Six Months as a Photographer - Phone Addiction, New Work, and Accomplishments

[@aaronsnyder2198]

I’m a nobody, but I think you’re a better photographer than most of the “KZbin Photographers”. Don’t let lack of views/likes/comments get you down. There are some guys who better at KZbin, but your work is powerful and could stand on its own. Not many of theirs can. They just take technically good photos with the latest gear on the market to get views.

[@BryanBirks]

Appreciate that, Aaron!

[@danculberson]

Nice to see a new video from you. Thanks for the update, and congrats on the accomplishments!

[@willysheepskin]

Many congratulations on your accomplishments man! And congratulations on your non-accomplishments that lead to progress as well! Was wonderful to sit down and listen to your thought process as always, look forward greatly to seeing what you get up to next!

[@BryanBirks]

Thank you kindly, sir William.

[@moviesandshows8636]

the documantary on waves that you think is an "ass video" is the best thing ive seen on youtube in a while. it got me training and writing again. your channel is a reliable place i can come to regularly and find some gauranteed Art. its thanks to your channel and about 10 specific other youtube channels that make good art that i dont gamble my time away on the youtube home page. thats the only reason i have been able to stop wasting my time online.

[@GAROBERBERIAN]

Completely agree

[@stevenchristianupton]

Amen. Thank you for this - putting my phone down now and going to make some music.

[@glennstephenson184]

Love your honesty man- refreshing... humbling.

[@BryanBirks]

I try. Thank you!

[@gaviote]

THANK YOU BRYAN.

[@BryanBirks]

THANK YOU.

[@japosantos]

Thanks again for your honesty and sharing your work! Always inspiring!!

[@BryanBirks]

My pleasure!

[@kc1464a]

Thanks for sharing your work and experiences as a photographer. Wonderful work! Congratulations for you accolades!

[@justcallmesando]

Honest and direct. We do have a problem with our phones and social media but we don't talk about solutions a lot. That's why cameras are so awesome, because they can open a world of possibilities if you just stand up, go out and take it with you. We should even force ourselves to do so more often.

[@BryanBirks]

Agree!

[@TimDobbs]

Another honest, down to earth video ... Thanks for sharing mate

[@BryanBirks]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@shanillakhlani5331]

Thanks for sharing your highs and lows Bryan. Having the self awareness and acceptance on something not being right for you is the hardest step so well done. I am trying to adopt a 'Post and Ghost' approach to social media, not always easy but that's what I do. Also regular journalling, offline days and no phone in bedroom have helped

[@BryanBirks]

I like the idea of post and ghost. But I also don’t like leaving people hanging. I try to reply to everyone so I have to be on it at some point.

[@garymorrow9324]

As a long-time follower your videos are always wonderfu...fillwed with great images and commentaryl. Thanks for putting yourself out there with how you are doing and the well-deserved recognition you are receiving. I struggle with dopamine hits from social media everyday. Time to pull back. Great advice. Looking forward to the next one....I'll taker that dopamine hit!😃

[@tedphillips2951]

Love your honesty & I feel your content is always interesting & motivating. Definitely waiting for your book

[@BryanBirks]

I am waiting for my book as well. Ha

[@outrunfilm84]

I always find your videos very inspiring. I think a lot of people can relate to what you're going through. Glad to see someone as yourself, who I look up to, talk about it.

[@BryanBirks]

Glad you enjoy them.

[@liveinaweorg]

You're human! We tend not be perfect. I think every life operates like a bell curve though everyone's bell curve is different. I get the feeling you were more on the left before you took stock of why and now you're moving back to the right of the curve. You'll likely be back at the left again for some reason or other, recognising it is the key. Keep being you, Bryan. That's what I and many others (I think based on the comments), come here for.

[@BryanBirks]

Thank you kindly! Really appreciate the support.

[@blakeraymond9355]

Always admire your honesty and transparency. Still one of my favorites to do it. Thanks!

[@BryanBirks]

My pleasure. Thanks for the support!

[@WatchDSSID]

Great update - thanks. I love the picture of the car and the swing, hopefully that will be in the book! The crop of the car window and house was tremendous too :- )

[@BryanBirks]

Thank you! Definitely might find it’s way in there.

[@davidrothschild8913]

Attention spans are shrinking and therefore brains are shrinking. We need to do better. Get off our phones. Better ourselves and challenge ourselves. And it’s scientifically proven that boredom is actually healthy and necessary. Myself included. Appreciate this one Bryan.

[@BryanBirks]

Appreciate you, sir!

[@tonyhayes9827]

Sounds like Emma's a keeper. Good life summary for us all.

[@BryanBirks]

Oh, definitely. That’s what I married her 🖤

[@rpavl]

Just waisted my morning scrolling and later thinking about how to get rid of that stupid habit. And here's your video about the same thing. Thank you Bryan. Now I'll set the rules too.

[@BryanBirks]

There’s probably plenty of other rules you could make. Mine are just some basic guidelines. Hope they help stifle the scroll!

[@tylerhuttosmith]

Yeah, I’m with ya man. I’ve been trying to limit instagram and KZbin scrolling/watching to when I’m working, which definitely doesn’t apply to everyone, but it works with my job. I’ve also been trying to put my stuff out there more which is cool, but I struggle with it. I feel like a generic photo ad or something when posting, but I think that’s mine if the big draws to your channel/work. It’s sincere and no bullshit. Anyway, glad you’re in a good headspace! Looking forward to the mountain print! I’m gonna try to make a frame out of some walnut I have in the garage.

[@BryanBirks]

Social media is full of push and pulls. It’s hard to find a good balance. You’re handier than I am! Good luck with the frame 🍻

[@WesleyVerhoevePhotography]

So glad you're in a great space! And this is great motivation to push back my phone addiction too woo!

[@BryanBirks]

You can do this, Wesley. If you need a pen pal just reach out and we can write longform letters to each other.

[@willmccleland2383]

I appreciate you making such an honest video and I can relate to a lot of what you said! I really love the content you put out because it always brings me back to what matters about photography to me, It puts me back into the headspace I had while I was at university studying photography and it’s something I miss so much. I miss being around people who discuss photography and photos! Keep up the amazing work and congratulations on all the amazing awards!

[@BryanBirks]

Happy to hear that. Thanks for the kind words.

[@real-lil_lil]

Great video sir..agree on the points made!

[@BryanBirks]

Thanks for watching!

[@guillaumejousset9469]

Hi Bryan, your youtube channel is really one of those you arrives on a bit randomly then just cannot stop watching. Your honesty on many (and tough) topics is very refreshing, interesting, and « true », very different from what everybody else is doing, and I just really like the way you’re talking about yourself (the true yourself), what bring you joy or anxiety in your life and in your journey as a photographer. And do I need to tell you that your work is really amazing? Your beautiful work is 50% and your personality is the other 50% of the reasons why I’m watching your videos. Congrats for this and for trying to find the best balance you can!

[@BryanBirks]

Thank you for the kind words 🖤

[@Klaus-macht-Bilder_de]

Good seeing you again on YT

[@BryanBirks]

Good to be here with a restored outlook!

[@joanmichel]

Appreciate the transparency. You didn’t have to share all of this but you did. Glad you have support and took the time to reflect on this 😊

[@BryanBirks]

Thanks, Joan. It was nice to say out loud. Glad to see a comment from you. Hope all is well!

[@timothy-holt]

Always enjoy your work and perspective. Congrats on the awards.

[@BryanBirks]

Thank you, sir. Really appreciate it.

[@jakobquick1598]

great, i love espacially your idea of going back to the tornado happening

[@BryanBirks]

Hopefully I can get some worthy images.

[@louontube]

I love your photos. Don’t stop sharing.

[@bialogard1917]

You’re inspiring. I support you.

[@BryanBirks]

I appreciate that!

[@NPNGPhotography]

Hi Bryan! To add to the photo of the car with the house between the swing set, I feel like it adds to the melancholic feel of the project. The swing is in motion while those cars (within the photos) are still. Might be looking into it more than need be but it was a thought I had. Loving the work and the videos! Keep it up

[@BryanBirks]

If photographers didn't look "too deep" into the meanings of photos than nobody else would! Appreciate the feedback. I am quite fond of that photo and I think it is growing on me with each day.

[@alanholzmanphoto]

Great video. Not at all boring. Thanks for your openness and congratulations on the recognition you have received. Also, you highlight a problem with the news media. Stories disappear too quickly. Go back and show the world some follow up of the tornado devastation.

[@BryanBirks]

The news cycle is insane. I got those photos done in one day and it was already too late it seemed. Definitely excited to go back and see the progress they’ve made.

[@gagewiggins5193]

I hate commenting, but, one of my favorite parts about your channel is knowing that you aren’t putting the KZbin voice or some fake persona on to crank out a video. It’s really no bs takes, and I’ve always found your content and your work very refreshing. I really understand wanting more exposure and it’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking you deserve more, but as far as all the petty noise on the internet, I think you’re providing a pretty clear signal and that’s an awesome thing. I’m always excited for a Bryan Birks video! Sending love from Omaha!

[@BryanBirks]

Thanks, buddy. Yeah, it’s no BS and what you see is what you get. I’m not out here trying to sell a way life or a course. Sometimes that’s a positive for me and other times it’s a negative. Win some and lose some.

[@petehalupka1]

Hey Bryan. I have struggled with my phone addiction and social media for years. What really helped me is Digital Minimalism, by Cal Newport. I can't recommend the book or his podcast enough. Thanks so much for sharing your feelings and thoughts.

[@baladino]

Hi Bryan. I went through something similar what you’re talking about. I stopped sleeping with my phone next to me. Waking up, I insisted on making coffee and doing some small chores and only picked my phone when I’m off to work. I bought a wooden book holder which props up large photo books to make it easier to flip through and read. Which I browse while drinking coffee. I have always started seeing the occasional documentary which demands more of the viewer than a pop corn flick. Take care Bryan and congrats !

[@gorakphoto]

Habits and addictions are often incredibly difficult to see when we're in the grips of them so it is absolutely phenomenal that you've seen, recognised and made steps to address your own battles. And to put them out into the world, both for yourself and for those around you, is a huge step. It will have positive impacts far greater than anyone could ever imagine. Well done and thank you for sharing. Oh, and well done on all the work and awards. Big hugs.

[@BryanBirks]

Appreciate you, sir. Truly!

[@fox.e.y.e]

First of all, thank you for the unfiltered honesty. It's refreshing to see someone be vulnerable on KZbin. Second of all, do you have any future plans to create a photo critique group for your subscribers?

[@BryanBirks]

It’s something that I thought about but in order to do it right it would be time consuming. Not sure I have the time to fully commit to it and I’m also not sure about charging a fee or price in order to do that. I’m usually pretty open in the winter so maybe I could work on something like that. Even just a discord server of some sorts to go through work at a more leisurely pace.

[@fox.e.y.e]

@@BryanBirks I feel like you have such a great community here, that finding mods and admins would be super easy. Speaking for myself, an entry fee or even a monthly subscription would be worth it, if the feedback was somehow curated.

[@BryanBirks]

Well I have my Patreon but don’t currently have a tier that would offer that. It’s just for general support, giveaways, and one off type videos. I’d have to think on that. It’s something that I would want to do but don’t want to overcharge or water it down with a ton of people.

[@Speanz]

Hi, darling This was very important and interesting video. An important topic of your inner state (thank you for eating your sincerity, it charges). Photo with a swing - delight and admiration🖤

[@BryanBirks]

Thank you very much. 🖤

[@MicaelWidell]

To gain new inspiration and motivation, I find that I need to get new impressions. I get the most inspired when I consume new kinds of art and media, when I spend time with new people, experience new places, and go through new emotions (pleasant and unpleasant!). These things always spark inspiration in me. I think your problem might not necessarily have been phone addiction, but that you needed something to change. After a while you might find yourself fed up again, with these new habits, and then you can switch back to phone addiction again to gain a new rush of inspiration and motivation. These are the cycles I go through.

[@BryanBirks]

I think just getting back to a base level of “being okay” with not consuming something is a good start for me. And if I do, it needs to be worth my time. Which scrolling on IG is not worth it but replying to a comment like this definitely is.

[@jacopopapucci196]

I feel you man. I guess you’re not the only one experiencing these highs and lows. It happens to us as photographers just like it happens to every other artist/creative. There’s so many great photographers out there and the chance of “being remembered” for our work is ridiculously low and it’s also asking so much to ourselves. I mean, we all dream of becoming the future Alec Soth but it’s just crazy to ask ourselves that. Make work for yourself. I’ve come with terms that if photography is able to make me suffer so much it’s because it’s a way of seeing and living the world. I get frustrated when I’m not doing things right because it’s like not being able to understand what’s going on. The solution, I think, is just working for ourselves. Social media is cool because it helps to reach a greater audience but it’s definitely damaging at the same time. I’ve realized that looking at other’s photographers work can impact negatively on me and on the work I’m making. We see so many good pictures that we try to unconsciously (or maybe not) emulate them and end up taking pictures that are not ours. I’ve stopped looking at photobooks (which I love) and try to spend very little time on Instagram. Also the idea of going out to “make the work” is wrong in my opinion and I’m trying to change this habit too. I try and do things I like and take my camera with me and just be aware and interact with what surrounds me. It’s helping a lot and my work is developing faster. Anyway, thanks for this much needed video, Bryan!

[@BryanBirks]

Wait, I’m not Alec Soth!? Crap. I agree though. Trying not to look at others’ work is such a double edged sword. You want to interact and support but you don’t want to be swayed a certain way. Inspiration over influence would be a good way to go about it I guess. I don’t know what I’m doing so that’s why I make these videos. Lol

[@bro_liv]

For some kind of reason your videos pops up at the moment I need it. Again a time where it's good to see, hear and feel that I'm not alone trying to pursue a higher kinda purpose with photography as rollercoaster as it is, it's worth it in the long run; even if that «only» means getting us to be better human beings. Thank you

[@BryanBirks]

Roller-coaster indeed. Happy to have you along for the ride.

[@ivunchow]

Going through a bit of slump myself, so I really needed this reminder to just be grateful. Thanks man. Can’t get enough of your photography and dark room process, keep making these videos 🙏🏻

[@BryanBirks]

Appreciate you, friend!

[@RobbieMaynardCreates]

I'm glad you made this video. Last we spoke, you mentioned this and it seems specific to KZbinrs who also take serious photos which is already super niche but I appreciate this. Hopefully this hits 1 of 10 with some cool ribbons popping out of it.

[@BryanBirks]

1 out of 10 means I am good. We all know this. Glad you enjoyed it, Robbie. Your videos/work have been getting better and better.

[@delpierro0815]

Thanks for being open about the phone addiction. I suffer from that way to often and end up being angry at myself for wasting a whole day. It's shocking to see how fast the clock ticks when you are in that state of just mindless scrolling through meaningless stuff. Also congratulations for the contest successes, well deserved. Happy to be a supporter of the channel - you really made me take more time for portraits and getting in touch with strangers, asking if I can take their portrait.

[@BryanBirks]

Glad to hear that about the portraits! Yeah, the phone thing is annoying. I look around and see so many people doing the same things as me. Really makes you want to do a 180. I have a feeling there is going to be a lot of people trimming the fat with phones, tech, and social media the next few years.

[@allannoyes]

As an art photographer of 40 years I can tell you that you have nothing to worry about! Your work is very strong! You possess the number one attribute needed! Honesty! Your skills are legit, and photography/creation will be part of your journey until your journey ends!

[@BryanBirks]

Appreciate that. Really nice to hear and be reminded of that!

[@allannoyes]

@@BryanBirks Of course! My life as an Art Photographer has had many ups and downs. Often questioning myself in the process. Now I truly realize this is part of me til I die! It’s comforting! You will realize this someday too.

[@drwatsonismine]

Congrats! You deserve it.

[@BryanBirks]

Appreciate that very much!

[@mrbigg2u]

Film 3 completed. Bryan your honesty is so refreshing. Your work is thoughtful and calmy, captivating for such a young chap. Phones are evil. But bloody useful. Looking forward to watching more of your photographic life story, which is very inspiring

[@BryanBirks]

Happy to have you around!

[@Wpoolesf]

Ah, Bryan. Thanks for the update. Social media has upended so much about how people judge themselves and others. You mention books, and if you haven't read them, I would recommend to you the Daybooks of Edward Weston for the thoughts of a ground-breaking artist struggling with some of the issues you are facing. He was making a living trying to feed the self-image of folks who sat for his commercial portraits. At the same time, he was on the leading edge of modernism as it tried to break away from soft-focus pictorialism. The two pics you showed from the book project are wonderful. Trust your eye and your talent. Forget what the rest of us think.

[@BryanBirks]

I will definitely look into that. Thank you.

[@betwingmusic]

Hi Bryan. Just recently re-watched your whole large format journey again. So inspiring! I think you mentioned it in one of your videos, but could you please tell again what is your preferred focal length for portraits and what is your most used lens / focal length recently?

[@BryanBirks]

Thanks! I use a 135mm for most of my portraits. Most used is 135mm as well. It hardly ever leaves my camera.

[@YOUAREMYKIN]

Hey Bryan, I recently found your channel and am really enjoying your approach, your project and your photography. It took me a while to 'get it'-I had to slow down and really listen. So glad I did. Your approach to capturing a person's world is powerful. I feel it. Also great to hear about your process✨ Hey since you often suggest for us to mention content ideas, I'm looking to find out how large format gives you more options in portraiture than non-bellows cameras. I see the difference, the feeling of it, but is it mostly shallower depth and detail? Maybe you already made this video, am still looking through your archive.

[@BryanBirks]

Appreciate the kind words! In the beginning it was definitely about the look, colors of film, and the shallow depth of field. That’s still a big part of the equation but I honestly just love the process. I don’t reach for my digital camera if I’m taking a portrait. Whoever I’m photographing tends to relax a bit with a 4x5 camera and it turns into an experience rather than a quick snapshot. Above all else, I get the portrait I want more often with a large format camera and that’s why I keep turning to it.

[@YOUAREMYKIN]

@@BryanBirks gosh that makes sense. Thanks for sharing. If someone was about to make a portrait of me w a 4x5 camera, I’d probably pay way more attention to the moment. I get a bit of that feeling w vintage (manual) lenses on my Fuji camera.

[@nothingaroundus_]

Quality content right here. Thanks for sharing these, Bryan. Being able to admit any kind of addiction is a huge process, openly talking about them is on the next level. Being able to comprehesively communicate it just shows how mentally strong you are -even though we don't know each other, but I am a long time viewer-. Congrats on the awards and the selections, can't wait for the pre-orders of your project :)

[@BryanBirks]

Appreciate the kind words. "Mentally strong" might be pushing it! Haha I would say "mentally aware" maybe. I am painfully aware of my problems and I think that's a good and bad thing. Sometimes it can lead to breakthroughs and other times it can lead to stagnancy. Always trying to find a balance!

[@randomsixty]

Always be grateful! Your photographic work is great. Push through the imposter syndrome, the desire for acceptance, and caring what others think and continue making great art. I want more Birks Bangers. So get off the phone and go out and do work (please) 😊

[@BryanBirks]

Ha I am working on that! Trying to separate real photo work and photo work for KZbin as well. That way I can do both while trying to inform/entertain people along the way.

[@SvenBurkhard]

Hey. Thanks for sharing your expiriance. I know excatly what you mean. I try to slow down for such a long time. Last Christmas was the time i finaly aloud myself to let go of the thinking „you have to do this or that beacouse of social Media and youtube“… Normaly i was making about 10-15 Videos a year for my other channel. But not this year. If im not feeling it, i wont do it. Simple as that. So far i managed only 2 videos. And thats ok. Im not living from youtube. Its just a hobby and creative outlet… So no pressure has to be on things like this. Videos like this one from you, i like the most. Its good to see, that everyone has his own struggles in live. This is what makes us humans. And Stuff, feelings or Thouths like this is what makes others care. This is the real life. Hope you doing well. Whis you a great day. Greetings from Switzerland.

[@BryanBirks]

I no longer have that pressure on other social media platforms. Still working on KZbin. I feel like I am close. You just can’t take it too seriously I guess.

[@iammarcdaniel]

Ive run into a rut where I had lost motivation because i dont feel inspired. I want to do something cool and fun, but I just cant figure out what to do. I have "work" to do, but none of it really is pushing that button that gets me excited. Im going to try and make a project soon, I hope that does something. I love seeing you post videos like this, its real, and thanks for being rad on socials and actually be up to talk/respond!

[@BryanBirks]

Of course! Thanks for watching and for commenting. I truly think the KZbin space needs more honesty but a bunch of people are afraid to be themselves, so they act like every other influencer. Sure, you might not make everyone happy but at least you won’t be unoriginal (quoting Good Will Hunting).

[@BenRipleyPhoto]

Thanks Bryan. Enjoyed this and I identify, especially with the phone addiction. I so often pick it up, absent-mindedly and start scrolling, absent-mindedly, only to discover nothing has changed since I last did it. I annoy myself when I do that so I’m also trying to be more intentional, and spend more time in books and with long form media. It’s been working so far the last week or so, and I’m feeling some benefit. Being off Twitter/X helps too… The aspect of your work being noticed (or not) strikes a chord. I’ve recently - after literally years of searching - found my thing. And it feels really good. I kinda knew the subject area, but not my visual language, nor what I wanted to say. Ironically, deciding not to do the work with print sales or a book in mind helped, by removing all pressure. It enabled me to think about my motivation and what I wanted to say, instead of trying to second guess what might be popular with an unknown audience, which I’d slipped into and which will always fail. So you’re further on than me but I recognise the struggle and I’m trying not to be disheartened by the lack of response the work is getting. It’s not pretty Instagram pictures so I know it’ll be a long haul. It’s really early days, but I’m so pleased and proud of the work, I want people to be similarly enthused, and they’re not. Sucks, but it is what it is and I continue on, because I enjoy what I’m doing. Congratulations on the official recognition too; it’s very well-deserved. Here always for your future videos, whenever they may be. And I didn’t realise you were on Patreon. I’m in!

[@BryanBirks]

God, Twitter is the worst. As long as you are proud of the work and you’re enjoying making it…that’s all that matters. Just focus on that. The rest will just fall in line.

[@jonathanorleyi6600]

No reason for being embarassed, Bryan. Always remember that social media is specifically designed to make you addicted, to keep you scrolling as long as possible with the simple motivation to maximize ad revenue. I think stopping to blame yourself for falling into this trap is the first step in the right direction. It's not you just being lazy or unmotivated it's essentially drugs designed to make you this way. Keep up the good work, never ceases to inspire me!

[@BryanBirks]

Appreciate the comment. Yeah, it’s designed for that but still makes me feel weak for falling for it. It’s such an easy trap. Glad you enjoyed that video!

[@robgutkowski7141]

I can relate to your struggle, I waste time the same way, and my time is limited, then I get frustrated because I am not reading, or taking pictures or completing coursework because I am wasting time. Congratulations on the recognition, and the awards!! I am looking forward to seeing your next video and your next image.

[@BryanBirks]

I just try not to fall into the endless scroll. Not all time on your phone is wasted. I am always going to enjoy a short reel that makes me laugh for five minutes.

[@alfredobustamante3770]

Take your time. We'll keep tuning in.

[@BryanBirks]

🍻

[@andymcgarty3099]

Dude, love your work. Probably my favourite photography channel. Your photos have just so much warmth and real feeling. I miss my darkroom and the smell of warm chemicals.I rarely use my phone for anything but text or phone calls. But I'm old! Stoked for you getting the awards. Another step closer to that Pulitzer.

[@BryanBirks]

Thanks for the kind words! The darkroom is literally a timewarp. Love going in there but time flies so quickly. My whole day is shot!

[@tonylees4751]

Hi Bryan, if I was in the same room as you right now I would give you a big hug and say...whether you feel it or not you have so much talent and vision, just believe like the the community you have created believe in you. At least you are putting yourself out there. we all get into a funk creatively or with life, but identifying that and taking measures to deal with it, that's commendable. all power to you.

[@BryanBirks]

Hugs all around. Thanks for the kind words. Glad you all are around to watch my journey. Missteps and all.

[@neeravnaik]

Going through some of the same things. Mindlessly scrolling when there are so many better things i can do. I delete the apps but then go back to them again. If not instagram will scroll through KZbin reels because KZbin i will not delete. Deleted the apps again while seeing this. Let’s see how long this lasts

[@BryanBirks]

Keep them if you use them for other things but if it’s nothing but time wasted than definitely get rid of them.

[@bashredies8127]

I know your constant self criticism is probably an aspect of what makes you such a good photographer and part of what causes you too keep improving but damn. You are getting shortlisted for contests, winning some and doing assignments for the NYT, its incredible. Maybe its just how it seems in your videos but it sometimes comes across like your a bit too hard on yourself. Love what your doing, keep it up.

[@BryanBirks]

Thank you. I have got that comment before and I definitely don't deny it. I'm probably too hard on myself but like you said, I think it has helped me out. I think there is probably a happy medium in there somewhere.

[@chadolson5537]

Since college, I've noticed a drastic change in my attention span due to mindless scrolling on Instagram and too much KZbin. I have since taken up reading, if nothing else articles on Apple News plus and have since turned it around. I watched your whole video and was not even bored nor did I check to see how much was left. I think your photography is great and yes that blurry swing makes the photo. If you wouldn't mind, would you be willing to share the website of those contests you entered? I have never won anything, but feel like I could if put some effort in.

[@BryanBirks]

Thanks for the comment. The first one was Portrait of Humanity: www.1854.photography/awards/portrait-of-humanity/ LensCulture has awards and contests every month I believe: www.lensculture.com IPE 165 is a yearly thing: rps.org/ipe165 Check out this website for more open calls: fotoroom.co

[@RobOfficial_SA]

This video was truly worth the wait🔥,its always therapeutic listening to you and your work has always been inspirational to me. THANK YOU BRYAN

[@BryanBirks]

Glad you think so, sir. Thanks for the support!

[@Tjludecke]

Congrats on all the awards Bryan very well deserved! As always refreshing to hear what your thoughts, what you’re up to, and where you’re at. 👊🏻❤️

[@BryanBirks]

Appreciate the support as always, TJ! Saw you were selling your Komura lens…it is tempting!

[@Tjludecke]

@@BryanBirks unfortunately yes! Yet again attempting to go down the 8x10 route.

[@BryanBirks]

@@Tjludeckegodspeed, my friend

[@ARGMTNT]

Quality over quantity. You rock ✌🏻

[@Juno_Doran]

That bit about scrolling, sounds like you used TikTok. I tried that once for 10 minutes (or it was one minute but felt like ten) and I could seriously sense the decay of my brain cells! I’ve seen grown men in public transport scrolling through that thing and I was bemused. It’s like these social media machines are infantilising and numbing our minds. I deleted the thing very quickly. On a totally different matter, have you considered making less videos but each one being a valuable piece of valid work, with voice overs, action, etc. I think you did stuff like that in the past. Your work is going really well, still have to watch the newer videos. Well done 👏

[@Juno_Doran]

On second thoughts nevermind anything I’ve said. When you place your vulnerability out there, idiots like me will feel tempted to tell you what to do. I don’t know anything.

[@IvoIvanov-imagefactorystudio]

Not written often... But this one is #sterling

[@cody_wood]

Always love hearing about what you were thinking taking these photos. Don't beat yourself up over the phone addiction, it's designed to do that and they're smarter than us but I bet it feels nice to be tackling it. Great photo the one with the tree, makes me think of a car remembering its time burning rubber because of the motion in the swing.

[@BryanBirks]

I like that analogy at the end. Thanks, Cody. Always appreciate your comments. 🍻

[@harshavardhansalgaokar]

I see a Bryan Birks video uploaded, I press play

[@BryanBirks]

You’re late!

[@INFINITIVco]

I wonder if you’d enjoy watching films or documentaries on cars, restoration, etc. an interesting insight to people who heavily invest into that passion and hobby. (Wish I knew some that I can recommend)

[@BryanBirks]

Yeah that might be enjoyable but from what I've seen most of those types of shows are heavily produced and more of an MTV type show. I might have to look around.

[@ThePhotoDept]

man we are so similar.

[@BryanBirks]

One day we shall have a beer together.

[@steveneate]

I enjoyed looking at the websites of each member in your critique group. How did you first get in touch with those guys?

[@BryanBirks]

Ironically, social media! That’s one good use for it. Karl is from Missouri. Josh is Canadian. And Cody is Australian. A good mix of viewpoints.

[@weezintrumpeteer]

Thanks for sharing this video Bryan. Much of it resonated with me, including the bit about phones and instagram - I also recently decided to take a step back from IG and have been severely limiting my use of it on my phone, instead opting to use it on my Mac. That automatically puts a limit on my usage since I'm not in front of my computer as much. Anyway, thanks for sharing. I hate to ask a gear question, but I am thinking of giving 4x5 a try, partially inspired by your work. What camera / lens do you use for your Articles project and/or would you recommend that or something else for a begginner?

[@BryanBirks]

Don’t worry about gear questions. I know they’re necessary sometimes. I use a Chamonix 45N-1. It’s their basic model but it works fantastically. The lens I use most often is a Xenotar 135mn f/3.5. I love it. Sharp at every aperture and good coverage. If you’re just testing the waters than I would maybe start with a Crown Graphic or something cheaper. But if you imagine yourself going all in than I would no doubt go with a Chamonix.

[@weezintrumpeteer]

@@BryanBirks Thank you! Very helpful.

[@AaronHardinPhoto]

We underestimate the millions and millions of dollars of R&D that goes into keeping us addicted to our phones for ad revenue. I constantly see it as a character flaw. But how many psychologists and sociologists have helped design the world that steals our lives? I too struggle with phone/computer addiction. It's such an empty, meaningless feeling.... Also, I have some thoughts on that Chico deal. Deeply problematic in regards to accessibility. But the art world is made for the rich and not for the proletariat.

[@BryanBirks]

It took me a while to recognize that I had a problem but, like I said, it is embarrassing. Mostly because you feel like you're losing control and it is so easy to fall into specific habits. I only now feel like I have a grasp on making it better. Which feels good. In regards to the art world, I am hoping that my goals and ambitions are not stifled by things such as that and things that are out of my control. The only thing I am going to do is be myself and do my best. I still believe that good work gets its due eventually. We shall see how it plays out!

[@shockerpb03]

Are you a fan of the braves? What connection do you have to Atlanta?!

[@BryanBirks]

No connection really. Just grew up not liking the Cardinals and the Braves were on TBS every single night. Never stopped watching.

[@ItsTOUGHtobeFascinating]

I will take the apps off my phone a few times a year because they are a time suck.

[@samuelsummers5342]

does cody and josh have a website?

[@BryanBirks]

Cody is codywood.com.au/ Josh is www.joshuadmcmillan.com/ Karl is karlramberg.com/

[@rpavl]

You forgot to promise that your next video will be sooner than this one 🙂

[@BryanBirks]

Ha I promise. Already working on it as I type this.

[@blairgauld]

Do you have a 4x5 enlarger ?

[@BryanBirks]

Yep, Beseler 45MXT. Got it for $300 from a retired photographer in St. Louis.

[@nathanhoefert]

Happy for your recent wins and realizations. I have also been dealing with sitting in pain and discomfort and it’s always been so easy to reach for the phone, watch a KZbin video, grab a beer and another…, etc. I felt as if I was take take taking and wasn’t giving back to not only myself but my community. It really is easy to silo yourself off. I recently started Saint Louis Creates (on Facebook) with monthly meetups to get out and meet more creatives, get out of my head, and realizing that there are other people that go through similar trials of life. Nixed drinking, 63 days today. Working full time and shooting as a wedding/event photog is taking its toll but one challenge at a time. Would love to meet at one of our creative meet ups sometime. Aug 13th at Tower Grove Park near the Ruins from 5-8. I’m @natehoephoto!

[@BryanBirks]

Drinking has been on the decline with me as well. I reach for a well-crafted drink now instead of 6 drinks that taste like ass. Hangovers are tough at 31. Lmao I will definitely look into the meeting at Tower Grove!

[@BryanBirks]

Replying to this again because I missed the meetup! I had a wedding to film the night before and was wrecked from travel because it was in KC. Is there another one at some point?

[@ARGMTNT]

Quality over quantity. You rock ✌🏻

[@BryanBirks]

True words right there. Thank you!