Unlock Your Inner Hero: The Path to Photography Fulfilment

[@davidallsup2375]

Your point about how photography can be therapeutic for people living with trauma is one I can relate to. I was a professional firefighter/paramedic for over twenty years, and had to retire due to job related PTSD. Photography gets me outside, and helps me to be grounded, mindful, and focused in the moment. It also helps me to see beauty in the world again. For me, it has been life changing.

[@Firstmanphotography]

Thanks for sharing that David. It's especially nice when this message resonates with the actual people I was talking about.

[@peterfritzphoto]

Adam, you’re a man of tremendous depth and substance. I sincerely hope we meet someday, but for now, I’ll keep enjoying your wonderful vignettes on landscape photography, life, and what it means to be human. The work you’re doing here really matters.

[@Firstmanphotography]

Thanks Peter. that’s very kind of you to say. Your support and encouragement mean a lot. Be great to meet you when I finally get down under.

[@brucedelorme5026]

Adam. You're a man of extreme perseverance and heart. Even with your back, you still conquer hurdles. It's your heart that keeps you going, but it's your mindset that gets you there. With a mindset of, I CAN!!! You will always win and push forward. I to am a Vet who has suffered a horrible injury in my career. I was told I would have significant limitations. But my mind refused to believe what they told me. As a result, I have conquered almost every challenge put before me. It's our mind that binds us, restrains us, and holds us back. Learn to control and train your mind and you are limitless! Always enjoy your work.

[@Firstmanphotography]

Exactly. I also just like being difficult or a contrarian. Especially with the version of me that just wants to sit on the couch.

[@JohnPaul-ii]

Everyday can be a struggle to get through when dealing with trauma or a chronic pain issues. Seeing the world through the camera, helps me see that there are still things worth staying around for. Thank you for being part of the inspiration Adam. Stay safe 🇦🇺

[@Firstmanphotography]

Thanks mate. A universally positive pursuit.

[@bobtaylor364]

Thanks Adam, you are 100% correct, hero's come in all shapes and sizes!

[@Firstmanphotography]

Exactly

[@barbarachamberlain6918]

That last shot was spectacular, and your message about heroes was touching.

[@Firstmanphotography]

Thanks Barbara

[@rajismyfavorite]

I'm a childhood abuse survivor and have had years of therapy which has helped a great deal. I've learned various coping mechanisms, but photography is the only thing that completely shuts off my brain. I can't be concerned about this or worried about that while I'm searching for something to take pictures of, thinking about my settings, and just enjoying being in nature. Nature is such a balm to my soul.

[@tomfoord8860]

There should be a way to give a video a BIG thumbs up. You're very brave and honest about sharing your inner thoughts and feelings and that's one thing that makes your videos stand out. Thanks for this one!

[@Firstmanphotography]

Hi Tom. There was potential to have accused me of bravery (or stupidity) in the past, but I don't particularly think this is. I have no fear discussing these things. I am just being honest and I think it's important to talk about it. I very much appreciate the sentiment though. Thanks

[@DarioCanadaPhotography]

Not being anywhere near the Veterans experience, I can confirm that photography has been my best friend throughout the pandemic and keeping my mental health in a good place! As for the physique I also need some weight loss, however if the mind is well, the body will follow! I have followed you for a long time and even though I love your work, I have to say you have one of the best messages you can take away from any video you make of all the photographers I follow, and therefore its a pleasure to follow you my friend! Keep up the great work and being humble! You are a great photographer

[@chrisburnard5157]

Thanks Adam for producing more top quality content. I very much appreciate your work and the messages you deliver.

[@Firstmanphotography]

Thanks Chris. Appreciate that.

[@smokingxgunx]

Wonderful video and well said. Their are everyday people that have struggles and are real “hero’s”. Having a bad back also I understand the challenges it presents. Stay strong and thank you for sharing. 👍🏼💪🏼

[@Firstmanphotography]

Thanks. much appreciated

[@sigsegv111]

I've played the part from 4:20 to 4:30 at least ten times ... there's liquid inspiration and encouragement in it ... I just can't wait for a weekend when I will grab my camera and leave my normal life (and all creatures that I love - two legged, four legged) behind changing that for something else that I love (three legged included) too, out there alone under the tree canopy in great outdoors ... sometimes I just don't know how grateful I shall be to the God, universe, our mother nature or just to my lucky star for to be THIS privileged that I can grab my gear which is literally worth of price of other people lives elsewhere in the world and go out and have a warm place to return where I will be embraced by love ... I have tears in my eyes now .. Thank you Adam !!

[@Dez_Blanchfield]

You're getting back to your good old self again Adam, so great to see.. loved this as it is such a healthy mix of honest, open, transparent reality blended with the thing we come together to join albeit vicariously through you.. photography.. life.. the outdoors.. landscapes.. and life's journey as a whole.. that closing commentary and your sound design.. f*cking legendary mate.. 10 points to Gryffindor !!

[@Firstmanphotography]

Ha ha. yeah thanks. There’s definitely a ‘back to basics’ intention at the moment.

[@Dez_Blanchfield]

@@Firstmanphotography - mate there is so much to be said for a good old "back to basics" journey, I'm putting myself through the very same thing with so many things in life that seem to have gotten either over complicated or just tiresome.. keep up the great work.. hope to see more of the "back to basics" stuff from you as we're all winners as a result.. and please come visit us in Sydney some time..

[@Firstmanphotography]

@@Dez_Blanchfield Australia is at the top of my list. Thanks again mate.

[@srhphoto1]

Such a powerful message in this video Adam. Thank you.

[@Firstmanphotography]

Thanks Simon

[@iaincphotography6051]

Soul warming shots Adam, keep on with the fitness, for sure it gets harder as you get older.

[@Firstmanphotography]

Ha. Thanks Iain

[@MOTOROLLEY]

One of my favourite videos I’ve watched on KZbin, ever! Your passion and heartwarming delivery is on point each & every time, and this one was off the scale! Keep doing what you do, Adam - you’d be surprised at how many people will look at you as their inspiration and hero with genuine & relatable content like this!

[@robertwhitemoto]

having just returned from trying to keep up with Mads Iversen in the Faroes I can totally relate to the fitness issues Adam, and congrats ... 2 stones is something to be proud of. I do watch your channel for the inspiration! keep up the good work.

[@Firstmanphotography]

Thanks mate.

[@Ruscombephotos]

Hi Adam, I am also finding photography therapeutic and helping me with stress at work and the loss of my dad last month. You are definitely one of my heroes and it would be great to meet you, even if only to say hello. On one of my trips back to England I want to get my camera out in the Lake District, the Northeast Coast, Dartmoor, and/or the Peak District. I think all your photographs in this worked out beautifully. I like those intersecting, interlocking lines in the first image. I haven’t found anything like that here in the Northeast US, not even in the Catskills. Most of my photography at the moment is in a large, rambling park with woodland and a lake that I only began to really explore last year, despite living nearby for the last 16.5 years.

[@Firstmanphotography]

Nice. Discovering new photography spots close to home is one of my favourite things.

[@mikeysteam]

Thanks Adam

[@JohnDrummondPhoto]

Thank you for helping so many people with your inspirational videos and images. I've never been to war; but I can attest that just being out in the field helps so much to alleviate the stresses that life brings.

[@Firstmanphotography]

Exactly. it’s universally positive.

[@johncameron6853]

You are looking so good after the weight loss Adam hopefully the mind will follow, photography is a great medicine that we should all take. Another fantastic vid and cracking photos as well. Hang loose mate. 👍😎

[@Firstmanphotography]

Ha. Very kind John.

[@RClackett]

What a wonderful video. ❤ 👏 Thank you.

[@Firstmanphotography]

Thanks Robert. Very kind

[@scotty4418]

Your determination to get fitter Adam is definitely visible and can see a difference in your appearance as your fitness improves. I was actually thinking about Paul the other day and hope he is doing ok too as he was one of the earlier photographers I came across online about the same time as yourself. You are one of several photographers that I greatly admire and are part of the reason I am deriving so much pleasure from my photography these days and forever grateful for the positive impact it has made on my life, so thank you and please keep doing what you are doing in inspiring others

[@Firstmanphotography]

Thanks Jim. It’s also been phenomenal watching your photography develop into something very special. Appreciate you very much.

[@QuicknStraight]

Much more interesting content than most YT photographers. The second rock photo, with the wider angle, and the last sunset one were terrific. As for heroes, if you base your expectations of a person only on the public facing side you see in a video, then you're likely going to be disappointed by the person in reality when you see their flaws. I try to never have fixed expectations of people for that very reason. And, BTW, you look slimmer in the face already!

[@andymcgarty3099]

Stunning photos in this video. Worth the climb. Great final comments about the real heroes, well said.

[@Firstmanphotography]

Thanks Andy.

[@ianbarnett]

Hi Adam, Thanks for your efforts on the hill. Really enjoy your philosophical perspectives, the genuine encouraging tone you use and genuine openness about success and failure. Also well done on losing the weight. I am endeavouring to do the same so I can keep getting up the hills.

[@Firstmanphotography]

Cheers Ian. See you on the hill.

[@BryanDorr]

Stunning photography and powerful ending commentary. Thank you for sharing, Adam.

[@Firstmanphotography]

Thanks Bryan. Appreciate that.

[@Theirrelephant]

Some STELLAR shots this video. As always love your content.

[@Firstmanphotography]

Thanks Logan. I’m very grateful.

[@arthurscheltes7908]

Really nice video! Just so you know: you are one of my photography heroes! When I started with photography a few years ago your videos (must admit that I binged them), the 1 on 1 feedback and de many vlogs were a great source of inspiration! It inspired me to go “out and about” and explore the world through my camera! Many thanks for that and keep up the good work:)

[@Firstmanphotography]

Ha thanks Arthur. It's always been an absolute pleasure speaking with you and seeing your photographs.

[@paulbell9957]

Love your videos mate, could watch them all day long. Great work as always and a lovely story at the end 😊👍

[@Firstmanphotography]

Thanks Paul. Greatly appreciate your support.

[@MaliDaviesPhotography]

I subscribe to lots of what you say, the hero we hold up and the hero’s that surround us, parents and grandparents our first contact with hero’s. Then as my photography progresses, you meet people that make you realise what you have and how to shape your future. Thanks Adam, and what ever you are doing it’s working! Looking very well Adam. Thanks for the video and wise words.

[@Firstmanphotography]

Cheers Mali. Thought you were good in your latest video too.

[@MaliDaviesPhotography]

@@Firstmanphotography I feel we are maybe on a similar trajectory, going out 4 times a week now doing 4 miles each time. Thanks Adam

[@Firstmanphotography]

@@MaliDaviesPhotography We’ll be fell running together before you know it.

[@laurelb8372]

Oh wow Adam, what a great mono with the intersecting hills.

[@Firstmanphotography]

Thanks. I did a KZbin poll and just over 60% preferred the colour version. I’m with you though, preferred the mono version so it made it into the video.

[@gregdarroch1946]

You can look forward to struggling to get around when you are 70 like me. Worst thing is I can’t balance properly when walking on uneven ground. Makes composition a tad difficult at times. Cheers.

[@Firstmanphotography]

Yep. Until then, I’ll be doing all I can to maximise the experiences……..and use walking poles for longevity.

[@AnthonyJohnson1]

Really enjoyed that Adam. The Peak District has some amazing rock formations doesn’t it? Loved that final image and appreciate the effort that went into get it. Descending from there after sunset must be quite the challenge!

[@peterfritzphoto]

That’s what I was thinking. But what a beautiful place to descend from at dusk.

[@Firstmanphotography]

Thanks. I did manage to get back down with the remaining blue hour light.

[@jimbruton9482]

Once again, another great video Adam. Some time back you were the 1st KZbin Landscape Photographer I ever watched, and what inspired me to pursue my own photography a to higher level was your discussion on the art, not the gear, and those elements that push you to "Fulfilment" and results in those special images. Well done!

[@Firstmanphotography]

Ah wow. Thanks Jim. Appreciate your comment very much.

[@Badger220455]

Thought provoking as always Adam. Thanks for posting.

[@Firstmanphotography]

Cheers Rodger.

[@wimvandaalen954]

Thanks Adam, thanks for sharing this video and your thoughts.

[@Firstmanphotography]

My pleasure. Appreciate the comment.

[@don06281]

Ah, yes. Photography heroes. My photographer heroes have shifted over the years, from Big Names (I’m sure you’d recognize a few of them) to people whose reputations might not be as wide spread, but who are certainly deserving of significantly more recognition than they seem to be getting. Those are the people whose comments and advice I love to listen to and follow (an interesting side note - most of them are British . . .). You certainly fit in this latter category, in both respects. Unless you are doing a video that is Canon specific (I’m a Nikon shooter myself), your videos are always more about the human condition, and how to apply that to one’s photography. This video is an excellent example. You seem very down to earth and humble, far more so that most of the Big Names I’ve met and (tried) to chat with. Of course it helps that you back up your words with stunning photos. They are, without exception, gorgeous. Perhaps someday I’ll make it to your side of the pond, and if I’m very, very lucky, we might even be able to spend an hour or so over a pint, chatting about our love of photography. In the meantime, keep up the great work. It’s wonderful.

[@Firstmanphotography]

That sounds great Don. I’ll look forward to it. Thanks so much for your words.

[@paulcomptonpdphotography]

hi Adam, i know what you mean about others not wanting to connect, i have been to Pauls house and had coffee he is an great guy and well missed on here. But i have been trying to meet you and get out with you for years. I see you as one of the guys that i am just not good enough.. I have always felt i would get on with you, and Paul said you are such a great person.

[@Firstmanphotography]

Sure I'll see you on the hill at some point mate.

[@paulcomptonpdphotography]

@First Man Photography haha really it's a big place mate out there. I get it I really do. Big names stick to big names. Who wants to give the lower gimuys a lift. Its all business after all. Keep up the great videos always inspire me.

[@johncowell3020]

As always a truly inspiring video always a pleasure never a chore

[@Firstmanphotography]

Thanks John

[@DavidMNewbold]

I was thinking about Paul just last week. I was doing some remodeling work and decided to listen to the entire Photonerds podcast again while I worked. I miss listening to it although I understand why at the time it came to an end.

[@Firstmanphotography]

Fun times.

[@CliffHands]

Fitness for winners Adam. Keep it up.. inspiring.

[@Firstmanphotography]

Thanks Cliff. Appreciate the encouragement.

[@francescovalentinuzzi1008]

I’ve been following you since the pandemic where thanks to you and another handful of great photographers I discovered how beautiful were my surroundings. Thank you for your great content!

[@Firstmanphotography]

That’s fantastic to hear. Thanks.

[@seansimpson752]

Fab video Adam. Really like the energy in it. Cheers.

[@Firstmanphotography]

Thanks Sean. Very kind.

[@csayban]

I always look forward to your videos, your photography and your messages. One of the only photographers that I have notifications turned on for because I never want to miss one. Keep doing what you do Adam. You inspire so many. ❤

[@Firstmanphotography]

Very grateful. thank you.

[@Walt.2013]

Another honest and inspiring video! Thank you! My wife and I both noticed that you've lost weight and are looking more fit. Good on ya! Are you aware of the book titled 'The Power of Myth' by Joseph Campbell? It's a bit tough to get through but is well worth the effort. It describes the importance of understanding the hero's journey. My interpretation is that we are all seeking to heal the parts of ourselves that are injured or undeveloped, such as the wounds we carry from having angry parents or guardians. Remember, the places we fear to enter hold the treasures that we seek! Best of luck, and Cheers!

[@simp99bird]

My hero shot is a bit embarrassing. I usually shoot with a Canon 5dsr and a selection of L series lenses but my image that gets most compliments was taken with my phone! It wasn’t a planned shot. I was walking through my local town at night and the river had flooded a square in front of an interestingly lit building, creating wonderful reflections and my phone was all I had with me at that time. In fact the huge depth of field available from the wide angle lens of a phone was perfect in this scenario. They do say the best camera is the one you have with you.

[@Firstmanphotography]

Ha yeah exactly. And its not the camera that makes the picture.

[@luisfaustino]

Keep going strong 💪 Very inspirational video for me, thanks

[@Firstmanphotography]

Thanks Luis. Appreciate your comment

[@neilalmond9354]

Love this video and the message, keep them coming.

[@Firstmanphotography]

Thanks Neil. Appreciate it.

[@mattcampbell5359]

Great video Adam thank you 😊

[@Firstmanphotography]

Cheers Matt

[@StevenKingMarch051961]

Beautiful shoots thank you.

[@Firstmanphotography]

Cheers Steven. Appreciate it.

[@brucedelorme5026]

GREAT Vlog!!!! Adam, thank you for assisting the veteran. I, too, am a Vet and have done my duty in Iraq and Afghanistan. After seeing the ugliest things that life can throw at you. I do photography to remind me there is still amazing quiet and beauty out there, and that is what's worth fighting for!!

[@Firstmanphotography]

Absolutely. Thanks Bruce.

[@johnnymac544]

Top video as always Adam. I wonder how many ex Job / Military types have found an escape through photography? Keep up the good work 👍

[@Firstmanphotography]

Exactly. It's a lot in my experience.

[@denisesavage2382]

Yeah. All that you shared.

[@matthewcanino90]

Always an inspiration to everyone, myself included. My photography is only a hobby and landscape based like yourself, but i use it to overcome things like depression and loneliness. Photography is a great outlet to be creative and think of compositions, lighting, literally anything else. Plus, the added benefits of getting out and exploring the area I live in. It's truly amazing. Your stories about others and yourself are incredible and deep. Keep it up and look forward to seeing more stunning images to inspire me to become better at my photography craft 😁

[@Firstmanphotography]

Thank Matthew. Appreciate the message.

[@andrewcroft2570]

Great video Adam.

[@blakescrossing]

Great video, as usual - thank you. I'm a bit jealous at the gorgeous countryside you have access to.

[@Firstmanphotography]

Thanks Bee.

[@LoudSilences]

Thanks for the video Adam from Ottawa Canada. I could never live it the U.K. - Too many cloudy rainy days.

[@Firstmanphotography]

Ha. sometimes it feels like that’s all there is.

[@andrewnoden9117]

Hi Rick Andrew here in Ottawa I was born in the uk and lived there until I moved overseas and then came to Canada You get used to the weather as we do here in Ottawa 😅 Cheers Adam , great video thanks

[@burrdaddy]

Great video and a wonderful series of images!

[@Firstmanphotography]

Thanks Jerry. very kind

[@carlsmorenburg23]

Too true, love your videos enjoy.

[@Firstmanphotography]

Thanks Carl.

[@randyschwager2515]

Stunning photos and a very inspiring message! If I lived in the UK I’d track you down and thank you personally for your powerful messages! Thanks for taking me along!

[@Firstmanphotography]

Thanks Randy. much appreciated

[@simeonbennettphotography]

Brilliantly crafted video Adam 👏your videos always inspire me 👍

[@Firstmanphotography]

Thanks Simeon. Always appreciate your comments too.

[@simeonbennettphotography]

@@Firstmanphotography you’re welcome

[@thefrogok]

your looking great Adam. also keep up the great content,,,

[@Firstmanphotography]

Thanks so much.

[@giganadiradze]

Hey Adam, You must come and visit us in Georgia 🇬🇪 You won't be disappointed 😌

[@Firstmanphotography]

I would love to. Especially the Caucasus Mountains.

[@giganadiradze]

@@Firstmanphotography Omg Georgia is one of the most beautiful country in the world

[@FoodFitnessAlways]

Very inspiring as always! You’re absolutely right, they are the true heroes ❤

[@Firstmanphotography]

Thanks. Appreciate your comment.

[@radcoimbatore]

I agree with you buddy 😊

[@Firstmanphotography]

Cheers dude.

[@radcoimbatore]

@@Firstmanphotography🙏

[@wimscheenen3535]

Very true, great story, great photographs!

[@Firstmanphotography]

Thanks mate.

[@ExpendableGeek]

I wish I had your motivation. I lost 3 stone in around 7 to 8 months in preparation for climbing up the old man of storr in March. The difficult part is keeping the weight off as its started to creep back up. I need a new challenge to work towards.

[@Firstmanphotography]

I know that feeling well. Keep it up.

[@peterfritzphoto]

Boy, I know that feeling!

[@NeilArthurs]

An absolutely fantastic video as always, I couldn't agree more with all the messages you talked about. I, like you, are going through the process of managing my weight. It's a journey to say the least but you are looking very well indeed! Keep it up! Have a great day!

[@Firstmanphotography]

Thanks Neil. Right back at you and all the best.

[@JROwensPhotos]

That scenery looked very familiar, yet not specifically familiar. Was it the north side of Kinder? All my time there has been focussed on the south side of it, so I'm not so sure about that. Also, I'm not exactly a proper long-time viewer, probably been watching you around half a year now, but I've only just now made the connection why someone named Adam would use the channel name First Man Photography. 🤣

[@photobugz]

OH NO, IT'S A FALSE SUMMIT... haha, cheers Adam! Your videos still make me feel good!

[@Firstmanphotography]

Ha. thanks.

[@alecstetzer2018]

You make me do a Stone/Lb conversion every time. Haha Keep it up. You'll get there.

[@Firstmanphotography]

Ha. A workout for mind and body.

[@andrewsimpson5436]

I don't have a hero shot everyone likes but if you need dross that nobody likes, I'm your man :-) Good words and a positive attitude, looking well on the getting out so keep it up. Oh, nice shots to end the day.

[@Firstmanphotography]

Thanks Andrew. Always appreciated.

[@FredericBonneauPhotography]

What happened to Paul?

[@davidletz9123]

Growing up I had many sports stars as my heroes. But as I matured I dismissed them as heroes entirely.

[@Firstmanphotography]

Yeah exactly. although there’s plenty of sport stars I hold in high regard.

[@TonyHogrefe]

waterproof boots are only waterproof to the tops of the boot, lol.