Why You Hate Your Photos

[@snapsbyfox]

Geezer out here making Netflix episodes where's I am just happy that I put the memory card into my camera the right way round. Wait that's comparing isn't it...

[@guy_de_photographie]

😆

[@FaizalWestcott]

hahahaha

[@gettoana]

😆😭

[@BryanBirks]

This is something that I’ve been struggling with for a while now. When your whole photography identity is based around social media it is extremely hard to “let go” of that, if even for a short while, for fear of falling into obscurity. When I see someone taking a break or not posting on KZbin or social media for a while, I don’t forget about them. I’m just excited for their return. For me, I probably just need to make work and let it sit with me for a while. I’m always wanting to share and it’s a terrible way to go about photography. Anyway, I don’t know if I said anything about the video per se. It was lovely and made me think. So thanks for that, Faizal.

[@FaizalWestcott]

Preach! Having a KZbin channel has taken that fear of falling into obscurity to new heights for me, but if there's anything I learned from taking months away from a platform like this for personal reasons, it's that people at the end of the day will come a go, we can't try to control those things and sacrificing our personal life or process for the off chance people unsubcribe or unfollow. A dedicated group of people who like seeing your work are going to still be there, because they truly like your art or more importantly like you as a person. They'll always be there and honestly those genuine people are who I want to have around me anyway.

[@lsamoa]

@@FaizalWestcott That's the spirit. Surround yourself with people who appreciate you, whether on youtube or in life in general.

[@langstonhawkins3328]

Very important video. The algorithm on instagram doesn't allow my photos to be seen by many, but I still create because I like my work. Social media takes an axe to creativity and our mental health suffers the consequences. I truly believe that if you consistently create what you love, opportunity and recognition will come.

[@guy_de_photographie]

I would love to look at your images

[@winslow_j]

Needed this one today. I was literally just scrolling through Instagram comparing my work to everyone else’s and feeling bad about my like count, before seeing that this was posted. A good reminder to keep shooting for the reasons that we started 🙏🏻 loved this!

[@ashenwreck]

Like a lot of people already mentioned, your video editing has been seemingly been taken up a notch recently. So well put together. And the message is on point.

[@FaizalWestcott]

I am so glad you've noticed! Thanks!

[@girardamoyo]

Faizal just opened my eyes. This was the video I needed to watch during this period of creative burnout. The over consumption of content and how easily accessible it is was a setup for comparing myself to superficial numbers. Thank you so much for creating this “Netflix” episode man.

[@FaizalWestcott]

Haha, Netflix Episode. now that's quite the compliment. Thanks!

[@MikeChudley]

The quality of your video keeps getting better it's impressive to watch. Keep them coming!

[@MrDavidHowell]

Deleted my Instagram account 2 years ago. Never looked back. Never happier. Instagram is not about photography. It never actually was. It was about sharing moments. Too many photographers think Instagram will help them. Much to the contrary. It will only hurt you and your creativity. Let it go. Be free.

[@kristoferkline9522]

Haven’t found a KZbinr that makes me want to binge all of their stuff in a loooong time. Great quality, pace, and content. Keep up the great work!

[@kalo3547]

I'm a classical musician and your words truly hit home. My field is very competitive and it's easy to beat yourself up over the level of your ability(or the lack of it) compared to many of the great recordings available online. It's difficult to use comparison as a tool to improve, without it affecting your mental health. It's a very fine line to cross.

[@Cygnusart0843]

When he said “thanks MpB for sponsoring this vide” I thought he said “thanks MTV for sponsoring this video” I was like “what?” Lol 😂

[@mineshpatel3241]

This was really powerful. Thank you for the reminder to take photos because I enjoy it and to find shots that I find beautiful.

[@mitchell.breedlove]

I love how open and transparent you are about feeling inadequate. I recently started sharing my photography and making videos and it’s something I’m working on to get over. It’s refreshing to hear from someone I look up to say they struggle with the same thing. I find I am my own worst critic. I’m learning to release that anxiety and acceptance from outside sources.

[@nerwin]

Every time I feel discouraged, doubtful or I feel like giving up with my photography....someone I subscribe to on KZbin always posts a video exactly about what I'm dealing with. It's just amazing. But it goes to show you that everyone of us photographers and other artists goes through the exact same thing perhaps some more than others but it helps to know that I'm not alone and I'm not a failure. Thank you Faizal for posting this man, I really needed it.

[@stevenkennell2890]

I completely agree with everything Faizal has said here, and I feel like I have learnt more in the last few months than the last few years, by simply not caring what response I get on social media. It means I can play around with different styles of photography, editing techniques etc and find what works best for me. The result is that I'm extremely motivated, shooting every day and just enjoying the process......

[@flordesolis]

Mate, firstly thank you for this, really needed to hear it and secondly, love how you put together this video. Flows super well and has such a deep layering within that really opens your eyes.

[@DeNorsemen]

I get so pumped everytime I see a new upload from you. Great video as always and couldn't agree more.

[@cassvanessa5]

I’m watching this video, and suddenly see my work scrolling down your phone! Omg! Thank you so much!! Great video, glad to have my work appear in it. Your words very much hit home for me, being at a crossroads style wise. Cheers and thanks again. 😊

[@bclaypoo]

"Beauty doesn't need a concept" I like this quote

[@david_troup]

Just a terrific video, and a hugely important message. Thank you. I needed to hear this.

[@jacobhelbig]

that ted talk is so great!! it's not really about craving attention, it's about what he really likes about his creative process and how he manages to focus on that

[@1550592535]

beautiful beautiful. I have been really enjoying a quote by Dostoevsky: "красота спасёт мир", "Beauty will save the World" and I found that to be my main motivator behind my photography, being able to transmit the beauty I see in the world around me to others. That is enough

[@edwardleefilms]

This literally felt like a movie. Thanks for making this for us. Enjoyed and appreciated every second

[@CreatorJuice]

Dawg you don't miss. Thanks for this. I'm a beginner and I definitely hold out on my creativity because I compare my stuff with people who are established. Changing that today.

[@FaizalWestcott]

Am I not enough for you? haha just kidding. Check out Bryan Birks, Serr, Roman Fox, and Matt Day. Some favorites of mine

[@johnsherwin9054]

While I agree with everything you said in this video I think a little comparison can also go a long way if done in a healthy manner and with purpose. Looking up to someone creating a very high level of work be it in design, photography or [insert creative medium here] and then comparing your work to theirs to understand where you can improve, or to understand what techniques they use to achieve certain results can be hugely beneficial as long as you understand what the purpose of comparison is. I did this when I started out in design about 10 years ago and do it with photography now too but only as a tool to help me continuing improving, not in a way where I'm setting unrealistic expectations. Its a very fine line though and it's important to exercise comparison in the most constructive way you can in order for it to be useful, otherwise it's very easy to fall into the usual traps. Great video Faizal, keep it up! 🙌

[@SammySantiagoIrizarry]

Excellent video Faizal!!! Good words for todays photographers.

[@gilbertwalker6769]

Excellent video! Thanks for treating an issue that many of us struggle with: authenticity and joy in the creative process. As you said so well, comparison with others' work has a place in our learning photography, but it should never steal our joy.

[@christophermartin-givens9849]

Going through shots from a recent outing and I needed this!

[@joshuaconti989]

I've been a photographer for over 20 years now. I've finally learned it's ok to check my shots and I'm more than happy for even one like on social media. And I'm learning it's ok to just enjoy the capturing, even if it ends up just being for myself. Photography in it's essence a connection to one's soul. If my soul finds joy in what I've done, the rest, even if there isn't the rest, is just icing on the cake. I will forever float the story of vivian maier in the forefront of my crreative vision: she really never intended for anyone to see her work but now we have one of the greatest documentary works ever from that work.

[@QippysChannel]

Such a great sharing, thanks, and very true, these days I like just going out and just enjoying the process and make memories 😊

[@ashvergent]

Your video editing changed drastically and I’m loving it. It feels like I’m watching a short film, you’d be great at podcasts too. Great topic and video!

[@helencogan2187]

I love your channel! Thank you for all you share...

[@yulbdv]

i think Faizal’s talks can be related not only to photography but to many other things also. it’s kinda universal, that’s why I like this channel I guess🤗 thanks for videos;)

[@melvinshuster]

Wise words, Faizal. Thanks much!

[@TravertinM]

Thanks Faizal for sharing these great thoughts.

[@clivewuest8529]

Hugely insightful video Faizel, and beautifully put.

[@isapinto7031]

Loved this and needed to hear it! Thank you 💜

[@BarrettBaker_photos]

This is 1000% me. I’ve often thought and re thought About posting my photos on Instagram. I think I have just recently grown into my skin so to speak about my photos within this year but you’re 100% right

[@UlyssesAokiPhoto]

Woah! Unexpected shoutout! Lance is a great dude and photographer. Glad you gave him props :) Great video. Looking forward to more of your photos and vids

[@MemoryLaneGaming5057]

God it’s like I’m watching a documentary. Fantastic job!!! This topic is very true as I also felt the same way.

[@AS-rp7qd]

This was much needed reminder messages and you delivered powerfully

[@StuartWeir]

Thanks Faizal for this video! What an amazing message, and I cannot agree more. I hope you continue to create videos like this, or anything else you want to create on this platform, just for you. Making them for you will help us all!

[@marcotonelliphotography]

I totally agree with what you say. Not easy to judge your own picture. Much easier to criticize others. This chasing for likes is horrible. It affects sometimes which pictures you are showing on social media. Need to work on that. Thank you for the video

[@thanhngale5060]

Omg i resonates all your thoughts. I am like a total amateur having these each time hitting the street.

[@THEGRIMREAPER5650]

I've gotten into film moreso because it's rewarding to me first, and can be shared for others to view as second. Your videos have gotten so much better and so has your honest wisdom. Thank you Faizal for the inspiration and insight you give to all of us.

[@yohanesdjie8680]

Thankyou for sharing. Feel blessed now ☺️

[@AristeidisSfakianos]

Beautiful video Faizal and I am sure it is going to relate to most of us. I do have the same feelings very often and I am trying to battle them with my love for creating photos. At the end of the day we create because we feel good when creating. By putting numbers next to our creativity can only take from the experience.

[@Jeppprox]

On point! Your directing of the video and your topic are great :)

[@paulgriffin8566]

Faizal many thanks for a heart felt video. I have dabbled with Instagram but like everyone I get caught up how I am being perceived. Photography for me now is about the sheer enjoyment of taking photos and documenting the world around for me. It's a guilty pleasure but one I'm happy with.

[@jimtrull683]

Many great points made here, thanks for sharing. As a coach of mine told me, focus on progress and not perfection. We are all on our own journey so focus on our on progress.

[@deadmanraging8864]

This was a brilliant video with a great message. I am guilty of looking at my photography in a negative light as well and attach the requirement of high likes to judge it's worth. However, I think the right way to go about it is to do photography because you love it, post it because you want to express that love and joy you get from your photography it and if other people like it no matter the amount that's a bonus.

[@elsaleemenna]

Thank you for sharing Faizal! I think this kind of video is what people need in this digital modern era. As a photographer, artist or even creator this is should be a good reminder.

[@twohead]

Comparison is definitely one thing, but even the need to output at such a high amount is counter-intuitive to great photography. Not only could you be spoiling some of your best work too early/not in a proper format, but chances are 999/1000 photos anyone takes are sub-par at best (even your favorite photographer). If you, or anyone, cares to take photography as a serious art form then the art is best put into projects such as books, NFT collections, exhibits, or whatever else. I spent a while trying to upload once every other day and then I realized I was just showing off how mediocre I am. Then, after going through a phase of reading and viewing more photobooks I realized that the greats were never expected to have a beautiful photo every day. Now I promised myself to never upload a photo to social media unless it's in advertisement to a completed project. I'm sure seeing "photographer" in my bio and not seeing a single photo will look stupid for a while, but once I put out something I'm proud of it'll be fully worth it. Hope this helps some people.

[@Roukus]

I think comparison is a good thing and it can, at least in theory, generate some kind of development and new ideas. The problem starts when we only compare likes and followers.

[@lancashireweddingphotograp8053]

This is beautifully put together!! Feels like a big production documentary haha

[@bigjeffliv]

Excellent video, Faizal. All I'd add is please don't doubt yourself - your creative output is truly inspirational and I've found your videos to be incredibly informative. I won't be alone in thinking this, keep on keeping on. J

[@jet6477]

OH MAN, for a brief moment, I thought you made this video specially for me, coz this is exactly what I need. Thank you so much Faizal.

[@garrinevans7527]

This is what I needed! Thanks a ton for this.

[@octagono_studio]

your work just keeps getting better and better dude

[@SergevanNeck]

Love it. Thank you so much.

[@garethlines9158]

I appreciate your honesty in your videos. Thank you

[@MavisYokomoto]

great video! thanks for this! exactly how ive been feeling for awhile!

[@gettoana]

Very powerful video, and eye-opening!

[@thesecretlifeofmichal]

Thank you, Faizal. Nothing else to say. This hit home.

[@jaycielinh]

faizal!! this was absolutely amazing to watch, the production and content quality was so captivating. i definitely needed this message, thank you! 😊

[@antoniocordua]

This is so good cause it relates so much to every creative art form ever I make music and like to take photos and make videos to and I can say in both those creative outputs this problem shows up all the time for me, Great video!!!

[@ANRALOGI]

damn bro. great content this week. Loving the visuals you've been putting out lately.

[@manolobrown]

great video. inspiring words. thank you.

[@twosounds]

This was such a beautiful video Faizal, and I couldn't agree more with your message!

[@joshcullum88]

I needed to here this mate. Thank you.

[@brandonfields456]

This video came to me at a perfect time. I needed to see this! Thank you for crating this video.

[@darasajjj]

Great vid man. So true. Thanks!

[@yassinebilou]

thank you for those words, that's so inspiring

[@farihahfuaad]

Thank you Faizal for speaking out what I’ve been feeling as of late

[@juliobermudez_photography]

thank you! Excellent point, need it so bad, thanks a lot.

[@BitTerence]

I think this video is a good example of what to do instead as a creator to help with this issue: talk about your struggles sometimes!

[@SamJentsch]

Really love this video essay format. Thanks for sharing!

[@KadeChance]

This is the video I needed, this really make me feel more free, like more confident, idk how to describe it, but thanks Faizal.

[@pr00f22]

this applies to anything one is trying to achieve. great video. thank u

[@AlexZafer]

This is an important message more creatives need to hear. Really hear. Thanks for the reminder. Now, go forth and make art.

[@leesean]

Oh man, I needed this today. Thank you.

[@neglectedloves]

Couldn't agree more 👏🏻 to me it's really the process of "drawing with light" (literal translation of photography) which is probably one of the most enjoyable moments I share with myself...

[@relievedplant7149]

real talk. Great message ! I have to remind myself of the harms of comparison almost every day (be it in my photography or in rly any other aspect of my life). It's a life long struggle but messages like these always help so much :) let's keep talking about it!

[@tomenglandphoto]

That was a great video Faizal. Thank you.

[@jaesa3607]

I started watching this channel to study English but now I'm trying taking photos and filming videos :) You always inspire me with numerous ways and some day, I want to be a photographer like you with "my own way" like you said Thx

[@alexakten]

such an important video man, thank you for making this.

[@NITINCHAWLA]

I loved every minute of this video. Thank you Faizal…. Big fan and budding street photographer from India!

[@matteogomeznotodulcic]

With this video, you have confirmed that times I have asked my self: Am I right to follow the numbers? And the answere was: No. Thank you!

[@schoonhovenk]

I don't use social media, I only made a website where I upload my shots to keep them organized and to be easily able to share with people if they want to see my stuff. I know I'm not the best or anything, but I really love my photography. Comparison is the thief of joy.

[@nathanielnonis999]

Man out here dropping Netflix quality content! Great stuff!

[@JJ_Photo]

Very true. Just go out and do photography for yourself. Instagram(and most other social media) is a shallow, endless stream of photos and videos. Ask yourself if you can remember any images of those you follow, that was posted a week ago.... So why would we, as photographers, even care to post on that media? If you stop posting for a while, do you get any concern from your followers? I guess not many will. Maybe they liked your post shortly, but most did not even see that you were the photographer, when they hit the like button. Meaningless, and waste of time.

[@agentastr0]

love this and needed this

[@alexdavismittp]

Thank you, honestly.

[@janbuurmeijer6959]

Thank you for this!

[@rockyBalboa6699]

A Photographer and a Philosopher! I like that! :)

[@guy_de_photographie]

Faizal, this video is most important for most of us.

[@pierrezapata90]

I, too, fall into that category and i also do youtube. And ironically enough, me watching your amazing video is me falling back into that trap. I appreciate your video so much. While also trying to take your message to heart and just keep creating my own content and IG photos without caring what everyone else is doing in terms of conparison

[@dahmenhassen8365]

Thanks for sharing, it help lot.

[@robjackson606]

Faizal, Thank you for this. It’s the right word at the right time. Aunt May would be proud 🕷📷📸

[@mitchelljonesjr.6602]

definitely glad I watched this .