Photographers: Chances Are, You suck.

*Originally posted on Kenneth Jarecke’s blog, Mostly True

I suck. I know that. But with every frame that I make, I try to figure out what it is that I’m doing wrong. I strive to fail, it’s the only way that you can learn. Plenty of concepts and images are never seen by anybody because they are just not good by any means. But if I did post a horrible image online - would anybody say anything? Probably not. 

I think Ken brings up a bunch of good points that I have shared for awhile, but didn’t know how to express them. I actually just talked to my tattoo artist, Shawn Patton @ Eclectic Tattoo(amazing artist), about a lot of the things brought up in this article. 

I feel like social media has become less “social” as more features have been added. The ‘Like’ button being one of these features. I’d much rather have someone post a two word message to give some feedback about an image. Or to express themselves on why the ‘Like’ the image or comment, etc.

The “internet mob” brought up by Ken is also an interesting idea. Most social media users become polite as they don’t want to take the wrath of the internet mob, which may be people that they have or haven’t met. Maybe even people I haven’t met.  

Quit following the unwritten social media etiquette handbook and express yourself. The idea of social media is compromised without open communication between friends, family, peers & anyone else who may stumble upon your work. Be “social” and embrace the potential that is social media in our socially diminishing culture. The future!