The Artist's Ego: Learning Balance

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Website: www.seantucker.photography/
In this video I share some thoughts on how our egos are essential if we want to produce art of any sort, because they will help us to back ourselves in the face of criticism; but we also need to be aware of the ego's negative impulse to make us feel separate and superior to everyone else, because it can get us off track from making beautiful things.
Share this video on if you found it helpful.
#ego #artists #psychology

[@Someday500w]

I really like the fact that your videos aren't related to cameras, lenses, gadgets or pixel peeping. You're really unique.

[@thesoccertribe]

Honestly I get depressed all of that chatter about gear and all that stuffs that I'm beginning to loose interest in photography, coming across that has got me warm

[@jmarson1986]

Came here to say this, its nice to learn something new thats not immediately related to photography, but does play a part!

[@stefanol9272]

I absolutely agree so tired of reviews and the same over and over. You can buy yourself poor. I love what I have and I only want to learn the rest of my life.

[@derdurstbursch]

@@thesoccertribe yeah. Pro tip: watch videos on the gear you already have. Motivates and doesn't lead you to buy stupid stuff to compensate for your own lack of creativity!

[@firstname405]

@@derdurstbursch wow that's a great tip! Thanks

[@JamesPopsysPhoto]

They say you learn something everyday. Well I learned enough to cover the rest of the year watching this... Excellent as per mate.

[@zwele_stick]

Love your videos too buddy.

[@deniselisboa1]

The rest of my life lol

[@alexandergardner2396]

"It will make us a healthy artist!?!!" Heck, it will make us healthy human beings. Much love Sean.

[@petroverba6054]

Actually all time when discussion about art making starts, I mean deep conversation about such things like in this video , it is possible to substitute word "artist" with "human being", "art-making" with "living" and all other words will stay relevant.

[@petrholusafotograf5769]

“An EGO and a SUPEREGO walk into a bar. The bartender says, ‘I’m going to need to see some ID.’”

[@JacqueArmijo]

oh god.... I liked this more than I should have

[@davidpearson6755]

Sean, I am 65 and have just started to get back into my photography. I have watched many videos, from many different people, on different photography subjects. But I must say, your videos are very informative, straight talking. I have learnt more from your videos than any others, you have inspired me so much. Don't ever change the way you work, or present your work. Stay true to yourself. You are an inspiration to others. Thanks. David.

[@martinconrad9260]

8:30 "I want people to think I'm successful..." What you then go on to describe is financial "success", and say that you're not a successful photographer. But Sean, you *are* - your work speaks your truth, you are willing to share both your work and your truth with the world, come what may, and you keep shooting even when you doubt yourself. Those things, to me, describe true "success" - the rest is icing. IMO

[@2tcreative]

If we as photographers want to make images that say something, this is an essential video to watch. Thanks again, Sean.

[@martinconrad9260]

"The true writer always plays to an audience of one." ~ William Strunk You could substitute for "writer" the words "artist", "photographer", "musician", etc., and it would be just as true.

[@cooperjanusevskis502]

such an inspiration, Sean. the topics, video production, and of course the photography, are always so inspiring. Thank you for these!

[@fak1tGaming]

The music is superb as well

[@davehenderson9105]

“Don’t let self importance distract you from making beautiful things” I love that statement. Thank you for this video! You always bring such wisdom and put words to feelings in a way that I would find difficult. Cheers

[@TheIronsiders]

The world of photography needs more people like this man. Inspirational and motivational. Thanks sir!.

[@gatewayglenntoyotaspeciali5688]

Sean, you have a real gift. Thank you. The church's loss is our gain. Cheers.

[@laideae]

Don't intent to blow your ego, but you're quite successful as a photographer. First and foremost because your work is quite appreciated here and the other digital outlets you've got at your disposal but also because you've manage to inspire and lead a lot of us into becoming better visual artists. I sincerely admire and thank you for it Sean!

[@tivoenator]

“Don’t let self importance distract you from making beautiful things”.

[@BrGr385]

I've said this before Sean: you are the most INSPIRING photographer on KZbin.

[@poneka7886]

I AGREE 200%

[@tomifcuesta]

Hands down, the best photography channel on KZbin.

[@markquiram9012]

It is encouraging to know that I am not the only one with the same emotional/psychological struggles and the way it relates to life as an artist. I felt as though these same struggles were mine and mine alone. It is good to know someone else there on the same journey.

[@andersonfilmandsound]

Sean. You really are an absolute gem. It is such a battle for all of us trying to make beautiful things that mean something and are genuinely useful to the soul whilst being in this strange and often heartless world. Soo lovely to have your back. Thankyou.

[@tjerkheringa937]

Best KZbin-channel. The most brutally honest and the most stimulating.

[@Lordovhate]

You always seem to say what I need to hear, Sean. As always, I deeply appreciate what you have to say. And even though we may never meet in person or have any sort of deep conversation, I view you as a mentor in my life. Your words have helped me change a lot of the harmful things I’ve had running through my head over the years. Thank you, again.

[@seantuck]

That's kind, thanks mate.

[@georgestancl2283]

This video is bigger than your channel, than the whole ptohography community and bigger than ''being artist'' itself. I think everyone should watch this

[@wilfredobenitez7275]

Thank you for presenting such a healthy perspective of how ego can serve us in a nontoxic way. I think you would make a wonderful psychoanalyst! Being an Episcopal/Anglican priest with a passion for photography, I connected immediately with your comments on the work of Richard Rohr, one of my favorite writers on spirituality. Your honesty is a breath of fresh air, and your articulated thoughts are spot on. I continue to enjoy your videos both for their photographic content, and also for the depth of content those of us on the photographic journey, the inner photographic journey, can relate to. 🙏🏽

[@ebinajithvarghese6938]

Trust me, I've never commented on a video before until I came across your content on youtube and I'm an introvert. but I've to say this, you've inspired me to finally comment. yes, something always held me back from it but here it is. You're like a mentor and It's so relaxing to hear you to talk about some really beautiful and important things in our lives and I'm so glad I found you on youtube. Thankyou for this and I hope you'll always keep doing this. simply great content! lots of love.

[@anomalpanda3415]

This is brilliant, seeing somebody giving such energy. Sean, as one of a million here, I can truly see that your "main domain" is a pastor. When I watch your videos it is not that I want to teach myself some new techniques, we need more people with such gift on our planet and hopefully people will some day open their hearts in major. Thanks

[@gordroberts53]

At 7:00 "...I don't try to copy other channels or fit into the KZbin world..." This is exactly why I look forward to every new episode and continue to mine your early work. No BS honesty and some very good photography how/why to's. Thanks!

[@jecrachedescouleurs1108]

You have no idea how your channel is precious to me. Thank you for sharing your creative soul and wisdom.

[@ensenadadrift]

A gentleman and a scholar! Sending you a big hug Sean!

[@shurikenstars]

There must be thousands (260k+) who’s lives are changed or tweaked for the better after watching your channel. You make us think. And yet it’s always photography based, but spoken allegorically. Half a century in life has passed me by and yet I’ve learnt more about myself and others as well as my approach to photography from listening to you, as a photographer this video definitely nails it. You have a very unique gift of being an educator

[@brubecktime]

Beautiful and inspirational video, Sean. Really like how you are able to touch multiple subjects, offering your view on photography and life. Keep it up!

[@1966wasp]

Without a doubt, a gift that keeps on giving. I needed this Tucker fix, thanks again for keeping it real.

[@caddy_man_reaper1016]

We have found a youtube hidden gem. Not only for photography but this channel could educate anybody from any field.

[@iamericlenz]

I started watching your Videos almost a Year ago. During this time I've found myself in your words somehow. Especially this film about our egos. Your words were as sharp as a knife. Unfortunately, I suffer from a variety of mental illnesses which drive me to almost everything. Showing off and living behind a facade is what I'm, unfortunately, understand too good. I just can't describe how thought provoking your metaphors are. Having this kind of self-awareness like you've been talking about is an important aim to accomplish. However, I want to cut it off right now. Thank you so much for being such a precious individual for me and so many others.

[@Zilvinas.Garnelis]

Thank you Sean. Your work and especially this topic is really important and inspirational :)

[@upupawayandbeyond]

I’ve stopped watching other KZbin photographers. Nothing gets slightly close to the quality of the content you put on your videos. Brutal, honest, filled with substance. No click baits, no random shallow tips that won’t take us anywhere. Please, man. Keep it up. It’s selfish to say so, because I benefit from your videos, but please, keep bringing them on! Thank you!

[@seantuck]

Thanks my friend.

[@informationwarfare8744]

Creativity, psychology and philosophy with a sprinkling of spirituality - I never expected to find so much in one video.

[@Dunja0712]

Oh my... There are no words to express how much I needed this at this particular moment. Thank you!

[@bogdangheorghiu1978]

I love how much Rembrandt is in your lighting and overall atmosphere in your room! It goes so well with the intelligent and touching content. Thank you.

[@namijohnson1885]

You always manage to provide me with fresh perspective with perfect timing. Really appreciate the work you do, thank you Sean.

[@anthonyisensee]

I just want to say that this video meant a lot to me. Appreciate you, Sean.

[@dnew16n]

Hey man, you words are really powerful. Even as a seasoned artist I know I need to hear this. Thanks for you work and perspective. This series of videos on your channel is timeless. You’re channeling something. Keep it up.

[@ouradventerousdays]

Thank you KZbin for the autoplay that I came across your channel. You blow my mind with your knowledge, personality, skills and many more. You have open my mind and see a better path of what I like to do with my photography journey.

[@ceramicsbydaniel]

Fantastic content mate, this is (hopefully) our future. People need to think with their hearts and souls a little more. Spot on.

[@catchlite5196]

Love seeing and listening your work. Please don’t feel obligated to launch a lot of content.. we can wait for the things that you bring. Respect!

[@thedimtenuk]

I hope you appreciate how many people are learning from you. The hard work you put in your topics, scripts, shots, editing and the messages you deliver. I feel lucky to have the opportunity to access your content for free on your website or through videos and social media. You do have a positive impact on many lives across the world. And you do that with passion without monetising it. I am no one to judge but definitely appreciate. I have learnt and applied thanks to Sean Tucker. So Thank YOU, your ego and their siblings ID and Super Ego !

[@Aledharris]

Thank you so much. You give your audience so much to think about and really inspire us to try our best with whatever we're doing and whatever is going on. Keep going, Sean.

[@josephcramer7796]

This Is the best and most important video in a long line of great work. The best channel I watch!

[@RawloftheDead]

One of the best videos you have made, this was very enlightening. Thank you Sean!

[@andyroye5622]

Another life lesson, thank you Mr.Tucker🙏🏾🙏🏾 . Because of your channel and the mind, heart and soul photography lessons you teach us I now fallen back in love with photography, let me explain, I was taking photo but just for the sake of it, I also do weddings, parties, corporate & product. Now because of your previous video I’m now delving into portraiture, I also mostly have my camera with me and I limit myself to just one prime lens. Sometimes, most of the time I get no worthy photos but I have to say at this point I’m my own worst critic!! But this part of me is changing due to your content, weather people like my photos or not I’m going to stand by what I’ve done and listen and here the criticism good or bad.

[@tomcruz3774]

Love this video. I found that a having some self-dialogue everyday (like just talking to myself before I sleep) helps out a lot. Striking a balance is essential. No one will ever hire someone who doesn't like their own work, and no one will ever hire someone who ONLY likes their own work.

[@nikkolaspaulfragrances]

This is absolutely brilliant Sean. Ive been reading books on EGO and spirit for years now, and this cuts right to the truth of the situation flawlessly. Great work.

[@TraciHinesMusic]

This was really helpful and beautiful. Thank you.

[@donaldbock9669]

Love the seamless flow of your dialog and the connections you make, Honesty and the Ego, a real wrestling match. Learning the Art of Positive, Honest dialog with yourself. Your background has served you well. Thanks for sharing it all. Love your videos, Always food for thought!!!

[@Monsoon1030]

Amazing video. I appreciate your clarity, honesty and sensitivity. Stay the course, and keep it up, Tucker-San. I’m not even a photographer, just a guy who sometimes takes pictures. But with your steady insights and inspiration, I am becoming one, slowly. “ You are not your ego” is so painfully correct. I’d even take it a step further and say that “You are not your thoughts. You are your choices. “

[@monrea10]

Self awareness. Make the art you want to see. I love how succinct these two points are and I will keep thinking about what they really mean to me. Thanks for the inspiring videos. And I love your photographs

[@craigtravis6537]

Beautiful, thank you for expressing this so eloquently.

[@Drew-do9wx]

I appreciate your straightforward, genuine candor.

[@goddessny6068]

Thank you very much for this video. This was beautiful. I am a singer and searched this video because I was watching a documentary on David Ruffin. I am concerned or curious on how to balance the way I see my art and realized that everybody that exists has this dilemma and to not shame myself when my ego might peak its head out of line. It’s okay, but we must practice the muscle everyday. It’s a conscious choice. And honestly I enjoy this life. It’s fun it’s full of gambles and changes all of the time.

[@alsokennisan]

Sean, I can't thank you enough for all that you do. Your videos always have a very 'human element' in it that naturally touches the soul of those who watch.

[@vidtrax662]

Ego is a must for inspiration....it does elevate an artist. Thanks for the gentle reminder. 😊

[@thenicflynn]

Ya know, this is spot on. Somedays I set out to create something beautiful or unique and on those days I feel like "Yeah, I got this because I know what I am doing." Those are the days I struggle to take anything interesting. When I set out almost not thinking at all I get the photos as if I am pulling them from my own mind and not the world in front of me.

[@francequirion9547]

Intelligent struggles with their ego, this is the truth, a truth that is good to read. Thank you to remains that the thing is to built a healty ego, by saying and living courageoulsy our authenticity as a unique person, as you do, not only as you say. I discover how I love your videos, they are all edifying. Thank you, for those precious things you give.

[@JoshuaBabarinde]

Awesome and So true! Thank you Sean!

[@saiba9050]

Thank you for sharing the wisdom and this is the reality that we need to manage.

[@JTs125]

I really love how you find the right words! Thank you very much for this video!

[@jackoneil3933]

Very well articulated and simplified Sean, and perhaps it's the difference between being 'Self-Centered' (confident and humble) and 'Selfish' that differentiates between those who truly great artists and those who hack success and often fail. Having grown up around the Hollywood movie business and worked in media I can say that not many people who had not transcended their 'ID' or who developed a selfish, toxic ego remained successful or happy for long, for the reasons you just presented. Blaise Pascal noted: “All of humanity's problems stem from man's inability to sit quietly in a room alone.” And when it comes to 'Balancing' ego perhaps it is the awareness of ego that is the key as Jung, some of the great classical philosophers and biblical profits point out, and discovering how to sit still until all the emotional induced chatter of the mind subsides enough until one is left with only one's deepest fears, angers and ego to confront is what can free us best us from the delusion of unhealthy ego.

[@kbmats]

Thanks for always sharing all this knowledge with us

[@suekonvalinkova4857]

This is the most inspiring, heat-touching and honest video and I thank you for that, Sean. Stay the way you are, because you are great.

[@wojtekw6040]

Wow. I started watching Your videos from the very beginning of this channel. And at the beginning photography was the main reason but now You help me as a person and my photography in the meantime. I can't thank You enough.

[@woodygreen6826]

Remain humble, but believe in yourself. It's not always easy, but it really is the correct path. Thanks, Sean.

[@arvindravi4869]

Thank you for putting in the time to create this, Sean. It‘s an incredible life lesson.

[@jenniferdomenick3706]

Thank you so much for being real and honest.

[@kylel.1342]

Dude. You’re the shit. Absolutely love you honesty and transparency. Keep posting amazing content. We need it in these crazy times.

[@yuriajones]

Thank you Sean. I really like what you keep doing with this channel. Brilliant!

[@colinforber8504]

I find it strange but reaffirming to watch your videos. I think a lot of what you talk about here is universal, and transcends not only different photographers, but different artists in all media, but the reflections of my own mentalities and the sober and thoughtful way you address them means a lot to me. Thank you for sharing your self-reflections, and your honesty.

[@korm87]

Articulated brilliantly as usual, some amazing points made here and something we should all be very aware of! Great work

[@cadeesparaguera3043]

Thank you. I needed this.

[@Jamesmatthews]

Pure Value. Thanks Sean

[@TheEclecticPhotog]

You have no idea how much I needed this video. Thank you.

[@StillwatersFarm]

So that I am clear, then, we should rest our ego at the level of "confidence", while never allowing it to breach the limits into "arrogance". Brilliant.

[@whenurefree]

You know, I just watched your video where you were explaining how photography, and anything for that matter, takes time to master. And at 7:07, you said other people say your work isn't street photography. And I think that line will sum up how successful you'll be in the future. You are on the right path, and I think your work will make history, because your work isn't conventional, but innovative. You probably don't need me to tell you that, but it just made me excited for you. Love your work!! Edit: Needed this video as well!

[@benjaminfargen]

Wonderful video as always. Thank you.

[@bengtsall]

Thank you for you wise words! It's hard battle fighting the urge to post what you think everybody wants to see. And sometimes its even harder to know what you really want to share, what's true to yourself. For me that's the first lesson. Really enjoying your videos , thanks for sharing 😎👍

[@philipbernard1632]

Watching your video was like attending a refresher course on Id, Ego and Super Ego with your own thought provoking explanations and new examples and how to balance them out and how it relates to all artists. I like this quote "We must do our work for its own sake Not for fortune or attention or applause." - Steven Pressfield Keep up the good work!

[@rs2841]

Sean, you have so much to say. Please don’t stop. Thank you for putting this content out, it is truly special.

[@motojared]

Thanks Sean. Love how you put things in perspective.

[@NanoArizpe]

Love all your videos, such an inspiration

[@vnomik]

just GREAT! my time is worth spending here, thank you!!

[@Ottaro]

This has to be the most well rounded photography channel. Well any art really. I always feel "fresh" and recharged after these philosophical videos you do. Don't stop!

[@vitza99]

Great video for such an interesting and neglected subject. Me and my ego both needed to see this. Cheers, and thank you.

[@Jupiter2ignite]

Yes! a Sean Tucker video finally!

[@locotepeps]

Haven't had a good KZbin lecture in a while, thanks man really appreciate the work👍👌

[@kleojose]

Thank you Sean! Thank you for bringing me back to Earth. It's what I really needed to hear.

[@FlyersNation98]

Always very inspirationnal...really love your approach of life and photography! It is simple, down to Earth, pragmatic. Thanks for all the thoughts!

[@scottgibbs5903]

Sean, the problem I struggle with is caring too much what others think and say. I’m a 65 year old who desires a different, more creative, and independent life. The thought of being laughed at or disappointing my family haunts me. Your channel helps me navigate this labyrinth. Thanks.

[@64viji]

You should start a Photography podcast 😅 it'll be so good because you talk so so good 💯

[@Bassbarbie]

Completely agree. Interesting content and a voice I could listen to all day.

[@murphystone9162]

for sure I would sing and hear, perhaps 3 or 4 times each episode...

[@unegziste]

@@Bassbarbie me2

[@HarshvardhanSaboo]

He doesn't need to because youtube pays better than a podcast and the quotes he share in the start can't be part of podcast.

[@subxist7515]

Love this vid!! So much peaple can take from this and help them be aware of how our egos need to be kept in check 👍 amazing vid as always Sean ✌️

[@marklambert7734]

many helpful insights into what spurs us on and how to keep focused on the artistic challenge. Thanks, insightful as ever

[@patrickhanser7235]

I never comment on stuff, but I found your channel recently and I'm loving your videos. You really are creating content that matters! Keep it going, it's amazing work!

[@andreleroux7484]

Your thoughtful contributions are so inspiring and have added more purpose to my own attempts at good photography, i.e. wildlife, landscape and macro. Your work reminds me of the Greater Context and an appreciation of how things fit and relate in my world. Thanks.

[@divergentdeva]

Thank you. I really needed to hear this. Journey towards a healthy understanding of self.