DON'T QUIT ON YOURSELF. I WON'T.

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My name is Simon d'Entremont and I'm a professional wildlife and nature photographer from Eastern Canada. In this video, I'll show you how to get motivated to take your photography to the next level.
I use Topaz Labs software for noise reduction, sharpening and upscaling:
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FLM Tripod (CP 34 L4 II) and Levelling Head (HB 75)
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[@simon_dentremont]

Apologies that I may not be able to answer questions right away! I’m off to Botswana to lead a photo safari. I’ll answer when I can! Check out my Instagram for pics! instagram.com/simon.dentremont?igsh=OGQ5ZDc2ODk2ZA%3D%3D&

[@FlatWaterFilms]

Journey of a lifetime.😊

[@captainepoch]

Man... Simon talks to you like he's your father giving you proper advice to not stop doing this, and it's comforting. Thanks, Simon!

[@PS-oy9xr]

he actually resembles my father physically

[@MichiMallu]

I won’t quit, taking photos for over two decades, still struggling, but I won’t quit, so long as masters like you are here to teach!

[@simon_dentremont]

Keep it up!

[@SERGI1974]

The most admirable thing about your channel is that not only we can learn a lot from your technical advices, but each of your videos makes those of us who don't have the same technical skills or professional photography equipment feel that these tips are for us and come from someone who values ​​and respects everyone's effort and passion for photography, regardless of their level.

[@simon_dentremont]

So nice of you

[@kevinzhang6233]

Canon's been commenting on my posts recently and I've got to give a thank you to the man that started everything for me! Thank you so much Simon!

[@simon_dentremont]

Great to hear!

[@littleman787]

They are so much better than Nikon for that 🙄

[@kevinzhang6233]

@@littleman787 Yeah haha Canon is so awesome for that, I like to consider myself pretty lucky :)

[@LordWout]

Simon telling me to buy new gear is exactly the excuse I needed to hear.

[@adikaushik8222]

Civil servant, photographer, wildlife expert, traveller, classic watch wearer and now a guitarist ! Keep inspiring Simon...

[@simon_dentremont]

Many thanks!

[@UltimateBowmanza]

This channel actually made me get up early and sit on my deck to take bird photos at the feeder. It was my first time taking "wildlife" photos that I never thought I would with my telephoto. I bought a wide angle lens and a 50mm for portraits after that and I'm just trying everything now. It doesn't take much to just get out and try something new.

[@nicedward7544]

The older I get the more I realize that getting better never ends. Some of my favorite photos I've taken are from 25+ years ago when I really didn't know what I was doing just trying weird stuff and exploring. As long as you know how to use your camera go out and shoot. It's therapy for me. Trying new stuff is always fun though. I've been using an empty fishtank lately to try weird stuff.

[@Kongrisser]

Simon ordering us all to buy some new gear is exactly what I needed to hear today! 😅

[@simon_dentremont]

oops!

[@petermorgan197]

This isn't just a photography tutorial it a life lesson, thank you.

[@arnolttbromanskie9733]

Thanks for the encouragement and I must quote this: „We must strive to be more than we are. It does not matter that we will not reach our ultimate goal. The effort yields its own rewards“ - Commander Data, Star Trek TNG

[@labhusky3]

I 100% needed this video today. Been in a rut lately and not just for photography and this video will very likely get me off my butt to take some shots tomorrow. Thank you again Simon for an inspirational video that hits a little harder than expected!

[@infinitesky-59]

This happened to me 14 years ago and I stopped completely. Thankfully I came back a few months ago and thanks to you I am taking better photos and enjoying it more than ever. My only regret is the lost years that I can't get back and the career I wanted but never had the courage or confidence to make a reality. They flutter behind us, our possible pasts but I am going to make the most of the time ahead of me.

[@michaelyolch79]

Never look back. It’s done! Onward! Upward! 🚀

[@infinitesky-59]

@@michaelyolch79 Thanks, you are completely right. I have spent my whole life clinging to the past.

[@michaelyolch79]

@@infinitesky-59 Everyone does that to some degree…regrets, could have, should have, etc. It’s all a waste of time. Take what you LEARNED from the past and apply it to today and the future. But certainly, don’t LIVE in the past. Once we FULLY grasp the fact that we have no idea whether we have one day or 25 years left to live, we start to much more deeply appreciate the here and now. You are here for a REASON. Do whatever it is you’ve been called to do.

[@seaeagles6025]

Hi Simon, thank you very much for your encouragement and advice, it makes a difference in my photography. Having a photo Buddy is a great idea, time will fly when someone's with you. An important point you made Simon that someone will always criticise your work. We put to much pressure on ourselves to be perfect. When I'm lacking in Motivation, i look at my old photos that i was proud of and then i say it's not my skills that need work, its my mood. Thanks Simon 😊

[@seaeagles6025]

Thanks Simon ☺️

[@ralphparish8760]

By far the best photography advice I have come across. Thank you Simon. First class presentations always on the button.

[@DanaPushie]

Don't Quit! I'm in England for 10 days, moving location every two days, shooting subjects I've never tried before and most are crap. LOL. I'll take shots of my usual genre as well, but in new places. So much to learn. Thanks Simon you're always so encouraging. Cheers and safe journey.

[@elainejerauld4044]

S-When we went on lockdown on March 12, 2020, I started to post a photo of a different plant from my garden daily for 365 days in a row. Major goal!! It helped my friends know that there would be a new photo the next day. Since then I have cut down on my posts and my time with my camera, but my gardening time has increased back to normal... So that return to normal is healthy. I may not post daily anymore, but I still have not missed a single Friday post since I started in 2020. That smaller goal keeps a camera in my hand, my eyes open in the garden, and the creative editing juices flowing. ❤E

[@zach.096]

Been in a rut for a couple months putting too much pressure on myself on what to get pictures of but after doing a trip to New Hampshire and Vermont this week I’ve found enjoyment in it again and have also got some phenomenal shots this trip that I really like.

[@linleyredford1354]

The glory of storage being so affordable in my camera is the freedom to be wrong enough times to be right. Hats off to the masters of film but I'm unfortunately not built that surgical. I'm determined to throw every lens I own into different situations as much as I can, it's merely making the space in my life to do so.

[@billsenior213]

I’ve had photographers block for about a year. I did do the ‘new gear’ by going from my Nikon D850 to Z8. Then I thought maybe I need to do something extraordinary to jump start my brain, so I tried to sign up for a photography workshop that you and Thomas Heaton did in Svalbard…but it filled up before I could confirm a spot. In the past I have organized educational workshops within two camera clubs and really enjoyed seeing others ‘get it’ and begin to blossom in the world of photography. I’ve got to work on getting out of this ‘funk’. Appreciate all your videos and often use them within the camera clubs.

[@Wildflowersandbackroads]

Been taking photos off and on my whole life with various cameras and phones. Now on my 3rd “good” camera and at 52 it has finally clicked (no pun intended) how to use all the bells and whistles. Thank you @Simon d’Entremont for putting these videos out in a way I finally understand. 😊

[@pashow6486]

Motivation is a precious thing. Those who are consistently able to conjure it up from within should consider themselves fairly lucky, because sometimes mental health and disorders can cripple you into a state of catatonia that is simply impossible to break without professional help. I have ADHD and general anxiety. I got dragged along by life like an unmotivated tumbleweed for 20 years of my life before therapy/medication slowly, slowly started to set me on the right path (and there's still years of work left)

[@simon_dentremont]

You can do it!

[@Ed_Robson_1970]

The older I get, the less I know, or as per the Rod Stewart song, 'I wish that I knew what I know now when I was younger' both spring to mind when you talk about Dunning Kruger.

[@rickneff_]

I shoot because I enjoy it, freezing those moments in time forever. Finding something interesting or not interesting to shoot. Whenever I have my camera in my hands, I just feel compelled to capture. I shoot for me. No one else, really. If I find it pleasing or interesting or beautiful, then that's all that matters to me. Focus on what you like, get excited to hold that camera. I appreciate your videos and your time. Thank you.

[@rossb48]

No shortage of motivation from me after 60 years of photography. Currently working on photographing the 21 Missions in Calif with my 4x5 Field Camera. Kind of expensive with travel and motels involved for each outing but my wife and I love it all.. After that I have a list of Railroad Museums, Ghost towns and other places to photograph. I never get tired of exploring the Calif coast for Piers, Lighthouses, rock formations etc.

[@sophietucker1255]

One of the best pieces of advice/criticism I ever received was from an older lady that had no idea what I was trying to accomplish or maybe even doing but what she said for some reason rang true. So you can keep your shoes on but I now realize that just because you didn’t walk a mile in my shoes doesn’t mean you have no idea what I’m trying to do

[@DrPankajMalukar]

This time something different and important topic. One of the artists told me to remember 3 things, 1- don't compare your work with others rather learn something out of it, so no competition. 2- never afraid of the people, do what ever you like and pursue it. 3- you are unique on this earth, so stick to your own style! Many people don't have courage to appreciate your work! Thanks for the video.

[@thegreenfieldproject]

Simon, you’re one of my top inspirations for my personal photography and your videos have helped me a great deal. Thank you for making exceptional content and beautiful photos!

[@disinvited]

I started photography as a new hobby about 1 years ago to the month and I feel like I just recently started hitting this wall. This video came out at the perfect time for me. Although I started the climb out the valley a couple weeks ago this provided further motivation and tips to continue digging out of the rut. Thanks again for relevant content that is extremely helpful!

[@razgrizXreborn]

Somewhere over the last year or so I started to think of your videos as "photography Dad" videos. Teaching me a bunch of concepts I knew of, but couldn't fully understand and putting them into a visual reference that started to make sense. Since then, I've gone back to school, invested in better lenses, picked up a sparkly new camera, and started to develop my own style. It's always going to be a learning process, but so long as there are people like you and content like your videos, I don't think I'll have nearly as much issues as I would have had on my own.

[@NateTheBrewer]

Love the last part about criticism brother... Helps me with a particular critic right now.

[@wildbillgreen]

Being bombarded on Instagram with stunning images can be discouraging. I think staying away from social media is a good thing. It’s funny, Mark Smith was a huge inspiration for me at first, then after a while I couldn’t follow him anymore because I felt trying to photograph the subjects that he was photographing was pointless. I had to give up trying to be as good as him and go out and just shoot for me. This is a great topic.

[@LePetitMondedeMichel]

Photography is a journey! You don't quit what you like or you passionate about, you can take a break or a pause, but you don't quit, if what you do as a photographer or anything else become a pain in the a... Quit right a way and find some things better for you! On a personal level a will share that the last years and a half on the photographic side it was very though... But I continued to be focus on the goal of making very good photos, and in the last two months I have made some of my best work of decades ago. Like one of my best friends say to me, don't quit! Just do your best with the card that you have! Thanks you Simon for this video!

[@maikydb]

I 100% agree! And speak out of personal experiance. I love macro, whidife and landscape photography. But I love venturing out side of my comfort box. F1, cars, architecture, portrait etc, etc.

[@FleetingMoments-2]

Photography is a hobby you never stop learning in (only yesterday I looked into the relationship between the fibonacci sequence and art of photography) - I keep my motivation high by watching channels like this one, looking at and re-editing my favourite images and appreciating the mental health benefits to be had from nature photography, which does include for me Street Photography.

[@RedmilesShark]

A point to add to people criticizing your work: If they do not give any supportive critique what to do different/better or what you exactly did wrong. It's not worth to take into consideration regardless who it comes from.

[@grahamstretch6863]

I think that “👍” or “that’s nice” are as worthless as non constructive criticism, however most will get offended if you offer unsolicited constructive criticism! I have a small group of friends / photo buddies and we sit down once a week and discuss what we took on our last outing, offering constructive critique of various shots. As the organiser / leader of our little group I always start with my shots on screen and get them to critique me first.

[@RedmilesShark]

@@grahamstretch6863 I agree there 100%. "Nice" says nothing. And trying to make content to appeal to people and get more "Nice" in response is detrimental to your own development. Keep in mind that most users on social media that are (overly) active are beginners. Full professionals have little to no time to engage constantly with many other creators and their content.

[@S3mj0n]

My biggest motivation is going outside. I enjoy it way too much when im hiking and taking photos, even when I'm not good at it. Fun is a great motivator imo.

[@simon_dentremont]

Love that!

[@brentthibault3467]

I often feel the ‘need’ to buy new gear much to my wife’s chagrin. One more thing to add to the list is watching your videos! Thanks for the motivation!

[@simon_dentremont]

Please do!

[@kidmohair8151]

don't quit. slow down if you need to. or stop for a while too, if the creative juices have stopped flowing. my creative life seems to have been happening in decades, more or less. from drawing, to music, to photos, to writing, to...who knows what's next? i have always come back to all of the above in time. and then moved onto the next when the muses moved me... and enjoyed each new iteration.

[@AlistairHig]

That's good advise for just everyday life. I've always had the mentality that when people criticize me for anything, if I don't respect their opinion, then it doesn't bother me no matter what. You have to first care about what people say to you before it can actually effect you.

[@aaronsmicrobes8992]

I haven't had as many chances for wildlife photography this year, but I've also built an astrophotography rig that has kept me busy. Its a lot easier to "get out" when I just have to set up in my backyard, and can do it whenever it's clear weather. My current goal is to capture images of every Messier object, and it is definitely something that has kept me motivated and excited.

[@Warrior_Resisting_Colonialism]

Nice!

[@simon_dentremont]

I shoot astro too! Have an 8inch RASA. Good luck!

[@aaronsmicrobes8992]

@@simon_dentremont that's a pretty nice scope, I could really use it this weekend when I head to a multi night star party for the first time. I'm rocking a 4" refractor at 700mm and look forward to when I have both shorter and longer FL telescopes. Most galaxies are too small and many nebulae are too big with my fov, but I've been doing it for less than a year so I know I have a long time to acquire a collection.

[@willemdebeer2507]

Thank you for this video! Been feeling unmotivated lately to go outside and take pictures. This video just made refreshed my creative senses

[@ScottRitchie-bw9ls]

Thanks so much Simon. Your videos have always been a source of inspiration for me in my photographic journey. You get into a rut at times. Then I got the new Canon R5-2 and fell for the pre-capture. I then started a project shooting rainbow bee-eaters launching from tombstones at a local cemetery. I sat on a small stool, had the camera on a monopod, and focused on the bird with pre-capture engaged. When he took off, I smashed the AF and shutter. I especially tried to get late afternoon backlit shots. Lot's of lovely images. This really got my mojo back!

[@jonathanmartinez2725]

Best channel for people who want to learn photography. Love all your topics.

[@namman03]

This video is perfect! Last weekend, I had just gotten to my location to shoot for the day, and I questioned myself on why I was I even there. I stuck with it for the day and got some photos from it.

[@johnpftd]

This kind of speech would propel a team to the Super Bowl. Thanks Simon for pushing us farther ! I knew you could do it…..

[@simon_dentremont]

Absolutely

[@cguerrieri4866]

Thanks for the encouragement!

[@philyoung4804]

Brilliant advice and very motivational. I feeling the ‘What next and I want to be better’ vibe at the moment. This will definitely keep me moving forward. Thanks for this video. Keep up the excellent work Simon. Cheers Phil

[@zuckshot]

Thank you Simon for the content you provide all of us aspiring photobugs. New and experienced alike will certainly appreciate this video!

[@simon_dentremont]

My pleasure!

[@luxcya]

How in the world did you knew i needed exactly this exactly today?!😅 Thank you so much, Simon... You truely are a great master and guide for all of us. Thank you so much for sharing.

[@yomismo1945]

My photography skills have been significantly improved, requiring minimal effort to process. So much so that on many occasions, I just need to resize. Thanks to tutorials from you and a few others.

[@simon_dentremont]

Great to hear!

[@brendallsterling4117]

Thank you. You made me to be stronger and do as I see something, not what someone else thinks. Learn to be my own person and love photography. Thank you again, Brenda

[@washingtonradio]

I find even an open ended project helps as it gives me something to fall back on for photo trip. Another I find helpful is to go out with others and shoot something I normally don't shoot.

[@elnacho_fpv]

Thanks for the motivation Simon! I put my cameras down a few years ago when things got too busy (and just used my phone). I miss the joy of getting a real photo that I’m proud of vs just capturing moments on my phone. I think I’ll try to use these tips to pick the camera back up and start shooting again.

[@BHBrake]

Thank you Simon - you are true pro and always helpful. I've been a a bit discouraged lately and had to pull the plug on a photo trip halfway though the week and head home due to multiple factors. Doing the early morning hikes with a family and managing everything else is a true challenge, and sometimes what I come back home with is a letdown.

[@simon_dentremont]

You can do it!

[@Kellysher]

I absolutely love being out in the field to “see what there is to see” and photograph wildlife. What demotivates me is culling and processing the photos! My day job keeps me in front of the computer for 8 hrs, so adding sitting time drives me nuts. Can’t wait to retire in 2 years so the computer time doesn’t feel so demotivating! To me, there is nothing better than getting up in the dark to get to a good location, watch the sun come up and shoot. To quote Duade, Paton“ where else would you want to be”!

[@grahamstretch6863]

I thought that was Bruce from Drain Cleaning Australia! 🤔

[@timothykieper]

I buy a new camera almost every month, mostly used budget and will post it for sale after a few weeks. Typically ( and currently) own 4 cameras and 2 are always for sale. Golden rule is to buy something that I can sell and at least break even on. Or, buy something that I would like to hold long term, if stuck with it. Interesting learning experience and works for me.

[@davidreichstadter8587]

Great inspirational video. Also the ATOM principle: Action Turns On Motivation. Some people wait for motivation that never comes whilst those with self discipline begin and motivation follows.

[@AlOne-xg6dv]

Yes You Can ! Just Do It !

[@dlaps9975]

You’re the man, Simon. Thanks for all your amazing videos. This one just inspired me to head somewhere new with my camera today

[@valpayne2963]

Thank you Simon. My motivation has been knocked because now I can’t walk far as I get puffed, due to medical reasons. However I love driving and exploring and I know I can still take fantastic photos from the side of the road, I just lost my confidence to get out there and do so. You’ve made me think again and I’m going to set myself some goals and maybe a little project to get me out there again. Thank you!

[@tagiti]

thanks.......we all need a bit of motivation , now and again, some more than others ........me!!

[@Spacecow-q3e]

I bought a 300mm telephoto lens because i always thought that having one would be super useful for wildlife, as well as a unique perspective on subjects and whatnot. I realized quickly that i wasnt very good at it, and while my pictures where sharp and in focus, my composition and subject selection just never really hit the spot to myself. I tried astro photography because a friend said that this lens would be a great lens for it, and i absolutely love it. Sometimes, i've noticed, its not the lack of motivation or habit we have, that leads us to feeling stuck in a rot, it is the lack of something new and challenging to make use push yourselves in new directions we've never thought of before. If you where to ask me about half of the beginner/entry level techniques and photo composition and image capture methods in astro, i would have said a single long exposure and some lightroom curves should give you everything you need, but boy way i wrong!

[@shanesheffer74]

This is the most personally impactful video you have made. It made me come up with a couple good ideas, and gave me so much inspiration and motivation I almost want to cry. You are truly a great mentor ❤️

[@simon_dentremont]

I'm so glad!

[@tedbrown7908]

Great video Simon, The statements at the end are priceless. I have often told people who criticize me, have they followed my footsteps? I usually get no answer.

[@DevanGoodwin]

Nova Scotian here who needed this video right now, so thanks. :)

[@simon_dentremont]

Happy to help neighbor

[@living_wildlife]

Those are actually fantastic tips! I had a little project last week were I was focusing on getting my first kingfisher photos. It took a few days to find a good location that actually had kingfishers and then it took a few more days to get a picture of one. But that was the most fun I had photographing in a while! I gotta say, the pictures are whether sharp nor do they have any form of composition, but when I took a few photos I said to myself to just go home. I didn't go there to take perfect shots, I just wanted to photograph a kingfisher for the first time and that's what I did! If I were always as motivated as back then, I'd probably forget to eat and sleep!

[@robbieledwith8437]

Top Notch vlog, its just lifted my photographic spirits , Thanks.

[@simon_dentremont]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@Warrior_Resisting_Colonialism]

Oh man, I haven't hit a wall yet and sure hope I never do. I love photography, the more and more I practice. I've only been in the hobby for 7 years thus far and looking back, I swear the first 2-3 years didn't even count, I was so bad haha.

[@LarryS509]

Quit, I'm just getting started and your video's have helped me tremendously, Thank you for what you do. Have fun and be safe on your travel to Botswana...!

[@christopherbutcher1702]

Such a pleasure to go to KZbin for evening viewing and find this video! I need encouragement sometimes, like we all do and this video was exactly what I needed. I follow you on KZbin and Instagram and will be signing up for your newsletter too. I love your photos. They have a particular style and are simply beautiful!

[@aKritikus]

Hello Simon, thank you for the motivational video. We started to organise with my firend a small photo competiton regularly to have a little challange in our hobby, we are mostly amateur with 2-3 years of learn on the go experience. Your videos helped me a lot and now I go our with a big smile and a lot of confidence setting my camera to Av or Tv and sometimes Manual. And my buddies told me that my "work" improved a lot thanks to you!

[@JasonLorette]

While I wish I got more attention on my work sometimes…and yes, I certainly have those lazy days…I’ll never quit shooting. Always learning and always growing. Enjoy Africa! 📸😎

[@redtheshed1454]

Thank you Simon. I had a really strong start when i first picked up a DSLR and got a number of photos that I love and have felt like I never hit that high point since, especially with how high my standards are for presentable photos. I've been hoping for a sign to hang on before I hang it all up and at the last moment here you are! I even just went and applied for a formal education in photography and editing that I had previously given up on trying so I can learn those things I don't even realize i don't know and continue to make steady improvement.

[@martinoberstein8431]

Thank you ever so much for this one , Simon! Photography as an analogy for life itself… sometimes you have to be remembered! Thank you for remembering me in a very empathetic, engaged and engaging way. Kind regards, Martin

[@theflyingdutchman7127]

hi Simon I only discovered your channel a few weeks ago, and I enjoy your beautiful photos on your site and your good tips on your channel.❤

[@mikex2805]

You are an inspiration. Thank you for teaching me so much over the years.

[@simon_dentremont]

You are so welcome

[@andyblessett1951]

I've been under a rock since Covid 2020!! Thanks for your inspiration...I really need a kick in the arse! Thanks

[@justinmcdonald4822]

Thank you Simon! I'll keep trying! ❤

[@martyd5819]

Coping with my EOL issues. But autumn is upon us,my favorite time of year. So there's still hope I will get outside and make some images.

[@01cschu]

Thank you for continuing to release great content! I’ve watched many videos already and I’m sure I’ll watch many more!

[@AlexRamirez-hi1ko]

Thank you Simon, Once again your message reached out to me and made me feel good about my photography. I've felt really inspired ever since I found your presentations, and channel on KZbin. Thank you for sharing, you know the greatest gift is giving what you have, I learned that a long time ago, and I'm learning that again through your presentation...😉👍

[@scottb8201]

Thank you Simon, I look forward to your weekly videos, you've been a great help in me getting back into photography.

[@simon_dentremont]

Great to hear!

[@robertwhite-photography]

Boy did I need this! Thank you Simon!

[@vzshadow1]

Thanks. It came at just about the right time.

[@MVBirdphotos]

Very helpful message, Simon. As always, thoughtful and articulate - this one getting to the heart of why we are passionate about nature photography. Appreciate your advice!

[@simon_dentremont]

My pleasure!

[@nzbirbz]

Great tips. I set myself a project at the beginning of the year and it has been very helpful motivation-wise. I was hoping to make a book for my dad, but he passed away about a month ago. You never know how much time you have. You have to make the most of what you are given.

[@johnchedsey1306]

For me, my "crisis of confidence" is based on listening to a podcast featuring Nick Carver (who I think is just an outstanding photographer). He was talking about his early days of photography being all about landscapes and finding abandoned buildings...which is precisely what I've been doing for awhile. He called it "low hanging fruit" for photographers and he's not wrong. I mean, I visit a lot of national parks and scenic places and pass by abandoned buildings on my road trips, so I will always take those photos. But it really hit me I need to discover something new and more challenging. Just not 100% sure what it looks like yet.

[@Western-Ranger.]

Thank you for the video Simon, very inspirational, I've learned that it's not always possible to get the perfect shot but gives you the motivation to try again next time. Thanks again

[@robertleem5643]

Excellent video as usual with a lot of superb tips. I joined a club a couple of years ago and go out with several of them photographing things I'd not done before, also participate in competitions which helps excel your learning and technique. The different genres in competitions is also challenging and rewarding. Am visiting the Humber Bridge this weekend as I've always wanted to photograph it in the evening and at night, have even pointed a few of my colleagues at your youtube channel The thing with photography is that it makes you look at things in a different way, I recently visited my parents and took a walk with my dad, every now and then I would stop and photograph something, he'd ask now what you seen, when I showed him he said I didn't even see that Many thanks for your channel, the tips and videos really help

[@JayShackleton-dv9tm]

I was thinking just yesterday that I was happier when I first started my photography journey, when I was naive about what I was doing, happier with the results even though they were technically not up to standard. I mainly photograph open events here in the UK. Steampunk, Whitby Goth. Years ago it was easier approaching people who seemed more approachable. I also became stuck at events shooting the same angles, same places and same people in some instances. This is perfect for me as I’ve definitely hit that wall you speak of.

[@LuciusVulpes]

Motivation has never gone away! Only time, lol.

[@stephanparnow4566]

Developing skill in any craft takes time. You will only get better if you get up, grab your gear, and make it happen. Visit places you would not normally go or have not been to in a long time. Don't be in a rush. Stop and take the picture which seems inconsequential as it might end up being one of your best. I did this recently and came away with an image which got attention from classmates and the instructor in one of my college photography classes.

[@Stellar-Nucleosynthesis]

I don't think I'll be able to put down my camera. I just like photographing everything, and there is always something to learn. May as well learn and do it all. I took up astrophotography a few years ago, and that has been an experience in my life. Went from blurry moon pictures to tracked and stacked images of astronomical objects.

[@theadventuresofgibby7823]

This was Teddy Roosevelt’s “Man in the Arena” speech for photographers. Well done, safe travels

[@patrickguilfoyle8884]

Excellent advice, thank you Simon.

[@araskoca8172]

The timing is insane, I just came into the house to edit the photos and as a beginner when I was out at a cloudy day (NL ' s usual weather) my goal was to take a picture of European Robin for the first time and my 40 minutes were just not being able to find the bird even tho I can hear it, then I was planning to return home but instead went to 5 street away and found a new spot that is more beautiful and took some crazy photos. So dont give up!

[@keithpinn152]

Hi Simon: Thanks for creating and sharing your thoughts on this subject. Everyone has been in this space at some time or another, or else they are not growing. Cheers, Keith Pinn (Barrie, Ontario)

[@thecinemafox5531]

Thanks man, I actually really needed this right now as I’ve been feeling really low trying to start my architectural photo business, this made me feel so much better!