Self portraiture is about more than the photos

[@DREDIRECTS]

Im at a point in my life where I am not too thrilled with my physique, but literally the first 10 seconds of this video inspired me to experiment with some self portraits to embrace myself for what it is and not what it isnt.

[@graincheck]

THIIISSSSSSS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[@JonJosephKuhn]

I hope you took some portraits and if you haven’t you absolutely should. I don’t think we’re honestly able to see ourselves until we’re given some time which grants us with grace. Also, for me I quit drinking and started working out a few years ago so it’s helped me stay accountable. I also look back at pictures from different seasons and realize I was being way too hard on myself.

[@afmanalac11]

Never misses. The message is so important but lets not forget to appreciate how absolutely banging the photos are. The one with the fishbowl glass thing 🤯

[@graincheck]

🥹😭 thank you!!!!

[@amandapalaia]

You made me cry in the first minute. your voice and your energy, everything about you is beautiful.

[@Obatalakali]

This has really touched me. I have been so uncomfortable taking pictures of myself for so long and I think it's holding me back from fully expressing myself genuinely as a person and an artist. This video has been a good push into making myself my subject and to allowing myself to be vulnerable even with myself. Thank you.

[@sabrina__anabel]

Oh my goodness! "You're worthy of being photographed” THIS IS WHAT I want people to feel when I take their photos! I loooved this video 😍😍

[@cacomartin]

Every documental you make is really inspirational and passionate. Each photo you make is a portrait about your brave feelings. All my respect to your work a true love for the photography. Best.

[@graincheck]

So much love to you 🥹😭

[@triaconstantlycreatink]

I've been photographing for ages and just recently i started the self-portriars, with literally the same way you do it, alone with the app and the camera. While it can be overwhelming, its super self- healing/ expressing. The best photos i'ver ever shot. Keep it up!

[@undrxpsd_]

Wonderful video, you're definitely my favourite channel on KZbin right now 🌻

[@graincheck]

Okay wuuuutttt 😳

[@jimhooperjpg]

I love how you don't focus on the technical aspect of the photography, but the story that you want to convey 🙌Only just come across your account and love it!

[@graincheck]

There are enough technical videos on photography around here, ya know? I realized what’s unique about each of us isn’t our gear or our settings but our mindset and approach, so focusing on that for now ❤️‍🔥

[@jimhooperjpg]

@@graincheck 100%, You have inspired me to take some self portraits 🙌

[@robertosantiago5080]

Amongst all of these photographers pushing the latest and greatest gear, you are a breath of fresh air as a photographer..I Thank you for this video..

[@Teh-Penguin]

Thanks. Not only for the way you show yourself to 'us', but also for the message. To play, to experiment, to remember what brings you joy. With your last sentence, "...you're worth being photographed", you might just motivate me to do it myself. It is something I have been avoiding for years now.

[@ebreevephoto]

My gosh you amazed me with this one. I am currently working on part two of my self portrait series and this is so inspirational to help me move forward. I edited this to say I have watched this 3x already. So good!

[@graincheck]

Oh my god, SUCH a compliment! I’m so so so happy it inspired you at the perfect time 🎯

[@mitch-lawless]

Wow. This is the first of your videos that I've seen but I just want to say that you have such a fantastic flavour of film-making, and of course your photography + creative direction is incredible. Love your work.

[@RobotNick64]

You are truly somebody special in this whole social media thing because the process, emotions, joy, creativity and activity in life counts more than the actual results and technical terms. You are an artist to me.

[@Luwuluf]

Thank you so much for taking us behind the scenes. I have always been fascinated with self portraits but just couldn't even begin to imagine the process. I have so many preconceptions and emotional reactions to this idea of posing for a self portrait, but seeing you "demystify" it gave me appreciation on a completely different level for this kind of work. It's almost more magical now. And your photos are incredible!!

[@WahidFayumzadah]

I love taking selfportraits. I do it quite often, mostly with flash. In the beginning I thought it was a strange for me to so this as a guy, I don't these days. And I also think that it really helps with self acceptance. Loved the video!

[@Cindymodelscreativity]

More men need to share their thoughts. You guys are definitely a mystery. Hope to see you express your emotions soon

[@hardik99]

Kudos to you for accurately depicting the emotions and experiences of capturing a self-portrait. This video captured the essence so well, making it relatable to my own experiences. Taking self-portraits is a deeply personal and vulnerable process, transporting you to a meditative and also a headspace which is revealing. Photography, especially self-portraits, is about the process and experience of really 'seeing', not just the end result. Keep up the awesome work! Cheers!

[@Aleksanderespelid]

Your photos are absolutely breathtaking! Truly spectacular! On a technical note; did you ever try using the interval mode instead of pushing the button with self timer every time? That was a game changer for my own self portraiture. It meant I could get into the flow and not have to break "character" for every frame.

[@aquietreality]

Wow. These portraits are incredible. Thanks for sharing your thoughts and vulnerability. I can’t remember the last time I took a self portrait and that makes me feel so sad. You’ve given me a lot to think about. ❤

[@deet0studios892]

One of the best videos on YT. The artistry, philosophy, photography..everything is just so well done and inspiring!

[@jasonhooper800]

This excites the original joy from when I discovered photography. Your presence, fearless sharing and your work are incredible. Thank you for being YOU!

[@graincheck]

This makes me wanna cry! YES!!

[@SavonneRenee]

I think the water photos were my favorite by far. The color of the backdrop being the same color of your eyes really captures your theme of restriction. I also loved to see your process because I can relate to it deeply. Feeling overwhelmed to get in front of the camera but turning it into fun and being proud of the moments in between and after the creation is such a rewarding feeling. I don't know if Ive never seen a photography video in this type of format on youtube, but it's so raw! I will definitely stick around and check out your other videos. :)

[@graincheck]

So so so so glad you’re here.

[@joegalka3378]

OMG...You are a You Tuber who is an actually a really good photographer!! This work is so beautiful. So convincing!! A nice mix between commercial and fine art

[@graincheck]

Photographer first! Starting to dial in the filmmaking side 🥲

[@graincheck]

Nonetheless, thank you 😭

[@evelynnedemetrescu4359]

I was in this exact head space when I clicked on this video randomly hoping to relieve my mood procrastinating. Little did I know this is exactly what I needed and the way you walked us through this experience is so refreshing and inspiring. thank you

[@MatthewEncina]

I haven't done any self portrait work since I was in college, and stopped doing it because I felt like it was mostly from a place of vanity. But this video has helped me see a different perspective- that this can be a deeply introspective and creative exercise. Thanks for sharing!

[@shanecc]

This gave me the kick I needed to do my next set of self-portraits! So inspiring - you killed this 🙌🏻.

[@graincheck]

Yes!! Music to my ears!!! Go go go! ❤️‍🔥

[@AmaretteArnold]

Thank you so much for putting yourself out there for us to see. Hearing your thoughts, and especially your self-doubts and processes are so meaningful.

[@Ash1876]

I totally agree with you, I've only taken one self portrait so far but the one I did was on one of the most difficult days in my life I needed some sort of outlet emotionally..after taking the portrait I felt a sense of healing I've never experienced before. Photography is a form of therapy for me. I definitely encourage everyone to try it at least once.❤

[@diegomsvn]

Self portrait was my first approach into photography and I have been so lost in my head through all this years that I forgot why I do this in the first place. But you just reminded me the fun I had back then and the fun I can have now. Thank you ❤

[@patresinger]

This is so sooo sooo great. You hit the water drop on the head! love the vulnerability - I recently tried self portraits and horribly failed to do great on it. this helps

[@graincheck]

So honored to help 🥹

[@chrislynch6115]

I absolutely hate having my photo taken...but this video made me realize it's not about the photos... Thank you. Awesome song at the end!!! We miss PDX!!

[@graincheck]

THIS!!!!

[@_Sisyphus]

It's a rarity to see your level of courage and brutal honesty. Bravo!!!

[@patrickrostker6693]

I love the idea of letting self portraits be an on going and renewing momemt of an artists life and progress, very inspiring. Great shots, so killer! ❤

[@timaratw]

Yooooo, this video is extremely inspiring. Your skill makes the final result look effortless but I’m aware that’s not the case. This makes me want to pick up a camera💚

[@aronjones]

Hating being in front of the camera and preferring to be behind it has been such a blocker for me to take self portraits. But having watched this video I feel so inspired and motivated to photograph myself again, even if only for the pursuit of learning. Thank you 🙏🏼

[@lilyannajoy]

self portraiture really helped me to develop my skills and my vision as a photographer. it helps me to guide my subjects better too! plus i absolutely love the photos i get and they empower me. i love this video so much ❤ and great photos!!!

[@muszeuhs]

An algorithm and some serendipity introduced me to this video, the first I've ever seen of you. I can't recall the last time I felt compelled to click on that meaningless thumbs up thingy. But sincerity, vulnerability, and production will change a person I suppose. I'm a fan now. 👍

[@graincheck]

Hell. Yes. Welcome. I’m so glad you wound up here 😭

[@longnguyendotcom]

Wow, this is such a unique situation where the photographer and model/subject are excellent...and it's the same person!

[@Kev_Thomson]

10:32 the professionalism to go from shivering to totally dialed in 👌🏻 brilliant video Taylor! 👏🏻 the photos are so lovely. Your work just keeps getting better and better. Super inspiring!

[@pedrovalverde]

I was so bad looking for someone to help me to make portraits of me, now you gave me reasons and ideas of how it can be better if I do it myself, also because of the vision that I Have of myself that pretty mucho someone else shooting will do change at least a little bit, this was really awesome to see ! Thanks for this type of content, keep creating awesome stuff! :)

[@elisew5462]

Geez. Thank you so much for this! Personally, it was really healing to watch and hear what you had to say. 🖤

[@Sinnn13]

Just found your channel. I’m on my own self love journey and self portraits are something I’m in the process of trying to attempt. I suffered adeno/endo and now possible cancer. So I it’s been a long journey on the self love train. Your photos are so emotional. I love it.

[@fuji_film_digital2122]

So crazy to think that other people have the same body image issues as I do. Especially someone as absolutely gorgeous as you. This is a great message. Photos are on point and so are you! 🥰🥰❤❤ Thanks!

[@graincheck]

Isn’t it fun being human? 🥲 thank you for your kindness!!

[@jimwlouavl]

Really neat topic. I started doing self portraits to play with light and to see the changes to my body as I age while working on fitness. I’m a new subscriber.

[@hakeemxmalik]

I’m a big believer that colors are the next level of photography. The way that is able to express emotions is soo undoubtedly pure…. I means this with no harm. But your eyes are soo beautiful pure blue, that if you would’ve used the blue strings all around your arms it would’ve connected the expression of confinement you were giving to the actual confinement you were having with the strings against your arms and your arms around your body. 7:18 “imagine the blue”

[@ramdymarte]

I've been wanting to get more into self portraits lately, since it started bugging me that I don't really have any photos I'm proud of where I'm the subject. I feel like this was the perfect video to help not only get my creative juices flowing, but to deal with the vulnerability of it all. Great video, as always! Super underrated channel

[@graincheck]

Okayyyyy yeeesssssss!!!!! 😭 Get out there and do the damn thing. You’re going to love it.

[@Cindymodelscreativity]

You're worthy of being photographed🥺🫶🌠

[@diceryuri]

i finally had some time to sit down and fully watch this, im glad i was able to. beyond lots of cool photographs i love the idea of a self portraits, i have never done it to this extent but now im interested in doing so. i feel like i really need to do this soon, the feeling of being in my own bubble with out viewing myself actually leads to alot of confidence issues and second guessing the work i create. thank you for this video!! also the ending song is just lovely. tim- colorado

[@the_masha_ra]

This is so amazing, I just stared crying listening to you, thank you! I was looking exactly for this

[@Sandy-vf9ko]

I am usually quite self aware about my flaws and the fact I'm not exactly a beautiful person. But any time i want to make myself feel better i feel like taking self portraits does it. I try not to take selfies (they make things worse) but actually try to perceive myself the way I see the beauty in the world This video inspired me even more to try out new things. Thank you so much ❤

[@JonJosephKuhn]

This is the first video from you I have watched. Your writing is fantastic. Your photography is incredible. My love photography waxes and wanes, I’m in a season where I love it and part of that is because of video essays like this. Tutorials have their place but they tend to lack depth and spirit. Thank you for putting yourself into this and sharing it.

[@rainakreeger]

Thank you so much for this video! Haven't taken self portraits in a long long time and I keep thinking of doing it someday but it always just gets forgotten. This video is giving me motivation to actually do it despite feeling quite uncomfortable with taking self portraits cause I'm critical of myself, but perhaps it can shed new light to how I see myself

[@stormysky07]

I can say I needed it this today!! I have been dealing with not liking my self. That you ❤

[@oliverlison]

Pure fragility. I wish I had the guts to expose myself like you dit. Congrats. You have fallen in something beautiful.

[@garonkiesel1646]

I admire your courage. I'll admit I'm not comfortable enough in my own skin to make self-portraits.

[@ChrisDN]

I think of it similarly to how hearing your own recorded voice sounds the first time. It's horrible. The more you do it, the more comfortable you get. Remember, that's how you sound and look to everyone else every day; you're fine and enough.

[@frankvosphotography9106]

Thank you for making this video. It makes me wanna give it a try again. The way you expose yourself is very vulnerable but also beautiful. And I don't mean the pictures but what you tell. And the photos, in turn, are a beautiful expression of that. Every creative person has some form of pain in their heart...

[@graincheck]

100000000%! Being human is beautiful tragic. I tend to really embrace that. Thank you so much for being here. And definitely let me know if you give self portraits a whirl again.

[@StereoChimps]

what a beautiful soul ! never seen some self portrait with such sensibility and quality like this!! amazing! seen ur videos and been inspired so much on getting myself a photo studio to myself too!!

[@graincheck]

Wow wow wow 🥹😭❤️‍🔥

[@skaramicke]

I love how real you make your videos.

[@loubenii]

New to your channel and just wanted to say thank you. I’ve only watched a couple videos but have an immense feeling of gratitude. “…you’re worthy of being photographed.” ❤

[@graincheck]

*cries tears* thank you for being here 🥹

[@3lliexir]

Wow, can I just say this is a masterpiece? So raw and inspiring, thank you for sharing this. And the song at of the video gave me time to read the comments and enjoy good music, that was genius!

[@marylm]

Thank you. Thais video open some Pandora‘ s box and unlocked several crucial memories to find myself in these times of creative Chaos.

[@Universemyview]

what a beautiful video ❤. How beautifully you described self acceptance , self love. I do self portrait too and i also feel shy or that i am not that beautiful or something. But you just showed that self portrait is much more than taking a perfect picture but showing emotions 🧡

[@naeemashaari]

i've been trying to do more self portraits too, i couldnt explain why but you did a great job expressing the feeling and the greater cause of it. thank you ! great music choice as always ❤ the CHIPS playlist is a gem.

[@graincheck]

Wow. That’s really cool to hear. Thanks for listening to Chips 😭

[@MonochromeSunrise]

So incredibly inspiring and inventive, you’re very quickly becoming one of my favourite photographers. Always love hearing your thought process for each image

[@graincheck]

Wow. That means more than you know!! Thank you for being here.

[@ginavadanaphotographer]

What a beautiful session !!! I am myself a self portrait photographer and I couldn't agree more about the importance of this practice, for literally everyone! 🙌🏼 so glad I stumbled upon ur channel! A new subbie here 🥰

[@stevensonrf]

Love your beautiful, creative spirit! You are an inspiration. Thanks.

[@glowingeye]

Fantastic photos, fantastic ideas! I think this I should shoot self portraits, too, especially for the therapeutic side of it. And just thinking about how your body changes over the years and having some sort of record of that is quite thrilling. So thank you! Really needed this sort of wake up call. Oh and I forgot to say this: I have so much respect for you, I'd be too shy to show my self in a video like this, so I think it's quite brave.

[@ChuckAbles]

Well done! Much more imaginative, thoughtful, and creative then me. And I chuckled to myself in appreciation of your presentation as I thought about my self-portrait I took just last Tuesday. My 65th birthday and I had finished my ol' man exercise. Saying that, you are on top of the creativeness of awesome.

[@graincheck]

That is so awesome. That’s the goal! Self portraits forever and ever. You’re the inspiration!!!

[@germansaez]

A trully wonderful video and great photos, Taylor. Is super hard the process of self acceptance required to create good self portraits. Congrats.

[@Stwo]

This is the first video of yours the YT algorithm decided to feed to me. A truly delicious meal. I'll be back for more. Beautiful work, and incredibly impactful insight. Thank you.

[@graincheck]

Wow, welcome! I’m so so so glad you found your way here. ❤️‍🔥 Thanks for the warm comment.

[@ArchiesLens]

When I first started exploring photography and portraiture I did it through self-portraits and it was so cathartic. Loved this video so much🫶🏾

[@graincheck]

Cathartic!!!! I should’ve had that word in my script. So true.

[@ArchiesLens]

@@graincheck still such an impactful video even without that word haha✨

[@thecameraqt]

Brilliant ❤ Thank you for sharing your process. I completely agree

[@lemonkng3188]

I'm 2 minutes and 5 seconds into this video and you have already earned my subscription with your extremely interesting commentary. Came across your video by just looking for information on doing Self-Portraits.

[@oolamigoke]

This whole video and the photos are so dope. I’ve been creating self portraits for three years, and I agree with each of your points, especially about self portraiture being a form of play 👏🏿👏🏿👏🏿

[@neeravnaik]

I feel so inspired !! Thank you for all the effort in not just the portraits but capturing the whole process so well

[@graincheck]

Someone being inspired is the best compliment I could get!! 😭

[@lucian_73]

Loved it. 😊😊 I always smile every dang video the entire videos. 🙂 you have a vibe that just makes my heart feel good because a lot a days I am down. So thank you!!!🥰

[@KyahmRoss]

Hey thank you for such a wonderful video! there is something about your presence and honesty in your voice, you started to remind me of one of my dear friends who passed away and her energy which was really lovely and quite beautiful capturing someone so special in your self portraits. I cant wait to see more of your work xx

[@graincheck]

There are tears in my eyes. Oof. ♥️

[@stew_redman]

Really great, impactful shots. The only thing I don't understand is why you haven't got at least 10x more subs. One of my favourite and inspiring togs on film or digital. Love your work.

[@graincheck]

Thank you so so so much 🥹

[@mikekerouac3452]

Awesome, awesome work. You should be incredibly proud of yourself. I watched in 3 times. Inspiring to say the least.

[@Consuela44]

This is the best kind of showcase. At 4:00, I’m about to drop everything to set up the studio and get to work. Thank you!!!

[@atarakay9900]

This was beautiful thank you. im feeling down about my photography but i just realised its because im only doing it for money and not for me anymore.

[@AlexPresa]

TAYLOR. THIS VIDEO. AHHHHH. Those frames and your expressions are so beautifully articulated!!!! 😭

[@graincheck]

Thank you SO much 😭❤️‍🔥 this is so kind.

[@jamesmckethen3284]

Loved the Introspection. and "Edge of Forever" was perfect.

[@quiquefx]

I love your work Taylor, recently I’m trying self-portrait with photo and video and is like you said: it’s vulnerable bc insecurities and more. Thanks for this

[@graincheck]

100%. Totally normal and a part of the process. Embrace it all you can.

[@thevoiceman6192]

Interesting video. No reason for you to feel self conscious. You are a very naturally pretty lady just as you are. And your blue eyes are amazing. Never hide your flaws. They make you who you are. I do not own a digital camera by choice but do self portraits with instant film to test and experiment with lighting . So when I hire a model I will have an idea of centering and distance.

[@FranciscoRamirezAraya]

this was really inspiring. I was looking at a bunch of photos a friend took of me and didn't like any of them, and made me a bit depressed. This made me stand up and feel a bit better (and I need to work on my self portraits)

[@graincheck]

Yes!!!! Maybe you can photograph yourself better.

[@kbleu5910]

This is a very beautiful video and inspired me to keep at the self portraits, I've learned to love my beauty in the photos the same way I look at my clients in their own photos

[@crlclssic]

that's crazy, you are beautiful. I remember first seeing you on Moment years ago and was like WHO IS THAT! but you didn't post much. Glad to see you posting more and hope you are well. Just remember those slight little imperfections you worry about no one else even notices or thinks about and just see the overall you and you are stunning inside and out so.

[@graincheck]

Wow. Thank you for your kindness. Seriously. It means a lot. 🥹

[@crlclssic]

@@graincheck by the way some amazing techniques in here :)

[@derrenleepoole]

As an art student, way back in 1989/1991, self portrait study was practiced often, and I did enjoy the practice. This video has rekindled that interest and has given me some ideas, so thank you. I wonder how far you would be willing to go for a shot... I ask that because, the shot at 7:16 is fantastic. But when viewing, I had a clear vision of the bonds being pulled tighter to the point of drawing blood, even imagined barbed wire instead. I think this says more about my current mental frustrations with my own photographic journey and the stagnation I'm feeling.

[@Cindymodelscreativity]

Yes and Anthon that can't be done physically van always be photohopped or synthetic. Our thoughts can literally consume us. Safety first and I love that concept!

[@analog_astronaut]

I really appreciate the vulnerability here. Social media has caused us to put up our guard more than ever before in human history but because of that we have forgotten that flaws, weakness, and blemishes are truly the things that make us beautiful.

[@graincheck]

THIS!!!!!!!

[@andreadybvik]

This was so inspiring! Thank you! I'll try a self portrait session with myself - sounds like a deep inner journey🧡

[@Ravik122]

Thanks for the video Taylor! I'm always excited to see your videos. So genuine and interesting. I've been meaning to do self portraits for months. Will have to figure out how to pull them off in my cramped apartment once i find the time. Again, many thanks, looking forward to your next vid! Cheers! [Edit: ps. I do appreciate you adding a random song at the end : )]

[@graincheck]

Don’t let your apartment stop you. Either use it or make it not matter. You will absolutely love this process - I promise. Thank you so much for your kindness and support ♥️

[@snapjacksonphotography]

This video is golden. Thank you for the much needed inspiration.

[@BillEvans1956]

That’s very powerful. Thanks for posting.

[@fredayao6406]

Hi, I'm your new audience and just wanna express how I think valuable this video is unique and valuable (also on youtube) I just finished today's some kind of intense lit. (art kind)work and got my energy &nerve right back after watching your amazing self-introspective (and also virtuoso more than in my eyes). Appreciate everything, effort behind the audience's mere watching for a lot shorter time. I'll defintely stay tuned, plz keep being yourself and being wonderful. (I'm kinda bad at English so there might me some imprecise/overly-vague expressions but I really like your video!)

[@jesseeldredge]

So brilliant! AND. THOSE. PHOTOS! Thank you for putting this into the world.

[@colinthomas2525]

Important message and wonderful shots. From the first time is saw you on the Moment channel I thought you were absolutely stunning. Very articulate and skilled photographer and amazing personality. Not every day can be perfect and sometimes we get down on our selves but if we are surrounded by amazing friends and family we all can overcome these obstacles. Keep being you and remember you never have to put on a show for anyone but you have to be true to yourself. Thanks for sharing.

[@graincheck]

Thank you for this 🥹❤️‍🔥

[@joedlafferty]

excellent video, thanks for sharing... Love the music at the end too, fits so well.

[@mcianph]

I've almost never done portraits as a photographer but seeing you videos on this genre are inspiring me on getting out of my comfort zone and try it!! Also your pictures are wonderful as always and same for the video! You've become one if my favorite photographers and KZbinrs!

[@graincheck]

Wow. Thank you so much 🥹 I truly hope you try some portraiture!! Even if you end up hating it, at least you tried.

[@mcianph]

@@graincheck yeah I must! Hopefully I'll have enough time in the next months to try something 🤞🏻

[@ChrisWithTheCam]

You’re a beautiful human and by far the GOAT of photography on KZbin, keep it up!!!

[@theblackmanarmedwithacamera]

BIG PROPS ON THIS VIDEO! ABSOLUTELY MY FAVORITE SO FAR!!! GREAT WORK AND LOVE YOUR PROCESSES... WITH YOUR TECHNIQUE AND LETTING US INTO YOUR MIND!💯🤘🏾🤘🏾🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥

[@graincheck]

Thank you, thank you, thank you ♥️