconsciousness" :P
I think there is a balance to be found - some level of consistency should normally surface naturally from you and your personal tastes... but yeah, so many insta accounts seem to feel the need to have every image have exactly the same colour palette... orange and teal anyone!!?
The more truly skilled you become at the genres of photography you're shooting, the stronger your opinions will become as to what is captivating and what isn't. If you don't have very targeted opinions, you probably need to keep looking at what other photographers are doing and see what images really stand out as mind-blowing to you and start asking yourself what they're doing that catches your eye. It's not enough as someone else said to “just keep shooting.” It's about constantly learning and broadening your horizons, asking yourself what you do really really really good and beyond the pale versus what simply does not work in your photos and how other successful artists keep from doing those things. Curate your talents and consume from elsewhere what you're weakest in.
@@longliveclassicmusic With almost 200k images, 80 countries travelled so far and countless awards for photography... I am skilled at capture and expert at post processing. I create images in ALL styles from photo journalism through to creative impressionism. I have reviewed ARTISTS and photographers aplenty. I WANT to create new images and craft the look to suit the image and feel, not pigeon hole into a 'style' for consumers... Enjoy.
This is at least the fifth time I have watched this video. Instagram has become so omnipresent and this "talk" really helps to give some context and perspective. It is also reassuring in a way. It certainly speaks volumes of truth, and plain no-nonsense straight talk, that we all need to hear now and again!
Well said, my friend - as always. While I don’t think IG is the best platform for viewing photography, it’s where we must go. But doing so doesn’t mean selling out, but as you’ve said - taking ownership. Ownership of our feeds. Ownership of our posts. It’s not a competition. It’s a place to find inspiration in what we do. Keep rockin mate!
Makes sense Sean. One thing I don't want to do is buy in to the social media hype. I would rather have a core group (small numbers) of people who really enjoy my work who won't be afraid to throw me some constructive criticism that will help based on the reality of what they see. Not a superficial following of people who are just used to clicking follow because it's the norm. I just want to produce quality work and get some quality criticism so I can get better!
I love the part where you say how you post images even when you know they are not going to be equally liked, simply because you like them or think they are important. I can totaly relate to that. The number of likes on my images vary from 1000+ to 30, and it has taught me to simply not care about the likes. It is actully a great exersise in personal development. Not that I am completely imune to less likes than expected, but I am on a good path to it I feel...
Yes! I support this thought. I've got to grow into someone who doesn't feel complete or incomplete from a number of likes. Thanks for sharing your thought.
I pay attention to no social media feeds whatsoever - and yet - you Sean have produced a most compelling intro into and about the incredible creatives who are sharing brilliant examples of their view, and you present the value of the learning lessons and inspirational challenge that coming upon and following these artists offers. Again Sean, you tackle a ticklish subject and wind it into a master class on attention and furthering. Can't thank you enough.
I literally punched the air when I saw your recommendations. I've watched a few of your videos now and I think you've said that seeing someone do X or Y gives you "permission" to take inspiration or move in that direction. I really have that mental block at the moment where I see something aesthetically pleasing and there's something in my head that worrys about mundanity and I don't bother. But seeing these super-abstract and incredible images has really helped me overcome that by giving me "permission" and go more with my initial instinct. In the future I'd like to work on attaining that permission on my own.
More often than not I watch videos on why people should quit social media, but this has reignited my passion for street photography and start my Instagram account. The very last point is so killer: "take responsibility". Well said!
Of all the various channels I subscribe to, Sean's is the only one that holds my attention throughout. No gimmicky edits/cuts - just meat! Very informative, great voice. Deliciousness for the curious creative, all around. Well done sir!
Don Yates I haven't watched his videos for a while and was listening to this one. At the 8 minute mark I was expecting the video to wrap up and NOPE he kept going and it reminded me how refreshing it was to be listening to someone who genuinely gives a shit and stands behind what he says passionately.
I agree. I very much appreciate Sean's pacing and topics. A lot of other You Tubers get me stressed and anxious. With Sean's videos I'll sit down with a coffee and watch a video. They get me thinking.
Thank you for this impactful video. As a teen photographer, I know full well that if I simply followed a couple hundred of my classmates, I could get hundreds more likes and follows, but now I have decided to use Instagram as an online portfolio where I am simply sharing what I believe is my best photography. The social aspects are just a plus.
This is gold! I love the fact that you point out the fact that some of your favorite pictures aren't the most liked (and that's OK). Realizing that myself --- a lot of the pictures that are my favorites end up being ones that get less traction for one reason or another. Great reminder. Also great suggestions on curating your own feed.
He appeared on the fujicast podcast a while back, it's s good listen and worth subscribing to. It's not just about fuji either. Go check it out it's one of the best podcasts out there. www.fujicast.co.uk/
I agree emphatically. I disconnected myself from Instagram because I didn't care much about being social or gathering a following, but it has been lonely not having people to share my work with or to seek constructive criticism. You've reminded me that these platforms are also a great way to gather inspiration and connect with other photographers to grow and push one's own creativity. Thank you for that and I appreciate your videos exploring the contemplative and reflective aspects of photography. Keep it up!
I’ve had a very mixed relationship with instagram. I refused to join, for years. When I finally joined, I went back and forth and was all over the place with what I wanted to post or how I wanted to approach interacting with people on the platform. Most of the features simply go unused, even now. I’ve finally gotten to a point where I simply don’t think about it and don’t really care about the outcome. I only post something when I have something to post. Maybe multiple times a day, maybe nothing for several weeks or months. I don’t time my posts or cater them to what I think is popular. I don’t use hashtags (anymore). I don’t play any of those follow for follow or like for like games. Ironically, I now have more followers than I’ve ever had, before. But, most of my posts don’t get any likes or comments. Who knows how these things work. I’m happier and healthier by not worrying about it.
Skyler King, the problem is, by being so unengaged with it, you’re making the Instagram algorithm bury your content. You get few likes because few people are even getting your photos in their feed. If the goal is to get eyes on your work, you’re not playing the game the right way. You have to post regularly like once a day, you have to post “stories”, you have to remove all ghost followers (accounts that follow you but never like or comment your posts) from your account, and you have to start interacting (liking and commenting) with your followers. Never use bots, comment pods, or buy likes/followers.
"Shoot for you and post your work to share it to the world." I felt that. I needed this talk. Thank you Sean. I love how sincere and loyal you are to the mastery of the craft and how you treat popularity as incidental to that mastery. Subscribed and bell on. I have never turned on the notification bell for any youtuber. But I feel like I need to hear more from you.
It's a breath of fresh air to get a balanced view of Instagram. It's very easy to demonise social media and hold it accountable for everything that is wrong with the world, but the wider issue is that we are not taught how to take responsibility for ourselves. Sadly, many therefore expect the world to change and meet their needs, rather than simply change their thinking.
I landed on this video by accident, and it was a ride. It started with the cliche "Don't do it ofr the likes, do it for the art." But then slowly but surely went much deeper than that. At the end it was about the struggle of an artist to push his own paradigms and to continue to develop his own aesthetic sensibilities. I am gonna suscribe to every single insta account mentioned.
Right on point. Abraham Lincoln said: I am not bound to win, but I am bound to be true. I am not bound to succeed, but I am bound to live by the light that I have. Photography..painting...etc...is wonderful- to be able to look at the world around us and make a photograph (painting) and share that point of view with others- what a joy!
Bääämmm! Today I was just about quiting on Instagram as my photo platform, before I ran into your newest video. This video is not about Instagram - nor is it about hacks to succeed there or anywhere on social media. Again, this is so much deeper and richer. Itˋs also beyond photography and that is why it touches me essentialy. You take us on the inevitable journey to our inner selfes, when it comes to creating our work, our style, our art. This is challenging and itˋs a life long process, full of inspiration, passion, setbacks and coming back again. It´s about believing and trusting, looking over the edge of the plate, experimenting and committment. It´s not about the likes of Instagram at all, that is just a tool, a channel to show and tryout. Ooops, got a little to much engaged here 🤭🙈. So, thank you Sean for crossing my way and being a wonderful and true compagnion throughout my (and many others) personal photography journey. Itˋs an absolute joy and pleasure to follow you and your work 🙏🤓.
Thank you! Evolving in your art holds true in any art form, from photography to music. Standing still doing the same thing, is not only purposeless and boring for the creator, but it eventually gets boring for the audience as well. We all need purpose in our art. Many wise words in this video Sean. Thank you for taking the time and produce such inspirational content, I hope many sees it! I will share.
I honestly don't know why you underestimate yourself sometimes!! Your photography is brilliant, brilliant might even be an understatement. Really appreciate the time you take on these videos!!! Very inspiring!!!
When I watch your videos Sean, I'm reminded of the words "If you love something, set it free"....you're always so positive, generous with praise and thoughtful. It's a pleasure to follow you.
I recently had this same thought, well a few months ago. I went through and asked myself why am I following specific accounts and do they really inspire and push my creativity forward? No? Then unfollow. I believe it's very important to not take numbers personally, or anything personally for that matter. Thank you for creating beautiful and well thought out content.
I totally agree with what you're saying. Building your brand takes time, and sometimes we have a hard time understanding that. This video puts a lot in perspective for a lot of up and coming photographers such as myself. Thank you again for this video. Great stuff, keep creating!
No truer words ever said Sean, I posted a video 2 years back now with reference to Likes on Instagram, I have two teenage daughters and was so shocked by how much Likes on their Instagram effects them and their friends, it really is the end of the world if they don’t get the Likes, it’s no wonder these youngsters have confident issues if their happiness revolves around opinions from people who half they have never met. It may sound jack but every month or so I have a clean out of who I follow on Instagram, like you say in your video, if something doesn’t inspire you . Lovin the channel chap, keep up the great advice .
A very humble spiritual man. Every video is full of Pearl's of wisdom. Awesome images too. Keep it up! I don't think you realise how inspirational you are! Thank you
Sean thank you for this , i follow you because it's like sitting at home listening to a mate in conversation , open, honest and interesting and i can relate to this all day long.
On point...NOT likes, let's see photography as a true to yourself art and take some photos. It's good see them after a longtime. No matter how many other people like or dislike your photos.
Fantastic video! I post to Instagram to share. I'm an amateur photographer at best. No expectations of being more than that. I still get excited when someone I've never met takes the nanosecond to like one of my images. And I know that Instagram isn't going to make me famous or land me a photo gig. I do it to cut through my anxiety by putting my efforts on display. I appreciate everyone that posts their work. Let the cats have the followers and the likes. I'm here to learn and be amazed by everyone else's work.
This is so real man. The stuff you speak about is very transferable to the music producer world. It is so easy to get caught up in likes and followers until you find yourself lost in the sauce. I needed to hear this!
Hey Sean. I loved this video. I think you’re spot on. You mentioned trying not to follow trends which I totally agree with but I think that we have to prioritise your other statements about shooting and posting what you enjoy and find inspirational. Sometimes I think we can have the reverse of feeding the audience what they want by trying not to feed them what they don’t want or have already had their fill of. I think that trying not to follow trends can have just as much influence on our photography as trying to follow them if you know what I mean. Although, I’m one of these that has a very small following on insta, just over 100 😊 . But I’m ok with that. Thanks for the video. 👍
I started following Sean for his monochrome works, which I personally feels some life in each pic he took... When I started watching his youtube videos things become more clear how brilliant this guy is.. It's worth following him.. I admire him for his work and attitude towards photography.. All te best Sean
Thank you Sean, this was the video I really needed! I originally started IG because I simply wanted a place to put my work out. A couple years later and I started to get conditioned to the addictive idea that likes = good photo and followers = good account. I started to get frustrated especially nowadays as my work is certainly better than before, but my engagement is less overall than before. I know the algorithm has changed tremendously since I started and I had also taken 3-4 month breaks yearly which also messed with my account's engagement score. Either way...I was leading myself down an unhealthy and futile struggle to chase likes and followers, when what should be most important is how much I respect my own work and progress rather than letting a social media platform gauge that for me.
Sean, you are very real, articulate, influential and knowledgable; and the more I watch your videos, the more I appreciate the art of photography and aspire to train my eye to become a better photographer. Thank you!
Thank you for putting this video together. Some of the things you talked about I'm doing but many I'm not, and I need to start. What you talked about everyone needs to hear, for me, it's a reminder that I'm using Instagram to showcase my work, not to have individuals to like me. Thank you again, and keep posting.
I love your videos,. Your RUclips channel has the most thought-provoking videos that I've found. Every time when watching your videos, I always found myself questioning my own photography approach, life approach, and so on. Your RUclips channel has helped me become a better photographer, after using your suggestions and putting into practice every time I go out and shoot now. Love your work, keep it up.
I'm really glad to hear someone say this. As a person looking to add photography to my career, I've been working hard experimenting with a wide range of approaches (portraits, products, city and street landscapes etc) and dont get a lot if engagement on IG. But the way I see it is that's all learning and part of the process ( same philosophy for my YT account), hopefully the engagement and work opportunities will follow
Sean your message here was very reaffirming and helpful. My comments are not just the about social media trap, but photography "at large". I've been "in photography" coming up on five years. I have truly given it every thing I have to give - a lot of perseverance and sweat equity. To say it's been a struggle is an understatement. In general, I am so fed up with hearing people say "no excuses, make it happen". When you know you've given your best and it still "isn't happening", it causes a lot of self doubt. I've listened to the "gurus" and everyone in between about best practices, being professional, etc., and "my experience" is that none of it has made a difference. I truly don't know which way is up any more in my journey as a photographer. Just what you spoke about regarding social media has caused a lot of internal conflict for me - resentment, bitterness, confusion, etc. I'm now at a point where I think I have it in proper perspective. If asked, I am first and foremost a portrait photographer. But as a photographer, I photograph beautiful imagery in many genres - wildlife, landscape, etc. In terms of "best practices", there was a time when only portrait related images went on my IG or FB feeds in order to "maintain my brand", because this is what everyone was saying you need to do. What BS that has turned out to be! You can look at my IG or FB, and any more, I put my images up whatever they are, purely to showcase my beautiful work. People can follow, not follow, like it, not like it.... I don't give a damn any more. I am my own counsel as a photographer. I will not play the social media game any more and let the chips fall where they may. Any way, my two cents here. Great message!
Instagram has so many features that would make it an absolute joy to use as a portfolio and post images to but so many things get in the way. the obnoxious cropping requirements and harsh resolution limitations make me dislike working with it. Using Twitter for photography to me is so much more fun and liberating to use, and the sharing features of Twitter make it so much easier to discover new artists and get new followers without needing to barf a bunch of hashtags into your caption.
There is so much genius in this post Sean. Its in your way of thinking, in the authentic manner you lay out your thoughts and in the presentation of all those examples. One of the best photography posts I have seen in some time. Mastery indeed right here!
Just wanted to let you know, you are literally a king! You work and the way you articulate yourself through you expression is absolutely incredible. I love your perception on gear finding real meaning in your work through understanding the universe and the world in general.
You articulate your thoughts so well regardless the topic, and I really appreciate that. I started out learning flash photography from you and I really liked those tutorials because every tip you gave was clear and made a lot of sense. It's nice to see that this trend is consistent with your more philosophical content as well. Great work!
I'm a bit late to respond to this video, but it struck something deep with me. I've fallen out of photgraphy - hopefully just briefly - because of the Instagram likes insecurity. Videos like this remind me why I got into it, which was purely to see and capture beauty, not to chase likes. Thank you for this message. I'm sure I'm not the only pone who needed it.
Sean, its december 2020, i now see this video, because i was frustrated with my instagram account, and was almost at the point to say "ok, i do need to follow the trends, i have to blurr all images an make them brown and moody" - But man, hours of RUclips right now are stopped, and i am happy again, thank you!
From my experience, its just about getting out there and taking A LOT of photos. But tips like get low with your phone and doing bursts can help bring a unique persepective to your shots. Also, editing on your phone with apps like Snapseed (free) or Lightroom Mobile (comes with Adobe CC subscription) can help you improve the aesthetic of your photos. Editing on your phone means that you can practice your editing a lot more than if you only used a computer. Hope this helped! 😊 I've shot photos on my phone for about 2 years before i got my mirrorless camera a year ago. If you want to see some, check out my first 50 shots on my instagram (@lifeofkenta). [Its up to you]
It almost doesn't matter what equipment you shoot with or what you shoot. What's most important is the understanding of composition elements/ rules (balance, symmetry, contrast, visual weight, rule of thirds, golden circle, rectangle, guiding lines etc.)
@@kentaaruga4765 I just checked your Instagram, i LOVE your photos! i tried using snapseed, still have it, but it's too slow for me to edit it there and THEN upload it, dunno, personal opinion, maybe somebody can check me out at @damagatortuga and hand me some advice? I want to improve and hopefully turn this into something i can live out of or at least help me keep my head over water, mostly emotionally since it fills my heart to just freeze time and matter in an image.
You’re an amazing example of the human experience - our paths present themselves in what we do. You were a minister, and now your church is filled - providing important messages, as people navigate the modern world of social media, finding our creative and personal voices, and finding the best path through life. Thanks for what you do, and your message.
It’s been said by many, but I have to put it out myself: thank you Sean for reminding me what it’s all about! It’s a joy following you and I really hope to bump into you out on the street one day :)
Call it fate if you like. I came across this video at the exact time I needed it. I was feeling a little hopeless about my work and the lack of interest I was getting from people. It's time I shut all that out and focus on being better, not being gratified by someone else's propensity for hitting the like button. You inspire me Sean.
Thanks for this! I never gave it a thought that no one I "follow" takes photos that I would care to emulate. So I am now curating my feed. Nice job. Thanks again.
This message is for me! I stopped uploading on Instagram just because I thought my work wasn’t good enough...always waiting for many likes😔. Thank you so for this message 🙏🏽...you always speak to me through your videos...thank you! Thank you!! Thank you!!!
Oh, thank you so much for putting this into words. It's so refreshing to know I'm not alone in having that point of view and using Instagram (in this case) in exactly the same way. Thx, Sean.
“Popularity does not necessarily signify mastery”
Amen.
facts
But it can really help with getting sales :D
@@ajohary only if clients see value in hiring you.
Totally. Who are those women that are trash? Oh the Kardashians.
Let me tell you all, this man right here is a gem. He puts an essence of soul into all of his work and the message he has to convey.
Absolutely
very true i love Sean's work .
Dovakhiin
I fully agree, the life giving wisdom coming out of his mouth his calming my soul and this is only the second video I have watched of his.
I 100% agree!!
Can I just say its refreshing to come across a photographer who has a no bs approach to videos. No stupid intro, no in your face sponsorship, no go buy my presets. Just straight up honest advice. Well done, you've got a new follower.
Really wise words Sean. I think the best thing that Instagram could do is remove Likes. Images should be judged for what they are and the size of the crowd viewing them and liking them. I love sharing my work on Instagram but because I am proud of what I shoot and share at that time and not based on what number of likes I may get.
Nigel you da man!!!
I wished IG had a setting for users to switch off the likes if desired.
Trust me I get what you mean, Im not disagreeing but I think keeping likes helps with the algorithm and choosing what to put on someones feed. If their system just notices someone watching a post they wont know if the person liked the post or not so they wont know if they should be showing that same content to the person.
This can come in our advantage just like you I take pictures im proud of but I would aslo like to share it with people and having those likes helps the algotithm know who to show my photos to, this is good cus it means that my content is going towards people who would actually enjoy it
Two of my favorite photographers. Nigel Danson and Sean Tucker.
@@danielprucey9796 there is a hide like count now
True words Sean. As photographers/artists we all need to remember that social media is designed to manipulate our feelings, not to improve our artistic skills.
I try to remind myself - cats will always get more likes then us!
Stay creative everyone!
Sean, there is almost something spiritual in the way you speak about photography as if creativity was your religion. It is apparent that you see, feel, and think deeply as a human being, and you are mastering generosity over arrogance. What a pleasure to watch and hear you on RUclips. Thank you. When I began my career in photography 45 years ago in the NYC Village music scene, the field was a unique one. You have inspired me to treasure the abundance and availability currently within our field, rather than miss the past rarity of the profession.
Spot on. I process every single image uniquely, never use the same techniques. I have few followers. I find 'styles' boring and I like to enjoy my photography. Enjoy.
This actually has been bothering me a lot lately. I've been taking photography more and more seriously in the last one or two years, i've invested in some gear and a lot of time on tutorials and tips and videos such as this one and i am really enjoying it a lot, my wife finds the things i make beautiful and interesting so spending time or money on this hobby is not causing any problems. Even yesterday we spent about 6 hours in the city center, we stayed out till about midnight to capture a few particular things i've been wanting to capture at night forever and we had a blast, i can't wait to edit the pics...
But, there's this thing about having a "style" and "colour consistency" and things like that that i just can't seem to find. Maybe it's a matter of time, maybe i just haven't taken enough pictures yet to develop a style of my own, for now i am just out there shooting anything i find interesting, from street to animals to abstract and portraits, editing it in different ways i find beautiful... Thing is, i don't even know if i WANT to have a style...? I am not a pro, i am not doing it for the money. I am human tho, so i do enjoy some positive feedback and attention when i post my pictures on 500px or photocrowd. So i wonder if i should force myself into some style of photography and editing in order to chase some sort of consistency or should i just go with the flow and do whatever pleases me most?
I believe i know the answer already, as forcing anything in creation and art never works... but i guess i need confirmation to "easy my subconsciousness" :P
@@DobromirManchev pleasure and passion or fame and pain?
I think there is a balance to be found - some level of consistency should normally surface naturally from you and your personal tastes... but yeah, so many insta accounts seem to feel the need to have every image have exactly the same colour palette... orange and teal anyone!!?
The more truly skilled you become at the genres of photography you're shooting, the stronger your opinions will become as to what is captivating and what isn't. If you don't have very targeted opinions, you probably need to keep looking at what other photographers are doing and see what images really stand out as mind-blowing to you and start asking yourself what they're doing that catches your eye. It's not enough as someone else said to “just keep shooting.” It's about constantly learning and broadening your horizons, asking yourself what you do really really really good and beyond the pale versus what simply does not work in your photos and how other successful artists keep from doing those things. Curate your talents and consume from elsewhere what you're weakest in.
@@longliveclassicmusic With almost 200k images, 80 countries travelled so far and countless awards for photography... I am skilled at capture and expert at post processing. I create images in ALL styles from photo journalism through to creative impressionism. I have reviewed ARTISTS and photographers aplenty. I WANT to create new images and craft the look to suit the image and feel, not pigeon hole into a 'style' for consumers... Enjoy.
This is at least the fifth time I have watched this video. Instagram has become so omnipresent and this "talk" really helps to give some context and perspective. It is also reassuring in a way. It certainly speaks volumes of truth, and plain no-nonsense straight talk, that we all need to hear now and again!
“I know cats with millions of followers.” That’s all you need to know about social media...
Kristi Gay I was thinking the same thing 😂😂
On the internet nobody knows u r a cat
Vijendra PARASHAR Meow..! 😸
It’s slang guys it’s slang. But now that I read the comments I’m cracking up.
Don’t forget the pouty lips
Thank you for reminding me that I am photographing for myself not for a math problem, a.k.a. algorithm. 😊
Well said, my friend - as always. While I don’t think IG is the best platform for viewing photography, it’s where we must go. But doing so doesn’t mean selling out, but as you’ve said - taking ownership. Ownership of our feeds. Ownership of our posts. It’s not a competition. It’s a place to find inspiration in what we do. Keep rockin mate!
I absolutely adore how genuine and selfless you are praising and broadcasting other people. Thank you for sharing and for the good content.
i hope every photographer/creative sees this video. so much powerful and important topics you touched on
Makes sense Sean. One thing I don't want to do is buy in to the social media hype. I would rather have a core group (small numbers) of people who really enjoy my work who won't be afraid to throw me some constructive criticism that will help based on the reality of what they see. Not a superficial following of people who are just used to clicking follow because it's the norm. I just want to produce quality work and get some quality criticism so I can get better!
I love the part where you say how you post images even when you know they are not going to be equally liked, simply because you like them or think they are important. I can totaly relate to that. The number of likes on my images vary from 1000+ to 30, and it has taught me to simply not care about the likes. It is actully a great exersise in personal development. Not that I am completely imune to less likes than expected, but I am on a good path to it I feel...
Kresimir Delac :
Yes! I support this thought. I've got to grow into someone who doesn't feel complete or incomplete from a number of likes. Thanks for sharing your thought.
I pay attention to no social media feeds whatsoever - and yet - you Sean have produced a most compelling intro into and about the incredible creatives who are sharing brilliant examples of their view, and you present the value of the learning lessons and inspirational challenge that coming upon and following these artists offers. Again Sean, you tackle a ticklish subject and wind it into a master class on attention and furthering. Can't thank you enough.
Retired old man going to RUclips for advice on Instagram. Glad I landed on your video. It was exactly what I needed to see and hear.
Direct. Humble. Quality over quantity. During a time where everyone wants (not needs) daily content, you're thoughtful videos really stand out.
I literally punched the air when I saw your recommendations. I've watched a few of your videos now and I think you've said that seeing someone do X or Y gives you "permission" to take inspiration or move in that direction. I really have that mental block at the moment where I see something aesthetically pleasing and there's something in my head that worrys about mundanity and I don't bother. But seeing these super-abstract and incredible images has really helped me overcome that by giving me "permission" and go more with my initial instinct. In the future I'd like to work on attaining that permission on my own.
More often than not I watch videos on why people should quit social media, but this has reignited my passion for street photography and start my Instagram account. The very last point is so killer: "take responsibility". Well said!
Of all the various channels I subscribe to, Sean's is the only one that holds my attention throughout. No gimmicky edits/cuts - just meat! Very informative, great voice. Deliciousness for the curious creative, all around.
Well done sir!
Don Yates totally agree 🤘🏻
Don Yates I haven't watched his videos for a while and was listening to this one. At the 8 minute mark I was expecting the video to wrap up and NOPE he kept going and it reminded me how refreshing it was to be listening to someone who genuinely gives a shit and stands behind what he says passionately.
I agree. I very much appreciate Sean's pacing and topics. A lot of other You Tubers get me stressed and anxious. With Sean's videos I'll sit down with a coffee and watch a video. They get me thinking.
Get a grip mate. Don't be a mere fan-boy. Also, what is up with this blokes face? It is bloody alarming. :-( Topographical map shite.
Thank you for this impactful video. As a teen photographer, I know full well that if I simply followed a couple hundred of my classmates, I could get hundreds more likes and follows, but now I have decided to use Instagram as an online portfolio where I am simply sharing what I believe is my best photography. The social aspects are just a plus.
Your the only person I watch that makes 15 minutes feel like 5
This is gold! I love the fact that you point out the fact that some of your favorite pictures aren't the most liked (and that's OK). Realizing that myself --- a lot of the pictures that are my favorites end up being ones that get less traction for one reason or another. Great reminder. Also great suggestions on curating your own feed.
Did you ever consider to make a podcast? Really like your talk Sean!
It's inevitable
Do it. Straight Talk for Photographers.
This is his podcast. But yeah would love it. Probably his RUclips content will be lesser then.
He appeared on the fujicast podcast a while back, it's s good listen and worth subscribing to. It's not just about fuji either. Go check it out it's one of the best podcasts out there. www.fujicast.co.uk/
That would be great.
I agree emphatically. I disconnected myself from Instagram because I didn't care much about being social or gathering a following, but it has been lonely not having people to share my work with or to seek constructive criticism. You've reminded me that these platforms are also a great way to gather inspiration and connect with other photographers to grow and push one's own creativity. Thank you for that and I appreciate your videos exploring the contemplative and reflective aspects of photography. Keep it up!
I’ve had a very mixed relationship with instagram. I refused to join, for years. When I finally joined, I went back and forth and was all over the place with what I wanted to post or how I wanted to approach interacting with people on the platform. Most of the features simply go unused, even now. I’ve finally gotten to a point where I simply don’t think about it and don’t really care about the outcome. I only post something when I have something to post. Maybe multiple times a day, maybe nothing for several weeks or months. I don’t time my posts or cater them to what I think is popular. I don’t use hashtags (anymore). I don’t play any of those follow for follow or like for like games.
Ironically, I now have more followers than I’ve ever had, before.
But, most of my posts don’t get any likes or comments.
Who knows how these things work. I’m happier and healthier by not worrying about it.
Skyler King, the problem is, by being so unengaged with it, you’re making the Instagram algorithm bury your content. You get few likes because few people are even getting your photos in their feed.
If the goal is to get eyes on your work, you’re not playing the game the right way. You have to post regularly like once a day, you have to post “stories”, you have to remove all ghost followers (accounts that follow you but never like or comment your posts) from your account, and you have to start interacting (liking and commenting) with your followers. Never use bots, comment pods, or buy likes/followers.
After 40 years of taking photos
I think it's time to put my work out there.
I'm now working on a workflow.😊
Thanks Sean for video.
"Shoot for you and post your work to share it to the world." I felt that. I needed this talk. Thank you Sean. I love how sincere and loyal you are to the mastery of the craft and how you treat popularity as incidental to that mastery. Subscribed and bell on. I have never turned on the notification bell for any youtuber. But I feel like I need to hear more from you.
Thanks, I'm honoured.
It's a breath of fresh air to get a balanced view of Instagram. It's very easy to demonise social media and hold it accountable for everything that is wrong with the world, but the wider issue is that we are not taught how to take responsibility for ourselves. Sadly, many therefore expect the world to change and meet their needs, rather than simply change their thinking.
Great job Sean! One of the best and most honest assessments of Instagram and how photographers should approach it. Well done. Thanks!
Sean,
Intentional or not you are the voice of reason that rises above all the noise. A constant reminder as to what is really important. Thank you.
I’ve been shooting more seriously for almost a year now and I have watched tons of RUclips-photo-Channels. Love your honesty and your work.
I landed on this video by accident, and it was a ride. It started with the cliche "Don't do it ofr the likes, do it for the art." But then slowly but surely went much deeper than that. At the end it was about the struggle of an artist to push his own paradigms and to continue to develop his own aesthetic sensibilities. I am gonna suscribe to every single insta account mentioned.
Whenever I feel lost. I find myself re-watching this masterpiece.
Right on point. Abraham Lincoln said: I am not bound to win, but I am bound to be true. I am not bound to succeed, but I am bound to live by the light that I have.
Photography..painting...etc...is wonderful- to be able to look at the world around us and make a photograph (painting) and share that point of view with others- what a joy!
Bääämmm! Today I was just about quiting on Instagram as my photo platform, before I ran into your newest video. This video is not about Instagram - nor is it about hacks to succeed there or anywhere on social media. Again, this is so much deeper and richer. Itˋs also beyond photography and that is why it touches me essentialy. You take us on the inevitable journey to our inner selfes, when it comes to creating our work, our style, our art. This is challenging and itˋs a life long process, full of inspiration, passion, setbacks and coming back again. It´s about believing and trusting, looking over the edge of the plate, experimenting and committment. It´s not about the likes of Instagram at all, that is just a tool, a channel to show and tryout. Ooops, got a little to much engaged here 🤭🙈. So, thank you Sean for crossing my way and being a wonderful and true compagnion throughout my (and many others) personal photography journey. Itˋs an absolute joy and pleasure to follow you and your work 🙏🤓.
Thank you! Evolving in your art holds true in any art form, from photography to music. Standing still doing the same thing, is not only purposeless and boring for the creator, but it eventually gets boring for the audience as well. We all need purpose in our art. Many wise words in this video Sean. Thank you for taking the time and produce such inspirational content, I hope many sees it! I will share.
I honestly don't know why you underestimate yourself sometimes!!
Your photography is brilliant, brilliant might even be an understatement.
Really appreciate the time you take on these videos!!!
Very inspiring!!!
Mustafa Yahya yeah, he puts himself down quite often, I wanted to mention that myself but glad you brought it up. His work is just as good ;)
When I watch your videos Sean, I'm reminded of the words "If you love something, set it free"....you're always so positive, generous with praise and thoughtful. It's a pleasure to follow you.
Too much common sense being spoken here for the internet!
I am so grateful for it, truly! We are such easily influenced creatures, and I love how he is influencing me
I recently had this same thought, well a few months ago. I went through and asked myself why am I following specific accounts and do they really inspire and push my creativity forward? No? Then unfollow. I believe it's very important to not take numbers personally, or anything personally for that matter. Thank you for creating beautiful and well thought out content.
again - another solid discussion that has real substance to it... I too am going to "rethink" my use of Instagram...
I literally cried while watching your video. You are one of the most real creators I have ever seen on RUclips. All the power to you. Keep going!
I totally agree with what you're saying. Building your brand takes time, and sometimes we have a hard time understanding that. This video puts a lot in perspective for a lot of up and coming photographers such as myself. Thank you again for this video. Great stuff, keep creating!
No truer words ever said Sean, I posted a video 2 years back now with reference to Likes on Instagram, I have two teenage daughters and was so shocked by how much Likes on their Instagram effects them and their friends, it really is the end of the world if they don’t get the Likes, it’s no wonder these youngsters have confident issues if their happiness revolves around opinions from people who half they have never met.
It may sound jack but every month or so I have a clean out of who I follow on Instagram, like you say in your video, if something doesn’t inspire you . Lovin the channel chap, keep up the great advice .
A very humble spiritual man. Every video is full of Pearl's of wisdom. Awesome images too. Keep it up! I don't think you realise how inspirational you are! Thank you
Your photo at the end, of the garage door, really stood out for me. Lovely composition & colours!
Sean thank you for this , i follow you because it's like sitting at home listening to a mate in conversation , open, honest and interesting and i can relate to this all day long.
I really love your honesty. Thanks fro your brilliant videos.
On point...NOT likes, let's see photography as a true to yourself art and take some photos. It's good see them after a longtime. No matter how many other people like or dislike your photos.
I love how you slap your audience in the face and tell them to get their shit together 💓
Fantastic video! I post to Instagram to share. I'm an amateur photographer at best. No expectations of being more than that. I still get excited when someone I've never met takes the nanosecond to like one of my images. And I know that Instagram isn't going to make me famous or land me a photo gig. I do it to cut through my anxiety by putting my efforts on display. I appreciate everyone that posts their work. Let the cats have the followers and the likes. I'm here to learn and be amazed by everyone else's work.
You are a blessing Sean. Honest, humble, talented and don’t follow the crowd. Keep doing what you do!
Thank you for this. A breath of fresh air. Genuine, eloquent, precise. Incredible.
This is so real man. The stuff you speak about is very transferable to the music producer world. It is so easy to get caught up in likes and followers until you find yourself lost in the sauce. I needed to hear this!
Hey Sean. I loved this video. I think you’re spot on. You mentioned trying not to follow trends which I totally agree with but I think that we have to prioritise your other statements about shooting and posting what you enjoy and find inspirational. Sometimes I think we can have the reverse of feeding the audience what they want by trying not to feed them what they don’t want or have already had their fill of. I think that trying not to follow trends can have just as much influence on our photography as trying to follow them if you know what I mean. Although, I’m one of these that has a very small following on insta, just over 100 😊 . But I’m ok with that. Thanks for the video. 👍
I started following Sean for his monochrome works, which I personally feels some life in each pic he took... When I started watching his youtube videos things become more clear how brilliant this guy is.. It's worth following him.. I admire him for his work and attitude towards photography.. All te best Sean
Your videos are always inspiring. I am glad I found an introvert youtuber which I can get lots of motivations from as I am an introvert myself.
Thank you Sean, this was the video I really needed! I originally started IG because I simply wanted a place to put my work out. A couple years later and I started to get conditioned to the addictive idea that likes = good photo and followers = good account. I started to get frustrated especially nowadays as my work is certainly better than before, but my engagement is less overall than before. I know the algorithm has changed tremendously since I started and I had also taken 3-4 month breaks yearly which also messed with my account's engagement score. Either way...I was leading myself down an unhealthy and futile struggle to chase likes and followers, when what should be most important is how much I respect my own work and progress rather than letting a social media platform gauge that for me.
You hit the nail on the head! “ Be yourself,everyone else is already taken “ Oscar Wilde
Hey Sean...This video was great on so many accounts! You are such a great educator. Going to play this for my photography class!
Sean, you are very real, articulate, influential and knowledgable; and the more I watch your videos, the more I appreciate the art of photography and aspire to train my eye to become a better photographer. Thank you!
Sean, thank you for this phenomenally honest and vulnerable insight into appreciating artistry over popularity. Really lovely recommendations as well!
Thank you for putting this video together. Some of the things you talked about I'm doing but many I'm not, and I need to start. What you talked about everyone needs to hear, for me, it's a reminder that I'm using Instagram to showcase my work, not to have individuals to like me. Thank you again, and keep posting.
I love your videos,. Your RUclips channel has the most thought-provoking videos that I've found. Every time when watching your videos, I always found myself questioning my own photography approach, life approach, and so on. Your RUclips channel has helped me become a better photographer, after using your suggestions and putting into practice every time I go out and shoot now. Love your work, keep it up.
I'm really glad to hear someone say this. As a person looking to add photography to my career, I've been working hard experimenting with a wide range of approaches (portraits, products, city and street landscapes etc) and dont get a lot if engagement on IG. But the way I see it is that's all learning and part of the process ( same philosophy for my YT account), hopefully the engagement and work opportunities will follow
Sean, man, thank you so much 🙏 this video, a cup of coffee, and I am ready to get out there and push myself. I so appreciate you my friend.
Sean your message here was very reaffirming and helpful. My comments are not just the about social media trap, but photography "at large". I've been "in photography" coming up on five years. I have truly given it every thing I have to give - a lot of perseverance and sweat equity. To say it's been a struggle is an understatement. In general, I am so fed up with hearing people say "no excuses, make it happen". When you know you've given your best and it still "isn't happening", it causes a lot of self doubt.
I've listened to the "gurus" and everyone in between about best practices, being professional, etc., and "my experience" is that none of it has made a difference. I truly don't know which way is up any more in my journey as a photographer. Just what you spoke about regarding social media has caused a lot of internal conflict for me - resentment, bitterness, confusion, etc. I'm now at a point where I think I have it in proper perspective.
If asked, I am first and foremost a portrait photographer. But as a photographer, I photograph beautiful imagery in many genres - wildlife, landscape, etc. In terms of "best practices", there was a time when only portrait related images went on my IG or FB feeds in order to "maintain my brand", because this is what everyone was saying you need to do. What BS that has turned out to be!
You can look at my IG or FB, and any more, I put my images up whatever they are, purely to showcase my beautiful work. People can follow, not follow, like it, not like it.... I don't give a damn any more. I am my own counsel as a photographer. I will not play the social media game any more and let the chips fall where they may.
Any way, my two cents here. Great message!
Keep going my friend.
Measured and mature presentation. Helpful and a powerful reminder of why I take photographs. Thanks very much. Just had to subscribe.
I love social media for this.. helping one to grow while watching other's experiences..so simple..yet so rich..!
One of the best talks about Instagram I heard in a long time. Social media is what you make it! Also, found some amazing new accounts to follow
Instagram has so many features that would make it an absolute joy to use as a portfolio and post images to but so many things get in the way. the obnoxious cropping requirements and harsh resolution limitations make me dislike working with it. Using Twitter for photography to me is so much more fun and liberating to use, and the sharing features of Twitter make it so much easier to discover new artists and get new followers without needing to barf a bunch of hashtags into your caption.
Thx for these intelligent and humble videos. Always a pleasure to watch them.
There is so much genius in this post Sean. Its in your way of thinking, in the authentic manner you lay out your thoughts and in the presentation of all those examples. One of the best photography posts I have seen in some time. Mastery indeed right here!
Intelligent, well presented video - something of a rarity!
Just wanted to let you know, you are literally a king! You work and the way you articulate yourself through you expression is absolutely incredible. I love your perception on gear finding real meaning in your work through understanding the universe and the world in general.
-"I DON'T CARE WHAT YOU LIKE"
I loved it! You just got another follower.
You articulate your thoughts so well regardless the topic, and I really appreciate that. I started out learning flash photography from you and I really liked those tutorials because every tip you gave was clear and made a lot of sense. It's nice to see that this trend is consistent with your more philosophical content as well. Great work!
Needed this reminder. Thank you for your content!
I'm a bit late to respond to this video, but it struck something deep with me. I've fallen out of photgraphy - hopefully just briefly - because of the Instagram likes insecurity. Videos like this remind me why I got into it, which was purely to see and capture beauty, not to chase likes. Thank you for this message. I'm sure I'm not the only pone who needed it.
I love this. I'm falling in love with photography and this helped me a lot as a beginner.
Sean, its december 2020, i now see this video, because i was frustrated with my instagram account, and was almost at the point to say "ok, i do need to follow the trends, i have to blurr all images an make them brown and moody" - But man, hours of RUclips right now are stopped, and i am happy again, thank you!
Sean please make a video about "MOBILE PHOTOGRAPHY" or "what can we do with our cellphone in terms of photography /does it helps".
Wish u will react.
Good idea. I might add it my list
From my experience, its just about getting out there and taking A LOT of photos. But tips like get low with your phone and doing bursts can help bring a unique persepective to your shots.
Also, editing on your phone with apps like Snapseed (free) or Lightroom Mobile (comes with Adobe CC subscription) can help you improve the aesthetic of your photos. Editing on your phone means that you can practice your editing a lot more than if you only used a computer.
Hope this helped! 😊
I've shot photos on my phone for about 2 years before i got my mirrorless camera a year ago. If you want to see some, check out my first 50 shots on my instagram (@lifeofkenta). [Its up to you]
It almost doesn't matter what equipment you shoot with or what you shoot. What's most important is the understanding of composition elements/ rules (balance, symmetry, contrast, visual weight, rule of thirds, golden circle, rectangle, guiding lines etc.)
@@danlightened thank you
@@kentaaruga4765 I just checked your Instagram, i LOVE your photos! i tried using snapseed, still have it, but it's too slow for me to edit it there and THEN upload it, dunno, personal opinion, maybe somebody can check me out at @damagatortuga and hand me some advice? I want to improve and hopefully turn this into something i can live out of or at least help me keep my head over water, mostly emotionally since it fills my heart to just freeze time and matter in an image.
''How incredible to be able to see something so beautiful in something so simple''. Love it!
Thanks! Your work is inspiring me to re-discovering myself as a photographer.
You’re an amazing example of the human experience - our paths present themselves in what we do. You were a minister, and now your church is filled - providing important messages, as people navigate the modern world of social media, finding our creative and personal voices, and finding the best path through life. Thanks for what you do, and your message.
Thanks my friend.
It’s been said by many, but I have to put it out myself: thank you Sean for reminding me what it’s all about! It’s a joy following you and I really hope to bump into you out on the street one day :)
Call it fate if you like. I came across this video at the exact time I needed it. I was feeling a little hopeless about my work and the lack of interest I was getting from people. It's time I shut all that out and focus on being better, not being gratified by someone else's propensity for hitting the like button. You inspire me Sean.
I haven't been this early in a while!! :D
As always, your words holds so much truth to them and I am enlightened by your wisdom~
Preferably Annie well said
I just sat down with a cuppa and feel like I'm going to have a counselling session :) I know I'll feel better after watching Sean
Thanks for this! I never gave it a thought that no one I "follow" takes photos that I would care to emulate. So I am now curating my feed. Nice job. Thanks again.
I desperately needed to hear/see this video right now.
Thank you 🙏
This message is for me! I stopped uploading on Instagram just because I thought my work wasn’t good enough...always waiting for many likes😔. Thank you so for this message 🙏🏽...you always speak to me through your videos...thank you! Thank you!! Thank you!!!
“Likes don’t mean what you think they do” - this should be the anti-slogan got social media that we all keep in mind!!
Oh, thank you so much for putting this into words. It's so refreshing to know I'm not alone in having that point of view and using Instagram (in this case) in exactly the same way. Thx, Sean.
superb video and great advice
What a nugget of gold this is, thanks. It’s easy to get down when you post a image you like, and the ‘likes’ don’t follow. 📷
You have good taste - I followed everyone you recommended!
Thank you, Sean, for speaking truth to the art of photography. You keep the soul of photography alive on RUclips. Keep doing you.
I love your videos!