Transitioning from a novice to a seasoned photographer requires more than just mastering technical skills. It also requires eliminating misconceptions that can hinder your growth and creativity. These misconceptions often stem from outdated advice, equipment obsession, and a misunderstanding of what actually makes a good photo.
Coming to you from Scott Choucino with Tin House Studio, this insightful video addresses some of the most common myths new photographers often make. Choucino, a successful commercial photographer, draws on his own experiences and observations to offer valuable guidance to aspiring photographers. Understanding these misconceptions and overcoming them is important to developing your own photography style and reaching your full potential.
Choucino dismisses the idea of ”putting the image right into the camera”, insisting that post-processing is a legitimate tool, not a form of fraud. He also addresses the obsession with sharpness, emphasizing that affordable lenses are more than enough for most situations. He further challenges the notion that equipment is the key to success, sharing anecdotes from his career where he achieved excellent results with basic equipment.
The video also delves into the misconceptions surrounding “modelling” as a viable career path. Choucino explains that the real opportunity lies in fashion and portrait photography, where photographers are commissioned by clients, not the models themselves. He also removes the fixation on camera settings and finding the “best” aperture, explaining that these are situational and dependent on the desired result.
Finally, Choucino mentioned the popular “365 project” trend, where photographers take photos every day for an entire year. While acknowledging its potential for entertainment and discovery, he argued that it could hinder growth by encouraging quantity over quality. He emphasizes the importance of taking the time to critically analyze your work and make intentional improvements. Watch the video above for the full scoop on Choucino.
