Photograph what makes you Happy (Ignore the Labelmakers and Gatekeepers)

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In this video I talk about the importance of shooting the subjects which make you happy, and how experimentation is the only way to grow as a photographer. So ignore the labelmakers and gatekeepers, and keep it simple: just be a photographer. Let other people worry about which box to put you in. You don't have to explain yourself. Shoot the images which make you happy.
Share this video on if you found it helpful.
#photography #happy #creativity

[@Sc3ptor]

This is the most polite and savage burn to gatekeeping photographers ever

[@3ilder]

couldn't agree more, enjoying every second of this video 👍📸

[@trovadorregio]

that's right. some people just can't get over the fact that talent suits so many styles, genres, and approaches.

[@barrycohen311]

That is not real commentary. It lacks punctuation.

[@xGrubsy]

Baruch Cohen Got em 😂

[@mikelee8535]

gatekeepers never go into the party.

[@LIBICU812]

"I'm just a photographer. I'll shoot what I want." The most liberating phrase for all who create.

[@yousefabdulrhman858]

That doesn't mean you could get into a private place and start shooting but public places are fair game.

[@baconpalacio]

Agreed!

[@stephencross6474]

Totally wholeheartedly agree

[@BurfieldPhoto1]

"What type of photographer are you?" "The type that takes photos."

[@TheophilusEmmanuel]

WORD!!

[@Karlinski73]

"If you drop me anywhere in the world with a camera in hand I will just start taking photographs because it's what I love to do". That's it. That. Is. It. That's THE sentence, right there. Wonderful video. Wonderful message.

[@jamiewindsor]

The pioneers and innovators are the ones that just do it. Those who can’t innovate spend their time telling everyone else what they’re doing wrong.

[@seantuck]

Agreed:) I hope you're doing well mate.

[@zieniu]

It's so excelently said! (sorry for my english :) )

[@calebwee328]

Agreed!! I used to be in a group where there's this admin that keeps telling people: "your photos don't show a story". I was struggling so much to understand what the admin meant until I broke out of this mindset of "a story" and started taking photos I just thought were interesting. I gradually improved way more than when I was in that group

[@christopherbgriffith]

Jamie, you and Sean (who I somehow only just recently discovered) are two of my greatest photographic inspirations. I appreciate your endless generosity in sharing your knowledge and skills. I happened across this video on a day when I was struggling with my sense of legitimacy and it was exactly what I needed. I am a photographer. Full stop.

[@roussinphilippe]

Am I the only one who gets inspired and energized after watching one of his videos?

[@MrPhotographerDude]

It’s the music

[@roussinphilippe]

@@MrPhotographerDude It's more the words 😉

[@3ilder]

Have u looked at the sub count?

[@ericbenquet3470]

Phil Roussin it’s the invisible energy

[@randygeene9455]

Absolutely every time!

[@gabequezada2066]

Why do I feel positive and energized when this man finishes talking? We need all out leaders to be like this. Bless this man

[@philipshucet9481]

Now in my 70th decade of life, I’ve realized that as soon as a person is labeled, the danger is that no one will ever really “see” the person again. They may only see the label. As usual, I enjoy your wisdom. Thank you for sharing it.

[@arianadiego3709]

Philip Shucet you making it to 700 years old is really something....lol I'm just kidding you...I agree with what you said, as soon as you label something you limit what you perceive what it can be...

[@Viator19]

Very wise words indeed

[@shomanightmare]

I just turned 64 and the older I get the clearer it becomes that I know NOTHING. Great video Mr. Tucker. Thank You.

[@Shevanigans]

This reflects life, not just photography. Oscar Wilde said, ”Be yourself, everyone else is taken”.

[@rokpodlogar6062]

nice one.

[@michaelgreen4935]

@@rokpodlogar6062 A real nice one!!!

[@thoresiebrands461]

“You can know the name of a bird in all the languages of the world, but when you're finished, you'll know absolutely nothing whatever about the bird... So let's look at the bird and see what it's doing - that's what counts. I learned very early the difference between knowing the name of something and knowing something.” ― Richard P. Feynman, "What Do You Care What Other People Think?": Further Adventures of a Curious Character

[@Doc2beer]

Damn! That was beautiful...

[@Tanguero]

Because. . . Feynman. :)

[@StillwatersFarm]

Oh, how dead-on you are! In the Spanish language, there are two words for the verb "to know". Saber, meaning to have factual or technical knowledge, and Conocer, meaning to have intimate knowledge--or to know with one's soul. Interesting, the difference in the depth of knowledge between the two.

[@thoresiebrands461]

Stillwaters Farm Thanks! The same difference in German: wissen = saber = factual knowledge; kennen = conocer, more like 'to be acquainted with'.

[@MrOvipare]

It feels like a part of me would be missing if it was not for me knowing about Richard Feynman. What an inspiring mind.

[@nepalinomadwithacamera3023]

Sean, you are more than a photographer. You are an amazingly inspiring human being who also happens to know how to take great photos of pretty much anything. You are a motivational speaker, a philosopher and a storyteller. Keep inspiring us. Subscribed.

[@leond123]

"Photograph what makes you Happy" - In a way, it's kind of sad you need to tell people this. Great video Sean. Well done.

[@KL-os2sr]

It’s 2020 a lot of people have underlying medical conditions

[@maxmemos9390]

You're such an inspiration, Sean. That's what you are. That's a label I'm comfortable putting on you. And I don't care if you accept it or not. :)

[@qiangyang3522]

I totally agree. I wanted to say the same but you were first 😉 take care 😉

[@MajorAddiction]

real

[@mimoreque1805]

"Middle management photographers" LOL!!! Exactly. The ones that will criticize your equipment, knowledge, skills, work flow, style, etc. in order to feel better about their insecurities... I wonder, if they know so much about photography, and they're so experienced, what are they doing wasting their time on my work. Thanks for sharing your thoughts, I don't know how good of a priest you were, but as a photography mentor, you're among the best people I've met in my life. God bless.

[@davidromano2421]

Love that term! Hahaha

[@mimoreque1805]

@@blackjohnny0 Yeah, I get you. I guess it happens in every profession, but those art related (like photography), are usually the ones full of guys that cannot out into work how talented they are, therefore they talk so much about others... Cheers!

[@michaels8597]

You answered you own questions.Think about what kind of dirtbag worries about what cameras and gear I use,as if it's his damn business.That's some fascist,insecure,suspect person.

[@patrickryan3558]

Middle management photographers. Like those that are quick to “offer their opinion” uninvited and seem surprised if challenged on their negativity. Like an ex-friend who bristled with indignation when challenged: “I’m just giving you my opinion”, he said. In response: “I know but I didn’t ask for it and I’m not interested”

[@MCFC4TONY]

I have tried for the last two years to get myself "out there" by setting up a couple of websites and joining Instagram in. I have made one sale in all that time. I have though had a lot of people telling me that I'm wasting my time. During the lockdown, I have got more and more depressed and was on the verge of chucking it all in. This video has made me re-think and reset. Onwards for me, from now on. Haters gota hate! Thank you for giving me the strength to carry on. Keep it real mate, you don't know how much you have helped me.

[@haripriyasunil9709]

This is exactly what I needed to hear! Comparing and limiting myself has kept me away from photography for quite a while. This just gave me the confidence to go out there and enjoy pressing the shutter how I initially used to❤

[@atrisha5179]

This is exactly my case.

[@karenrobinson3805]

“Just a Photographer”...yes - frees up the body and soul to be creative....Thank you

[@gabrielgarciana3393]

in that case, i love light architecture

[@ericbenquet3470]

Gabriel GarciaNa me too

[@jesseloraphotography4096]

Aloha, As a retired Marine Combat Correspondent (Photography, journalist) I’ve fallen into a category that secures the artist within me. As a Marine, I had to shoot all sorts of assignments. Today, this talent blends well into our society. Your video exemplifies the artist within me. Thank you for speaking to the thousands of photographers that fall into “Shoot what we love to shoot.” Mahalo’s, Jesse Lora

[@kjb_tennessee]

Feels like your talking to me. I don’t consider myself talented, or creative, I just love taking photographs.

[@YourStoryStudios]

“Are you kidding me? That’s going on my business card!” Haha, great comment. That made me hit the like button!

[@stufromoz8164]

Made me subscribe.

[@craigburnett8723]

It is a great comment, but I feel obliged to mention don't put Light Architect on a business card. The US has incredibly restrictive laws on labeling yourself with certain profession names that are licensed. Architect is one of those. Friendly PSA to alright who sees this that it is illegal to market yourself as any flavor of Architect (even if you aren't doing architecture) without being a licensed Architect

[@cianconway]

I love this, there is a huge amount of gatekeeping in photography. Shoot what you want to shoot, postprocess however you want to postprocess. Who cares? It's your art do whatever you want.

[@DigitalRetro]

That`s the pure essence of photography - don`t let anyone tell you how to enjoy your photography journey. Enjoy it yourself. And make the most of this joy without anyone`s approval or praise.

[@yeahdude7184]

Small rant: I've been comfortable with my style of shooting for about 2 years now ( mostly abandoned photography). I was about to sell my Fujifilm x100t and the buyer didn't come through on the purchase so I started using it again. I had become accustomed to shooting with the 10-24mm 90% of the time. Something clicked in me when I picked up the x100t again and now I can't get it out of my mind. I am selling my most comfortable lens and my 56mm to buy the x100v. I shoot completely different with that style of camera and focal length. I want to force myself into a corner and shoot my way out....with a camera of course lol. Thanks for listening because my girlfriend is tired of hearing it.

[@JimSollows]

Sean you are a breath of fresh air!! I cannot express how much I love this video. I recently had someone go through my IG feed labeling any street image that violated his rules with the comment **NOT STREET PHOTOGRAPHY ** rules like .. if subject sees you, it’s not street photography or if the subject takes more than 1/3 the frame it’s not street photography. It made me so angry I considered deleting my whole IG feed. I have another local pro who is constantly on me because I should only post 1 genre. I’m not a pro, I’m a hobbiest and my only client is ME. I really needed to hear this Sean!!!! Thank you!

[@seantuck]

I'm sorry to hear that my friend. Best just to block them and keep shooting what you enjoy.

[@tehcarlo]

Amazing that someone would deputise themselves as the photography police, and run through your whole IG. I agree, block them and move on.

[@francescabonvini3998]

Go on and do what you love. I think that this should be applied even if you would've been a pro!

[@andrewbaxter9395]

I’ve experienced this too Jim. I don’t understand why any self titled creative would ironically insist on one genre delivered in one style. Of course they are free to do that if they choose but not insist I somehow should comply with their own preferences to be validated in some way. Unique and individual is good, not same and generic. Don’t get dispirited, paddle your own canoe as they say 😊

[@chrishanger5423]

Hahaha, oh wow. Imagine being that arrogant and full of yourself that you think being the sherrif is okay. Imagine how good his photos could be if he spent more time working on his craft then chastising people

[@XCMRM80]

"middle management photographers" tend to be moderators in Facebook groups!

[@mossbanksy]

Yeah! Gate keepers need a gate.

[@ralfahsbahs2223]

So true, and more true in German FB groups :)

[@catnapwat]

I'm a member of a food photography group on FB and they have a rule that you MUST post exif data on every photo else your post will be removed. It comes across as needlessly hostile and gatekeeper-y and I avoid going on there now. They justify it as helping people learn but really, once you get past the basics of how your aperture affects depth of field, the rest of the information is completely useless. The iso was as low as possible, the shutter speed was high enough that the image is sharp - who really cares about the exact details? Instead of learning from what's posted, I just watch people grow frustrated at times saying "I don't know what the shutter speed was, why does it matter?" and having their creation removed. Their group, their rules I suppose - but the chief proponents of these rules not only post some rather mediocre images themselves, but justify it as basically saying "these are the rules". Not for good, genuine well thought out reasons, but because they're the rules. And you will follow them. Thank you Sean, as always.

[@Holl.Mvrk.]

Mark Edridge legit was about to post this same comment 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣 YES

[@edma22]

This is so refreshing. I've been in the presence of photographers who know how to politely dismiss the work of others by labelling it in a passive-aggressive show of disdain. "His work looks good. I find it very pictorial." Or "He seems to shoot what he knows will make a fine print but I don't get the story." Every time a small part of myself wants to ask them to take an unsatisfying fuck at their labels and allow the rest of us to express ourselves and have been silent so far. I think my reply in the future will be simply, "Well, they shoot what they love and that's what counts." Thank you sir for turning an angry sentiment into such a beautiful way of looking at photography and expression in general.

[@markquiram9012]

I have been a professional photographer for over thirty years (by the definition of making a living as a profession). I was taught all the technical methods for natural modified natural and artificial light. As I grew I began to see the knowledge as a box. I believe you should learn but learn it then forget it. When you were young, you had to concentrate on every movement your fingers made while learning to tie your shoes. After a while, tying your shoe didn’t require thinking about each movement. So too is the information about light, composition, and all the other things. So many people confuse what they like with technical. I like a lot of things that violate other photographer’s technical definitions of what is right. As much as learning the rules is an acquired skill, so too is learning to let go and seeing the possibilities and beauty of not following those rules or living outside the box.

[@vu_derArchitekt]

yes, before breaking the rules, I must know what are these rules, or if I wanna thinking "outside the box", I must know what is that box. But the problem of a lot of people nowadays they even dont have the basic skills or basic knowledge, and they try to break something they really dont know what is that. So at least they should know what happened in photography history, what the genres or types or movements.... and then they can break everything. Too much time and effort, people would not do that, instead, they just make some random craps and say big words about that. I am not a photographer. I am an architect. Today people can not easily make a building as using smartphone and taking crap photos. But who knows? Maybe in next 10 years with the power of technologies, 3D printing or something like that, anyone can create his/her own buildings just by some clicks. And then the future people argue about "why I must learn architecture to make houses? why I must know about style and "labelling" and history and etc... I make my own house, I have my style...." Same story is happening with photography today when everyone can easily buy cameras!

[@molliecole9522]

I love this so refreshing, you cannot label creativity

[@Viator19]

Bang on. We're bombarded from Photography youtubers and Podcasters nowadays that we MUST stick to a style and not deviate. The great Mike Browne famously said "Im not a genre Photographer. I shoot what I want".

[@aklivn49]

OUTSTANDING video. AMEN! "I'm just a photographer" that's me. I photograph what I'm feeling at the moment. I need no labels. Society try's to label EVERYTHING now days... I LOVE your channel. Your the most down to earth photographer on KZbin.

[@immanuelkuhrt8508]

KZbin's got a bug. I'm looking for a heart, but all I find is a thumbs up ❤ This video goes way beyond photography. Substitute photographer with painter, writer, actor, artist, person wearing any type of clothes or none at all. Or simply substitute photographer with human being, and this video still holds every bit of depth to it.

[@cliffrigor]

Let's not forget those photographers who criticize other sensor sizes. haha btw great video Sean, the photography world needs more people like you.

[@TofuCate]

This is far more than photography. You can apply this to other parts of your life. Dress how you like and don't worry about what label you belong to. Become confident and love who you are and don't let judgement define who you are. Incredible message Sean.

[@Cwgrlk8SanDiego]

I take you (video, words = iPhone and earbuds) along into my pandemic garden daily as I walk, dig and plant. You have brought thoughtfulness into my isolation... You have helped me to be more kind to myself, to not compare but to celebrate what drives my photography... Thank you.

[@DarkLittleDevil]

We need more Sean Tuckers in our world.

[@andrewchisholm3665]

Well said again. As I am very partially sighted I have been told by so many so called pro togs that I should never be taking photos at all, once I calm down a bit and half hit them I then say that I can do what the hell I want to. Also been told that as I don't sell my photos I can't be a photographer, again after hitting them and showing them the references I have on purpleport from some of the top UK models they go away and leave me alone. Photography has saved me mentally as I deal with my sight loss and I have learned from the great models I hve been so fortunate to work with in the past 3 years.

[@sinimini]

Keep smashing it Champ!

[@JSpradley123]

Beethoven was deaf, by their logic he had no business making music. Screw those assholes!

[@ninasartnibbles345]

Same...

[@johnsawkins3810]

Some people in life are just wankers plain and simple. Maybe the feel threatened. Good to see you sticking it to them.

[@royjones1120]

This is why I continue to watch Sean's videos, I don't want to be categorized by middle management, I just wanna go out and enjoy my walks with camera in hand and shoot what makes me happy! Keep up the fantastic work Mr. Tucker. You're are an inspiration to many of us "photographers".

[@EdRosh]

You are right Sean! Sometimes people tend to make things complicated by categorising them!! I believe Art or creativity is beyond 'Isms' and categories, it's a process of observation, study, experiment and then creation will happen. Most of the time people want to see what they want in an artwork or a photograph rather than seeing what it actually is or what is it trying to say. :)

[@chrixiane]

I’m grateful for you! As a new photographer, I don’t know yet what type of photography I want to do. And the reason is I’m not sure if I want to fit into one type only. Imma do my thing and let the people label it 🙂

[@neelchat594]

Wow, Mr. Light Architect. What an amazing film! So much knowledge, so much genuine motivation to carry on what you've taught your audience to do: take photographs out of love. From now on, whenever I get shamed by people twice or thrice my age telling me that I'm an outcast, this is what I'll share with them. Beautiful set of images at the end. Neel

[@katsshantytown8701]

“ ‘Light Architect’ is the coolest name. I’m putting that on my business.” FACTS!

[@crespotakesphotos]

This also applies to anything in life. You don't have to live by labels or check marks. It's great to see minds alike making these videos. I'm just a hobbyist photographer learning all the curves and I don't think in categories when I'm shooting, I just shoot

[@gnd22]

When I first got into photography, I expected to find a community of people more people like Sean. I was disappointed to find many more people like what Sean describes - if you're not doing it their way you're doing it wrong. As much as I'd like to engage and share with the community, I can't help but feel them suck the life and soul out of me. Thank you Sean for the uplifting commentary, the photography community needs more of this.

[@sdc9368]

This is liberating. So many photographers are unhappy because they don't get the recognition they expect. Thank you!!

[@michaelmcneil9506]

🙌🏼 😊 say no more. You have captured in words "Motivation to hunt a image " because you love photography

[@millerviz]

Your title alone gave me a permission I am thankful for. I spend too much time worrying about WHAT to photograph. Such a simple answer ; photograph what you want to. Forget about outside considerations. I love it!

[@DobromirManchev]

The exact same problem exists in archery (which i also practice), and probably mostly anything else. People always try to bring you down because whatever you are doing is not what they imagine it should be called and thus you are a fake, a traitor, a cheat or whatever else comes to mind... I have always been a "jack of all trades, master of none", it's something that somewhat bothers me but at 35 years old i've kinda come to terms with it and accepted i'll never be a "master" and that's that. Concerning photography, i do it entirely for fun, i've never won a single cent out of it and it's not at all in my "field of work". Thus, i just do as you said it - I go out and take pictures of things that capture my attention. Most of them are trash. Some are nice. I enjoy it, my wife enjoys it, it's one of the things i do for fun and am kinda proud of it too. | also come from a scientific education and work in IT, i understand that labeling and categorizing things can be beneficial, but honestly i don't think it should apply to art. And even less should it be forced unto people, used as a "weapon" and gatekeeping bullshit.

[@colintomjenkins]

and sailing :)

[@CrowingHen]

Beautiful as always! Thank you so much. Your videos have inspired me to learn so much!

[@QuantzPhoto]

Well said, Sean! Labels are such a waste of time unless they're telling you what power cord goes to a certain piece of equipment!

[@roblebby3765]

I am a new photographer, still studying and learning (which is one of the reasons why I watch you), but I really, really appreciate your comments on this video. I like it not just as it relates to photography, but as it relates to life in general. You have a great philosophy Sean! Thanks.

[@jeffsofroniou2964]

Sadly, as a species we seem to crave a label. Whether it's being a supporter of a sports team, wearing branded clothing or owning a well known "professional" camera, us humans feel more comfortable being labelled as something. The word sheeple springs to mind. I am a 'Jack -of-all-trades'. I love being able to go out and shoot whatever catches my eye. I personally don't think stressing over what type of photographer I am is going to make me a better one. I'm more creative if I have no boundaries or labels. Thank you for the video.

[@miguelbmelo]

Glad you liked the term "Light architecture" when we met up in Lisbon but my point was and has always been pretty much in line with yours - be a photographer not an X-Y-Z-photographer - nor did I expect you to identify or distance from the label.

[@seantuck]

Hey mate. No offence taken, as I said in the video. It's the need to give it a label which I find interesting, which I think I told you on the day.

[@dillonvado]

I have heard something similar in the music world... writers don’t say I’m a pencil writer or a pen writer or a computer writer, why do musicians always say, I’m a drummer I’m a pianist etc.. instead think, I’m a musician and I make music I want to hear. This feels the same, you don’t have to be a nature photographer or landscape or Street or whatever silly genres, just shooting things you find interesting and keeping honest to what is inspiring you. Thanks for the reminder :)

[@Djoarhet001]

I 100% agree with you. I have been taking photographs almost every day for the past 3 years but I don't label myself as a photographer. I just take photos. I am just me.

[@Arzenteart]

Being a "Portrait Photographer" I take that label so I can do a portrait of a landscape, still life, street, piece of trash. I don't need a human to be a portrait photographer anything is a portrait...J

[@thegrayyernaut]

That's a smart way to look at it!

[@neneodonkor]

Interesting

[@Juan0003]

It’s amazing. I’ve seen the kind of behaviour you describe in almost everything I’ve studied. I wasn’t a graphic designer because I didn’t know the name of every Bauhaus teacher in the 1930’s, know every design style out there or didn’t set the type kerning in (their) correct ways. I wasn’t a martial artist because the style I practiced wasn’t popular enough, or wasn’t orthodox enough or modern enough. I’m a road cyclist because I wear Lycra, but I’m not a road cyclist because I don’t climb their accepted amount of meters. In every aspect of our life we will find these “self-appointed gatekeepers” that we must overcome to continue our paths. In a way, they are essential to our growth because they show us what the bad example looks like. Once again, Sean, you’ve put the correct words on things many of us struggle with. Thank you!

[@StefanDijkstra]

I only started with photography less than a year ago and as a beginner I couldn't agree more with this. I still have so much to learn about the technical aspects, but more important is that photography teaches me to pay more attention to the world around me. That makes photography such an enjoyable experience to me.

[@kaywayneflor89]

"All I want is to take a beautiful image, you can call it whatever you like" 👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾

[@ivanosrin2126]

Gives clarity and coherence - even to an ageing amateur who shoots purely for personal enjoyment

[@patrickryan3558]

Likewise Ivan 🙂

[@Blendient]

I Love your videos.. You are absolutely amazing and inspiring.

[@jackbasso2831]

I think that's so important. Don't ever let them stop you enjoying taking photos

[@isahjade1903]

I find your style very suitable for me. I tried watching every popular photographer, learn their style, technique. But then i still find myself lost because even though i watch a bunch of videos about photography, it doesnt speak to what i really want. Thank you for sharing your thoughts, you're the only photographer I watch that speak to the soul of starters like me

[@JoAnneLourdesCortes2itzajshot]

"shoot what makes you happy' This will motivate me to continue on taking photos. Thank you for your inspiring words!

[@olgaaberg8958]

Your content is so amazing Sean! 🙏

[@LarkLaTroy]

As a writer, I write the stories that I like. The same holds true for my photography, I shoot the pictures I like.

[@daveincork]

Yep, even better than I expected it to be. You have a way with words Sean, always find myself nodding along in agreement, you would make a great peacemaker or diplomat! Oh, those images at the end btw are absolutely gorgeous, they don't need a category!

[@ningsun2]

I watched your video second time Sean , you make me smile and moved...reflecting my own non photography related experience. I m 58, love ballet since my teen, but never had chance to train, went on to be a neurologist. I started ballet training 5 years ago in chicago. I was laughed and ridiculed by friends and others. I never cared and kept learning from all the best teachers in the city, I went to New York and Boston took many classes I could while visiting. Today, I m comfortably saying, there is no professional level classes I am not confident to take, including from some of the most famous ballet companies, such as Royal Ballet, Mariinsky Ballet, bolshoi Ballet. And I am still keep pushing and learning. I don’t know of any man at my age who never danced ballet till age 53 can dance ballet better than me. Looking back, the only reason I m at where I m, is because I did what I love and nothing else would bother me or stop me from doing that. It s not I m trying to be someone, or proved to someone I can do it, or get to somewhere as goal, it s the joy of being in ballet class, being free, being able to see part of me that I never knew, being in zone of happiness. thanks Sean. Sorry for being off the topic :))

[@Exuberant_Mind]

Sean, Thank you for using your platform to address this issue. It DEFINITELY needed to be said, I think this exact same thing every time I hear someone try to tell anyone to put themselves "In a box" in any aspect of life. Keep giving the world your light, you are inspiring our next generation. As an artist, I’m grateful for the work your doing. 🙏🏾✊🏾

[@niftytwo]

WOW. I have to edit my earlier comments. Sean you are with us as equals. Not looking down at us as blokes with a camera trying to learn light. ,Composition. ISO. etc. those that teach have immense skills and many years of knowledge. I’m just a 73 year old Ausie bloke who has been learning for 3 years. Your video has impacted me more than anybody. Stay safe Sean. Thank you. Nifty.

[@B2Water]

Really feel refreshing that all those video you make talking about not to afraid of being labelled or people trying to tell you you know nothing, maybe that’s truth but at least you’re expressing yourself honestly.

[@nagisayoshikawa]

And do what makes you happy !!!

[@BlandRoamer]

"...if you have a camera, and you love taking pictures, you *are* a photographer." ...thank you 🥲

[@rick-deckard]

Agreed. I feel like, while every photograph is *technically* photography, images like the type at the end are literally "photo" "graphy" with intent. Like a love letter to light, every click.

[@christophernewland5927]

Bravo. Art is not made with permission. The gatekeepers are self-appointed; stop giving them authority. Make your photography and see what happens to your level of happiness.

[@Kim_Miller]

Photographers have been master of the technique of 'dodge and burn' forever. Sean has just shown how to dodge the labels and burn the labelers.

[@DarrenHenley]

Thank you, Sir. For me, you have become a singular landmark in the hinterlands of the YT. I am not a photographer. I continue to return to your work because it invariably reinforces the idea that focusing on craft and maintaining our internal compass all while leaning against the current (no small feat) is critical to developing our own voice. Truly creative work represents the best of who we are, regardless of discipline. Your work helps me to keep this in focus.

[@wimvriens-bernecka4883]

Spot on. Thank you for putting words to how I feel after watching this video.

[@ruzzim]

Actually I'm a musician and for years the first question 9 in 10 interviews where - what type of genre do you play, and my answer was always, I'm a musician - guitarist , I try to play all and nothing, I love play music and I don't care the type that I play, always hated labels and now for some years I started to be a Photographer and guess what, I'm like you I love portrait but I love landscape or food photography, flat photography, etc, so I love Photography and my answer is the same that was when I was a musician for 25 years, but now instead I'm a musician is I'm a photographer. So, I LOVED THIS VIDEO AND WHAT YOU SAID, but if someone like to say they are a Landscape photographer or other thing and they like saying it I don't mind but like you said in the end "SHOOT WHAT MAKES YOU HAPPY" no labels or genres...

[@mikemanning8253]

BOOM!!! I love this video. Mr. Tucker, you sir are a PHOTOGRAPHER!! Keep doing what you love and thank you for sharing you're journey with us. Stay safe.

[@cianoleary8727]

My favourite factoid about the "Jack of all trades" label is that on its own it's seen as a good thing, someone who can throw their hand at a number of different things or skills. But then someone will inevitably say "Yeah but it comes from Jack of all trades, master of none" to make it into a negative label to put on someone. Basically saying "you're not very good at anything, just average at a few things". But that's not actually the original saying either. "Jack of all trades" comes from (apologies for any paraphrasing) an old saying; "A Jack of all trades, but master of none, is oftentimes more useful than an expert in one". It was a compliment that got shortened to become a negative statement about someone, which got shortened again to end up back at its original meaning. And personally I would much prefer if people thought I was good, or at least useful, at several things, rather than just being one thing.

[@LewisNobleArtist]

I’m a painter who dabbles in photography and this is so true for all art forms. Excellent again Sean, thanks!

[@shoot_move_edit]

I truly enjoyed the video, thank you. There is a time to be careless and enjoy anything you photograph. Then there are times to specialize and maintain consistency, mostly for business reasons.

[@seantuck]

Exactly:)

[@questionthis4417]

Take this guy's advice I don't know him I've never watched any of his videos until I came across this one and I agree with him 100%. You are all photographers every moment you live is a memory a portrait of life. Fortunately some like to capture those moments with a camera and not just their eyes...

[@johnwhite5060]

A real breath of fresh air for beginners like me.Just photograph what you want.How simple,How cool.Thank you very much...

[@DevonLad]

Your words are so true! I separate out my different types of photography on social media, but do so just for business reasons (wedding photography on one, event photography on another and so on). I am photographer. I enjoy all types, I shoot whatever I feel like capturing that day and what makes me happy. I am a 'photographer' and I'm very happy with just that one, single label ;-)

[@LieslHuddleston]

Excellent! I've got to share this, it's such an important message. I love photography and I love editing too and just do what makes me happy, the photography and art community would be a happier and more creative place if more people learned this philosophy from the start of their journey. Thank you, Sean!

[@getuliom.rodriguez3714]

I truly and absolutely Love what I will call your 'Psychology and Philosophy of Photography.' Your insightful and uplifting words to new or seasoned Photographers are just brilliant. Thank you for being you... keep sending these messages. Please. You Da' Man.

[@georgebuid1071]

I totally agree with you. Just like Henri Cartier-Berson said "I don't think I'm a photographer, I'm just someone who just takes photographs." Labels doesn't matter just do what you love.

[@lachlanbolton6902]

the one place I can absorb pure truth... thank you for this!

[@thetalkingfly]

Thank you Sean that was really great. I really enjoyed this video. I had a great day in my studio and needed to end the day with a little Zest and Gusto, I chose this video and I LOVED IT. Love your channel. So many great ideas and so clear crispy. Cheers, Steve aka The Talking Fly

[@kazimustakim1648]

I do not know how to thank you Sean. But I will be forever in your debt. I have been taking photos since 2009 and had to stop for some unexpected reasons. After 10 years I started again and unfortunately fell in the trap of content creators those call themselves "photographers - who takes their selfies with high-end gears with affiliate links" talking about which camera or lens to buy or buy their presets. Few days back I discovered your channel and Insta profile and since following you and watching each of your videos. I was mentally devastated the way I was influenced by these so-called Content Creators. You changed the view of mine regarding photography. I unfollowed all those people who became bugs biting inside my head. Thank you. I was almost about to leave my profession as a writer to become a photographer which is ridiculous for the time being no doubt. I forgot reality. Now, I am concentrating on my works, and trying to take photos that makes me happy. I don't want to label myself either. I am what I am. I am happy. I will just take photos... Thanks a lot man. Forever in your debt. Stay safe

[@joostgerritsen7104]

Well said, Sean. I graduated as a painter from art school. Painted with oil and acrylics. Then I did a lot of drawings for years. Discovered Ceramics and made bowls and clay sculptures. After that I did 3D artworks, installations, and sculptures. All in between I wrote poems. And now I do black and white photography! People may call me what they want. I stopped labeling myself a long time ago. A jack of all trades, a master of non? No, Over the years my artistic development only grew. I'm a master in my own artistic language. A niche? Yeah, my personality that's in every artwork I've made.

[@nigelwest3430]

When i'm out and about with my camera (in normal times) my day usually ends at the pub, I always take my camera in with me so I can review my days efforts while I have a beer or 2, Nearly every time someone will ask "What do you take photos of"? My reply is usually "anything that takes my fancy at the time" Obviously being a pure Amateur I don't need to Pigeon-hole myself but it's the expectation that you will be only interested in one style that amuses me.................................Genesis is a wonderful book, If I could take pictures 1/100th as good as Sebastiao Salgado I would be a very happy bunny indeed.

[@itsraahul]

This applies to everything in LIFE

[@standardkonstruktor]

Found you through photography, stayed for your wisdom. Thank you @Sean Tucker for making the world of KZbin photographers meaningful.

[@robspedding9520]

Brilliant as always. I'm just an amateur photographer and started because it was fun. Then I kind of fell into street photography - which I still love - and found myself worrying about likes and followers way too much. Weirdly lockdown has set me free! Without people, the street photography I like can't be done. So I've tried other things - 'light architecture' around the house, macro, snapshots... And I've loved every click of the shutter button. My Instagram feed is now a mess of genres and I don't care. I'm shooting what I like. I guess I'm just a photographer!

[@ananthakrishnang3199]

I don’t know why i got emotional when you mentioned “middle management”. Maybe I experienced that or maybe I am one bit it made me feel something and I felt like sharing this to you

[@iBalushi]

I felt the same!

[@Firstmanphotography]

Great video mate.

[@SilverVoxMusic]

Did I just have an ice cold citrus drink in the middle of a scorching hot day - no I just watched another one of Sean's refreshing videos! Cheers Sean.

[@DalsPhotography]

Finally, your video made me smile ! I am eclectic, that's my answer, as I am another Jack of all trades , even though my love is with nature photography. But alas, I take photos of odd stuff that doesn't fit really in any category, I experiment, I play, and that's my fun !!! Thank you so much for another wonderful and cheerful video! Best wishes from Uruguay, keep safe!