Why I Stopped Taking Photos For Money...

[@michaelaiello5229]

I just retired from teaching after 30 years and have a real passion for photography. You are a gifted educator Alex. You are affecting and inspiring people in more ways than you can ever imagine...

[@terryrobinson4197]

here here

[@samsalueng]

Spot on !

[@largefamilyruralliving7434]

Yes, really similar feel and relatability to Sean Tucker's photography channel.

[@itsGINA11]

Agreed!

[@GS-vb3zn]

Word.

[@ryang112]

My story is similar to yours - after working 25 years as a professional photographer I got sick and tired of being creative for others. I got a 9-5 and didn't pick up a camera for 5 years, only recently have I started taking photographs again, only this time it's for me only. I have watched nearly all of your videos and they have helped me get re-energized for photography again. Your enthusiasm is contagious - thank you!

[@tes2117]

I've kind of a similar experience. When I first got into photography at 19, instantly fell in love with it and had my first real job when I was 21. It was portrait work and I hated it. I worked at a studio where it was the same story. I did the shooting, I did the cleaning, I did the sales. I did all of it. So I actually stop being a professional back in 2009, but ever since then, I've always come back to it. I've been through a hundred jobs across three different industries, and photography is a thing I always come back to. So I'm starting my first photography business, but I'm doing it my way. Etsy sales, magazine gigs, product shots. Things I actually like.

[@TravisPacheco1]

This really resonated with me. There was a time I thought I wanted to be a "pro". I did a few family sessions, a couple weddings, and came to a startling conclusion: I hated trying to make money at photography, it sucked all of the joy out of picking up a camera. Furthermore, I hated dealing with clients and trying to convince them to purchase my services. Your thoughts about the realities of being a professional encapsulate all the feelings I was having and I'm glad I never went down that road.

[@donyee8970]

Photography started as a hobby as a teenager. I ruined a perfectly good hobby by shooting professionally for close to 10 years. I changed careers 25 years ago. Took me years to rekindle the love of photography. This video strikes a chord with me. I'm retiring soon from a 24 year career in a university where I share my love and technical knowledge of photography with young students. During my retirement, my plan is to engage more in photography on my terms like you.

[@neilt]

Well done Alex. I'm pleased that you have found a better way to be happy. Your fireside chats are always a pleasure, I learn something every time. Good luck to you.

[@ManuelRodriguez-wm2gv]

Thank you for this video, Alex, and your experience parallels mine in some ways. Formally trained in photography (Rhode Island School of Design graduate) and a writer as well, in the '80s and into the '90s I handled writing/photo assignments, producing industry publication articles, for clients such as Kodak, IBM, NCR, DuPont and 3M. Yes, prestigious clients, but in the end work is work and the grind of constantly traveling, interviewing customers of my clients on their use of products such as NCR computers, Kodak copiers and film, eventually wore me out. I started hating photography, which I never had wanted to happen - I'd been pursuing the art since my early high school days, when I bought a dinky Beseler enlarger and built a home darkroom. I just loved making photographs. So, I finally quit that job, at least the photo part. I never had the passion for writing that I have for photography, writing for me is mostly my livelihood, so I've pretty much focused on that for 20-plus years now. Public relations writer, corporate communications specialist, newspaper reporter/editor, magazine writer/editor, and today, technical writer for various tech companies, are the places work has taken me. And for the longest time after I quit my initial foray into professional photography I had little interest in photography. But with the introduction of better and better digital cameras at lower and lower price points, around 2007-08 I finally began shooting again in earnest, this time with a Canon Powershot G9 and then G10 (I still use both). And since then I've been photographing and photographing (no film costs!), just compiling thousands upon thousands of images of the landscape and environment around my home in Southern California. And until very recently, I didn't have any interest in sharing these images on a broad scale; the PROCESS of image-making is what truly interests me. Yes, the CREATIVE process as opposed to "best camera costing thousands of dollars with equally expensive lenses." Currently, one of my primary cameras is a Sony point/shoot, the W830, that features a superb Tessar-design zoom lens I bought on eBay for $50. Tremendous little camera, beautiful color rendition. And as I mentioned, it's only been very recently that I've decided to share my digital work publicly. Currently putting together a portfolio, for Instagram, of around 300 images going back to 2008. Then perhaps a website. Will I monetize my photography again? Perhaps, but not at the expense of once again losing my passion for it. I normally don't write such long-winded responses, but your video today has me wanting to express my experiences. I'm hoping what I say will resonate with others who find themselves in situations similar to mine. Again, thanks for your presentation today and YT channel overall. Wishing you much continued success!

[@arneheeringa96]

Oh you and Alex going the same direction like Daniel Milnor... He stopped twice and now gives very good advice on KZbin... very outspoken.

[@10speed4]

I’d like to see your photos when you get them on-line. Seeing through other peoples lens and photoshopped skills is almost a hobby in itself.

[@ManuelRodriguez-wm2gv]

@@10speed4 I will make mention of my photos here when they start going up on Instagram

[@boristahmasian1644]

Manuel, your response hit so close to home for me. I attended Mass College of Art (MassArt) in Boston in the mid 80's. We used to connect from our TV studio to the one at RISD and try to share ideas. I have a few stories that would make the hair behind your neck stand up!! Mostly weird stuff on our end and the look of shock on the RISD end! At the same time, I worked for a community college with old timers running the show. They tried to kill my passion at work but I somehow survived it and managed to produce excellence and win awards among corporate pros which made them even more mad. I wish someone told me to get the heck out then. I eventually did leave and fell into the corporate world in various capacities as a paper pusher, aka the marketing guy! Today, some 37 years later, people know me as a photographer and not for all the other stuff I did. After moving to the West Coast, I tried my hand in wedding photography, commercial work and other non photo related work. Unlike you I did buy the pricy high end cameras and I have been doing my own stuff. They reflect my sense of what a photograph should be. Most people do not understand it first. Then they get it and praise me for seeing differently. I am so happy doing it. I hope to turn it into a money maker so to speak just enough so, to allow me to continue pursuing my passion for image making. I have so many other stories to share about my times at MassArt and my life in Boston. I guess that is for another day. Good luck with your endeavor and please share it with us.

[@ManuelRodriguez-wm2gv]

@@boristahmasian1644 There are, I think, more than a few people like us. Making a good living is vital, of course, but in the end one has to remain true to their creative self. Thank you for your reply and wishing you the best!

[@carolinezaramati9193]

I've read some of the comments, and its clear that you've reached and inspired a large community including hobbyists as well as other professional photographers. I liked your channel from the first video I saw. I have a career as a nurse midwife, so I do photography for the joy and fun of it. I'm happy that you have rediscovered the joy and passion in this art, we all benefit from it too.

[@hitchhiker9784]

I'm about to start doing retail portrait photography for the third time in my life as a part-time gig. I do love the "arty" portraits and creating avant garde work, but I get a great deal of pleasure from meeting the people and creating a record of their family. It's cookie cutter work, it's not fancy, but it gives the average person good images of their families that they can have for generations to come. I'm an important part of their lives and will be for a hundred years and beyond, even though they won't remember my name. I swell with pride at capturing what will become fond memories for them.

[@riverofjoystudios7693]

“Photography should be a happy place.” Thank you so much for saying that. I got into photography during college as a hobby and was able to do some freelance work, but after a few years I thought about quitting because of pressure and the drama of comparing myself to others. In recent years I’ve begun to reclaim my photography for myself. I still share my work and sometimes sell prints, which is nice. But at the end of the day I take photos to tell my story 😊

[@charlieribeiro6343]

I've been contemplating a late career in photography, but this video has convinced me that my concerns are well founded. I'm happy to sell prints, but the process should be on my terms. I don't want to damage something I enjoy pursuing an already swamped landscape of talented photographers. I'm definitely of the belief that photography should be fun, or at least engaging without other complications to muddy the process. Great video as always. 🙏

[@robiniapseudoacacia]

Your portrait work is spectacular and inspiring. And I love your honesty about why you gave it up and your passion for what you do now. Thankyou Alex

[@757GLG]

Wow, I needed to hear SOMEBODY else express these feelings for a change besides just the voices in my own head! Almost everything you mentioned here is what I've felt or feel right now. I ran my own little part-time photography business out of my home a few years back and have been recently considering starting it up again for various reasons, but mostly because I DO and have always wanted to shoot professionally but hated the "business" side of it. I too was a one-man band when it came to running the business. Anyway, love the channel. I watch at least one video almost every day.

[@ArturPoluektov]

Alex, you didn’t make a misstep with your studio, you’ve just learned what you didn’t want to do anymore in photography. It’s a part of your life-long journey to Mastery/fulfilment of your potential. Happy that you found your new challenge - making such inspiring KZbin videos. We can all benefit from them now. This video resonated a lot with me, having the similar situation in running the design studio vs doing design work… So I’m taking photography as an exploratory hobby where I’m just be shooting for the soul.

[@keithbrookshire]

Your story parallels my story. I owned a Portrait Studio for 17 years. Most of those years were wildly successful. After a while I did almost zero photography for myself. I went from having a real passion for photography to not picking up the camera unless I had a paying client in front of me. I closed my Studio almost 10 years ago and other than my cell phone I have hardly touched a camera. I'm trying to get inspired again to make photographs again, just for myself. Your videos are helping send me in that direction. Thank you for what you are doing.

[@denisesavage2382]

Love these kinds of photographic chats Alex! They are pure gold. What you've expressed here actually deeply values photography that isn't driven by the exchange of cash - but the joy of the heart. These are the images in the end I often deeply appreciate. And it values my contribution to the world as a photographer who does it for the joy of the heart.

[@dougson56]

This has to be one of the best channels on here, it’s not about gear it’s about the art form and an introduction to some photographers that I hadn’t heard of before. I think I understand your reluctance to continue with portraits, as an amateur you have the freedom to choose your subject matter or style . Keep up the good work Alex it’s much appreciated.

[@martinlawrence8427]

Alex, you're a fantastic and inspirational educator. It seems like the educational realm is where your future lies! More power to your photographic eye and mind and thanks for sharing!

[@jonc8561]

Easily my favorite photography channel. You and Sean Tucker are such a breath of fresh air. Thank you.

[@aljo.antony]

I hear others say that to make a living as a wedding photographer, we need to have a portfolio with just wedding photos. Same with other genres as well. But I really love a lot more than one genre of photograph.

[@karinlessard6060]

Thank you for this heartfelt video and sharing your reasons behind backing away from portrait photography. This video must not have been easy for you to make, very brave. By the way, my husband and I think the examples of your work you show in this video are beautiful!

[@charlesd2109]

Great message as always Alex. I am not a professional photographer and I've never sold a photo, and yet this message really resonated with me. Over the last few years it's been suggested a few times that I try to sell some of my photos. Nope, no way, not happening! I do mostly wildlife, so there would be no sweeping the floor, but the "hussle" of trying to monetize my hobby has zero appeal. I feel like that would take away from it, and dull the passion. This hobby has helped keep me sane through Covid. I don't ever want to dull that passion by trying to make my hobby a part time job. If someone likes a particular photo of mine and approaches me to purchase a print of it, I would happily do it. But promoting my art, myself, to make that happen? No.

[@henryrogers5500]

Great point, Charles!

[@bradleyrieger1517]

Yours is one of the rare few channels that speaks to the soul of a photographer. I appreciate that.

[@nathanielcayas6264]

This hits home. That desire to find someone you can actually talk to and discuss the art of photography. To talk about art itself. To this day I have not found anyone locally who would even bother with these kinds of topics. One guy thought I wanted to do a photo collab with him. I told him I just wanted to talk about photography. He waved me off, said he was busy doing photoshoots of his models. Which I'm sure is true. Sometimes I doubt myself and think that maybe I'm being a fool not taking the professional path. Sometimes I get blinded by the supposed fame and glory of some of these professionals. But when I look at the work of some of these people who shoot only for the sake of their profession, and then I look at my own work, I'm reminded time and time again that there's more to it than that. I thank you, Alex, for providing a safe haven for those who live and practice the art of photography.

[@gustavohartel5159]

Yours is the only place where I found myself happy to be and learn and think about the real world of photography!

[@toshsimpkin4386]

This is the absolutely best photography channel on youtube. Thank you for your time; I love listening to you. I do a bit of paid work photographing running races and ultra marathons; I love it; I don't make much, but it covers travel and I've been paid more than my equipment cost; it's a side line really. I have a lot of freedom over what I shoot. I'm normally out in the wilds, so sunrises in the Beacons, or wild horses, or whatever I come across is all available to me.

[@AK-hk2pd]

Alex, I really enjoy our chats and look forward to them. Enjoy the moment. Thank you.

[@michaeloconnell9259]

As a renewed photography enthusiast I bought an enrtevel DSL, and rediscovered how much I love talking pictures wanting to learn everything from how to use my camera and hacks for the types of pictures I want to take I was running through a lot of how toos on utube then I ca m e across one of your videos, and it was like sitting with a old friend and just talking about what excitement and inspires me to want to photograph things. Your videos are a breath of fresh airto me in my mad rush to learn it all.

[@MrShanePhoto]

I thankfully never went down the studio route. I worked in a bunch of studios in my early days and loved it and thought it was the dream. But instead I've spent years in the freelance arena which i enjoyed but found exhausting. I'm now working full time for a company creating mixed media content and I've found my passion for photography again. Having the freedom to not be chasing the next job and having specific deadlines for work has really put me in a happy place. I love photography and get to do it as part of my job in a balanced way that keeps me hungry and excited. I can fully understand why you gave up your studio. Great talk.

[@645MF]

I feel where you are coming from. I'm dealing with a similar burden, the mundane tasks and dealing with people is exhausting if you don't have the mind or the support system behind you. If you are an artist and hate the business, you have to align with people who want the best for you and can fill in those gaps.

[@bartoszpajak2285]

30 years ago I decided to become an airline pilot. Flying was may passion, so I thought I’m fulfilling my biggest dream. Once I finished training and got my licence I began to realise, that what I’m doing is miles away from the romantic vision I had about it. I got stuck in procedures, checklists, time schedules, etc.. I quitted the job 10 years later after paying of the dept, started my career as a construction engineer and went flying on weekends, the romantic way - low, without a flight plan, enjoying the view outside the window, flying straight into the rising sun, just for the joy of doing it.

[@garykanston]

Thanks for sharing Alex, and congrats on finding the happy place in your journey. Much of what you said is relatable to me. I'm an amateur who hopes to be able to make at least a little bit of money from my landscape photos when I retire in a few years - whenever friends encourage me to to portraits or some other form of "photos to please someone else", I always come back to the same thing as you - I only want to do it for me, when I want, the way I want, and what I want. Perhaps I'll never sell anything, but that's okay - I don't want it to be a job and lose the joy I experience from my photography.

[@RS-Amsterdam]

I follow quite some Photography channels on YT and I like channels, like yours, where the main goal is talking about photography, great photographers, history, framing, moods, and all things not related to gear. I find the comments and the people visiting these channels show more respect and have more content in their reactions (even if they don't agree) than those fly by channels. Although some of the channels I follow, almost all related to Black and White photography, you can't get around quality lenses cause they make or break a good/pleasant photo more than ever, but it take some time to see the difference between quality. But on these channels, the beauty of the shot is still the priority. Besides that, IMO, to find joy in shooting is being one with your camera, relaxed, like a zen moment, absorb the beauty around you and try to freeze that moment so you will give you the same feeling when you look at the photo afterwards. Thanks for sharing.

[@gnuhapi]

Another truly meaningful presentation, Alex. I think your "family" portraiture is excellent and artful; it is sad that it was not as rewarding to you as it should have been. Sitting in front of my screen, during your "chat" I found myself smiling back at some of your statements and even nodding in agreement. That does not happen when I watch the few other channels I check regularly and I realize that you are communicating with me (us). Thank you!

[@luzr6613]

Good that you were one of the fortunate ones to work this out. Needing to be paid in order to do something you love is crap - and the compromises that entails so often leads to the love fading. Welcome back, and thank you for the fireside chats.

[@ThePhotographicEye]

Thank you for watching

[@searam1]

Cheers from Atlanta! I discovered your channel at about the same time that you started and I have really enjoyed it! I’m a self taught hobbyist photographer thanks to KZbin! I enjoy your channel for introducing me to so many photographers that I had never heard of! And learning from these unknowns is so much fun to me that I can’t thank you enough! Photography is an art, a profession for some, a career for others, and the most fun I have had in years being retired! And you are a big part of that! Thank you Alex! You have a how’s it, how’s it friend in Atlanta! Sean

[@giulia_qv]

Your channel is a breath of fresh air amongst the winds of camera and lens reviews, and pitches of Lightroom presets. Thank you. After just a few videos I'm already motivated to go out and take more photographs. Awesome stuff, please keep it up!

[@rachelsloane6994]

This is by far my favourite channel on photography. Thank you from a fellow South African :)

[@rukevweedah5799]

I love this channel. I usually don’t make comments on social media, but this channel has taught me so much within a short time. Please keep it up. One love!

[@piyush.photography]

I found your channel purely by chance and now i just can't stop listening to you while i do shoots, love your work😊

[@tduke91]

I only found your channel about two weeks ago but I can't stop watching your videos. Totally inspiring and I find your laid back presentation totally refreshing from other channels. To be able to see someone who genuinely wants to help people rather than just pushing gear is what makes me want to watch. I have spent over 40 years as a design engineer and whilst it has given me a comfortable lifestyle it never gives me the same buzz as when I have my camera in my hand. Keep doing what you are doing as it shows in this video you are in a happy place.

[@ThePhotographicEye]

Awesome feedback thank you

[@Calogero211]

Started following you when you had 3500 followers .. and still here .. love the channel.. love that you are not pushing gear . Appreciate all the history and knowledge you share . Thankyou.

[@ThePhotographicEye]

Thanks for being on the journey.

[@weisskm]

What a pleasure to watch your videos. They inspire me to be better in my art. You and a few others like Ted Forbes, Sean Tucker, Simon Booth, James Burns on KZbin are my Photographic College where I learn to see things that I din't before - and that brings me joy!

[@hartmutehuber]

Alex it is good that you have found your way to happiness and thank you for teaching us about photography! But I have to say that I like your portraits and I hope that you still make them - but this time for fun and for artistic expression! There is definitely expression and even a soul in many of them! So keep doing what you love to do but I hope that there will be also some portraits in your future work!

[@leto_len]

I so enjoy your content & have never lost my passion for a camera, I am a happy clicker I can find joy in a rock😊 I had really lost my joy of enjoying others images. To me I feel it has become to perfect & even a sky needs to be changed. That had really sadden me until I found your page I don't feel alone in just loving what we click. Thanks

[@bradzaruba9686]

It’s a treat catching with you. I thoroughly enjoy our conversations!

[@pmbartley]

Thank you so much! Great content! I think that is one of the main driving forces of being happy and content in our lives...doing what we want to do because we want to and not because of what everyone expects us to do or be. Unfortunately many people are trapped because they can't "get out" of what they are caught up in because of financial worries, family, and many other reasons. Glad you broke out and are enjoying the ride...! Keep up the great work, Love it!

[@jonathanreid30]

Nice, heartfelt talk. I've been into photography as an amateur for many years and have often been asked by friends and work colleagues if I'd ever consider trying to do it professionally. My response has always been that it may spoil my favourite pass-time, and this video pretty much supports my theory. Thanks for another thought provoking video.

[@australianboy]

Doing something you love as a job it can take away the joy and in the case of photography, the creativity as well. It’s such a great reflection and an honest one at that. Thank you for sharing.

[@henryrogers5500]

Or…it could be the best of both worlds. “Having your cake and eating it,” if it works out well.

[@australianboy]

@@henryrogers5500 oh for sure. Like it is with anything, if you can keep your hobby as a job and maintain the same level of joy and passion, there’s nothing more to ask for ❤️

[@davidpuglia4813]

I really enjoy your thoughtful and insightful episodes on photography. I once was a staff photographer in the late 1970s for an Advertising Agency and hated the work. I quit and moved on to other means of employment. Today I still work in photography, but it's personal work. I'll occasionally post on Instagram and maybe get 20 likes; it really doesn't matter. I discover other unknown photographers on Instagram and enjoy the resulting discussions and exchange of ideas. It's not about how many likes but what you can share and learn.

[@ianwilliamson1891]

Thanks Alex. I grew up in Jo'burg round about the time you did. I identify with your commentary in multiple levels. I love your angle on photography, and you have bought me to think about photography in a much more wholistic way. Please keep going! I genuinely appreciate what your are doing. Thank you, thank you, thank you.

[@charleswilson8023]

Alex, I have watched all of your videos, everything you said in this video has really hit home with me. When I first started with I tried to get serious with photography thinking I would become some kind of “professional”. I realized over a few years of wasting time and a lot of money that is not what I wanted to do. I have a pretty successful career. I would like to slow down some day and teach kinda like you do. It is interesting that you, Ted Forbes, and Sean Turner are probably the only ones who really teach the craft, the true are of photography. I have been asking myself repeatedly why I want to create photos. And at first it was to be recognized, to be paid attention to, to be significant. I know that’s why most people do it. But now I am getting to a point were I am finding that I want to create a photograph because my soul wants to create. It has taken me a lot of time and money to learn this. But it has been a life changing journey. Thank you for helping me on this journey. Thank you for all of the inspiring videos your create. I owe you so much for helping me find my reason for why I love photography. Alex one question but I was wondering if you do any mentorship’s, or if you have even thought about. I would be the first to sign up if you do. Alex please please please keep doing what you are doing me need this in the world. Thank you for being an inspiring teach.

[@c64club]

Watching and listening happy guy who tells things from heart about photography. Something completely unexpectable in YT. Instead of teach "how to do a photo like this", you show some photo and invite people to jump in. That's the soul.

[@Nessunego]

Some late advices that would have helped before you closed your studio: get someone to do the chores for you, get someone to make marketing and business administration for you, broaden your professional photography activity (not just family portraits!), move in an area more fit for business, not just studio photography (go outside, shoot among nature and people!), find other photographers to co-operate with (this boosts your mood and creativity), shoot for passion in your free time, travel more. Than the king of advices: find people that want to buy the photos that you love to create. The job is not taking photos, the job is finding someone who pays for the photos you love to take.

[@Adrian_Finn]

I'm so glad I found this channel, it deals with the side of photography that is the most important and perhaps ironically is the least available on KZbin when compared with what is out there on the subject.

[@exjazzer]

Thank you for sharing your experience and helping us photographers! I'm 68 and returning to the art.

[@fedora_x7938]

The best video I had listen, so far about what truly photography is. Thanks, you boost my soul, I was so disconnected and disappointed with all the technically and the business side of going through “professional photography “. I’m so glad to listen this video.

[@philipsemakula1300]

Wow! Thank you for yet another awesome chat and for being you! Lots of food for thought. All the best!

[@benharveyphotography]

Great video, and despite you not having complete creative freedom with your photography at the time - you have captured some beautiful portraits that you and the subjects are undoubtedly happy with.

[@colincoleman1907]

As always an interesting and insightful video Alex. It really makes a change to have a thoughtful conversation rather than seeing someone tearing around the countryside telling me how great their image is, while their drone footage and carefully arranged b roll try to take you on the same journey.

[@texaspardners]

I love the points of view you bring in your videos. The philosophy and culture of the photographer/ic society. In reading the comments preceding mine, I see this particular one is almost therapeutic as people comment on their history and journey in photography and how they've come to much the same point. Well done sir! There is so much more to being a photographer than the technical KSAs.

[@robtspecht]

Thank you Alex. Your frankness is refreshing and appreciated.

[@josecolon8143]

…and I’m immensely grateful of you educating me! IT IS A BLESSING!!!!

[@Esoxhunt]

I gave up pro photography many years ago for different reasons, I fully understand you. Your channel is a great inspiration for me, and it has helped me, to reconnect to all the things I love about photography.

[@ThePhotographicEye]

Awesome! Thank you!

[@twodalec]

I"m so happy I found your channel. you speak to the daily struggle of finding inspiration and joy in this amazing means of expression....

[@andrewherbert9938]

Love your channel Alex it’s like having a photo buddy to talk to about everything photographic , which is something I don’t have in reality at the moment , keep up the great work

[@brianm.9062]

I volunteer as a photographer to a few groups, and all I ask is if its a great distance the fuel cost, and only what it cost me not a X per mile, or pint when we get together. The reason, I love taking images, I love using and working through situations to get the best out of my abilities and the cameras. Your passion comes through and if at anytime the world your in starts to take that feeling away, its time to go. Thanks for such a great vid, not everything in life ends with cash crossing hands. Once again, Thanks.

[@poortwagter9226]

Thank you for sharing your experience(s) in the world of photography, Alex. Listening to this edition of TPE made me realize why I enjoy watching your videos so much - no pretenses, no BS, no jargon, and most of all, no "superior knowledge". I've been taking photographs since I was 6 years old, starting with a handed down Kodak Brownie. Now, after more than 60 years (yes, I'm pushing 70) and on my third(!) camera, I still enjoy walking about and shooting birds, flowers, sunsets, motorcycles and the rolling green hills of Natal (South Africa), without ever displaying or selling one single picture. Congratulations for having the guts to follow your heart and at the same time (I believe) being more relaxed and spontaneous around your loved ones. I thoroughly enjoy your videos - please keep it up.🙏

[@patrickvaccalluzzo]

i love your channel. I really missed a channel where to watch and talk about photography and not just gear. I know that when i came in this channel i'll learn something. Keep doing great contents!

[@davidgodfrey1815]

Your videos have helped me fall back in love with taking photos just for the sake of capturing beauty. I enjoy your content, keep it up

[@andrewclix..photography3146]

Alex you have opened up my eyes with this video. I am 66 now and have enjoyed taking pictures since way back. I always had that fantasy of taking pictures for profit and have here and there. When it came down to it being a professional photographer like that wasn’t me. I can’t tell you how many business cards I made up through the years trying to get it right. Great cards but when it came down to it I,NOT me. Hearing you speak today has made me create my new business card. Well it is not a business card at all, just a calling card I guess . To give to people with projects that might interest me. Basically a card that describes my love for photography …. Here goes My Name next line Amateur Photographer, final line under that .. For the Love of Pictures .. Yes that’s me 😀 Thanks .. Ian in the process of watching all your clips 👍👍

[@Rene-cm6go]

Glad to help you to do what you like and enjoy.. And glad to have someone who's story's about photography helps me to find myself in a photography.. 😁

[@tedsimonett431]

I'm glad I discovered your channel Alex, I've enjoyed everything you've shared so far. I'm an actor by profession and for close to 4 decades I've also enjoyed the Zen space photography provided me. Over time I collected lots of gear, learned a great deal, had a lot of friends in the entertainment field who needed headshots and before you know it I too had a studio and a bustling business on the side. Trouble was, I'd stopped taking my gear out to play in my playpen of Zen. And so after about 4 years of making it all work, I decided that what I was missing was worth more than what I was making. So, good for you to follow your heart. Keep doing that and sharing your journeys please.

[@barryobrien1890]

Great chat. I think you hit the nail on the head. I suppose the years of running your studio was setting you up to do what you do now. The universe provides when the need is defined and the time is right. Nicely done. I find most good studio photographers love to make people happy and the photography is secondary, after all you are dealing with the common man. Certainly I have learned a tremendous amount from your unique perspective and passion

[@henryrogers5500]

Question. How can the universe, a bunch of inanimate objects, “provide” or do anything for anyone?

[@barryobrien1890]

@@henryrogers5500 are you separate from the universe.

[@henryrogers5500]

@@barryobrien1890 Most definitely, yes! I am not an inanimate object.

[@barryobrien1890]

@@henryrogers5500 oh. Nice to meet someone from a parallel universe. This one is quite nice. Filled with all kinds of life and energy. Lots of it we are still learning about.

[@henryrogers5500]

@@barryobrien1890 You are living in a delusional fantasy world, contrived only by your own imagination. Sorry. Jesus Christ is the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Him.

[@exurban5207]

The first time I took a photo was as a boy in the 1970s. Since then I have always been fascinated - although frustrated sometimes. What I never did all over the years was understanding what really was driving me. The question of becoming a professional photographer has never bothered me, but watching your videos, and especially this one here, makes me begin to understand. Thank you very, very much! 🙂

[@josephcarberry4683]

Alex I am so glad that I stumbled upon your channel, your chats as you like to call them have given me more knowledge and inspiration than all the countless hours I have spent trying to learn photography. Most of all you made me remember why I lifted a camera to begin with and that is simply to capture all the wonderful things in this world. Thank you so much

[@autisticlife]

Thank you for what you do. Since finding your channel I have developed a deeper enjoyment of photography. I used to earn money on wedding photography in the 90's and hated it in the end. Like you I like making photgraphs and appreciating photgraphy for what it is. If people like my photgraphs that is good but I do not make them to be seen as much as enjoying making photographs that exite and intrigue me.

[@satart6080]

I found your channel just some weeks ago and I am like you say "reinspired" and forced to find "my way" in all your teaching-videos. For me photography has the power to reflect the own concepts of life...So I think many of your videos I saw have the power to tell the people to find their own way...and you show in a inspiring way how it is possible. You are a wonderful coach. Thank you and Greetings from Germany

[@johnwest6141]

Hi Alex, From what you say, starting your KZbin channel has been a win-win decision. It is a win for us, your viewers. I’m retired and a relative beginner at photography and all the fun things I am learning from you and others makes me feel like a kid in a sweetshop. It has obviously been a win for you too and allowed you the freedom to choose what you want to do with your photographic expertise. I hope you continue to enjoy chatting to us and inspiring us for years to come and also have fun taking the type of photos you want to take for yourself.

[@michalpater402]

The most heartwarming video from the most knowledgeable Professional out there 😊

[@jmitchvision]

Brother this is how I feel so deeply!! It’s so much gear talk I’m tired of it. It has its place but man it’s so overwhelming and unnecessary.. Thank you for doing these videos!! GOD bless!!

[@allenharrison7902]

Thank you Alex, it is so refreshing to have someone speak so passionately and honestly about photography. You have no hidden agenda, no subversive secret selling disguised as a review. You have one of the very few genuine channels left on KZbin today. Well done, stay true to your course.

[@JoshBearheart]

I really appreciate you sharing this, really hits home at this stage for me. I started really focusing on photography last year and the journey has been an up and down rollercoaster of trying to figure out where I want to go with it. I started sharing my journey on KZbin and thought about doing something like taking on clients or photographing events, but none of that is really feasible at this point in my life. It is good to hear a reminder from time to time that the art should come first and there is a tradeoff when you start doing it to make a living where you have less freedom to do what you want. I enjoy this art form and find it so fulfilling to be able to just get out and take pictures that bring me joy and I hope that feeling never fades!

[@alexstrasser1]

Alex, thank you for being there and being just like you are. You mean a lot of inspiration and motivation for many of us who watch your videos. I am glad to hear someone who shares my perspective of photography as a form of Art and not just as a busine$$. Greetings from a Mexican follower who resides in Canada!!

[@TemasDFD]

Muy buenas! I just would like to let you know that I stated following you during the lock down. I have been all my life linked to photography somehow. You, along your with Sean Tucker and Ted Forbes, are the most inspiring photographers I have listen to during the pandemic. Just want to say THANK YOU for all the inspiration you have given me. Thanks!

[@GaryParris]

I absolutely agree with you, i am in a similar frame of mind. i rarely do paid photography because i don't enjoy that, and now as a visual artist as well, even more so for the love of photography and do projects i want to. so good on you! Most people are looking at how to monetise everything they do especially photography. I do enjoy helping others do better photography, helped university students with their course hands on photography, which i've had good results with doing that. the energy for photography is difficult to maintain when you are earning money!

[@raveemahadevan]

The line that caught me " It wasn't really the thing people were looking for.. " yes, they come from all around and if one is providing a paid service , it is what they are supposed to like that counts and not one's own, per se. Have been enough through this and between the picture one wants to make and the picture that would sell with a smile - there is a huge trench to cross over. Ultimately it brought me to the neighbourhoods where each one, the common man and woman who cannot afford a decent ' wall worthy picture' posed for me without the contemporary clause " DM for paid collaboration". They liked themselves, I found myself. Salieri moment before he met Wolfgang.

[@MarleneZollnerManly]

I just love YOUR portraits. And you are allways a pleasure listening to. Inspirational. Good on you for following your bliss. And do please make a workshop so I can get to travel - and learn!

[@brickbat1966]

Thank you for such an honest chat, if you are happy in your job you never go to work it’s a wonderful place to be,

[@rickkrough6167]

I got interested in Photography in High school and later like you got a college degree. I began working in photography because that was the accepted way to validate yourself as a “Serious Photographer”. It was fine for a few years until I realized I would never be that famous photographer with a Ferrari. The jobs were mostly sweat-shop catalog work. Steady money, but just enough so I could eat, not enough for me to afford to quit. My best money years was as a stringer for Knight-Ridder while also doing portfolio work for artists. That dried up eventually and after a brief stint teaching I quit. Photography is a lot more satisfying when you don’t have to depend on it for survival I enjoy your content Alex.

[@terryjones6049]

Great content Alex, no BS. I like the links you have provided to books and photographers and your personal views of their work.

[@johntaylorphotos]

Thanks for this video, this is the first video of yours I have watched in full. This is brutally honest. I ended up quitting professional photography after 15 years in the business. I lost my job at the Daily Telegraph as a staff photographer in 2008 during the recession. (but still freelance = zero redundancy). My other photography interests finished in 2011 and I was forced to find a new career outside of photography. I only recently started taking pictures again when I was I finally able to afford new equipment after completely rebuilding my life. I know love photography again and there is no pressure to make money from it. My advice to anyone entering photography as a career...always have a plan B, I didn’t, and was totally focused on plan A, to succeed in photography at the expense of all other interests.

[@MrMestrebimba]

Thanks for being an inspiration !! I really like this channel and the talk that we are having virtually!. You're like a mentor to many of us in those aspects of the art. Thanks again

[@ThePhotographicEye]

I appreciate that!

[@petrvokurek2286]

Thank you for the video. I´ve been a pro photographer for some 15 odd years and I can tell you it´s becoming hard. The pressure is really great- every day there´s at least one new photographer in your area who wants a slice of your bread. The competition is tough in all fields but in photography every mom on maternity leave with a camera can take decent pictures and sell them to their friends....just buy a basket for the baby and some artificial flowers and here we go...who needs beautiful, soulfull portraits like yours...:) Anyway, I´m glad you´ve transformed your career into what you´re doing now so that we can all benefit from your knowledge and wisdom...and you do have wisdom, take it from me :)

[@ThePhotographicEye]

Thank you, thanks for watching.

[@larsbunch]

I worked briefly as a commercial photographer. I shot for a few magazines. I shot the images for a book of interior designs and another on perfumes. Art directors seemed to like my work and I was doing pretty well right from the start. But I very quickly started to hate photography. I find that I am happier doing a job that I enjoy (computer graphics) but that isn’t my passion so that I have the time to work on making images that have no commercial value, but are deeply satisfying to me. Success is being able to do what you love and not turning what you love into a chore.

[@PJMack]

Alex, thank you for chatting with me. I’ve learned so much about my “why”… about seeing beyond myself with photographs and photography and experiencing other forms of photography. You inspire me. You give me encouragement to see things a different way. You teach me about what has come before and give me hope for what’s to come. Again, thank you.

[@the-additional-f-stop]

Hello, I've been watching your channel for a while, but mostly quietly, Alex. I could have been recorded to say the same! I have been photographing for 18 years. I stopped trying to earn a living as a photographer in 2010 and it was the best decision. It created a strong bond between myself and my art. I spend more time in my darkroom printing for myself and posting images because I love doing it, not because I have to survive. I have a job that pays me to buy new gear and subscribe to educational classes, etc. Thank you for this video!

[@sbai4319]

Alex thank you for your insights, experience and channel. I am glad you found your way to fulfilment. Your channel is perfect for my needs and I thank you for creating it. Cheers from Australia 🇦🇺

[@dougpalmer6857]

Alex, your videos are very inspirational and help us to discover and enjoy photography. Always looking forward to hearing from you.

[@chrisclarke3443]

Alex, We were both part of the same business group and i was fortunate enough to visit you in your studio a few years ago - you had a very nice set up and i learned a lot from my visit - you were generous with your time and i was grateful for that. i am so pleased that this seems to be working for you and the subscribers growing well. i empathise with so much of what you say and closed my studio in 2019 as i was simply not enjoying it and had always vowed that i would not carry on if it ever became just a business.

[@thokozanihlatshwayo5328]

Hi Alex thank you for this video... I am someone who has struggled to find my own identity and decide to throw myself at photography, I think the aspect of sales is seldom touched and that is the biggest struggle for us newbies making money from this endeavour