All Photographers Will Meet This Toxic Person One Day

[@SubiTrekker]

When I was a working, successful photographer, I only cared that two people liked my photos - Me and my client. Now, that I am retired, I have lowered that number to one.

[@billbaker9623]

Absolutely

[@patrickmcmahon818]

Perfect!

[@don06281]

Bravo.

[@theovanberkel3524]

So right !!!

[@bernym4047]

That's also my chief aim 😀

[@macmij]

Life is easier if you choose to ignore all the assholes you occasionally come in contact with.

[@ThePhotographicEye]

It does get a lot better, you're right

[@baobo67]

Right mac. Don,t let that .01% spoil you day and love Karma. Cheers

[@andrewsimpson5436]

it may well be easier but only having people blow smoke up your ass all the time might not be a fair reflection either.

[@Anon54387]

​@@ThePhotographicEye People in something artistic (like photography, music, oil painting) having a set way is a contradiction in terms. An engineer has to build a bridge that won't fall down, that is a must in bridge building, and that necessarily makes things narrower in scope. One has a narrow scope at work no matter what one does for a living, artistic photography is a break from all that, whether participating in the making of it or the viewing of it. To be narrow in one's approach to it takes away the very artistic nature of it and turns it into a form of accounting. Leave the accountancy to the CPAs and while they are at work. Only a photographer that does it for a living without a non-photographic day job can look at it this way (and I'm not saying ALL pro photographers have this narrow conception), totally forgetting about the artistic component to it, those of us who are not pro photographers use it as an artistic escape because our jobs are not particularly creative HATE to see an artistic pursuit reduced to a formula.

[@Anon54387]

@@ThePhotographicEye Imagine if David Bowie or Mozart approached music this way, or any other number of musician types. It'd be technically correct but boring because there'd be no soul, creativity or style to it. When we hear a piece of music that really speaks to us as people it isn't because it is technically correct, but because there is an emotion to that rendition that really gets us. Music shouldn't be approached as if one was manufacturing a steel beam, as important as steel is to modern life, no one reacts to steel the way they do to art.

[@ashstubbings2603]

Just thought I'd tell you that I spent the whole of this video nodding in agreement with everything you said. I've found over the years, that these so called 'Gatekeepers' don't just criticise your photography, but they can also criticise your photography gear! For instance, years ago when I was just starting out, and all I had was a Bridge Camera, (which was in actual fact one of the best cameras I've ever owned) and someone had the audacity to tell me that because I wasn't using a DSLR, it was not a 'proper' camera! Shear snobbery, that's all it is!

[@valdiskrebs566]

Great advice! Why I quit my camera club … getting feedback from people stuck in a rut … a dull one.

[@valdiskrebs566]

Great advice! Why I quit my camera club … getting feedback from people stuck in a rut … a dull one.

[@danncorbit3623]

On Pexels, I have seen great, heart-stopping photography work with cell phones and drones. The image comes from the eye of the photographer and other than understanding the best way to use it, the equipment is completely irrelevant. With all the great new gear, why aren't there 10,000 Ansel Adams clones running about making brilliant images that make people swoon?

[@TDtog2112]

A photography friend of mine Mike Browne has a saying. `Cameras don't take pictures people do' and the old saying `It's not what you have it's how you use it'. I don't think when you look at any image you can instantly tell what it was taken on especially these days with camera phones as well.

[@johnarmstrong5727]

The latest fad is those with mirrorless cameras saying the DSLR I use is now outdated (14 years old & still works well) and you also need to be using umpteen apps on the latest phone to be a proper photographer.

[@rayjermyn4541]

Interesting. I gave up going to camera clubs decades ago when I realized I didn't need to be judged so long as I was happy learning from my mistakes and educating myself

[@coltharwood494]

Years ago I worked as a photographer for a local newspaper. I was asked to be a judge at a local camera club competition. I found the vast majority of the photos to be nearly clones of each other. It seemed to me that the club had a certain idea of how photos should look and everyone followed what they considered the norm. There was very little creativity. I also noticed that the same three people had won every competition in the past; they were the senior officers of the club. I picked what I felt were the most creative of the photos and they did not include the three officers work. I was never asked to be judge again.

[@richardtierney7724]

Me too.. after a few years as a Press Photographer on a Regional Evening paper ( change of career but still was a passionate "hobbyist" When I retired I decided to joying the local camera club..... After 2 months of trying my damn best to "integrate" and show interest, to see the same people win every club comp. The rest seemed to simply treat the club as a social club, a place to meet to chat and not take part in any photography related way. There were little cliques huddled in groups that made no effort to welcome and encourage new members...... I left after that 3 months, my suspicions proven....

[@stevevoke]

I've been a member of photo clubs for quite sometime now, at least 20 years or more, and have always found them to be places where I have improved and learnt new technics. I don't always appreciate the style of other people's photos, but I can still learn something from them. I guess I've been lucky with the different clubs I've joined, where friendship, encouragement and constructive criticism are values that rank highly, and it's not about simply obeying photo technics and rules!

[@charlieribeiro6343]

Just avoid forums. Invariably filled with pixel peeping bores that lack the creative wisdom to offer helpful advice. Best thing I ever did was avoid them. I'll add camera clubs too, but that's only due to personal experience.

[@joshuablack3163]

One of the best part of photography is the artistic freedom. There are always ways to make a photo “technically” better and sometimes there is room for solicited critique, but at the end of the day if the photographer and/or THIER target audience react appropriately to the photo, it’s a great photo.

[@ThePhotographicEye]

True, true

[@chriscard6544]

One of my friend told me some day that my photographs have a lack of inner movement. I said Ok. I've been thinking a lot about it. 2 months later, she came back with the same words. And I told her, my photographs will never contain any movement because my approach and my photography is about silence and immobility. I cant be another person. So yeah. You are right. She is a woman that moves all the time in vain, to exist.

[@flightographist]

Sounds like you are successfully executing your technique if even a vapid imbecile can get the point.

[@alstuart8801]

Great video Alex... " not enough details in the shadows" is a favourite with Camera Club judges when it comes to my B&W images.. More often than not if i look at these judges websites i find they havent posted anything since 2010.! .

[@12symmo]

Step 1, refer them to Ralph Gibson. Step 2, there is no step 2.

[@Resgerr]

Peter Elgar (on KZbin) a retired regional press photographer, showed on of his photographs of a church in Europe he entered into his local camera club. Was told the picture would have looked better photo stacked. Peter replied: 'That's hard to do with film'.🤣

[@brucebrown4480]

I think Alex addressed this quite well, sometimes I (could be anyone) just don't want the details in the shadows.

[@garymckenzie9307]

I had a recent experience where I put 2 images I love in to a local camera club competition for the first time. They were rated as 9 and 10 out of 20 in B Grade. Yet these same 2 images were part of a portfolio that got me admitted to a Master of Arts degree in photography!! They were experimental images that were not the norm, and obviously hated by the judge, but loved by the lecturers at the college I attend!! I now no longer go to that photography club......to restrictive in what they judge as good.

[@duncansteward4331]

Camera Clubs not the place to go to be different thats for sure.

[@richcox]

Really sucks when they run photo organizations

[@geminidreame]

Make photos that make you happy!

[@ThePhotographicEye]

totally

[@JeffSchemmer]

I began enjoying photography again when I started tuning out the "experts." Thank you for this channel!

[@blackcygnus3177]

Awesome video,!!! When I was 16 and starting out my photographic journey I attended a photography club in Basildon Essex and submitted 2 photo's for review to encounter not a single word of encouragement in 5 minute review. This experience left me with a vivid memory and emotions which stopped me taking photographs for 6 months. Now 40 years I focus on my photography ignoring the opinions of all but a few people who are objective, experienced and innovative. Your opinions are spot on Alex. Thank you for making a yet another sensible video which encourage people.

[@user-tn1vc1xz5d]

I love sunset shots. I used to get told i was underexposing. How else do i get the mountains black and deep orange sky glow? I used to do 50:50 water reflection shots. Also some would say thirds only. My shots come out well and i love them. I show others to follow passion, experiment, find their style. And enjoy. Love your channel ❤

[@HaakonOdinsson]

You do reflection shots like me, 50/50. To me it seemed natural to place the horizon in the middle for such shots…with variations for the best of what your eye is seeing. There are always those that judge and belittle others, maybe they are jealous of your creativity and skill. Carry on sir, all the best 💪

[@user-tn1vc1xz5d]

Thanks very much 😊😊. I use a trusty Canon 650D. It's all I need, the hard bit is getting it into the right place at the right time 😂😂😂

[@HaakonOdinsson]

@@user-tn1vc1xz5d hahaha, yes, I have the same problem at times, getting it to the right place at the right time, never easy. Nice little camera that Canon, I used to have a Nikon, sorry, lol. I tend to revisit the same places multiple times, different times, different weather etc, just so I may be lucky and get the shot I’m can see in my minds eye….not always successful though, but hey, we try huh. Keep snapping and all the best to you 🙂

[@bobrfotos]

Stay positive and ignore the HATERS... They are very unhappy people who have nothing in their lives but hate.

[@blaaaksheephomestead]

I just tell them it's cutting edge avant garde... and they obviously don't have "vision" 😂😂😂 Followed with a DILLIGAF face 🤨

[@rogerbradbury9713]

It's not just in photography, but all over. In the classic motorcycle world there are "rivet counters"; men who will tell you that your nicely (and expensively) restored motorcycle is not quite as it left the factory, and they'll tell you why, in detail. But there's a subset of these types, who upon seeing the new BSA 650cc Gold Star parked up have to tell the proud owner why it isn't a "real BSA" and that they would never buy one. I think it's because the BSA name has been bought by an overseas company and they feel their World is broken.

[@ddelacruz]

I was going to comment along the same lines of experiencing these "kind" folk outside photography. Someone always had something destructive to say but when pressed offer no real solutions. That's why I don't bowl and I don't do softball. 🤣 There's always "professionals" who impede on a good time. 😂

[@GeoffreyWilliams66]

If someone comments negatively on your work could you just reply with "Thank you for spending so much time looking at my photos, I'm glad you felt compelled to study it long enough to critique it!"

[@aoefeable]

Well said! I think people who are “gatekeepers” are often people with little control over their own lives and want to do anything (good or bad) to control others / it makes them feel powerful.

[@traceyrichards3062]

Unfortunately I found this happened to me via a camera club. I eventually left as it was destroying my self confidence. Once I threw off all their rules I started to enjoy photography again.

[@johnarmstrong5727]

I found the same as most of the clubs & their judges are all linked to the PAGB which like to dictate what you do in your spare time and I am no longer a member.

[@drum009]

I like to take snapshots. I don't say I'm a photographer. It's a hobby for me, not a job so I don't feel any pressure to make a "nice" pic 👍😎

[@EdLyk]

Same here, I once put on a macro lens and spent a weekend taking pictures of the wood grain on the wall. And I was perfectly happy.

[@the_rat_run]

I've only been into photography 50 years (honestly!) and never had the urge to go beyond taking pictures that I liked. I chuckle fondly at the youngsters just discovering film photography... I was also in a photo club 50 years ago, when I was very green, realised that I wasn't cut out for what others considered right, so went my own way. Now I really want to troll the trolls on Social Media... 🤣

[@leirumf5476]

I once got comment bombed by someone criticizing my photos because I'm queer. I screenshotted them, and I look at them from time to time. The fact that this person comment bombed tonts of photos, which... I could found tons of flaws on, yet the only criticism they were able to make was something personal about myself (and not even something bad at it) meant that, perhaps, all those flaws are more visible to me than to everyone else. And that's definitely something I should remind to myself often!

[@samkennedy9812]

I love doing my photography ... I do it for myself , what i like and no one else. Thank you for this video ... all photographers should just ignore all the people out there that believe they are the only ones that have ever used a camera , and their way is the only way .. thanks for your channel .. keep doing what you do . ☑

[@Anon54387]

That's why I never post my stuff on social media. I do have an account on Flickr with no photos, and that rubs some people wrong, but in fairness I only comment on photos of people who's work I do like and refrain from negative comments on photos I don't like.

[@edthesecond]

I belong to an online photo group and I've only 'won' one challenge in 10 years, which used to bother me. For the record, no one has been negative about my work, it just doesn't fit. I photograph Biker runs, Metal bands, Drag Races, and local LowRider and other kinds of gatherings in a primarily Latino community. I post the photos and make them available to the participants and my images have been showing up on a bunch of smart phones and FB pages. That's the payoff, along with the fun of taking the photo-and hanging out with really nice people. Enriching someone's life by honoring them more than makes up for not getting 'likes'. Also, the other photographers in those groups tend to be very supportive of other photographers, unlike some photographers I've encountered in Photo Meetups.

[@ChrisVerhaegen-m2d]

For more than 30 years I taught at the architecture department of an art school in Brussels. Your presentation is actually our pedagogical project. How can we support the student in their vision, challenge them, provide them with tools, ... Now I am retired and have been enrolled in the photography department of 'my' school for some time and I am back on the other side. Fascinating.

[@tedgoldman9121]

Could well be your most important video! The most critical skill in art is courage!! Cheers Alex!!

[@anta40]

As a hobbyist, I make photographs first for my own pleasure. Being appreciated is certainly very nice, but not a must. That's why I simply ignore those "toxic criticisms". Actually this applies to any form of art (music, sculpture, etc etc). What's considered beauty by A may be seen as rubbish by B. Oh well :D

[@ThePhotographicEye]

Totally it’s a completely objective art form and I really don’t understand why people get so dogmatic about what’s wrong

[@SimonBurnCreative]

Those who put others down are hurting inside. I feel sorry for them. On the other hand, it's hard to offer any kind of help these days without immediately being labelled a gatekeeper. It's probably best to say nothing, ignore everyone, or simply keep off social media platforms and just do your thing.

[@RS-uv3bd]

There will always be people that don’t like your work for various reasons. Sometimes it feels personal and others it’s just someone’s opinion. I always remind myself that there are people that don’t like Van Gough’s The Starry Night, shrug at the Sistine Chapel, and don’t like any music by the Beatles. And that is okay. It’s their opinion. Not mine. So why should I expect everyone to like my work if I don’t even like all of it? One of the greatest challenges in photography and pretty much all art mediums is finding the right person/people to critique your work. I personally never thought my work was very good, despite winning several contests and being published until my brother told me he thought it was good. He never would say something nice to make me feel better. But he would never rip apart my work to make me feel better about it either. My enjoyment and passion wasn’t dependent on his opinion, but it is important to find the right people that you trust to talk to you about your work that are worth listening to.

[@brucebrown4480]

Truth. I know that I have seen many "works" of art that just don't do anything for me. I appreciate how good they are and what they represent, but they just never excited me. On the other hand, as I suspect everyone else has, I have seen some artwork that would make a critic cringe that I thought was very interesting because the artist did something that was interesting to me. Art is subjective at the very core of its existence, what makes one person (or many) excited about looking at it, just doesn't do anything for others.

[@jrwojick]

It is so frustrating that folks need to tear people down to make themselves feel better. So much nonsense.

[@FilJR99]

Thank you so much for this video! You are always so considerate and uplifting that I always want to immediately go pick up my camera again. I’ve been photographing for more than 20 years now but I’ve always struggled with criticism, either from myself or from other people, so it is comforting to hear this.🙏🏻

[@johnplanck3036]

Great topic and direction. When this happens in a group I often find the "head gatekeepers" posted photos in the group. I would say 60% of the time they have never posted a photo to the group. The other 40% either break some of the very things they are preaching, or just have a completely different (their comfort zone) style. It is important to consider feedback and double check your work (as you said, and decide, no this is good, or wait I see what they mean). I find street photography groups to be some of the most brutal, not sure why. Educational/workshop groups tend to be far more helpful in my experience.

[@neilmarshment2910]

Hi Alex, a very interesting perspective, this is something that I have observed and not only with photography, it is a trend on social platforms. I run a very small photography club, it is all about inspiration, experimentation and specifically no photograph is a bad photograph - open to anyone with any sort of camera. Some of the members have moved away from traditional club because of the judgemental nature that exists. Photography is a journey, it is creative and every photograph deserves open discussion and appreciation. This why I love photography so much.

[@CapricornGirl9]

Years ago I was complaining about a photographers style to a co-worker (we’d just finished marketing headshots with the photographer). The co-worker said to me “it’s not cool to bash this other photographer, it shows a lack of class and says more about you than the photographer.” I took that single statement to heart. If I don’t like someone’s work I keep my mouth shut OR I find something about the image to compliment the photographer on. Thanks for the video and reminder to always be kind.

[@delthomas-n4m]

Everything you said strikes a chord with me. Years ago, I put together a small display of my favourite landscape images at the local boat club and someone commented that anyone with a phone could take these photos. Initially I was fairly hurt by this but it left me thinking about ways to develop my images in different ways and I then got into ICM and long exposure images which, at the time, couldn’t be done with a phone camera. So, ultimately the negative comment was helpful to me. Very recently I was looking for inspiration and went along to a couple of meetings of the local photo club only to discover that it was dominated by 2 or 3 individuals who were only too happy to give negative feedback to others and tell them how they would have done things better without offering any positive suggestions. I quickly decided that this wasn’t the club for me and haven’t been back. Your video confirms that I took the right steps on both occasions And, by the way, I enjoyed the song title headings throughout this video - very clever!

[@rodmehta5356]

Seriously don't give a toot about what anybody else thinks.

[@joebasswizard]

This is why I love you, though. I'll be honest I don't always like your work, but I always respect it 100%. I love your creativity, insights and approach to photography. Your vids always encourage me to have confidence in my own approach. I don't know if this would help anyone trying to assess the difference between valuable critique and not, but my approach has always been: is the criticism something you've not thought about before? E.g. criticism about contrasty B&W is not useful if you're intentionally and creatively pursuing that technique. OTOH, if you've never thought about it at all before, it might be worth thinking about before disregarding... Research the subject a bit and see what you feel about their perspective. Ultimately, creative choice is your own, and the most creative people are often the most confident in their own process.

[@joeatkins4470]

I think this can be applied to way more than photography. I have had this sort of interaction throughout my forty years as an artist (in many medium) Thankfully it has never managed to change my approach. My work comes from me and that is the only way that I can see it.

[@daveys]

There’s a massive difference between “try a more aggressive crop” or “try increasing the contrast” and “your work is rubbish”. Certainly ignore the latter, but do consider the others…don’t necessarily make the changes, but do consider them.

[@ThePhotographicEye]

Yes, you do get a nose for these kind of things after one, but I wanted to help people who maybe don’t have so much experience overcome this toxicity

[@daveys]

@@ThePhotographicEye - I agree. I think that it’s good to be able to recognise the difference between supportive and destructive comments in any job/role. Even supportive comments are optional as changes. Even the more science side of art and photography is open to challenge.

[@terryshampoe]

I think toxic for the sake of being toxic is accurate. I would also add that this is way to show their superiority. I am a retired chef and would get this all the time, especially on my channel. “You didn’t use the correct ingredient” but they don’t factor in that ingredient is not available in my area. I see the same in my photography. I get you shouldn’t be shooting in harsh sunshine. I live in Colorado where we have 300 days of full sun. I have to learn how to use harsh sunlight to my advantage or I don’t go out. Our society has forgotten how to build people up, to encourage them. It is easier to tear people down. To be toxic.

[@paulharrison25]

I'm a hobbyist photographer and I'm in a few facebook groups, where I post my photos, which are mainly point and snap, on my phone, I always ask for constructive criticism, but always absolutely always I get torn to shreds. I have a friend who is a professional photographer has degrees and masters phd's etc and is a lecturer on photography, he gives me his opinion on the same photos, in a much more positive way, great composition, but not horizontal, he'll say. So I know I'm taking good photos, I just need to improve, yet on those groups the topics rip the 💩 out of me

[@denisesavage2382]

Some spaces are so hostile! I'm very particular about which spaces I might engage in.

[@jresin_photo]

I read a line once that went something like "Toxic people that tells you you're no good have nothing to show them selves". I can't remember the exact quote but it was something like that and I've discovered that it's true in a majority of times. People who tries to put you down with toxic comments or whatever RARELY have the courage to post some of their own work or they repost others work. I try to let all the negative comments be like water on a goose and I always have a quote from a swedeish politican in the back of my head "Never argue with an idiot, sooner than later they'll bring you down to their level and win by experience." Thanks for this video!

[@ThePhotographicEye]

Thank you for watching. I’m glad it resonated with you and indeed are quite right about arguing with an idiot.

[@alvintoro]

"Real photographers don't shoot portraits with a 50." That was the "constructive" advice I got from an old influencer / brand shill that (still) makes a living out of telling people the "right" way to shoot. I nodded my head in disagreement that day and for the next 5 years made it a point to shoot every single job on nothing but a 50mm 1.4. I only stopped using the 50mm after switching to a new camera system. Needless to say I've never been able to regain respect for self proclaimed online gurus and educators much less some rando photographer's opinions.

[@Drivr555]

Critic: Your photographs suck! Me: FINALLY! Someone noticed!😏

[@the_rat_run]

Great observations, Alex, very on point! The trolls (let's not glorify them) have comfy bridges to lurk under in all fora, and no doubt every social media channel, popping out to do a toxic dump on anything they disagree with. I have great fun with a few on a couple of fora, maybe it is time to open an Instagram account?

[@JFDAVIS1958]

Very funny! I've been on the viewfinder side for more than fifty years. I'm still looking for the official set of photography rules. If I run across them, I send you a copy. Don't hold your breathe! Joseph Nicéphore Niépce found TWO CRITICS on his doorstep the morning after his first photo!

[@606Rabbit]

This channel is literally the best photography channel. Make less time for trolls- you're content is the most thoughtful.

[@Bob-g1i]

First, your channel is one of the few that concentrates on the images, not collecting toys. You show images, they photo their camera and lenses. So understand what a threat you are to them. Next, it's the internet and the quality and veracity of any comments, well are often questionable at best. Their typical is "it came out good." Or "nice pic." You have a good contingent of folks who really want to learn the craft. I always mention using a viewing card when in a class situation to learn to see potential photos, and clean up composition without an itchy trigger finger on the shutter button. How many do you think were ever used. I thought about cutting up a bunch on my matting machine and handing them out but realized they wouldn't be used. No, they want to buy a new toy that that also will produce art. I have won and judged both professional competitions and amateur competitions. and 25 years ago, I started adding a "rule" violation to each submission that was critical to the meaning or message of the photo and every once in a while a judge would spot the reason. You touch on the snarky comments. Constructive criticism isn't snarky, it is factual and considerate of the persons feelings. I like the crap sandwich approach, point out a great part of the image at first and last comment and sandwiched in between is pointing out something for them to CONSIDER. That helps with folks sensitive to criticism. But I believe getting qualified review of your work is the absolute best way to grow in photography. You don't know what you don't know. Local clubs with monthly anonymous judging will do way more than the latest and greatest camera or lens that will just produce more crap just sharper and more detailed. And you like darker shadows and more contrasty b&w? I love the velvety blacks from Acros pushed to 200 or god forbid, 400! So folks have take the critique and realize the expertise or lack there of of the commenter and grow a thick skin. Like you, it really ticks me off when I see someone who obviously doesn't know their butt from deep center field putting down newbies. We were all newbies once and I can still remember critique I got 65 years ago. Classic was a mentor who encouraged me once asked why I pulled out battery packs, an obvious octa for an outdoor portrait on a rare summer cloudy day in CA. I said for soft shadow edge transitions. He asked didn't you already have them from the clouds... yes. Did you consider subtracting light. What's that? That gentle critique sent me off hanging 2 scrims as walls sometimes one with black skin and top of translucent or solid, It morphed to picking up a kicker from behind, popping in a reflector or mirror from the front through a scrim. That's how good critique can encourage someone to not only learn a technique but spend months experimenting with it. To this day, when shooting with other photographers I pull out a 30" pop out reflector with black side out of my vest pocket, and let them SEE it work. Bottom line, ignore the aholes.

[@lesberkley3821]

I posted a photo a while ago. It was a decent informal "portrait". Some guy went berserk on me with this studio/Loan Collection critique about "female shoulders" and I don't know what else. Doesn't matter. These standards had been drilled into him somehow, and he couldn't see anything else. I saw a book of Loan Collection stuff years ago, and to me it was technically good and emotionally dead.

[@davejsullivan]

When I see a picture that I personally wouldn’t have taken, it makes me curious about what the photographer was seeing. Photography can give clues into a person’s creativity and personality. To me the WHY someone took a picture is often more interesting than the photo itself.

[@jamessalomon9343]

When I was in college, back when dinosaurs were roaming the earth, I took a class in photography. The school had a great reputation, but the instructors seemed more interested in thinning the herd than actually teaching. The teachers ruthlessly criticized our images but never taught us anything about composition or techniques. Now I realize the most important thing is to enjoy what you're doing and growing from your mistakes.

[@chepo1956]

I've learned just 2 ignore these trolls. They're never content with anything. You hit on the nail when you mentioned experimentation. Photography 4 me is to enjoy the process. These trolls are miserable, and their goal is to make others feel the same way. Great video!

[@christopherward5065]

Photography is a broad church because it is so personal. As we see the world through a lens we are recording our personal emotional state in terms of what we are being compelled to do in response to what is holding our attention. Our state of mind exists in those images when we see them again.we often spend a long time honing images and they become a creative work. The negative comments then seem personal. Those people who criticise know what buttons to push because they have been made to feel inadequate somehow. I like constructive criticism mainly from people who get what I do because they have similar ways of translating what they see into images. Eventually when I feel confident in my vision I can take criticism and learn from it. I can see things in other peoples’ work that I’d never do and things that chime with me strongly and things I just have to try out.

[@creative_cozmic]

People who judge others by their standards are the worst. When you want to share your photos and share your techniques, someone comes along who, not only tells you ‘you are doing it all wrong’ but they insult you and use negative language towards you. I made the mistake once of answering one of those comments questioning their abusive language and they just doubled down and ranted how they can do what they like, blah, blah, blah. I try to ignore those people. If they want to be abusive it says more about them than anything else.

[@tedbrown7908]

Beauty is in the eye of the beholder. A person taking a photograph is the beholder of that beauty. They saw something in the image that gave them a good feeling.

[@PeteLoughlin]

Your comment at 5:20. So right. These negative somewhat personal comments says more about them than it does you.

[@zippywalker6406]

A lot of people just don't understand art. I find it frustrating. Great video.

[@user-qj2wb7ne4e]

In this age of social media those who make disparaging remarks would not normally do so in person are cowards.

[@f_r_e_d]

they're called haters. they exist everywhere and are looking at your content all the time. jealousy and envy are their fuel, they will never be happy. just block and ignore. you do great work, keep going 🤝

[@ThePhotographicEye]

Yeah, these days I just delete the comments, but wanted to share the experience with people who might give up on photography if it happens to them

[@f_r_e_d]

@@ThePhotographicEye i hope many people see this video and are inspired to keep experimenting. i always tell people starting out to pick up a cam and shoot what they like. eventually they should learn technical knowledge such as: iso, aperture, and speed. learn the skills while breaking the rules. compositions will vary and that's the beauty of photography

[@chesslover8829]

I remember the disapproving criticism of an established architectural photographer, made some forty years ago, of Michael Kenna's early work. This photographer considered Kenna's images to be too grainy.

[@nickadams1051]

So, the internet is not the right place, camera clubs are also not the place to be. Well, then we'll do the Vivian-Maier approach and hope to be recognised after we have been long gone.

[@bradholbrooks]

Seems like every time I've ever shared anything I like, it's met with mockery. It really does hurt, because it's in some way a piece of my true soul. I've tried to train myself to stop, feel the anger, calm down, ask myself if they're right. Maybe I'm missing something. I usually come to the conclusion that they have no idea what I'm thinking or trying to do. If one of my criticized photos has a story behind it, I like to share the story, and I'm really not offended by what anyone says. If I'm just sharing a pic that I'm experimenting with, I admit it's devastating when criticized. There are many people who can take great pictures, but I'm more about what's behind them and their photos. Here's to soul photography, and those who dare to try it - storytellers, thinkers, lovers in the highest order. I thank God for the seemingly meager opportunities I've had, and the lessons I've learned through photography. Hope this finds all of you well, and inspired!

[@the_rat_run]

Great attitude. Think how dreadful the world would be if we were all cookie-cutter versions of each other.

[@MikeJones-oo7wi]

Narcissists, they only know what they red in a book.

[@VictorReynolds]

These “gatekeepers” have too much time on their hands!

[@markschenkman8942]

Photography is an art and your art will not appeal to all people, but that doesn't mean it is not good. Just like there are talented musicians whose music I would not chose to listen to, there are talented photographers whose style doesn't do it for me. But I would never say to that photographer that they are no good because I do not like what they produce. And if they really aren't good because they don't understand composition I would try to steer them in the right direction, otherwise known as constructive criticism. Then they are free to agree or disagree with me, but that is a conversation, not a value judgement.

[@christinebeckett7060]

Gatekeepers. The reason I left Threads....

[@studioprairie]

Love the picture at 3:52 !

[@PhilipDrown]

I agree 100% with this!

[@incredibleParikrama]

These toxic people will easily throw the works of Ansel Adams, Henry Cartier in to trash can, if they do not know the names behind those photographs. These people are the judges now in different photo competitions. I have seen so many most ordinary images win awards, even Sony World photo competition suffers from it.

[@ThePhotographicEye]

I absolutely agree with you that a lot of these people if they don’t know that if if a photo taken by a famous person they will dismiss it and scoff

[@marcocasamassima389]

I like your mindset about photography a lot. Actually it took me back to photography again. Thank you!

[@ThePhotographicEye]

That’s awesome to hear. I’m so very very pleased.

[@peternicholson9651]

Thanks Alex. It needed saying and I agree with every word. But I'd also like to echo the comment by @ashstubbings about gear one-upmanship and snobbery. Irving Penn [insert you own hero here] would create an amazing image with a pinhole camera and move on, while the gatekeepers bickered amongst themelves about which camera/lens he have used, whether the blacks should more saturated, blah, blah blah. When did a gatekeeper ever show you their own masterpiece?

[@stevebarnett5048]

You learn not to be so thin skinned during a print crit session at college because you learn what absorb in advice or how to politely say ‘I meant it to be like that’.

[@ThePhotographicEye]

Oh, tell me about it. There is nothing more hard-core than being sat in a room with your friends or telling you how your work is crap! At least that’s in person and it’s a back-and-forth exchange and of course at the end of the day they are doing that because they know that you can do better

[@flickrmark]

Ask to see their portfolio....that usually brings the conversation to a halt 😛

[@ThePhotographicEye]

Or they get really defensive about it and start trying to tell you why the photograph is good

[@Original_Old_Farmer]

You made a very big mistake with this video. Your comments are true for ALL fields of work. When I run across someone like this, I like to keep grilling them about specifics with their dislikes with my work until they realize they are condemning themselves. Don't be angry, just keep on the smile and keep asking them questions as if you would like their imput. These people are so insecure that it's almost a game. When they come back with an answer just go HMHMHM and slightly shake your head in doubt. When you have enough of your game. You can say to them, I guess with everything you have said, you are looking for other work. I would if I felt the way you do. As for other people, I like to find something to praise, support them, while letting them I understand they are still learning, but I like what I see. I infer they have an inborn talent that I wish I had. It shows in your work. This is important to do for the old duffers, too. And if they know more than I do, I will ask a question about a pointer that they can give to help me along. In the end kindness is the best route. Even with those you talk about. But that doesn't mean you can't have a bit of fun with destructive individuals. Good video. Make sure you archive this and give to those who are doubting their abilities.

[@JohnDrummondPhoto]

Was the photograph "Murs" at 8:03 taken at the Museum of Modern Art in NYC? I remember that exhibit.

[@ThePhotographicEye]

No, this was in Normandy, but it may well have been a travelling exhibit. It just felt like an atrium when I was there :D

[@carlosdiazphotos]

Here there are two situations, on the one hand your “growth” as a photographer should not depend on random comments from unknown people, you have every right to do what you want with your photography but on the other hand the fact that you have that freedom does not mean that everyone has to like it. Maybe the problem is in the way these people comment. In my case when I see a bad picture I simply think this is rubbish, I have all the freedom to think what I want about a certain image but that does not mean that I should run out and publish to the person that looks more like a personal attack than a criticism. We will always receive criticism and it is up to us how much importance we give to it. It is also important to remember that the fact that we “break” the rules does not automatically make our photo good.

[@AllCarsUnited]

Also accept that criticism as that in itself can add value and a different perspective.

[@IvanGlisin]

In short: The Rolling Stones, Frankie Goes To Hollywood, Quiet Riot, Elvis Presley, The Staple Singers, Nirvana, Ray Charles, Kim Wilde, Carpenters 😉

[@ActualCounterfactual]

Oh yeah, because clearly, their opinion of you is super important... NOT!!!! Their attitude says everything about who they are.

[@the_astro_garden]

We can get all sort of toxic comments but unless they are useful, constructive or supportive comments, just ignore and delete the comment! Do it for you, not for the crowd.

[@Francois15031967]

The only thing that bothers me nowadays is people trying to convince you of how cool their images are by displaying their shots with some kind of soft jazz lounge background music. I can do that, too, I know it works great... it's like frying: it turn everything into something tasty, even a shoe sole. But I hate it because it's such a cheap trick.

[@pd1jdw630]

I’ve met a few photographers. Specially with film. Why would you shoot that? Digital is king! And then in film communities, black and whit is king? Life is to short for black and white. And Digital is just convenient and fast. Just let me be creative.

[@anewspiritualawakening3572]

You are so right. Everyone see the world differently and what looks good to me may not look good to everyone but like you said when they speak out negatively you have made them feel something, I love the journey and I am always open to learning and criticism thanks for a great and inspiring video keep up the good work and you handled this perfectly.

[@rogalaphotography]

I used to argue with those people but I’ve been beginning to just delete their comments from my feed. I could reply trying to convince them but it’s just not worth it! However I did make a video titled “Sometimes a Photo is JUST a Photo” to address some of the comments I’ve seen in facebook groups!

[@reinhartreuschel5499]

I only love or hate my own pictures. But I admire or ignore only pictures from others. No further comment.

[@Cocc0nuttt0]

2 of 5,172 images i took in those exact specific scenarios happen to be better than yours therefore you're bad and should never ever try anything ;)

[@derrickyim3982]

When I get negative feedback I see if it's objectively true ("Horizon is crooked", "Dad bod guy bending over in background 🤣") If not I look for their photos and see if they blow me away. If neither's the case It's a "Thank you for the feedback", and move on.

[@saalikreynolds3064]

Photography is a subjective position. Do what YOU like..

[@madefromfilm]

Great video! I gave up posting pictures on social media for this reason! Everyone is an expert!!! My clients, including numerous publications and well known personalities love my work, that’s all that matters to me… Keep up the great work! C.

[@madefromfilm]

Great video! I gave up posting pictures on social media for this reason! Everyone is an expert!!! My clients, including numerous publications and well known personalities love my work, that’s all that matters to me… Keep up the great work! C.

[@AllenWelch-ml6mi]

As an amateur, the thing that bothered me is why people seem to want to grill you on why you even want to use a camera, I have an older camera micro 4/3 very small set up. I'm not bothering them or taking their picture. But sometimes it seems to bother them that I'm not just using my phone. WHY DON'T YOU JUST USE A PHONE!? Is what they say and just walk off!? Like they just made their point? Why do you need to come over to me and let me know you have a problem with it. Somehow, a phone will take better shots. These people don't even know what a sensor is or what it's for. But apparently, I'm wrong somehow?

[@russellbaston974]

Great video and topic, on Sunday, 29th September the actor Lucian Msamati was on Radio 3 "Private Passions" (classical music Desert Island Discs) he said he read a criticism of one of his performances and he felt totally destroyed, so much so he was seriously questioning carrying on. After a reflection he then thought **** you and pressed on. The 'Gatekeepers' is so true! I was in a professional photographers association and the High Priests of the "Admissions and Qualifications" were just that, they stood at the gates of the temple and some clearly worked on the principle that the initial reaction to an applicant was rejection. In work critiques the most frequent phrase was "------ I would have" and work which mostly mimicked the judges faired well. In a print competition 'feedback' session a judge remarked about one of mine "the least said about this the better" however quite a few students in the room were rather more positive. Exactly as you've said the crucial things are to firstly just take pictures, R L Stevenson - "the purpose of travel is to go." and I think I now get as much from the process of photography itself, a bit Zen. Being in a place, in whatever weather, looking at subjects, possible arrangements of element, pressing the shutter, it's all one. Sorry this is long!

[@eyewitness4560]

I had adopted the "multiply the opinion by the amount of knowledge/respect in the field" routine pretty early. I take opinions, but won't necessarily take advice in photography from a plumber, and the same is true for the reverse... I'll take a photographer's opinion, but not necessarily advice on plumbing.

[@ivanosrin2126]

Absolutely agree with everything you have said. I am an elderly enthusiast shooting entirely for my own enjoyment and apart from very useful post processing instruction on KZbin for example I have now studiously avoided' Clubs' and' Rules ( especially Rules ) and' How to' and competitions and Instagram - and feel quite liberated as a result. Looking at pictures of past photographers has been the most useful learning lesson for me and the most important factor that matters to me is the 'emotional' connection I might have with a shot

[@kathleencolbourn7587]

In the words of Dr. Phil - paraphrasing here - "Never miss a great opportunity to shut up" or, everyone's mother "if you don't have something nice to say, don't say anything".

[@TheLinuxGallery-qz2vs]

I like crunchy, gritty, textured asphalt roads against bright sidewalks, or buildings, or plains/desert hills in a mid-day sun A lot of people think how I capture them looks bad, and it does! But at the same time that contrast feels really nice, almost like a construction paper collage you can rub your finger across

[@Imagesdp]

As a professional photographer for 28 years, dont worry about all of these a-holes. Do what works for you. If you try something and it doesnt work, try something else. Explore photography. That is the purpose of photography. You will never satisfy all the people. It is easy to criticize. Your job is to help other photographers learn so they can help the new photographers. This goes on and on.

[@LeopoldoManuelRamirezMena]

My art teacher said once... Get rid of fans, they only hold you down 😂

[@ThePhotographicEye]

Well, the weather has gotten cooler here so I don’t need fans anymore lol

[@RadioJonophone]

My Art teacher told me, "Never apologise for your work."

[@ingabett]

”If you can’t grow by yourself, cut someone else’s legs”, is a Swedish quote that I have kept in my mind for 30 years. I’m so fed up with people that have to spread their negativity around! Their selfishness is suffocating. Unfortunately these gatekeepers are the reason I don’t join photo groups, I rather learn from KZbinrs that show photos they are proud of even if the photos are 30 years old. I call that perspective and insight into what it means to grow, and I’m grateful that someone takes their time and knowledge to make videos teaching photography. So, thank you Alex!

[@andrewdove342]

Yours is the Best photography channel that I follow! Speaks to my soul directly

[@mark450]

Everything you said is so true. Taking the same style of picture following the same "rules" to please the people with no imagination would be an injustice to photography. This is why I won't join a camera club and I don't share my photos with others, I shoot only for myself and only what I like and enjoy.

[@ericholmquist8966]

I've been in photography for over50 years, the egotistical jealousy has always been there. And can be energy drainers... if you let them. I just walked away from them.