Toshiki, I'm a 78-year-old cinematographer who found my way to Montreal in my youth. I understand the challenges you're currently facing, and I'm here to convey a message of hope and assurance that, over time, you will overcome these obstacles and discover your path forward.
That is the best summary of the creative struggle that all artists have I have seen in modern times. You are on the correct path to achieve important work. The sad thing is that as long as you are in the correct path you will never be satisfied or confident. It is my understanding and belief that Turner, Constable, Sargent, Einstein, Adams, and other artists all questioned their choices but they stayed on the path of making their own choices. Thank you for expressing this so well. Charlie in Virginia
This is literally me on a daily basis. Then, I am living with regret when I don't take pictures. Some days I go from chasing happiness with my pictures to equating my greatness to likes. Thanks for your posts each one moves me.
I felt that way and eventually quit photography about 10 years ago. All these years I had an empty space in my soul. Trying to get back into photography now. Love your channel!
Your work is amazing. Perfect never exists in the eye of the creator. Capture images that make you happy, that bring joy, or meaning to you, and the images are amazing. I gave up for 30 years because none of my work was good enough, a lost 30 years. Don't lose your youth worrying about perfection.
There is so much in this video I can relate to! I set out to dedicate myself to photography this year and bought some nice used cameras and lenses. I've just been teaching myself and I think I'm getting better. But then I post my images to social media and I get no interest or feedback, and I see photos by other photographers and I end up feeling like my work is shit. I know we shouldn't compare our work to other photographers, but I think we all do it anyway. It's difficult not to when photo media apps are constantly inundating us with professional looking images. I still love photography and I'm going to continue doing it, but it's a depressing struggle sometimes. Thank you for your video, it's nice to know I'm not the only one struggling with this.
Hi, I know this video is a year old but I just found it and your channel and I've been really inspired by it. I'm still new to photography, but I know these feelings really well from making music. So many times I've held back from sharing and even finishing music because I was worried it wouldn't fully express what I'm able to, wouldn't fully live up to my expectation for myself, blah blah blah. I've been thinking about this video and I think photography has an advantage here: it's something that can easily be done purely from love. When I look at old pictures, sometimes I'm impressed by the vision and taste of the photographer, but I equally enjoy looking at candid pictures taken by amateurs out of love. A photographer's vision can be dazzling, but a visionless picture also documents effectively, and can also communicate the photographer's love. I have been taking pictures of Milwaukee and trying to figure out what I like so much about the built environment of this complicated city. I think doing that, and trying to see my love for a view as "enough", that the love is what's important about taste anyway, has helped me see the music I'm working on as "enough" too, even though it's not as impressive as my taste can imagine. Anyway, thanks for your work in all of these videos, they really are an island in the sea of addicting gear reviews.
“Today you can easily reach information that originally you did not need to see.” This gave me a lot of pause- The internet keeps us glued in our seats, rather than exploring outside and using our own minds to develop our own knowledge.
Let me start by saying that, by producing videos like this, you are expressing yourself creatively. This was a well thought out and wonderfully filmed short video. I’ve been trying to make videos like this, but can’t seem to get the shots I want, and my editing skills are poor. So, bravo for that. It’s pointless to compare your gear/work to others. Comparison is the thief of joy. You could be in the exact same location, with the same camera, and with the same ideas, but come up with something completely different. I found that, by narrowing down a few different factors, I have had much more success with finding joy through photography. I found a subject I was interested in and decided to create a project for myself. Same camera, same lens, same film stock. I only shoot on the weekends, and only one roll of film per day. Creativity is not endless, so I don’t want to waste it on trying to capture images not related to my project. My suggestion is that you look back through your photo catalog and try to find a certain subject or theme that you often photograph. Ask yourself what it is about those few images that you’d like so much. How could you build on that and turn it into a project? Set ground rules. What camera are you going to use? What lens are you going to use? Color, or black-and-white? Then, get started on shooting. When you get home, don’t look at your photos. Shoot for a month before loading them onto your computer and reviewing them. Don’t edit them or delete any photos. Once you have decided that the timeline for your project has passed, then, and only then, can you start culling through the photographs, and choosing your favorites. Take your top 20 and make a book out of them. When you’re done, take a short break and start over again on a new project. By doing this, you will find that you are no longer relying on videos or new gear for inspiration. None of those will be relevant to your project, and so it will be easier for you to focus on capturing the images within the restrictions you have placed on the project. I hope this helps.
This is beautiful. One of the aspects of photography that I love is that it cannot truly be mastered. Surely there are "masters" of the art, but even they say, my next photo will be the best. Welcome to the stuggle.
I stumbled upon this presentation of yours.......and love it. I'm an ol' man and even wonder myself, why do I photograph at this late age? Picked up serious photography late in my age, but what it boils down to is the passion to press on, to capture that brief moment in time, and to meet young, upcoming photographers on their journey that motivates me.
Comparison is a double edge sword. You should use it to motivate, but not to judge yourself. When in a low spot, the best way I get out of it is to just step outside with the cheapest camera and just have fun. Shoot as if you needed to document the world. No preconceived notions of professionalism, no idea of what people might think once I show this image. Just found your channel! Looking forward to watching more! Thanks for sharing!
Dude, you are describing me and my efforts at photography. The only thing keeping me at this, is the insane need for me to make images. Roll on my brother; it's all good.
Creativity ebbs and flows. Sometimes it slaps you in the face, sometimes it just taps you on the shoulder. Sometimes it does not show up. It is quite normal for you to not find things inspiring to do your art. I've been a commercial photographer for many years and I also paint and draw and make ceramics. When one thing feels a bit stale I just move on to the other thing. But for me sometimes something as simple as a change of venue helps make things feel new again. A trip to the ocean or the mountains or to a new city or if you are a street photographer sometimes the challenge of making a photo of a still life can be refreshing. I enjoyed your video you made. I think the idea of the creative challenge is universal but you also made it appealing visually.
Toshiki, you are not alone. I attempt to excommunicate worry about my art, photography. But, I get out with my “tool” regardless of how I feel or what I think may happen. I go. That’s when surprise arrives. And it’s wonderful. This is our way…and that’s okay…
Yukawa-san, we all go this struggle at different points in time of our lives. My motto now is "Learn from the past to build for the future". That's how I manage my life now.
Hi Yoshiki, I'm a photographer too. One thing that has greatly helped me on my journey is avoiding the mindset of "the end" or "the final destination." I strive to stay present, though it's challenging. Falling in love with the ongoing journey, rather than aspiring to become a Cartier-Bresson someday, is my philosophy. It's how I approach both my photography and life. :)
Toshiki, something I have learned over 50 years making images, is that sometime pushing through your struggle with motivation is reason to take them. One trick I had when I feel this way was to take images, but wait for a few months before processing them. They become fresh. But yes- we are all stuck in our own ways
the shot at .24 seconds is beautiful and impactful. Very good. Ahh... the inner workings of an artist. Loved the vulnerability in this video. It's nice to know I'm not alone in this way of thinking. Thanks for making this video. :)
Damn! This might be my first comment on RUclips during 2023 but your video is worth commenting on. This is extremely relatable for me. I feel like this almost every day, not afraid of the future and that I’m worse than other but the thing that I wake up motivated and go out without taking a single photo. Thanks for this video and putting words on the situation. I got new motivation now and think I’m gonna go outside now and return home without any photo and be more happy with the fact that life is a struggle 😂
As we say here in the US, you’re preaching to the choir. We’ve all been there where you are. We’ve all wrestled with doubts about our photography. Very insightful video. Thanks for sharing!
a week ago, it was raining hard. I figured, "hey, lets go downtown Montreal and make photos", ... but I didn't. Looks like you did. Thumbs up just for that. For me, comparing my work is the way I use to see if I am getting forward. I compare today with what I have done in the past. This way, I feel better and more motivated. I had feelings like you when my goals were too high. No expectations, no deceptions. Thanks for your inspiring videos.
Just subscribed. I take a camera with me every day when I go to work, nine of ten times without photographing anything going to or from, and disappoint myself. I can’t take pix at work because of the type of work I do. Meditation, however, along with reading and listening about (Zen-) Buddhism, Taoism, Tolle, Watts…all have taught me things about not letting thoughts be my master, since we are not our thoughts. Since being on that path I don’t beat myself up anymore about it, and just enjoy the moments when I do take a picture. If I die without “making a mark”, becoming great or even good, then that’s all right. I sense you already know. Btw I’m in eastern Ontario and find Montreal and Toronto are miles apart, and not just on a map.
Every photo captures a unique moment in time which will never happen again. Pay attention to the details of that moment and enjoy the fact that you have a picture of it.
I repeat to watch this video many and more from this morning. Because I'm you, you are me... we have same hesitation, impatience and so on same as other photographers in the world. Thank you for sharing this.
Dear Toshiki, Thanks for sharing your thoughts in such a beautiful way wit hall of us. As you said, it's not about finding a 'perfect solution' it's about finding your way on the way... The key-sentence for me was "If you like it, it's cool". I am lucky enough to do Photography as a profession and as my personal passion. And over all the years, my only really hard critic was always myself. Still, I get stressed by thinking about a clients reaction when sending out preview galleries of a just finished job. On the other hand, I am convinced this is something good, showing I care, I always want to get the best possible outcome... To finish: Yesterday, I had my last assignment for 2023 and photographed a Japanese Sushi-Chef. His calmness, I would even use the word gentleness in the process of creating a piece of Art every time, made me appreciate the fact that the process of creating something is the reward in the end. ...
We are all stuck... yeah. Thanks brother for helping me feel like I am not the only one. Not that knowing some else is feeling stuck makes me feel good, just that it helps me feel like there are others who are wrestling with these feelings. Thank you for another thought provoking video Toshiki.
I really like your channel. Your vlog is very genuine. I’m an artist photographer (enthusiast). My struggle is, I can’t really do my creativity when I desire to because I work. Not that work is a bad thing, but I feel my creativity restraint. I guess this “caught in between” feeling is an artist thing. Keep doing what you do, as you inspire me even more. Thank you.
This was beautiful, honest and insightful. It takes a lot of courage to speak so open and honestly and I am honored you shared your story. You have brought tears to my eyes because this inner dialogue of yours is so familiar to me. My schooling was finance and worked hard to get a good job in its field. But life throws twists and turns and I found myself feeling as a failure and I couldn’t go on. After some help from my wife, I took up photography and found it very rewarding, yet also anxious inducing if I’m honest. I never was very good and I stopped doing it @12-13 years ago because I just wasn’t feeling rewarded by it. So I moved towards doing more videos on another RUclips channel I run and that helps my creative side when it rears its head. It’s still a struggle at times. So please forgive me for talking about myself, but I so rarely hear such honesty and a feeling of kinship. We will never meet, but I truly hope you continue doing what you are doing. The filming is top-notch and you make visual stunning videos. I am now subscribed after watching a few videos and I really enjoyed learning of the first photographer in Japan. Please continue doing what you are doing and maybe you can visit my home state of Utah here in the US if you are ever interested in landscape photography. Cheers
Keep exploring the moment without expectation. Be open to the awareness of what is and what arises, in the unexpected. We cannot control our thoughts nor our creativity. Presence is letting go into being without duality. Thoughts are like the passing weather and clouds that move on by in the sky. Do not attach, simply watch them. Simply be open in awareness honing your attention with all your senses, relaxing and expanding your awareness into seeing.
A dreary rainy winters day in Montreal can get to the best of us. Hold Fast … you’ll find your groove in no time. Thanks for all your excellent videos! 📷🌞
This video was absolutely so spot on. I remember feeling this exact thing non stop. I am anxious about staring a YT and learning how to edit and create content. There is so much for me to learn. Whenever I take good photos or videos, I feel anxiety about the next because the standard is higher now. I always have to re-evaluate my edits and get better in creating beautiful images. However, I am learning day by day to let go and give it all to God. Lets keep moving together
Every day, I make an effort to maintain my focus on the things that truly matter to me. I always remind myself that contradictions are a part of who I am. In those moments, I feel grateful and find inner peace.
Rule No.1 while shooting street. Take the first pic within the first 100 meters of walk. No matter, what it is, how bad the result is - you need to get into it, get in the flow. Once you took the first one, take the next one. Thanks for sharing your thoughts and feelings. Not always being self-confident might be one of the biggest driver of personal growth. Embrace it.
You did a wonderful job here of detailing these kinds of thoughts, which I think most artists have at some point. I'm always trying to let go of the idea that my work needs to get better and better… not because it doesn't, but because more and more I realize I'll always be the worst judge of what that looks like. If I can let go enough to just keep making new work, I'll let future me decide what the best parts of it are. Also, as an ex-resident of Montreal myself, I feel like this video especially captures a big part of the loneliness and despair of that city, especially in the colder months.
I feel your pain. I also just watched an awesome RUclips piece of art: your video! You're doing wonderful work, and no photographer hits a home run every day (much less a grand slam). Keep taking one step at a time, as you've beautifully said in your way in your video. I wish you the best in the coming new year and thank you for sharing your process and art with us.
Every artist goes through this. The answer is not easy but what works it to quite comparing yourself to others. Just make work without judging it. Making work for the sake of making work is when the muse comes to visit. This time is magical! You can not make it happen. You can only create and environment then let it happen.
I don’t know how much you realize there are so many people like me, whose favorite photographer is you. お疲れ様です！いつもたくさんのインスピレーションとやる気をくれてありがとうございます。一緒に頑張りましょう❣️
I love this video along with your honesty and sincerity. I have been through the exact same thought processes. I put an insane amount of time into taking photographs - hobby only - and posting them on social media to get hardly any positive reaction. I must admit it's disappointing, but then I remember the real reason I take pictures; it gets me out every day for long walks, I bump into people, they are strangers. I ask if I can take their picture and we chat, smile, joke a bit and I move on. The picture process pleases me and the subject, even if nobody else on social media. My resulting images always frustrate me too - never good enough. My photography hobby opens my eyes to the world. Even when I haven't got a camera with me, I "see" photo opportunities because I am actually looking out, instead of walking blind like many people or looking at their phone screen. I also go out for photo walks and come home with nothing sometimes. It doesn't matter too much because there is so much more to a walk than photos. Real artists create for themselves, not for others. Your struggle is what makes you great - all artists struggle; it's an essential part of the creative soul.
Thoughtful words and looking at the cinematography of the video you are an artist, you can see. Pressure, negativity, just hold onto doing what makes you happy, it will come good.
I hear you brother, I have the same thoughts. But I think you said it best when you said something like, "if I like my photos, then that is good". Although I enjoy many great photos taken in amazing locations (I like and try to do landscape photography), I no longer regret not going to those "great" places but try to look for local opportunities that have their own beauty. (A lot cheaper than traveling the world.)
it's tough. some days I go out hoping and wanting to do well but come home empty handed or disappointed ; other days I don't think anything special will happen and then it does. you can't put too much pressure on yourself. relaxing is better I reckon. I shoot a lot of film , and oddly its the last photo on the roll that often turns out better once you've been shooting and getting into the zone emotionally and creatively.
Hello Toshiki, I know that feeling well, but let me tell you something, your videos are a great source of inspiration for me. A totally different perspective from what we currently have. I hope you continue with your excellent work. Because current photography is simply based on vues and cameras.
Thank you Toshiko, you have done an excellent job of summarizing what monkey brain does inside my head when I think about my photography, though I am more of a landscape photographer than a street photographer, the mental obstacles are the same. I was also surprised to see that we both live in Montreal. May 2024 be a positive year for you.
Everything you said resonates so much with my own experience, especially about the part about becoming anxious when thinking about the future. I think these are the struggles of many, many artists and I like that you ended the video with that phrase. Society tend to view creative careers as "fun" or "inspiring". But the truth is that we are daily warriors. We might not be on a physical battlefield, but our battle is ongoing constantly inside our head. Perfectionism, low self-confidence, anxiety of failing, fear of rejection, self-criticism, procrastination, depression, need for validation, burnout... these are just a few examples of things artists deal with every single day. The best thing we can do is support each other and take breaks when we need it. I'm so happy I found your channel!! It's one of the very few that I find so beautiful thanks to your cinematography and photography, and yet still authentic and unique.
Incredibly articulated feelings of something we are all experiencing. The truth is no matter what we choose to do in life, we are going to experience self doubt and a feeling of difficulty, even after we get a sense of achievement from that very thing we love. It's the cycle of life, ups and downs, ebbs and flows, good times and bad times. Learning to embrace the rough through expresing how you feel and pushing through it like you show here is definitely the way to go. I appreciate this video so much, thanks for sharing it, Toshiki.
Love this. It’s always a struggle- now is all that matters. Your ideas, philosophy and insight are valuable, and many of us out here appreciate you sharing them.
I am taking a break from photography, although I have had the good fortune and opportunity to do photo exhibitions and have some of my photos published around. I feel that as far as street photography is concerned everything has become the same, photographs that are very similar to each other, born to please people, to get to contests first and to satisfy the pleasure of some photo editor rather than being made because at that moment one had the desire to make them. Despite this feeling, I feel that I have now become envious of the likes and numbers on social media that so many photographers have, despite the uninteresting content. When I leave the house to take photos, I no longer feel the joy I used to, I only think about whether the photo I am taking will go viral or whether I will like it, when in fact I should like it first and foremost. The only thing related to photography that I still have is your channel, which I really appreciate. Sorry for my bad English.
I totally know the feeling. Some times inspiration comes in waves. You may between waves right now but a big wave is coming to lift you back up friend! Stay positive, keep your chin up, and keep grinding. The best is yet to come for you Toshiki. 👍 Fantastic video by the way and thank you.
Beautiful, love Monochrome look. Melancholy mood is great BUT good to not overthink. We're so fortunate to be be alive and able to survive. Happy New Year.
hi tashiki, wow such an inspiring video after fullmoon night here in switzerland with not much sleep. I often feel the same way as you do. Looking forward to see more of those well thought out shots in the future and I love your creative view but also your critique not only on you but also big parts of our creator community that we as workers in this field includes. tashiki, please never forget, your probably biggest strength which shows me you are in fact a true artist is the following: STORYTELLING. Interesting to see what you are bringing online next. best regards, marc
Your own experience reflects reality of life. Finding that inner sanctity only comes in patches for creativity. Try totally changing your environment sometimes and see how you react. It often works for me, and the spell of enthusiasm can last a while and for all environments. It doesn't matter if one goes out and comes back with nothing. Thanks for uploading. 😊
Thank you for the video. That was very valuable to me. For me the most important part was „let’s struggle together. That’s the only way to create something.“ I believe that too.
This happens to me all the time, and I am on the wrong side of 60 years old. Somedays you just have to livefor your own happiness.The hell with everything else.
your words resonated so strongly it was if you were reading them from my mind thank you so much for saying what we are all possibly thinking, it was a breath of fresh air.
Hello friend! I just started my photography journey and you have been the only channel I have found that actually focuses on the art instead of meaningless nuance just to peddle an expensive course. That being said, your feelings are not in vain. This video reminded me much of a podcast episode about similar topics on motivation and struggle. It is from a neuroscientist named Andrew Huberman and the guest is David Goggins. It was released a few days ago and I think feel that it may help guide your path. I hope you are having a wonderful day and want to let you know that you have inspired me. God bless my friend!
The name of the podcast episode is “David Goggins: How to Build Immense Inner Strength.” Goggins does curse a bit but it’s worth a listen. Again I hope this helps!
I can’t hit “Like” on this enough. Every single word describes me and so many others as we strive to make our mark in this world with our camera. Keep creating, my friend. I subbed and I look forward to your next video.
When I get ready to start making something I watch a short playlist about 10 minutes long and your video is on there. Doesn't matter how big or small it seems, you definitely make an impact on the other side of the world without even knowing. Your art is beautiful but your heart is the real art in my opinion. Thanks 🙏
What matters most; is to be creative, overcome doubt & struggle to get along the path, make a difference, which is done by every creative choice. The rest life will sort out :)
Yes, I believe this is something that most artistic minds come across many many times. For myself, I think when I start feeling that feeling, I try to change styles, maybe after a while of taking photos of nature, I take photos of city, when tired of telephoto, some macro, when tires of daytime, then at night time. But even then, even someone who writes music, paints on canvas, writes a book... We suffer from loss of creativity. Sometimes, that is a strength though, because, when you find the creativity again, it is much more powerful.
It’s simply life… you have do to your best especially if “it’s not your day”, only in this way you’ll learn how to manage this struggle. And maybe in this way you’ll find and do something you wouldn’t never expected😊
In my opinion, when you go out you must not have expectations. Just go out with an open mind. Then you see more and you get more. And don't forget, succes is partly net working, and marketing, it is mostly business. You have to make a choice to be succesful or creative. That is my experience.
As an aspiring photographer, your words resonated with me. Being scared to even pursue a photography business because AI is sweeping this industry or because I look at other established photographers and compare my novice abilities to their seemingly experienced abilities. But at some point, I remind myself that every photographer has a different perspective that we could learn and be inspired from. We have to remember to look in moderation to receive inspiration and motivation.
Please don’t underestimate yourself. This video of yours is so creative and such an artistic output, regarding the struggles that all of us go through in our careers. Congratulations for putting out such a cool video!
We don't need to be productive all the time. We don't exceed our own expectations all the time. It's ok not to be the best. Just enjoy it, have fun, and keep up the good work. Greetings from brazil 🇧🇷
Merry Christmas Toshiki, I hope you had a great day and are looking forward to the New Year. We all go through this especially in the winter months and seeing all the rain in Montreal in sir being soggy when you go out to shoot is not fun either. Keep your head up and remember we are her if you want to talk. And one other thing you live in Montreal and we call that the swamp and there is no getting around it. Come for a visit to the mountains it has been beautiful out here and not as cold either. Merry Christmas again and I hope your mood has become better.
Toshiki, I'm a 78-year-old cinematographer who found my way to Montreal in my youth. I understand the challenges you're currently facing, and I'm here to convey a message of hope and assurance that, over time, you will overcome these obstacles and discover your path forward.
You should not be worried a bit. I find your channel the most refreshing, inspiring, meaningful and different one in years!
Definitely. I’m glad I found this channel recently, and I subscribed after seeing the first video. Keep making material in your own unique style!
That is the best summary of the creative struggle that all artists have I have seen in modern times. You are on the correct path to achieve important work. The sad thing is that as long as you are in the correct path you will never be satisfied or confident. It is my understanding and belief that Turner, Constable, Sargent, Einstein, Adams, and other artists all questioned their choices but they stayed on the path of making their own choices.
Thank you for expressing this so well. Charlie in Virginia
Dude. Really feeling this right now. Thank you. You're not alone.
Despite the struggle this is a beautiful and touching movie. Thank you.
This is literally me on a daily basis. Then, I am living with regret when I don't take pictures. Some days I go from chasing happiness with my pictures to equating my greatness to likes. Thanks for your posts each one moves me.
I felt that way and eventually quit photography about 10 years ago. All these years I had an empty space in my soul. Trying to get back into photography now. Love your channel!
This is every artists story. It's a struggle but the rewards, when they come, are worth it. We walk beside you.
Your work is amazing. Perfect never exists in the eye of the creator. Capture images that make you happy, that bring joy, or meaning to you, and the images are amazing. I gave up for 30 years because none of my work was good enough, a lost 30 years. Don't lose your youth worrying about perfection.
Thank you ！
Very helpful！
@@ToshikiYukawaphoto Love you brother, greetings from New Zealand, new sub, be encouraged and thank you for sharing.
This is such an inspiring video. Sometimes we can just think too hard instead of just letting the process flow.
There is so much in this video I can relate to! I set out to dedicate myself to photography this year and bought some nice used cameras and lenses. I've just been teaching myself and I think I'm getting better. But then I post my images to social media and I get no interest or feedback, and I see photos by other photographers and I end up feeling like my work is shit. I know we shouldn't compare our work to other photographers, but I think we all do it anyway. It's difficult not to when photo media apps are constantly inundating us with professional looking images. I still love photography and I'm going to continue doing it, but it's a depressing struggle sometimes. Thank you for your video, it's nice to know I'm not the only one struggling with this.
This is a beautiful film. ❤️ Thank you so much for sharing your thoughts.
Hi, I know this video is a year old but I just found it and your channel and I've been really inspired by it.
I'm still new to photography, but I know these feelings really well from making music. So many times I've held back from sharing and even finishing music because I was worried it wouldn't fully express what I'm able to, wouldn't fully live up to my expectation for myself, blah blah blah.
I've been thinking about this video and I think photography has an advantage here: it's something that can easily be done purely from love. When I look at old pictures, sometimes I'm impressed by the vision and taste of the photographer, but I equally enjoy looking at candid pictures taken by amateurs out of love. A photographer's vision can be dazzling, but a visionless picture also documents effectively, and can also communicate the photographer's love.
I have been taking pictures of Milwaukee and trying to figure out what I like so much about the built environment of this complicated city. I think doing that, and trying to see my love for a view as "enough", that the love is what's important about taste anyway, has helped me see the music I'm working on as "enough" too, even though it's not as impressive as my taste can imagine.
Anyway, thanks for your work in all of these videos, they really are an island in the sea of addicting gear reviews.
“Comparison is the enemy of happiness”
“Today you can easily reach information that originally you did not need to see.” This gave me a lot of pause- The internet keeps us glued in our seats, rather than exploring outside and using our own minds to develop our own knowledge.
Thank you for the honesty! We all struggle. Thank you for sharing
Let me start by saying that, by producing videos like this, you are expressing yourself creatively. This was a well thought out and wonderfully filmed short video. I’ve been trying to make videos like this, but can’t seem to get the shots I want, and my editing skills are poor. So, bravo for that.
It’s pointless to compare your gear/work to others. Comparison is the thief of joy. You could be in the exact same location, with the same camera, and with the same ideas, but come up with something completely different.
I found that, by narrowing down a few different factors, I have had much more success with finding joy through photography. I found a subject I was interested in and decided to create a project for myself. Same camera, same lens, same film stock. I only shoot on the weekends, and only one roll of film per day. Creativity is not endless, so I don’t want to waste it on trying to capture images not related to my project.
My suggestion is that you look back through your photo catalog and try to find a certain subject or theme that you often photograph. Ask yourself what it is about those few images that you’d like so much. How could you build on that and turn it into a project? Set ground rules. What camera are you going to use? What lens are you going to use? Color, or black-and-white? Then, get started on shooting. When you get home, don’t look at your photos. Shoot for a month before loading them onto your computer and reviewing them. Don’t edit them or delete any photos. Once you have decided that the timeline for your project has passed, then, and only then, can you start culling through the photographs, and choosing your favorites. Take your top 20 and make a book out of them. When you’re done, take a short break and start over again on a new project.
By doing this, you will find that you are no longer relying on videos or new gear for inspiration. None of those will be relevant to your project, and so it will be easier for you to focus on capturing the images within the restrictions you have placed on the project. I hope this helps.
This is beautiful. One of the aspects of photography that I love is that it cannot truly be mastered. Surely there are "masters" of the art, but even they say, my next photo will be the best. Welcome to the stuggle.
I stumbled upon this presentation of yours.......and love it. I'm an ol' man and even wonder myself, why do I photograph at this late age? Picked up serious photography late in my age, but what it boils down to is the passion to press on, to capture that brief moment in time, and to meet young, upcoming photographers on their journey that motivates me.
Comparison is a double edge sword. You should use it to motivate, but not to judge yourself. When in a low spot, the best way I get out of it is to just step outside with the cheapest camera and just have fun. Shoot as if you needed to document the world. No preconceived notions of professionalism, no idea of what people might think once I show this image. Just found your channel! Looking forward to watching more! Thanks for sharing!
Dude, you are describing me and my efforts at photography. The only thing keeping me at this, is the insane need for me to make images. Roll on my brother; it's all good.
Creativity ebbs and flows. Sometimes it slaps you in the face, sometimes it just taps you on the shoulder. Sometimes it does not show up. It is quite normal for you to not find things inspiring to do your art. I've been a commercial photographer for many years and I also paint and draw and make ceramics. When one thing feels a bit stale I just move on to the other thing. But for me sometimes something as simple as a change of venue helps make things feel new again. A trip to the ocean or the mountains or to a new city or if you are a street photographer sometimes the challenge of making a photo of a still life can be refreshing. I enjoyed your video you made. I think the idea of the creative challenge is universal but you also made it appealing visually.
Toshiki, you are not alone. I attempt to excommunicate worry about my art, photography. But, I get out with my “tool” regardless of how I feel or what I think may happen. I go. That’s when surprise arrives. And it’s wonderful. This is our way…and that’s okay…
Being stuck is part of the journey. Be with it, feel it, it will pass. Thank you, your work is beautiful.
So good to share feelings, hesitations and questions. Too many photographers are providing answers not worth sharing.
Yukawa-san, we all go this struggle at different points in time of our lives. My motto now is "Learn from the past to build for the future". That's how I manage my life now.
Hi Yoshiki, I'm a photographer too. One thing that has greatly helped me on my journey is avoiding the mindset of "the end" or "the final destination." I strive to stay present, though it's challenging. Falling in love with the ongoing journey, rather than aspiring to become a Cartier-Bresson someday, is my philosophy. It's how I approach both my photography and life. :)
Toshiki, something I have learned over 50 years making images, is that sometime pushing through your struggle with motivation is reason to take them. One trick I had when I feel this way was to take images, but wait for a few months before processing them. They become fresh. But yes- we are all stuck in our own ways
the shot at .24 seconds is beautiful and impactful. Very good. Ahh... the inner workings of an artist. Loved the vulnerability in this video. It's nice to know I'm not alone in this way of thinking. Thanks for making this video. :)
Thank you my friend
Thanks for watching！
Damn! This might be my first comment on RUclips during 2023 but your video is worth commenting on. This is extremely relatable for me. I feel like this almost every day, not afraid of the future and that I’m worse than other but the thing that I wake up motivated and go out without taking a single photo. Thanks for this video and putting words on the situation. I got new motivation now and think I’m gonna go outside now and return home without any photo and be more happy with the fact that life is a struggle 😂
All are common human thoughts and emotions shared by so many of us. Keep doing what you're doing. This is a fantastic youtube channel.
As we say here in the US, you’re preaching to the choir. We’ve all been there where you are. We’ve all wrestled with doubts about our photography. Very insightful video. Thanks for sharing!
a week ago, it was raining hard. I figured, "hey, lets go downtown Montreal and make photos", ... but I didn't. Looks like you did. Thumbs up just for that.
For me, comparing my work is the way I use to see if I am getting forward. I compare today with what I have done in the past. This way, I feel better and more motivated. I had feelings like you when my goals were too high. No expectations, no deceptions. Thanks for your inspiring videos.
Just subscribed. I take a camera with me every day when I go to work, nine of ten times without photographing anything going to or from, and disappoint myself. I can’t take pix at work because of the type of work I do.
Meditation, however, along with reading and listening about (Zen-) Buddhism, Taoism, Tolle, Watts…all have taught me things about not letting thoughts be my master, since we are not our thoughts. Since being on that path I don’t beat myself up anymore about it, and just enjoy the moments when I do take a picture. If I die without “making a mark”, becoming great or even good, then that’s all right. I sense you already know.
Btw I’m in eastern Ontario and find Montreal and Toronto are miles apart, and not just on a map.
Every photo captures a unique moment in time which will never happen again. Pay attention to the details of that moment and enjoy the fact that you have a picture of it.
I repeat to watch this video many and more from this morning. Because I'm you, you are me... we have same hesitation, impatience and so on same as other photographers in the world. Thank you for sharing this.
Dear Toshiki, Thanks for sharing your thoughts in such a beautiful way wit hall of us. As you said, it's not about finding a 'perfect solution' it's about finding your way on the way... The key-sentence for me was "If you like it, it's cool". I am lucky enough to do Photography as a profession and as my personal passion. And over all the years, my only really hard critic was always myself. Still, I get stressed by thinking about a clients reaction when sending out preview galleries of a just finished job. On the other hand, I am convinced this is something good, showing I care, I always want to get the best possible outcome... To finish: Yesterday, I had my last assignment for 2023 and photographed a Japanese Sushi-Chef. His calmness, I would even use the word gentleness in the process of creating a piece of Art every time, made me appreciate the fact that the process of creating something is the reward in the end. ...
We are all stuck... yeah.
Thanks brother for helping me feel like I am not the only one. Not that knowing some else is feeling stuck makes me feel good, just that it helps me feel like there are others who are wrestling with these feelings.
Thank you for another thought provoking video Toshiki.
I really like your channel. Your vlog is very genuine. I’m an artist photographer (enthusiast). My struggle is, I can’t really do my creativity when I desire to because I work. Not that work is a bad thing, but I feel my creativity restraint. I guess this “caught in between” feeling is an artist thing.
Keep doing what you do, as you inspire me even more. Thank you.
Toshiki, that was beautifully expressed - not just for yourself but for all of us. What can we do but follow our paths and see where they lead.
This was beautiful, honest and insightful. It takes a lot of courage to speak so open and honestly and I am honored you shared your story. You have brought tears to my eyes because this inner dialogue of yours is so familiar to me. My schooling was finance and worked hard to get a good job in its field. But life throws twists and turns and I found myself feeling as a failure and I couldn’t go on. After some help from my wife, I took up photography and found it very rewarding, yet also anxious inducing if I’m honest. I never was very good and I stopped doing it @12-13 years ago because I just wasn’t feeling rewarded by it. So I moved towards doing more videos on another RUclips channel I run and that helps my creative side when it rears its head. It’s still a struggle at times. So please forgive me for talking about myself, but I so rarely hear such honesty and a feeling of kinship. We will never meet, but I truly hope you continue doing what you are doing. The filming is top-notch and you make visual stunning videos.
I am now subscribed after watching a few videos and I really enjoyed learning of the first photographer in Japan. Please continue doing what you are doing and maybe you can visit my home state of Utah here in the US if you are ever interested in landscape photography.
Cheers
Keep exploring the moment without expectation. Be open to the awareness of what is and what arises, in the unexpected. We cannot control our thoughts nor our creativity. Presence is letting go into being without duality. Thoughts are like the passing weather and clouds that move on by in the sky. Do not attach, simply watch them. Simply be open in awareness honing your attention with all your senses, relaxing and expanding your awareness into seeing.
A dreary rainy winters day in Montreal can get to the best of us. Hold Fast … you’ll find your groove in no time. Thanks for all your excellent videos! 📷🌞
This video was absolutely so spot on. I remember feeling this exact thing non stop. I am anxious about staring a YT and learning how to edit and create content. There is so much for me to learn. Whenever I take good photos or videos, I feel anxiety about the next because the standard is higher now. I always have to re-evaluate my edits and get better in creating beautiful images. However, I am learning day by day to let go and give it all to God. Lets keep moving together
Every day, I make an effort to maintain my focus on the things that truly matter to me. I always remind myself that contradictions are a part of who I am. In those moments, I feel grateful and find inner peace.
Rule No.1 while shooting street. Take the first pic within the first 100 meters of walk. No matter, what it is, how bad the result is - you need to get into it, get in the flow. Once you took the first one, take the next one.
Thanks for sharing your thoughts and feelings. Not always being self-confident might be one of the biggest driver of personal growth. Embrace it.
You did a wonderful job here of detailing these kinds of thoughts, which I think most artists have at some point. I'm always trying to let go of the idea that my work needs to get better and better… not because it doesn't, but because more and more I realize I'll always be the worst judge of what that looks like. If I can let go enough to just keep making new work, I'll let future me decide what the best parts of it are.
Also, as an ex-resident of Montreal myself, I feel like this video especially captures a big part of the loneliness and despair of that city, especially in the colder months.
I feel your pain. I also just watched an awesome RUclips piece of art: your video! You're doing wonderful work, and no photographer hits a home run every day (much less a grand slam). Keep taking one step at a time, as you've beautifully said in your way in your video. I wish you the best in the coming new year and thank you for sharing your process and art with us.
This is beautiful. A very real look at what so many of us face each day.
Thanks！
Every artist goes through this. The answer is not easy but what works it to quite comparing yourself to others. Just make work without judging it. Making work for the sake of making work is when the muse comes to visit. This time is magical! You can not make it happen. You can only create and environment then let it happen.
I don’t know how much you realize there are so many people like me, whose favorite photographer is you. お疲れ様です！いつもたくさんのインスピレーションとやる気をくれてありがとうございます。一緒に頑張りましょう❣️
Wow, thank you！
ありがとうございます！
頑張りましょう！
You are most definitely an artist. I love your work. Thanks for sharing your heart.
I love this video along with your honesty and sincerity. I have been through the exact same thought processes. I put an insane amount of time into taking photographs - hobby only - and posting them on social media to get hardly any positive reaction. I must admit it's disappointing, but then I remember the real reason I take pictures; it gets me out every day for long walks, I bump into people, they are strangers. I ask if I can take their picture and we chat, smile, joke a bit and I move on. The picture process pleases me and the subject, even if nobody else on social media. My resulting images always frustrate me too - never good enough.
My photography hobby opens my eyes to the world. Even when I haven't got a camera with me, I "see" photo opportunities because I am actually looking out, instead of walking blind like many people or looking at their phone screen. I also go out for photo walks and come home with nothing sometimes. It doesn't matter too much because there is so much more to a walk than photos. Real artists create for themselves, not for others. Your struggle is what makes you great - all artists struggle; it's an essential part of the creative soul.
Thoughtful words and looking at the cinematography of the video you are an artist, you can see. Pressure, negativity, just hold onto doing what makes you happy, it will come good.
I think it is really important to understand that we can't take good photos every time, be easy on ourself. Just try our best every single time.
This video was saved to one of my personal lists, “THE PHENOM.” Sir, you are inspirational. Keep creating. Your day is EVERY DAY.
Wow, thank you!
I hear you brother, I have the same thoughts. But I think you said it best when you said something like, "if I like my photos, then that is good". Although I enjoy many great photos taken in amazing locations (I like and try to do landscape photography), I no longer regret not going to those "great" places but try to look for local opportunities that have their own beauty. (A lot cheaper than traveling the world.)
it's tough. some days I go out hoping and wanting to do well but come home empty handed or disappointed ; other days I don't think anything special will happen and then it does. you can't put too much pressure on yourself. relaxing is better I reckon. I shoot a lot of film , and oddly its the last photo on the roll that often turns out better once you've been shooting and getting into the zone emotionally and creatively.
wow - perfectly captured in less than five minutes, thank you. it helps knowing great photographers feel this too.
Great to hear!
Fantastic. I agree. Let’s all be stuck in the present. Beautiful video.
Hello Toshiki,
I know that feeling well, but let me tell you something, your videos are a great source of inspiration for me. A totally different perspective from what we currently have. I hope you continue with your excellent work. Because current photography is simply based on vues and cameras.
Excellent. I enjoy your work very much.
Thank you Toshiko, you have done an excellent job of summarizing what monkey brain does inside my head when I think about my photography, though I am more of a landscape photographer than a street photographer, the mental obstacles are the same. I was also surprised to see that we both live in Montreal. May 2024 be a positive year for you.
Everything you said resonates so much with my own experience, especially about the part about becoming anxious when thinking about the future. I think these are the struggles of many, many artists and I like that you ended the video with that phrase. Society tend to view creative careers as "fun" or "inspiring". But the truth is that we are daily warriors. We might not be on a physical battlefield, but our battle is ongoing constantly inside our head. Perfectionism, low self-confidence, anxiety of failing, fear of rejection, self-criticism, procrastination, depression, need for validation, burnout... these are just a few examples of things artists deal with every single day. The best thing we can do is support each other and take breaks when we need it.
I'm so happy I found your channel!! It's one of the very few that I find so beautiful thanks to your cinematography and photography, and yet still authentic and unique.
Wow, thank you so much for your support. I love your idea that we can support each other.
Thanks！
Incredibly articulated feelings of something we are all experiencing. The truth is no matter what we choose to do in life, we are going to experience self doubt and a feeling of difficulty, even after we get a sense of achievement from that very thing we love. It's the cycle of life, ups and downs, ebbs and flows, good times and bad times. Learning to embrace the rough through expresing how you feel and pushing through it like you show here is definitely the way to go. I appreciate this video so much, thanks for sharing it, Toshiki.
Thanks for making this video, totally spot on. And what an incredible way to show Montreal! Beautiful cinematic storytelling! Great job!
Love this. It’s always a struggle- now is all that matters. Your ideas, philosophy and insight are valuable, and many of us out here appreciate you sharing them.
You are so welcome!
I am taking a break from photography, although I have had the good fortune and opportunity to do photo exhibitions and have some of my photos published around.
I feel that as far as street photography is concerned everything has become the same, photographs that are very similar to each other, born to please people, to get to contests first and to satisfy the pleasure of some photo editor rather than being made because at that moment one had the desire to make them.
Despite this feeling, I feel that I have now become envious of the likes and numbers on social media that so many photographers have, despite the uninteresting content.
When I leave the house to take photos, I no longer feel the joy I used to, I only think about whether the photo I am taking will go viral or whether I will like it, when in fact I should like it first and foremost.
The only thing related to photography that I still have is your channel, which I really appreciate.
Sorry for my bad English.
Thank you for sharing your wisdom, you are making me seeing photography from a different perspective and I love it. 🤗🌸☀️
I totally know the feeling. Some times inspiration comes in waves. You may between waves right now but a big wave is coming to lift you back up friend! Stay positive, keep your chin up, and keep grinding. The best is yet to come for you Toshiki. 👍 Fantastic video by the way and thank you.
Brilliantly constructed, Artistically presented video. Stands out from the swamp of other Videos. Well Thought out. Well done.
Beautiful, love Monochrome look. Melancholy mood is great BUT good to not overthink. We're so fortunate to be be alive and able to survive. Happy New Year.
hi tashiki, wow such an inspiring video after fullmoon night here in switzerland with not much sleep. I often feel the same way as you do. Looking forward to see more of those well thought out shots in the future and I love your creative view but also your critique not only on you but also big parts of our creator community that we as workers in this field includes. tashiki, please never forget, your probably biggest strength which shows me you are in fact a true artist is the following: STORYTELLING.
Interesting to see what you are bringing online next.
best regards,
marc
Your own experience reflects reality of life. Finding that inner sanctity only comes in patches for creativity. Try totally changing your environment sometimes and see how you react. It often works for me, and the spell of enthusiasm can last a while and for all environments. It doesn't matter if one goes out and comes back with nothing. Thanks for uploading. 😊
Thank you！
Thank you for the video. That was very valuable to me. For me the most important part was „let’s struggle together. That’s the only way to create something.“ I believe that too.
You look very genuine, likeable person
This happens to me all the time, and I am on the wrong side of 60 years old. Somedays you just have to livefor your own happiness.The hell with everything else.
"let's struggle together"
Yes! Subscribed
A truly inspiring and motivating video, now we know that in our struggle we are not alone. Let’s continuing been creative.
your words resonated so strongly it was if you were reading them from my mind thank you so much for saying what we are all possibly thinking, it was a breath of fresh air.
Hello friend! I just started my photography journey and you have been the only channel I have found that actually focuses on the art instead of meaningless nuance just to peddle an expensive course. That being said, your feelings are not in vain. This video reminded me much of a podcast episode about similar topics on motivation and struggle. It is from a neuroscientist named Andrew Huberman and the guest is David Goggins. It was released a few days ago and I think feel that it may help guide your path. I hope you are having a wonderful day and want to let you know that you have inspired me. God bless my friend!
The name of the podcast episode is “David Goggins: How to Build Immense Inner Strength.” Goggins does curse a bit but it’s worth a listen. Again I hope this helps!
I can’t hit “Like” on this enough. Every single word describes me and so many others as we strive to make our mark in this world with our camera. Keep creating, my friend. I subbed and I look forward to your next video.
Your shot composition for this video doesn't feel stuck at all. Well done.
We all struggle together. Thank you and all the best in coming year.
When I get ready to start making something I watch a short playlist about 10 minutes long and your video is on there. Doesn't matter how big or small it seems, you definitely make an impact on the other side of the world without even knowing. Your art is beautiful but your heart is the real art in my opinion. Thanks 🙏
Thank you for sharing！
What matters most; is to be creative, overcome doubt & struggle to get along the path, make a difference, which is done by every creative choice. The rest life will sort out :)
Yes, I believe this is something that most artistic minds come across many many times.
For myself, I think when I start feeling that feeling, I try to change styles, maybe after a while of taking photos of nature, I take photos of city, when tired of telephoto, some macro, when tires of daytime, then at night time.
But even then, even someone who writes music, paints on canvas, writes a book... We suffer from loss of creativity.
Sometimes, that is a strength though, because, when you find the creativity again, it is much more powerful.
It’s simply life… you have do to your best especially if “it’s not your day”, only in this way you’ll learn how to manage this struggle. And maybe in this way you’ll find and do something you wouldn’t never expected😊
In my opinion, when you go out you must not have expectations. Just go out with an open mind. Then you see more and you get more. And don't forget, succes is partly net working, and marketing, it is mostly business. You have to make a choice to be succesful or creative. That is my experience.
As an aspiring photographer, your words resonated with me. Being scared to even pursue a photography business because AI is sweeping this industry or because I look at other established photographers and compare my novice abilities to their seemingly experienced abilities.
But at some point, I remind myself that every photographer has a different perspective that we could learn and be inspired from. We have to remember to look in moderation to receive inspiration and motivation.
Please don’t underestimate yourself. This video of yours is so creative and such an artistic output, regarding the struggles that all of us go through in our careers. Congratulations for putting out such a cool video!
Thank you so much!!
This is so relatable for a lot of creatives! Really well expressed, Toshiki! 👏
Thank you so much!!
We don't need to be productive all the time.
We don't exceed our own expectations all the time.
It's ok not to be the best.
Just enjoy it, have fun, and keep up the good work.
Greetings from brazil 🇧🇷
I love your channel, please keep making more content. I really needed to hear this today.
What a great video really articulated what a lot of us are feeling
Merry Christmas Toshiki, I hope you had a great day and are looking forward to the New Year. We all go through this especially in the winter months and seeing all the rain in Montreal in sir being soggy when you go out to shoot is not fun either. Keep your head up and remember we are her if you want to talk. And one other thing you live in Montreal and we call that the swamp and there is no getting around it. Come for a visit to the mountains it has been beautiful out here and not as cold either. Merry Christmas again and I hope your mood has become better.
great video. yes, the struggle is real and part of the game. reduce social media and the own expectations will help, of course. and keep going 😊🤩
I have recently discovered your channel. The videos you produce resonate with me so well. Thank you for this content, long may it continue.
Thank you for sharing your story with me. I could resonate to that feelings.