Stop Sabotaging Your Photography!! The Brutal Truth Every Beginner Needs to Hear... Sorry!

[@LauraBC]

I think my Spanish blood came out in this video... 😂 But I keep being told the same thing over and over by many of you and I really felt the need to talk to you about this. You DO have to believe in yourself and approach photography the right way if you want to make it in this industry, please! I hope this video helps you and you're having an incredible summer! Loads of love alwayssss! ❤

[@triplewinlin5576]

♥ Thank you for the tough love that we all need!

[@amybella]

Nahh Laura, people need a push. With mainstream media, jobs, whatever it is, people feel discouraged. Like I always say, dont believe in all the noise, just believe in yourself. I think lots of people, tell them "oh its alot of work" dont bother, etc... We live in a society where people live on negativity. Been there, once I blocked all the noise. I started loving photography more and believing more in myself.

[@Skiinye]

It’s okayyyyyyy! I think I needed it 😂

[@marcopervo]

Sometimes you have to bring the heat to get your point across.

[@91mattmac]

A sign of a good mentor: someone who cares. Thanks for the tough love. I know I’ve let the negative slip in over the last year and the self doubt is real. I have been discouraged by Instagram mainly, it effects the negative side of my ego and coupled with perfectionism, I’ve definitely not picked up my camera as much as I should. Though I will say, I’ve pushed out of my comfort zone since I’ve stopped posting on IG trying to chase that clout the times I have so that’s refreshing

[@JoelRamirez-ru5du]

I’ll be sixty years old later this year and I’m just starting my journey into photography. I decided to go full throttle by quitting my job so the only obstacle will be me. Many have said I’m nuts but I don’t care. It’s what I want to do and I look forward to starting at Level 1.

[@tob357]

You go, guy! I’m 61 and all consumed with caring for aging parents at the moment. But oh, the magic of loading up my backpack with my camera and a lunch is magical for me to get away, refuel and invest in my self care a bit. While I am fortunate not to have to depend on photography as my sole source of income, many days it is my only creative outlet and source of sanctuary and comfort.

[@JYP1M]

It ultimately comes down to yourself. I’ve owned my own photography business for 2 years. It is a struggle at times. I go through highs and lows. Nonetheless, I do love this and I refuse to have a plan B. I felt everything you said!!!

[@satchelle]

Laura, I subscribed to you even though I'm not a photographer. But your advice on believing in ourselves in the work that we do applies to me. You've been so inspiring and I even managed to land a freelance job because of your advice from previous videos! Thank you!

[@RaC09]

You are Awesome, Laura! ..."Your mindset is going to make your future..laterally". The 9 most profound words in the world to succeed in every sphere of life-Thank you!

[@LauraBC]

Thank you so much!! 🫶🏼 And totally! So many people forget about it and it plays the main role in our careers and life in general. I’m glad you agree and I hope this video helped! 😊❤️

[@RaC09]

@@LauraBC not only this video, almost all your videos are helpful in one or other ways, be it technical or lessons of life!

[@kirklloyd5628]

Laura great message, people need motivation at times, but there comes that time when they need to do the work for themselves to be successful. One of my favorite sayings is " You can lead a horse to water but you cannot make it drink". Thank you for your vids.....

[@tomkryzz]

You are such an inspiration and motivation. Thank you, Laura!

[@LauraBC]

Thank youuu! I hope this video helped! 🥰 Loads of love!

[@AndrewSacoman]

I took my first landscape photos while living in Toledo. Hearing you always brings me back to those beautiful days I spent in Spain with my Nikon D70 and kit lens (all I could afford at the time). Your journey is inspiring!

[@lucianodoriaphotography]

I absolutely agree! I love this video and your energetic style. Thanks for sharing!

[@wisechoicemedia]

Laura, your passion and honesty in this video are truly inspiring! You’ve shared so much of your heart, and it’s clear how much you care about helping others succeed. Your journey from starting out with nothing in London to becoming a successful photographer is a testament to hard work and believing in yourself. Thank you for being so real and pushing us to overcome our doubts. I’m so motivated to keep going after hearing your story! Can’t wait to see more of your content and learn from your upcoming course. Sending lots of love and gratitude your way!

[@stephanyfaycohen3842]

Ahhh!! So much love to you, Laura. You are never alone, all your Angels are with you - wherever you go. It would be great to read your London story. I'll remember you in my Meditations and Prayers. Thank you for all your hard work in teaching us the ropes. GOD bless you.

[@Gerald_G]

Put me in coach! 😂 I’m ready to run thru a wall after watching this. Thanks for caring, Laura!

[@saral.9220]

Incredible words Laura, I needed to hear this! Thank you!

[@aprilbolden7995]

I really appreciate your message. I have been holding off on starting sport photography as a side hustle. I have been scared, fearful and intimidated because I’m older and see others work. But I’ve decided I won’t know until I take the first step. So thank you for your honesty and authenticity about beginning, the middle, the future and the process of being a photographer. ☺️

[@aaronm5149]

Great video! I love the encouragement but also the honest reality check. Becoming great at anything is all about starting and sticking with it, while reinvesting in your ability to constantly learn and improve. Thanks for the transparency and challenge.

[@miltonfanfa721]

You're amazing Laura! Please share more about your London stories, including how it was to get started with fashion/brands photography there!

[@mhcreativejourney5113]

Necesitaba este video. Muchas gracias @LauraBC !!!!

[@WilliamCruzing4photos]

Love the blunt statements and the love behind it.

[@danielcely8345]

You know? I trust my photo skills, I've worked hard to develop those skills. However my business and marketing side are the worst, I haven't quit yet, but it's hard for me to actually reach people out, it seriously frightens me to reach out potential clients. Thank you for sharing your experience and letting your frustration out haha

[@garrettlison4992]

After spending a few years doing landscape and nature work, I took a chance and shot a local music fesitval this past weekend! It was a ton of fun to learn and really start finding some compositions I enjoyed. I don't know how many keepers I have, but it's all part of the process. Cheers!

[@JohnAspired]

I know how hard it is and I agree. If you do not believe in yourself no matter what you are doing. You will not be successful. My KZbin channel is about my aspiring journey of being a photographer and content creator. I create videos around that. I know there are other better creatives but I will not let that stop me creating. I create as often as I can. It's hard because right now I work full time but I need to in order to support myself. However, I will continue to grow and I can only hope to aspire to be half as great as Laura. Laura you're a huge inspiration. Thank You for what you do. God Bless and Big Love from Western Australia.

[@letsgooo7848]

Growth can only occur from failure, and dreams take time. I also started out and my photos were complete garbage and I stopped en began many times over and over again but you will learn from your mistakes and it takes time but if you fully commit to it you will make it! I like that you speak your mind and are so open not many people have the courage for that these days, and thank you for inspiring me with your videos you do a really good job! Keep it up :)

[@nexus-research]

Laura, the inspiration you have given me along with the passion with which you drive home your points is off the charts! For me, it's not just a photoraphy journey. Thank you so much!!!

[@johnclay7644]

informative video on mindset, thanks Laura

[@LauraBC]

You’re most welcome John! I’m so glad to know that you enjoyed it! Big hug! 😊

[@dillikemusafir]

Thanks for the motivation, Laura. Regards.

[@mikeg2916]

This is tough love ❤️ You are so right about being intimidated by KZbin photographers. Thanks

[@TimSeraphiel]

Thankyou for your honesty and passion. ❤

[@Frankaly2219]

This is why i follow you!!! 💪🏼 im from Puerto Rico. And for me you are one of the best photographer and verry good teacher.

[@LauraBC]

Awwww thank you so much! 😍 This means a lot! Sending you a huge hug to Puerto Rico! 🥰

[@Frankaly2219]

Sera bien recibido. Y gracias a ti por tu esfuerzo. 😊

[@munarong]

Love your energy! Thanks for the video. 👍

[@thinkplanetearth2946]

Tremendo video, Laura. Tienes toda la razón. Es uno mismo quien se sabotea.

[@elizabethphillips6467]

I'm starting out in my 60's too. A passion that I put off years ago and enjoying the journey.

[@itsmetracey9255]

"EXCUSE ME?!" at 2:40 got me.😂😂 thank you so much for your honest and helpful words💗 i think its really important to show more reality on social media...thank you for pushing that💓

[@LauraBC]

Hahaha 😂 My Spanish blood came out. I’m just doing my best to make everyone understand how important and crucial having the right mindset is. I enjoyed so much having this conversation with you. And I will keep them coming. As you say, social media needs more openness and honesty. Thank you so much for being here Tracey! 😍❤️

[@igibbs2000utube]

Great video. I've been a photographer for a few years now, first as a hobby, then side hustle, and now trying to make it as my primary gig. Most of what I've done has been concert photography. Early on, I'd come home from a concert with hundreds (usually more than 1000) photos. I'd cull that down to a much smaller set to edit, and then even within the edited set, I'd cull that down further to a couple dozen photos to show. All the while, I'd see a few photos taken by other (better known) photographers. I'd think "omg, these other guys are creating some great photos! All I see of my own work is crap!" It was depressing. After a time, I realized that I felt bad about my own work because I was effectively "throwing away" (well, not using) such a high percent of my photos. It kinda felt like all that work was crap. And the only work I was seeing from other photographers was great. Then it clicked - those other photographers at the same concerts quite likely ALSO have a ton of photos that were never used! It's not that my work was bad, it's that I was comparing all of my "less good" photos against the few of the very best (and therefore "published") from other photographers. That realization removed some of the self doubt.

[@TClarke-q7u]

I loved this! It needed to be said. I have constant doubts and to hear real shit like this and more of what you went through makes it feel achievable, possible and REAL!! More people to be honest with their stories and not just what sounds nice.

[@VallirieMolina]

I love you!! Much needed ❤

[@patflanaganphotography]

Hey Laura! This is one of the realest videos I’ve heard in a long time. A lot of people need to hear something like this. Thanks for speaking the truth!

[@aracelyadvmedia]

I was not expecting a pep talk when I opened this video!!! You're funny, lady. I can totally relate to all the feelings in this video. Thank you for sharing this with us :)

[@WanderingSwitchback]

This one is great! Due to some life circumstances, I'm pivoting into making photography a business. I already had my KZbin channel active, so I am adding this aspect to my channel as well. Hopefully someday it'll be good inspiration for someone who is trying to get started and they can see what the beginning of the journey looks like. I'm only sharing parts of it, because only some of it is relevant to my existing niche, but so far, my audience is enjoying watching my journey and seeing my photography improve as I have taken the time to really focus on it. 100% we all have to start somewhere, and that includes being bad at it for awhile. To be fair, they say having a photography business is 10% photography and 90% business. Having the business side of it down is critical! I have faith that I will succeed at this. I am taking the right steps, staying open to possibilities, and doing the footwork. I got approved for Getty Images today, too! One step at a time!

[@Shotxfila]

Needed this !muchas gracias ❤

[@robpastore]

Tell it like it is Laura, I hope you have a great time with your family. Big hugs and much love.

[@JorgeLausell]

Gracias! This is very timely for me at this moment. I'm returning to my art and mission in life right now. I'll share my work with you soon.

[@LauraBC]

This is amazing to hear Jorge! 😍 Keep it up and best of luck with your return! 🫶🏼

[@lillymemakeup4908]

💯 Learning something new can be overwhelming, especially in a world where social media showcases everyone's highlight reels. It’s easy to feel like you’re falling behind when you see others who have already mastered their craft. But here’s the truth: every expert was once a beginner. 🌱 Remember to focus on your own journey. Embrace the process of learning, with all its ups and downs. Celebrate small victories and progress, no matter how insignificant they may seem. It’s not about how quickly you achieve your goals but about enjoying the ride and doing what you love. So, take a deep breath, be kind to yourself, and keep going. You are good enough, and your unique path is just as valuable as anyone else’s. Believe in yourself and trust the process. 🌟 #EmbraceTheProcess

[@LauraBC]

I couldn’t have said it better! 🥰🫶🏼

[@lillymemakeup4908]

@@LauraBC 🙏 Thank You for being real. 🫶

[@21Virtues]

Looking forward to this course. I will be in!

[@belaacs5238]

Happiness never creates art. Misery, hell, and imagination are the basics of creating great art. Talent and being lucky help a lot. You could be the best artist in the world but if no one discovers or mentors you, you will be one of the tens of millions of unknown artists. By the way, today everybody calls themself an artist, a master, whatever they do. Van Gogh (brother) sold only one painting of his from his hundreds, created by his miserable, hellish life and now every (snob) expert and collector thinks he was the best-ever painter and pays millions for a sketch of his. Thirty years ago when I said I was a photographer, they said "Oooh, really?", today everybody says, "Me too". Good luck on your journey!

[@LabyrinthMiniMovies]

I absolutely love your honest view on this topic, I have been doing video work for the last four years and now kicking into profesional photography too, several times I get doubt but then I get a push from someone like you, so thanks!

[@jcaiwa185]

Thank you Laura to shake us up like you do.

[@kaydenesbackpack]

You're an amazing human being and I am blessed to have discovered you. I needed this 🙌🏾

[@joncothranphotography9375]

Great talk! Thanks, Laura! Your amazing!

[@rimassukarevicius]

A great video. It is so inspiring and it is a good kick in the butt to finally start taking action. I keep thinking that I should book mentoring with you so that I can get closer to my dream even faster.

[@tob357]

You should share that Spanish gusto more often! It translates well as “kick ass“ motivation. Thank you for all the great content you continue to turn out. I barely have time to watch KZbin anymore, but when I do, I find your content refreshing, constructive, and life-giving! 🎉❤🥾🙌🏽

[@gatobuho-]

I'm going to write this in Spanish because it feels more personal to me. Tu eres la unica creadora de contenido que realmente me ayudo a comprender no solo la curva de aprendizaje, si no también la curva del emprendimiento y habló directamente de la fotografía como un negocio de forma realista. Me ayudaste mucho, especialmente ahora que me quede sin empleo (tenia jefes abusadores) y me siento atrapada como profesional, no soy fotografa o almenos no me lo considero, pero se fotografía porque mi carrera asi me lo exigio y por fin quiero salir de mi racha de inseguridad y confiar mas en mi propio trabajo.

[@paparazzina1]

Laura, you are so inspiring, you rock, there is always something to learn from you.

[@Pelos_daSilva]

Yup...This was the kick in the gut i needed. Thank you, Laura, thank you!

[@Steve-qi7hc]

Whew quite the rant. Love the videos.

[@paulr8613]

Only a hobby photographer but I love your videos and admire your tenacious attitude moving to London with only a dream and now in Bali , your an inspiration, keep your wonderful videos coming

[@newdawnedithub3734]

Thank you, Laura. I had to drop my camera because of my low mindset after I left the studio I was working for. I will pick up my camera now.

[@fallonjasovsky1704]

You are awesome please keep keeping it real

[@manisha-GT]

Thanks Laura, definitely it’s a video that was needed. It did inspire and the positive push that was needed ♥️

[@mariemclaughlan5404]

Thank you Laura you are a very bless person.

[@aditipatel4877]

Laura thank you for this video❤ I am so grateful…it helped me to gathered courage for that one step!!! I’m sure that would be the case for lot of us. Keep up! lots of love from canada!!!

[@IaimeBordallo]

Laura!!!!!! Gracias por este vídeo!!!!!

[@fotorc]

Much respect... I love the way you think.

[@felixbird]

This is such a great video! You are such a huge inspiration, I am so glad I found your channel. I always go to your channel when I need something uplifting and inspiring. I am forwarding this to every fellow artist I know because this is what we all need. It is so easy to be discouraged by numbers, competition etc. can’t wait for the next video. Oh and you can add therapist to your list of life skills now!!

[@exzemoron]

Damn I love your channel and you! You cover so many topics that NON other youtubers does and you go raw and real about it! A kick in the ass that many of us need from time to time. Adn the knowledge you share is priceless. Thank you! 🙏🏼

[@kersakdave]

The motivational video I didn’t know I needed❤

[@treasurehunter3239]

Thank you for the inspiration

[@jonathanmartinez2725]

Laura eres tremenda, me encanto este video, comparto tu forma de pensar, soy muy positivo y también estoy pasando por mucho para empezar a conseguir clientes. Es bien frustrante cuando no recibes respuestas, tus amigos y familia no comparten en las redes sociales, nadie le da me gusta a tus fotos. Pero ves que comparten cosas de gente que ni conocen. ❤ un abrazo y gracias por el push! 😘

[@EricAbbott-hu3ph]

Thank you for your passion for photography. Love these statements you made before, 'You learn alot with limitations' and 'Stop blaming what you lack".

[@rickhelmke7893]

Interesting video and I generally enjoy yours because it isn’t the same thing over and over. I got into this game a good while back in the newspaper business. I photograph mischief, murder and mayhem. Sports too but that’s basically the same thing. If I might offer a suggestion, tell new photographers and anyone else who hasn’t figured it out that whatever kind of work you do be it editorial, commercial, weddings or just for fun, do it your way. Don’t emulate something you’ve seen, it’s already been done. It takes some practice but you’ll develop a style of your own and people will know your work when they see it.

[@ktlin0]

Thank you for this video, Laura 🧡

[@ktlin0]

I'm a beginner and feel like there's a mountain to climb in terms of skills but honestly you are inspiring, an awesome person, and more, you are extremely generous in helping out us beginners:) with all the competition out there, i feel some are not keen on sharing their knowledge and 'tricks' i suck now but i am learning with my Sony a6400 + Tamron 17-70mm 2.8 :)

[@LauraBC]

You’re most welcome! I hope it helped! ❤️🙏🏼

[@matheusdezan474]

I would love to hear your stories from London!

[@LauraBC]

Amazing to know! I’m always unsure if I should share them as I don’t know if people would be interested. But they’re quite interesting and probably motivating too. Thank you for sharing your interest Matheus! 🙏🏼 ❤️

[@marcuskif]

Perfect timing 🎉❤

[@abchappell01]

A little tough love never hurts 😊

[@nomadikphoto]

Wow......way to stab me right in the heart lol ❤ this stuff has been on my mind on a lot, definitely feeling like I SUCK

[@91unamed]

This is probably in my top 3 of this channel's videos

[@AndresRodriguez-nu5bt]

Estoy escuchando el video mientras edito las primeras sesiones de fotos que he hecho para no sufrir tanto con los errores que cometí 😂 Muchas gracias por tus videos e inspiración, siempre me ha costado creer en mi mismo y tus videos fueron parte de lo que me ayudó atreverme con la fotografía ❤

[@scorpious1957]

FANTASTIC AND PASSIONATE

[@iolanisjourney4828]

Loved this video and appreciate the honesty! "of course you suck, embrace it" these words motivate me to fight to get better at my craft and reminds me that everyone sucked at some point even the best videographers. Thank you Laura!

[@wiu.a]

Laura, thanks so much for your honesty. I don't consider myself in the same place bc I believe in myself and my work (maybe not that much but I do) but you made me unlock a place in my thoughts: to travel as a freelance photographer. I guess, deep down, this is a wish hidden deep within myself and listening to your experience opened my eyes and years. Anyway, let's keep going. Hugs from Brazil, you're amazing. Ps: I'm surely gonna save this video for when I feel down and you can energize me back up haha

[@Leza1121]

Hi Laura! Thank you for this rant! Although photography will be a hobby for me, I still want to learn how to capture beautiful images. As we say in the U.S. "You have to learn how to crawl before you can walk"! 😊 Love and hugs from NY! ❤🤗

[@sorrynerozumim8605]

Loved the Spanish passion here ❤😂

[@BGTuyau]

¡La entrenadora española! Aparte de sus logros en fotografía, la maestría de inglés había logrado -con su acento distintivo y apasionado- dentro de unos pocos años es impresionante, al igual que su ético laboral. Su mensaje en pocas palabras: Tener confianza en sí mismo es primordial.

[@PaulWertanen]

I've been putting together a channel that is "raw" and uncut, so people can see the less perfect side of the business. By the way, you're doing an awesome job.

[@dan.knows.photography]

Excellent reminder 👍

[@krishabroad9282]

Madam Laura , it's so sad, your London is burning... You have shifted on right time ❤❤

[@LauraBC]

I know right? Everything is going crazy in London at the moment… I left at the right time. 😅❤️

[@RamiVeri]

Thank you ❤

[@colinreidcr]

Hi Laura. So far Ive gotten one paid charity event and having a family portrait coming up. Colin,

[@Skiinye]

Very truthful video I love it

[@amandacoords]

Se tenía que decir y se dijo. Ole👏👏

[@dalloiselle7274]

Please, keep giving out this message regularly. You are only one voice and your viewers are being constantly bombarded by the opposite message. To counter balance that you must mention it every time and focus on it often in your video offerings. Otherwise, your viewers will see perfection and be reminded of their imperfections, frightened by the “impossibility” of succeeding and totally discouraged by rampant doom and gloom predictions of AI… Keep up the good work and fight the good fight. We all need it.

[@raw_pc]

Failure is the only reason people learn anything in life, and having a strong belief in their abilities is the reason they achieve their goals. We all fall, get back up and keep going. Never back down. "As long as you fight, you are the winner".

[@MarianMoisii]

Big like for you!!!!!❤❤❤

[@rafaelaraujo9883]

Thanks, Laura. I wish I could be your friend 🙏🏻🙏🏻 best wishes from Portugal

[@Dariusproductions]

Thank u Laura

[@photofusionart]

Great video...

[@JWrightt]

Sacaste este video en el momento indicado, gracias Laura 😢

[@mariemclaughlan5404]

Laura you are very kind. Super nice.😅😢

[@ProgiDitor]

God I love you, so much inspiration ❤️

[@HeadsUpHeadShotsMedia]

I’m in the beginning!!!! I suck!!! I know it!!! And I am making content!!! I commit, right here and now, to share the journey. I am right now standing at a sink, washing espresso machine parts because I fix espresso machines at night for Starbucks. In the day I work on my business, I have given up everything, I don’t smoke. I don’t drink. I don’t do drugs of any kind and I live in an area where marijuana is legal. I separated from my wife because she doesn’t believe in my business and I left behind everything including moving out of my home and eliminating anything that might be in the way of me succeeding in my business. If a thing does not support my vision being a successful photographer/business owner operator, I eliminate it from my mind and my presence!!! I literally gave up everything so that I can suck at this photography thing. I will suck until I don’t. I am building my business and I am inspired by what you say because I know that I’m just as good as you. I will not quit and I will do whatever is required.

[@washingtonradio]

It doesn't matter what you are starting as a beginner, you are a beginner aka you suck at it. What you need is more experienced to reach out and encourage you that you can learn and improve. Also, don't worry about what others think of you style, that's what makes you unique.