Why Do YOU Take Photographs? Are They Required To Have 'Purpose'?

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Save 10% by using code JAN22 till 31st Jan 2022 It's too easy to forget why we picked up a camera that very first time and took a photograph. Now lost in an ocean of images, amateur photographers (and a lot of professional photographers too) think the goal of their photographs is to give them social standing amongst their peers.
In this video we'll be looking at how we need to reconnect to the pure joy and pleasure of taking photographs just for the sake of taking photographs. The life of Jacques Henri Lartigue is the most perfect example of a photographer who created images for his own benefit first and foremost. His example is the guide we need to stop worrying about creating images to gain likes, to build street cred and get fleeting attention from the swarms of eyes daily flicking from one image to the next.
Oh, and enjoy my constant mispronunciation of Lartigue as an added bonus :D
Part of the 'Reconnect' Series:
• Playlist
This video below fits neatly with the idea of not looking for other people's approval.
• Be Brave And Discover ...
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🔗Resources:
www.lartigue.org/
📚Books:
Jacques Henri Lartigue: The Invention of Happiness: geni.us/lsjR
Jacques Henri Lartigue, Photographer: geni.us/wJc1
Lartigue: Life in Color geni.us/e20h
Chapters:
00:00 Intro
01:16 Why Photograph?
02:24 Jacques Henri Lartigue
03:51 Discover Your Own Place Of Wonder
05:26 What Purpose Photography?
06:22 You're More Than Capable
07:07 Don't Show The Work?
08:46 What Is Your Aim?
Check out the latest video:
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[@ThePhotographicEye]

It's so easy to forget why we take photos in the first place. How old were you when you first started taking photos? I was, I think, around 6 or 7. Here is the playlist of the other videos I mentioned: kzbin.info/aero/PL8enfj6Qv2nthMBNuCBoCYoGLCXIPEw48

[@fotografi4fun]

I think maybe I got my first camera when I was like 10? It was a Agfamatic 110 film thingy. Loved it.

[@richardrizzo_photography]

We always had a camera in the house growing up mainly for family photos, the first one I remember was a Brownie Hawkeye in the early 60's and then everything else from Instamatics to Polaroids throughout the 70's and though I tinkered around with them I didn't really get into photography until I purchased my first camera, a Pentax K1000 in 1978 at the age of 19, I've had the bug ever since then. :)

[@prilljazzatlanta5070]

I dont think i was even in elementary school yet when i won a keychain camera that took 110 film. Still have quite a few of the shots in an envelope

[@Loki_Highlock]

Another great video, Alex. I found myself just nodding along in agreement with everything you said. As for me, I believe I started when I was about 12. These days, when I catch myself falling into a rut and/or losing motivation to go out and shoot everyday, I’ll make the time to revisit my old photo albums, placing myself back in those moments, feeling and remembering the joy of just shooting for the sake of it. That alone is often enough to put things back into perspective for me, and reignite that joy when I shoot today. Cheers, Alex! And as always, I anticipate your next video.

[@johnlyon8403]

Wonderful video; thank you so much! I got my first camera when I was 9 or 10. I wish I still had those black and whites. I still love B&W to this day.

[@joeltunnah]

This is where I am. I quit all social media in January. It’s tough unplugging, but now I can take a longer view, and slowly build a body of work to put together in books. I don’t even care if anyone buys them. The process is what I love.

[@senior_ranger]

Me too, last year, maybe year before. Most of that social media stuff is just as toxic and unhealthful as television.

[@daveybphotography]

"Amateur photography isn't dead it just smells funny" Love it

[@NavidProductions]

I anxiously wait for your new videos. This is possibly the most authentic and positive photography channel on you tube. Thank you.

[@nancyhood1514]

right with you

[@iphoneography]

Totally agree.

[@jalakanen]

Totally agree

[@shamrockisland]

Could not agree more.

[@NJintheImagination]

So happy I found this channel. Tired of the endless and repetitive gear reviews and why someone switched from camera A to B. This channel is doing so much better than what The Art of Photography tried to do before Ted Forbes succumbed to the monetizing temptation of gear reviews. I have the gear I have and want to learn to be a better photographer with what I have. This site helps with that and is the only photographic site I now follow. Believe me, I have made all the rounds of the big name gear reviewers and their clubby relationships with camera manufacturers. Keep up the great work!

[@kevinparkes417]

I think it's as simple as professionals take photographs for other people, amateurs take photographs for themselves. I love being an amateur and having no one else to worry about.

[@pointblank2890]

"Amare" in latin means "to love", and amateur used to mean someone who does a thing solely for their love and passion of it. I think this applies beautifully now in that it's more important than ever to learn how to capture photographs that we ourselves enjoy

[@shipmodelguy]

I got my first camera when I was about 8 years old and have been at it for 60 years, now. I'm not bad , but I ain't that great, either. NEVER had social media accounts and think they are the bane of modern life. When friends or family see my photos, they usually say things like, 'You could sell this, you know." But that was never the point. The thing that keeps me at it is the feeling of satisfaction I get simply lifting the camera up to my eye, hearing the shutter, and wondering, "Did I get it?" I usually can't wait to get home to see. And if I did get the shot, how could I put a price on that, in dollars or heart emojis?

[@robertdavis1255]

Thanks for sharing....I am 77 yrs & just love walking around & taking pics as a hobbyist.. nobody sees my photography as I just love the process of capturing what interests me... cheers 😀..

[@ThePhotographicEye]

That is awesome!

[@tomamyx3980]

Hi... I'm 73 and resumed photography after a 30 year hiatus in order to exercise and keep active after open heart surgery July, 2021. I'm with you... I really don't care if anyone sees my photographs, it's just my hobby [although my granddaughter's husband likes to check it out]. Happy shooting!

[@flyingpauls5267]

When I look at an image of my grandkids I know why I take photographs. Not to mention the places I have been at and never be again.

[@fotografi4fun]

I will never be more than an amateur. Not that I think I´m «good enough» but even if… I think working as a photograpgher for me would take away the joy.

[@ThePhotographicEye]

It can be fulfilling working as a professional, but I'm happiest when I'm just taking photographs for myself. There is nothing wrong with being an amateur Thanks for watching

[@fotografi4fun]

@@ThePhotographicEye Always 😊

[@SakariKaripuro]

same here. i want to keep doing my own thing and keep it fun. planning, going out with other people to take portraits with themes or no special themes. socialising, thinking about what you see, the processing afterwards. i started to say no to everyone who's asking me to shoot their wedding. because it's a lot of work, the situation is boring and i don't have any use for that kind of photos. and i mostly say no to majority of other requests too (unless it's something that really sparks my imagination or gives me otherwise interesting opportunity).

[@rg3412]

What I like about your channel is how cultivated it is. That is able to speak of the present and the past using other artists besides yourself. And you constantly encourage us to bring what we do back to the ultimate sophistication, which is simplicity.

I'm very much an amateur, but I have stopped worrying about how many likes I get if I decide to upload an image. I just enjoy taking photographs and if I like the image, then that is what matters the most.

[@ThePhotographicEye]

Good man!

[@kostyafedot551]

Exactly, be yourself.

[@davecarrera]

Strange how new content creator videos pop up on your feed just at the right time. I have been struggling with the old question "what photographer am I" and this video has answered that question. I am Dave Carrera, proudly an armature photographer, who takes photographs of what he likes. Thank you for the liberation. I wish you well.

[@dougsmalley2072]

In 1971 a friend showed me how to develop film and make prints in his basement darkroom and that has turned into a lifelong enthusiasm for me and I treasure the resultant visual record of the people, places, events and interests of my life. I don't care much what motivates others. If getting lots of likes or having the newest gear gives them their thrill I'm ok with that, it's just not what motivates me - to me all that competition kind of cuts into the fun. I'm happy to be an enthusiastic amateur shooting when, what, and even if I want - I suspect most of my work will never be seen by anyone but close family and a few friends - and I'm perfectly fine with that.

[@distomos8118]

I‘m into photography roughly 40 years now and maybe the last 15 years more or less into more serious stuff, just for myself though. I don’t make a living out of photography. It has been a hobby since my first DSLR and I did it for the joy of watching the images, often browsing through the collections now and then just for fun. The seriousness came with the rise of photography platforms like Flickr, as there was suddenly an audience and I ended up selling myself to treats of approval, copying trends and stiles. It’s somehow a vicious circle. It’s a difference to be inspired by the work of others, adding new perspectives and techniques to the own toolbox of knowledge, and prostituting or sacrificing oneself. I realized one day that I was attending a marketplace fueled by vanity and compensation by rewards. The worst part being that I lost the joy of photographing, because I didn’t shoot what I liked, but that what I thought would be most rewarding in social media. That day I pulled the plug, not of internet content, I’m still into it, but of the one which in the end was restraining my creativity and view of the world. I post the images because I like and enjoy them, not for likes. If one or two approve of my work, fine. If in the end only these two do, it’s okay. Maybe we become friends and start talking photography. Therefore I can but just concur to your statements in this video. Thanks for posting.

[@emmanpoul]

Thank you for reminding me of a core message: in my mother language (Greek) the word for amateur (ερασιτέχνης pronounced eɾasitechnis) is a combination of two words: lover and art. An amateur is someone who engages in some form of art for his own pleasure. It is to forget this message in the modern world especially with the social networks dominating the way people communicate. Your channel is one of the best on KZbin. Please keep creating these great videos that inspire us.

[@yetanotherbassdude]

I absolutely agree with the sentiment of this, and I feel the comparative nature of social media can be incredibly toxic to creativity, but I do also feel that there's a counter-argument to temper this with and add some shades of grey. I feel there's an important difference between creating art purely *of* yourself and creating art purely *for* yourself. The former is about how you as a creator create your art, and is to me the only way to actually make true art at all. The latter is only concerning the audience of your art after you've created it. I think the danger with what you're advocating is that creating art purely for yourself does not guarantee that you're also making art that is truly *of* yourself. We all can have inner voices and internal expectations of how your work will be received that will pollute and destroy our true creativity, even if our only intended recipient of that work is us. The goal for all of us as artists should be to express ourselves as we truly are and in the places we find ourselves in through our art. Who we intend as the audience of that art is ultimately irrelevant to the quality of the art, as long as we never allow the desire for positive experiences from the subsequent presentation of that art to its audience to interfere with the act of creation itself.

[@ThePhotographicEye]

Indeed, there is always subtly in discussions. Especially when it comes to art. At least hopefully these videos open up those discussions and help people see different points of view.

[@barrieanthony952]

Absolutely spot on. Every amateur should hear this message, which is lost now a days. Do it because you enjoy it, create it because you want to

[@harryperez8080]

wow this is a very powerful video and honestly I am sooo grateful to you for making it as this is just what I needed to confirm that I am on the right track .... I am my number one fan lol I photograph for me as a visual record/journual of my life ... I gave social media because I felt it was corrupting my creativity .... thank you sooo much mister ...

[@ThePhotographicEye]

Thanks for watching Harry. Glad it resonated with you :D

[@cremersalex]

I upload to flickr and 500px (I see them as my digital photo album, not a place to hang out in) and to me they are merely a pleasant bonus to the beautiful hobby that is photography. I have not experienced any downsides yet. The satisfaction lies in the process of taking the photograph, in composing the music, in creating the painting, ... That's when you 'connect' with your art the most.

[@ThePhotographicEye]

Flickr and 500px I feel are less orientated to social validation than say IG/FB is. It's handy to have places we can share images if we wish of course.

[@agsurfer3434]

Enjoyed the topic. To the point. I am an amateur photographer. I try to compose pictures that I will like. Some I do, many I don't. (thank you for digital) The ones I like, I tweak in a process program, print out, frame then hang in my home, and some I frame and give as gifts. This brings me enjoyment and keeps me artistically engaged by taking more and more pictures. Also challenging me to compose differently and to see how your pictures progress over the years.

[@larryfelton]

This is one of the best photography videos on KZbin. It gets at the essence of what it takes to be really good: we need to shoot for ourselves. Thanks.

[@maxbashyrov5785]

Check out Daniel Milnor's channel (Q&As, in particular, #14)

[@ActualCounterfactual]

So.... I keep returning to this channel regularly ... it's completely different in spirit + thoughts + approach to the photographic process :) love it !!! No "gear porn", only discussing the more important aspects of the trade.

[@ThePhotographicEye]

My pleasure and yes, no gear reviews here :D

[@christopherward5065]

Lartigue had the romance of image making in his soul. I enjoy that feeling too.

[@julieduncan4075]

Took a photo class in college and started up again at age 46. Am 57 now and can’t leave it alone. It’s my favorite thing to do, and I do it for MYSELF. I get a lot of “wows” from friends, but I don’t take it to heart. What I care about is my own “wow.” My photography has seen me through some very hard times, and I expect it will take me through more. Thanks for this very down to earth video!

[@ronmortimer252]

Hi Julie. I think I'm on the same page as you. Some of my best shots make me go 'wow' at the world we live in (God's creation). I think that's why I do it. I don't want to forget the magnificence in case the days ahead don't allow me to get out.

[@julieduncan4075]

@@ronmortimer252 I agree, Ron! God’s creation is the BEST!

[@denisesavage2382]

Love being encouraged to stay in the space of creating just for ourselves first. If others enjoy it, that's a bonus, but not the purpose. I can be a great amateur photographer in this way. It is the process I enjoy, it's the moment I see the image on back of camera, and think oooooohhhhh . . . .or on the screen at home. It's the moment of bringing the camera up to the eye and framing something up, getting the settings to where I want them because of what I'm imagining the image might be. And it's all by myself with no one else to invade it! That stirs my soul, and makes it sing.

[@TheWaterboarders]

I think the concept of 'better' is worth exploring. What makes one photograph better than another? Technical? Artistic? Emotional response? Imagination? And why is one persons perception of 'better' more valid than another persons? I was inspired by a scout leader who showed us how to take a photograph with a syrup tin as a pin hole camera. Very definitely basic equipment!

[@ingechristensen4163]

I was about 10 when I started with my grandpas old Kodak camera. One of those where you drag the lens out. When I was 14 I got a Olympus Trip 35 and since I was gracy about horses they were my main subject😃🇩🇰🏇 My father and I had darkroom. That was fun.

[@johngskewes]

Thanks for showing this Alex. Recently without meaning to, I shot an empty camera for three weeks. I popped away thinking I was creating definitive works - only to find I had not loaded any film. But I have a good attitude about these things. I'm not on assignment. When I was summing up the experience to my daughter I told her I didn't care - I'd had those moments, seen those scenes and been involved with what was in the frame. The feelings were the same as they would have been had there been film in the camera. The making of art is experiential - you feel art in the moment. That you have a product when it is over is incidental - if there was no one to see your art, you would still paint on the cave wall, still carve an arabesque in the sand before a wave. I told a friend about this and said, "I should shoot an empty camera more often, the feeling is the same - and the world isn't waiting for my next roll to be developed." Please keep on with your channel.

[@ThePhotographicEye]

Haha, I also did that once at school. Spent a whole Geography trip thinking my A1 was loaded when it wasn't! I can still remember that utterly amazing never to be repeated image of a Warthog in the bush that I took with the empty camera :D

[@theeggtimertictic1136]

Funny thing is I remember the 'ones that got away' sometimes better than the ones I took! I have about 8 I didn't take vividly etched in my mind.

[@fenlandwildlifeclips]

I'm doing photography that pleases myself & posting it online too. 🤗 There are too many secrets in my life, I'm not keeping my photos secret too. I don't monitor "likes" or take it too seriously but I do seem to have quite a nice little comunity online now. Followers give me advice, help & support. We're not all obseessed with social validation, I just want to make others happy with wildlife photos too, especially in the current climate. Many people are still not leaving ther homes and only see wildlife online now. It means a lot to them.

[@Call_Me_Mom]

I take photos because it changes the way I see the world and because it makes me think differently about how I see the world. I wrote a small book on how to photograph frozen bubbles. It did sell a few copies which is about what I expected, it's a pretty niche topic, but I would love to make a book from my images because they deserve to be seen. Not for me, I didn't do anything except take the photo, but because they are beautiful and beauty is a gift.

[@ThePhotographicEye]

Thanks for sharing your story. Yep, I bet bubbles are pretty niche :D

[@sl2608]

Very good. Just one thing . . . a huge part of the joy of doing photography is in sharing it. Not for "likes" but just the joy of sharing it with another or others. We saw something compelling, interesting or beautiful and we naturally want to "tell" someone or say "Look at this!". We had a very moving experience and we feel the need to share it.

[@ThePhotographicEye]

How old where one chooses to share photographs and indeed with who is quite a personal thing. Personally I prefer to really only share my photography with people who are my close friends. Of course others may choose to share their photography in a wider public setting. Each is as valid as the other

[@sl2608]

@@ThePhotographicEye Do you do commercial work? Portraits?

[@ThePbird1]

So odd and refreshing to follow someone who stresses the eye and brain of the photographer rather than the equipment. Thank you.

[@Michal_Kosakowski]

Thank you for that video. I got scary amount of terabytes of unpublished photos. Ones I never even share or just sent to people involved. Numerous times people asked me why I never "do anything" with them. I can't really be bothered with internet fame and social validation, and you just summed up why I after decades of doing so, I still love capturing moments and carry a camera almost everywhere I go. Just for the sake of it. For the pure enjoyment of the process. I'm glad I am still a happy amateur who loves photography, not for money, not for fame or validation, but for the love of the art itself. Keep making great content. Your videos are great and unique.

[@gojero732]

Your words are refreshing between all the fast and hip photography youtubers. The calminess in your words and story you tell. Sean Tuck is also a guy i like listening to.

[@punit213]

Always look forward to the “ How’s it, How’s it.”

[@RealRaynedance]

I'm in this weird position where I do primarily take photos because I like the process, but I also do seek the social validation. The thing is I seek the validation for two specific reasons. One is because I need someone outside of the family and friends to tell me something is good or bad (TO THEM) and why so I have _something_ to go on for what I can improve or try differently. I'm terrible at criticizing my own work because I always think it's not that good even in a vacuum. Second reason is because honestly, as introverted as I am, I don't mind meeting new people and the photos getting out there makes a few more people more likely to trust what I do for a photoshoot. Which is also a problem when street is what I do most often, but hey. Gotta do something to not tear your hair out.

[@wallywo7392]

Loved this, absolutely brilliant, you nailed it. You took the words out of my mouth, excellent!!!!!!

[@ThePhotographicEye]

Wow, thank you!

[@JimiHendrix998]

Bless you....... For saying what matters in the hearts of gentle amateurs. I have never wanted my photos to criticised by anyone ofher than myself and those for whom the photos were created. Nonetheless, it would be useful to be able to subject my shots to peer critique so I may be be able to learn from my real and perceived opportunities to do better. To have anyone look at one of my photos and say even, "lovely snap" is heart lifting ...

[@ThePhotographicEye]

Peer critique is the thing though isn't it? Putting images online for 'feeback' from the herd isn't quite the same thing.

[@AustenGoldsmithPhotography]

I recently shared what I felt was possibly the best photo I’ve taken for 30 years to all my Facebook friends , the ratio of likes from my “ friends “ was 0.75 % Rightly or wrongly that hurt . It didn’t make me question why I should continue taking photos but it did make me question why I bother to share . I don’t think it unheard of for a painter , musician or photographer to take pleasure in sharing his work . A bit like baking a cake , it’s nice to share it and just have one slice for yourself!

[@ThePhotographicEye]

Some of my work has fallen totally flat when I show it to my friends. That's O.K though, at least it keeps them wondering :D

[@cmeluzzi]

I think that a good amateur (the one who loves their activities) can make a good use of social media by sharing their experiences and images. This can be a great source of inspiration for others and a positive thing in itself. Of course, one must be careful not to be enslaved by social media and produce only for pleasuring people. If social media were so bad we wouldn't be here watching this channel and liking/commenting. I usually post photos on social media for my family, friends and occasional visitor's appreciation. To me that's enough and positive to me and my little audience, I think.

[@fellowcitizen]

Bravo, bravo! Intrigued by l'Artigue now, and feeling like you've calibrated us.

[@tremaincheerful4189]

Well said.

[@TheLily97232]

Lartigue's work talks about a life of no worries and full indulgence in art as is pretty common in very rich circles in France (especially then).

[@Sinar-c]

I agree with you 100% I love the thought you have put into all your videos. This one is a great inspiration for me. I've been struggling with my photography for years. I'm a retired professional. 40 years plus an industrial commercial photographer. I've also taken mountain photographs at altitude on commission over many years. It's taken me years to learn to become an amateur I have only recently come to the same conclusion about why I should be taking images. Take photographs for yourself first. In my case I now choose not to show them on the Internet though I do have work in Galleries that sells from as far back as 1980. It's vital certainly for me to just take pictures for me now. I had toyed with the idea of creating albums just for my own pleasure. This video has confirmed it's the way to go. I still only shoot film using an old Contax iia and an old Weston Master so now I can print up images for albums with no other purpose than to enjoy the whole process. Thanks again for a great video.

[@TwangThang57]

Excellent lesson here! Personally, I gave Instagram a break for a year, but cranked it back up a few months ago. Frankly, I've found the posting and likes cycle rather shallow and unfulfilling. I've been thinking of giving up on it all together.

[@taoofnick]

Thank you for this video. I’m just getting started and already was worried about likes!! I’ve spend more days just looking at my camera then actually taking pictures. I was, as you may have guessed, more worried about what others thought.

[@011001er]

The audio in this video is much improved, very good. I foresee this channel growing in leaps and bounds.

[@ThePhotographicEye]

Thanks, I've been trying to improve the production values. Finally ironing out some of the beginner issues!

[@DanielMartins-ld6no]

In order to stay true to ourselves we must remember and embrace why we felt for it in the first place. Do we do it to please ourselves as creators or are we doing it just for the vanity of showing off to others? Another great video Alex. Thanks for sharing it with us :D

[@JaredTremper]

I almost have to admit I got a little emotional about this video. So whilst having the occasional paid photo shoot, the truth is I gladly embrace this amateur ethos. Many thanks for bringing this to light!

[@ThePhotographicEye]

My pleasure Jared. There's nothing wrong with being amateur of course. Glad it resonated with you.

[@octocypher1]

First of all thank you for this wonderful series. I personally am the happiest when I am behind my viewfinder. I just can’t wait everyday to finish my workday in order to get behind it.

[@denoefkes]

Thank you for pointing me towards the right track. My motivation is that photography to me is a means to have more eye for detail, more joy in the discovery of ’my’ reality through a lens. The amateur has one big advantage over the professional... there is no urgency to deliver. We don’'t have to march. We can stroll.

[@ThePhotographicEye]

Glad you found it helpful Denoefkes. I like the idea of being able to meander through the world with a camera.

[@erichstocker4173]

I got into photography when my mother gave me a box camera for a birthday gift. I got enjoyment out of deciding what to take. When I was older I got cameras and shot for the same reason--absolute enjoyment. Then as an adult I learned to develop and print photos and I loved that also. However, then I did parttime documentary photography and some local newspaper photography. It was very successful. But, I found I didn't enjoy photography much anymore. It was just a way to make money. I gave it up for many years. But I am an analytical person with an analytical job. So, photography was an outlet for me to do some type of creative work. I would now never do photography as a job again. I don't show my work generally. I use it as a vehicle for self-expression and tension relief. I don't care what others think even if I show a photo that I like. I just enjoy photography. I was an early adopter of digital. I am now back in film also and enjoy development again. I don't print but use a hybrid process which I also enjoy. Photography is for me and not for some type of validation. I enjoy learning new ideas and approaches which is why I like youtube. Your channel is especially interesting as it discusses photography and not photographic gear (although I like that also). I learn things on your channel that I would like to try. If it fails that is fine also. I enjoy the attempt.

[@ThePhotographicEye]

Funny isn't it. When I tell people to not consider taking (or more accurately, try to sell) photos, they think it's crazy. I point out that the second you do something with the express intent of making money from it, the whole approach changes.

[@erichstocker8358]

@@ThePhotographicEye you are absolutely correct!!!

[@tburn2420]

What a great channel you have created Alex. Why do I take photos? Its because I enjoy it, pure and simple enjoyment. I don't care what anyone necessarily thinks. I have just discovered you channel and am now starting to enjoy the content. I know how to take a photograph. I know my camera and what it is capable of doing. It is digital but I do not have the urge to upgrade to the latest and greatest. I still have my old film camera. The camera takes the photo, its up to us to be creative with this wonderful tool. I have enjoyed listening to you and look forward to learning more. I am an amateur and always will be but I would like to be more creative. No ....... thank you ever so much! Cheers, Tim

[@Anbu1138]

Absolutely brilliant!

[@FlyFishingProf]

Thanks for a very insightful video. I wish there were more of these available. Chuck.

[@torstenbeckhaus1349]

I couldn’t agree more with what you say and how! Thank you very much for that! In all these Instagram kind of like competition, photos should firstly be an act of joy and own creativity!

[@roadaheadmedia]

Thanks once again! It’s really good to hear this.

[@Reason-fg4ik]

The doing, is the purpose! I've done some sport teams and senior portraits and it was always about the thrill of capturing that moment in time. Frequently, I was well compensated but that was never the purpose.

[@raymorgan4337]

Like it! For me the essence of being an amateur is the pleasure it brings me to make a photo. I simply love doing that; and when I look at a photo a whole raft of memories and emotions often come with it. The lust for fame and adulation is a killer; as you say 'comparison is the thief of joy'.

[@jpvvandermerwe87]

GREAT CLIP (...again) No Truer Word Have Been Spoken About How People Look At Their Body Of Photographic Work. Please keep 'em coming.

[@rachellerachelle2931]

Thanks - totally agree with the idea of photographing just for yourself. Your video reminds me of a moment in the documentary "Finding Vivian Maier" where John Maloof could not get over why Maier did not try to sell or promote her photographs. He goes on and on about it. For me, watching that, it made me realise that, especially for the younger generation, it's almost incomprehensible to them that you would do anything without sharing it on social media (or other avenues).

[@benjones8977]

I agree totally with your comments, as I always try to do what pleases me and I don’t care what other people think! There’s no point in doing it if you’re not enjoying it! Nowadays I just see a lot of photographers trying to outdo each other or just outright copy each other. It’s much better just to do what you want and what you like. Otherwise how do you create a style!

[@arcanics1971]

I started back in June- obviously I had dabbled before though- and since then I have not shared my images on Instagram or KZbin or Facebook. I intend to show them eventually- perhaps on a website, but I don't really care for the whole social media thing these days. I was an early adopter and have become jaded with it all. I take my images because it's something that I love to do. It doesn't matter if they're good. It matters that the process involves me fully and makes me feel something.

[@robkeir]

Only just discovered your channel - quite simply engrossing, lovely, informative and wholeheartedly reminding me of the real reasons why I love to take photographs - Thank you.

[@andyblessett1282]

This video is so inspirational, I've so lost sight of why I have loved taking pictures for so many years

[@HerveM66]

Great video, thanks! Lartigue with u 😀

[@ianmyers4720]

I can feel another article for the blog. And you pose a great question. Why the "f" do I actually pick up my camera? Why do I press the shutter button? Thank you for being so thought provoking and introducing is to diverse photographers.

[@missdiamar3897]

Thank you! Very thought provoking. When I take pictures, I feel happy and enjoy the process. I do it for me, not for somebody else. But once I share something on-line, the amount of likes I get almost feels like a measure of success or the lack thereof. I can see why now - ego.

[@pedrobartolomei7707]

Thank you so much for this new video! Made me hope I will never fail to the temptation of feeling "profesional". It was a nice call to the true purpose of a picture, to make ME happy. Thank you again!

[@Bob-Horse]

Thank you for this, I really enjoy your KZbin content. 👍

[@Kallimitten]

Thank you ever so much for these insights. I agree with you that taking pictures for the likes of others is irrelevant. And that, if you want to, the process of taking a photo is all there needs to be. But what I realize from watching this is that to me personally, and maybe even to Lartigue, the albums play an important role. Even if the only one ever opening that album is you, it will be a way for you to return to fine memories in an easy accessible way. As opposed to only having all your tens of thousands photos on a hard drive. I don’t even print my photos today, I have been wondering what I should do with all the photos I take. This video helped convince that I need to start print my photos and put them in old school photo albums. For no ones sake but mine. Thank you. /SG

[@AdarshJohnson]

I am a musician, and as being someone in the art and creative type of people, I also happen to click some pictures and also some other forms of arts... When you said 'It was created for anyone else, but for the photographer...and not for likes from people who don't know you' that was very inspiring... I don't know about photography but in music there's this thing that most people only listen to the top 100 songs from the top 100 artists, this is very depressing to see how little value other people give to art, but now I'm kind of clear in my vision after watching this video, as to why I am doing what I'm doing... Remembering when I started as a musician, it was never actually about if someone liked what I played or not but about how much I enjoyed it, that feeling of my fingers on the piano playing all those wrong notes every now and then... that was not an award winning performance but it was fun. Thank you so much for this inspiring video, I'll also try to be more mindful next time when I'm clicking a picture.

[@kaspianbluec.8556]

Very well said.... Very well said, indeed... Thank you for creating this video The Photographic Eye. Did me good stumbling across it today

[@mickscilipoti3146]

Thanks Alex for your channel! Regards from Sicily

[@M4Y0_]

So happy I found your channel! Love the focus on what actually matters, and not gear and a too strong focus on the technological side of photography. Looking at this year's pictures, I have to say many of my favorites were done with a consumer grade analog camera with a pancake lens, really makes you think about what is really important. Really looking forward to watching more of your videos and learning some new things.

[@nancyhood1514]

Amateur at heart but getting a professional eye to see all that is around me! Keep up with the videos! LOVE what you have to say!

[@photodan88]

I absolutely loved this video from you, my favourite yet. It makes me think deeper about my own practice and where we stand today with amateur photography. I’d love to have a conversation with you sometime, on or off line. You have a healthy questioning and guidance that’s so fresh to hear. Dan

[@endycool2]

The daily inspiration I didn't know I needed. Lovely video. Thanks for creating it

[@tommorgan3125]

Refreshing to watch your videos!

[@meandmyfuji]

Hello, came across your videos a few weeks ago, I was intrigued and happy to find someone talking about photography rather than about the gear, as a amatuer photographer for 25 years I have shot pretty much everything at some point, but due to lifes commitments I had to step away for the past 5 years, so now im just beginning to return to what has always been a passion in life and its such a refreshing change to listen to your perspective on the various subjects you have covered so far look forward to your future publications.

[@barryfisher1783]

When I was 19 I joined the Fire Brigade, as it was then. Upon joining My income tripled and every month was like winning the pools for a short time. Talking to my cousin one day she said that before I got used to the money I should buy myself three things, a good suit, I had one made by a top tailor, a good winter coat, I got a camel skin coat that I could hardly move in, and a camera, I bought a Zenith B camera and a 50mm lens. The camera was a brick but taught me more about shutter speed and aperture rations and started my love affair with photography, which has lasted from then until now. I still shoot film and have graduated to a Wista 5x4" camera. I never exhibit my images and am pleased with them if they turn out well.

[@cameronh338]

Love this, thank you.

[@BarzanBazaar]

I love how you chase the Why in your videos. Thanks for such a great content

[@ThePhotographicEye]

Glad you enjoy them. It's great to have you watching along as we look at those 'whys'

[@StephenEtherington]

Thank you, I found your KZbin channel today and I am starting to remember how I started taking pictures as a child and why I loved it, I still love what I do as a commercial photographer and I have started to do reportage of my family which is way more ameteurish but very full filling. I am back to making mistakes.

[@qenbered5762]

Simply brilliant!

[@ThePhotographicEye]

Many thanks! It was a pleasure to have you watch it.

[@orangelaces3396]

pure wisdom; thank you

[@do-not-reply461]

Just so good. Thank you for your posts.

[@catmonkey6826]

You always fire up my creativity and drive, you are a fantastic teacher.

[@richardowen4558]

This is something I have been dealing with since I left the newspaper I spent a decade late in life with. Having dozens of images published every week in the small weekly gave my photography "purpose". I have wondered what will happen to all the images (both digital and film) when I am gone. But now I really do not care. I have done some prints over the years and will continue when the mood strikes me but I think I need to focus more on my family images than the ones I produced while working.

[@deansdragon]

This is my favourite video of yours yet. Inspiring. Thank you.

[@ThePhotographicEye]

Wow, thank you!

[@moilami1]

Again, very great stuff, and spot on. I mean at least I don't get much satisfaction if people like a picture of mine I don't like. It is nice they like it, but that's about it. So better make pictures I like, I enjoy of that in so many ways :D For example we all know what sort of portrait gives tons and most likes in forums. Yeah, a pic of beautiful young woman, if well photographed. But in real world I find there are sea of interesting people to photograph, and young beautiful women are a minority in that. The last portraiture I took was of a 83 years old local "I did it my way" man. Before him I took pictures of a prostitute and alcoholics, older ladies, of another photographer and so on. I had lengthy chat with many of them too. None of those pics would be likes magnet in forums, but I can tell I had way more fun taking the pics than I ever could have fun and satisfaction of posting a like magnet pic to forums.

[@tomamyx3980]

Simply the best, most informative and inspiring channel on youtube.

[@binder098]

Wow, thank you, I feel stunned but liberated.

[@karma13612]

What an inspiring video. Thank you for putting this into perspective. As a purely amateur photographer, I often wonder what I should be doing with my photographs. This new insight has given me ‘permission’ to simply take the pic and then look at it whenever I want, for the pure joy of it. I have subscribed to your channel and look forward to exploring your take on photography as time goes on. Thanks again!

[@dryan89]

I have watched a number of your videos - fantastic content - thank you very much

[@PaulHarveyAustralia]

A great reminder. Thanks again

[@fado605]

Another great video. Thanks for the inspiration.

[@phoozchic]

Thank you. I love your content. This was a great topic for those of us who are happy just taking photos for ourselves and enjoying the work of others, with no competition or expectations.

[@ThePhotographicEye]

You are so welcome! Thanks for being here.

[@heinzhagenbucher4714]

Your words just touched my soul again. Thank you so very much. Wish you a lovely, and healthy weekend.🌞🌞🌞

[@ThePhotographicEye]

Thanks Heinz. Glad you enjoyed it - you too.

[@JeevesTCW]

For me the most important question is "would I still shoot pics if I didn't have the option to share or sell". As long as you can answer yes to that I see no issue as you are following a true passion. Yes we all have an ego and enjoy the thrill and validation of a photo library sale or a like and it can encourage unhealthy comparisons, all these things we must be mindful of. It's important as amateurs we do not let validation by others become the primary objective, which for me is the real distinction (as well as not earning a living from photography) that separates us from the Pro's who shoot for the approval of a specific client, be it a portrait or a wedding or images for a project in a Nat Geo magazine. We amateurs shoot for the joy. I think you are viewing Lartigue through rose tinted glasses as beautiful as his work is. Do you think he would have kept his images only in a photo album if he had the modern options of sharing? I doubt it. You cant praise someone for not doing something they didn't have an option to do. That's like praising your child for not eating a cookie when you have locked the cookie jar away. Btw lets not forget the real joy of being able to share your travels or day to day life with family & friends who you may not see for months . Regards, Rich.

[@ThePhotographicEye]

It's possible that JHL would have shared his images if he'd had the ability to do so. We will of course never know. He could of course have tried to in his own way. Look at contemporaries like Steichen/Stieglitz etc. They most certainly used the platforms available to them - Salons etc. Watching the BBC Masters Of Photography video gives a bit more insight into his thought processes. kzbin.info/www/bejne/jYileIWgf7N0rck