Can you imagine a time when there will be concrete bases around the world, helped by three little words, queues of people lined up to take the shot of whatever waterfall, lighthouse, etc? It is a sad day when we can't see for ourselves. Thanks for posting and well worth listening to.
If you want Somebody else's perfect photograph, then buy it! I'm fully aware of my limitations so my first goal is, as you say, to BE there. A fine picture is a bonus. (In this way I also avoid expectations set too high as I stated elsewhere). I realize now this resonates with another thing of mine: I never prepare for a trip in too much detail. When you prepare too good, the trip turns out to be a series of boxes you have to tick. "Beautiful location, check". If you however let things happen, everything you experience is a gift. Thank you for your wisdom and honesty.
Thank you for your frankness! You are speaking reality! Because of where I live I have had to learn to have no expectations when I go out shooting. There are no grand vistas, no mountains, valleys, cliffs, oceans fronts, sand dues, ancient forests and rarely ever any fog. These things all exists in the U.S. for sure but they are anywhere from from a couple hours to several days drive time to get to them. So typically I end up focusing on the intimate or macro world to find inspiration. So when I do get some time to go and shoot I have nothing in my mind that I want to shoot so I walk/hike until I see something that moves me. Many days I come back empty handed.
Add environmental impact from travel to the list of cost to bare. Regarding frustration, the pressure on professional photographers to create standout images must be considerable. The maturity to enjoy and be grateful for the experience first, can’t come naturally to everyone. As an enthusiast, I am working on mental preparation to bring that attitude to a trip in a couple weeks. Being happy to be there, if I am lucky I return with a few images to cherish.
The Photography Guru speaking swathes of truth yet again. Thank you for articulating the thoughts many of us experience in a rational and linear way so that we can learn and develop our perspectives.
Alister, thank you for your honesty in this video. You went straight to the point. Many photographers, me included have to make sure about the why we're in a certain place and why do we photograph what we photograph. Location envy is really bad specially regarding landscapes. The problem also lies in anxiety and expectations. One thing that I think it helps is to shoot photographic projects (for example a series about trees in the whole world), or a series about rock formations, or about anything, then you have a clear objective and can then shoot and go to places with a purpose, with a why. Instead copying other's work or going to touristic and well-known photographic locations. This is a great video and I'll save it in my favorites. Cheers.
I don't think I came across your video by accident my friend! Oh the irony! I'm sat in my room, on a gorgeously sunny day, but not too sunny, and I just want to be out there making photographs.. but alas I forgot to charge my mobility scooter last night, so I can't even go out locally, let alone to the other side of the world! My problem is not that I compare my photography to others. My problem is actually GETTING to these locations in the first place. Firstly I have what society refers to as a 'disability'. Also I can't drive, so I cannot go very far afield at all. I'm in receipt of benefits, so financially I'm not very well off either. I haven't left the country since 1997. However, having said all this, I do still seem to find things to make some nice photographs of. I've travelled quite extensively in the UK. I've even been to the West Coast of Scotland! 😄😄In fact I would say I've travelled the length and breadth of the UK. I've had to learn to be satisfied with making photographs of quite simple things.. flowers..trees..water..finding beauty in very unexpected places. And I think for me personally that's been the key.. being able to see beauty in the relatively ordinary things.
Thanks so much Ash, what a great contribution to the thread. The best upside of COVID was so many people making amazing photos close to home, even in their homes. One of my clients has very limited mobility and he makes incredible photos in his house that keep him stimulated and creative. Creativity is a state of mind and not a GPS location. Thanks so much for your great comment
I can’t really think of any other photographers, except for Sean Tucker, who really make us think and help us to be true to ourselves. Although it is not easy in practice, we always have a choice as to how we react to “disappointment “ but far better to not to be disappointed in the first place! Thank you.
Cheers Nick, I always hugely appreciate your comments. I believe the expression is "Life is suffering!" The root of our suffering is mostly in our own heads: Expectations, judgements, reactions to emotions that are negative and a striving for "good states" and fleeing "bad states." I can attest to the fact it is possible to change our relationship with these thoughts and emotions, although, like most things of value - requires effort. Thanks again mate...
I just found your channel and am really enjoying it. I couldn't agree more with your wise words! I have been on this very journey as I've gotten older and realized that these old knees just can't do the type of photography that I want to do due to developing arthritis, but instead of being frustrated about not being young any more it made me open my mind to seeing what WAS around me and honing in on that and I feel so much more satisfied because I am making my own creative soul happy and not trying to please anyone else. I look forward to watching more of your Vids!
This really hit home with me. I don't have the money to travel but have gone to places close to home that others have gotten great photos at only to be disappointed with my photographs. I will return to these places and try going with an open mind to look for something unique this time. Thank you.
Thanks for the comment. Looking is a curious thing. It is hard to look creatively. Noticing is a better approach. Allow the landscape to guide you to your compositions.
I don’t think i ever learned that much on youtube then listning to Alister. It’s like it’s always been there somwhere in my brain, but woolden’d came out. Listning to you helps me a great deal. Thank you very much. I will bring my expectations for my journey to Sky in september to another level!
I use to be a professional location photographer and completely familiar with the problems of having to be in a location with a preconceived brief from a client, and nothing going according to plan. In the end, I got sick of it. Now I live somewhere where I want to be, and when I walk out the door I have idea of what is going to happen - and I don’t care - I am free!
Great food for thought and I am guilty of it as well-I usually have several shots in mind wherever I go. It might be better to go with nothing in mind at all, as hard as that is!
EVERYONE suffers from this to varying degrees. I did for years, but not anymore. The last 6 years for me has just been an open mind and a curiosity to experience. I make less photos for sure, but I have a far greater time.
The antidote to suffering is Joy.Life is abundant with challenges,curve balls .If I find myself in a space in nature ,any amount or conditions,I am the fortunate one.The question for me is always am I maximally present,will I be curious ,will I be grateful for the myriad of unpredictable moments in my life,that is the ongoing practice in my art ,in my life .It is simple really .It is my choice what I choose to see in a total white out in a 7hr drive in the West Fjords ,getting lost etc .It is totally my choice what I choose to see,experience.
It's so easy for me to get frustrated because the conditions aren't right or they are good but I make too many mistakes anyway. As someone who is trying to learn and gain experience, I will always find reasons to be disappointed in my photography in some way. I will likely be that way even if I were to become an elite photographer. I have learned, however, that it doesn't mean I have to be disappointed in the experience. If I remember to enjoy the pursuit of a photo as much, or more, than the end result, I cannot fail to have a great time.
It can be tough for people who are naturally driven. I feel this way with my guitar playing; always inspired bye other, better players. They seem so free compared to me. Photography is the same, a great photographer makes it look so easy...
Fantastic video, so full of insights, so far away from the nitty gritty technicalities of other TH-cam channels, thx so much for this! Reminds me of my trip last month to Provence lavender fields, 2 weeks late however for the perfect conditions, due to dry spring.... i met some people who were just there for the one and only perfect picture, very frustrated about the suboptimal conditions. I tried to make the best of it, enjoying the absolute beauty of the scenery, and looking for other opportunities nearby. Finally i ended up with some pictures far better than the classic ones i was looking for, on some very unexpected locations. ALWAYS KEEPING YOUR EYES OPEN, not limited by any fixed ideas in your head about that one pefect picture, GOLDEN RULE NUMBER ONE imho.... thx for this Alister!!
Awesome attitude ❤️❤️❤️ yeah, I’ve said it a million times, if your reason for being there is to get THE SHOT, which relies on all kinds of optimal conditions, then your setting yourself up for a bad experience. Such a waste of energy! Appreciate you..
This is such an eye opening talk. After reading some of the comments I think you’ve hit it out of the park with this video. And I also discovered that I am not alone in feeling frustrated, envious, etc. The grass isn’t always greener somewhere else, the light isn’t always perfect somewhere else, the scenes aren’t always more beautiful somewhere else, the mist doesn’t arrive on que somewhere else……
Really delighted to hear that. To be honest, I needed to get back my passion for making content on TH-cam and all I can do is make videos about what I am passionate about and on my mind. I kinda figure I worry about the same stuff as most folks, so I am really happy it hits home with you. Really appreciate the comment, thanks,
Hi Alistair I watched this video yesterday and it summed up exactly how I felt about a trip I have just returned from to the Cordilleras Blanca region in Peru. I had watched virtually every TH-cam video of the treks in the region and had a good guide book of the area. Worked out an itinerary of what I would do, upgraded my kit with new heavy duty tripod, lenses, camera body, filters, etc etc. What could go wrong I planed an easy week acclimatising In Huaraz which is just over 4000m so no problem with altitude or so I thought. Well the first problem was after day 2, I was struck with diarrhea, that is best described as infantile Hmmmm not good. After a few days recovering I attempted a day hike but an additional 600m gain in altitude made the last steep section an impossibility. I had hoped to do the 10 day Huayhuash Circuit but it was plainly obvious that this was not something this 72 year old could ever contemplate, so the dream photo shoot was canned. Next was something new, an over night trek camping at around 4600m to shoot sunset, sunrise and the Milky Way. Till the day before the weather had been perfect, but luck was not on our side and as we came closer to the location the clouds began to build and by the time our evening meal was ready we were in, as you described it our ping pong ball. It was a first however for me as we awoke to find the roof of our tent covered with a few inches of snow. But we still had the dense cloud cover. We were assured by the guide that this was not normal, but due to climate change the weather patterns are far from normal or predictable any longer. I did a few other day treks which proved something of a let down and the only trek that may make the trip worth while was the 4 day Santa Cruz trek. Again the weather was not favourable, the normally clear blue skies had been replaced with foggy low cloud, it also started to get colder. Day 2 meant a pass of 4750m and this reduced me to a 7 step zombie, it was also very cold, snowing and very windy. It was certainly a low point in my life and my sanity at doing this was seriously questioned. It is significant that most photos now were quick grab shots with my mobile phone, the new tripod never made it out of the carry case the entire time I was away. What have I learned, well organised treks are not ideal for photography. And future trips will be at lower elevations, canal walks or the mountains of Holland and Belgium perhaps. But certainly the more altitude friendly area of Southern Patagonia. And finally a great video Alistair, they make great and inspiring viewing.
So sorry to hear that Steve. I've spent a lot of time above 5000m and it can be really brutal. Best laid plans of mice and men, as an old Scottish poet once wrote. I am glad you have found a sense of equanimity in the experience and it sounds like you will manage better moving forward. Kindest regards and thanks for the kind feedback.
Very nice video Alister! I was curious to watch this to give myself a bit of a reality check and hear someone else's thoughts around what I would like to do and see. What I learnt from this is I am doing more so these days than when I started in landscape photography 5 years ago (even though I have been a photographer for much longer than that). When I started I wanted to shoot certain places at certain times and get a similar or same result, I felt good when I nailed it but I felt like I was just walking in someone else's shoes in creating the same piece. Now when it comes to my photography I use social media as a way to start scouting places and seeing what else is around there, I like to look for something unique and something that has a personal connection with me rather than me thinking "I hope people will like what I have captured" and using that to reassure myself. What I am learning is that it is way harder to actually think about creating a image, I find most of the time rushing doesn't work which is why I give myself way more time. I see these amazing places on social media and instead of me looking at the scene the artist as captured I'm looking deeper into the scene and seeing what catches my eye and how I would like to experience it. Photography for me is more than just taking a photo it is everything involved, planning, travel, gear needed, setting up, scouting, hiking etc... if the end goal is to walk away with a photo then I think that's already putting pressure on yourself heck I've done this, but the days I get somewhere I have never been I have walked away with images I never thought I'd get and I also enjoyed every aspect. I also don't mind now if I don't get my camera out at all so long as I remember to enjoy the time there, I always think it is better being out there than in a office looking at a desktop wall paper or a image on the wall. Another great video fella and I look forward to watching your next one! hi from Australia.
Hey, thanks so much for the time you've taken to write your insights and thought, plus the Instagram Story you recorded. It means a great deal when my work can stimulate this level of engagement and self-analysis. I appreciate you mate.
Spot on Alister! One of the most frustrating shoots of my life was in Scotland, across the Loch from Castle Kilchurn with great, late afternoon light on the Castle, a rainbow off to my right and it was raining on me! By the time the rain stopped, the light had gone. Took a few images anyway as the sunset light on the mountains behind was nice but the Castle was flat. I live in Australia so I may not get back there, But if I do...............
Ah, you've just described pretty much every day I go out!! I think this is a key question, can our relationship with those experiences be pure and valid EVEN if we miss the shot? Scottish light is so fleeting, so tenuous and brief. I've discovered the importance of making space to enjoy it rather than chasing perfection. I have too many days that I have no memory of because I was too busy fighting with my creative output than actually being present. Thanks so much for your comment...
I heard a phrase once that said "Effort is overrated in photography"..... What did they mean? Well you can spend $15k to travel to a location halfway across the planet to get a photo of a specific location. You will have put in a lot of effort for the photos produced... But the guy the person that lives 30 minutes away and goes there 4 times a week probably has many more photos of it that are more unique than yours. Simply because the fact that the person has more opportunities. So they put in less effort and came out with better photos.... Thats why your point about having realistic expectations is important. Once I accepted this, the photo trips I did take became more enjoyable, because I no longer put the pressure on myself to come away with a photo of some location that's as good as anyone else's photo of the location. Simply, I should take the best shot that I see, and enjoy the experience.
Absolutely, I’ve said this so many times. This is why I don’t run photography tours, I run retreats and workshops where the focus is on engagement, insight and growth. Surprising photographs are a byproduct of these deeper, more meaningful experiences. Appreciate your comment, thanks
I am 100% with you on this, 5mins walk from my apartment is a section of coast that is littered with large granite boulders and on the right days you get great sunrise and sunset shots. And you can manage more than 7 steps at a time :)
Well said Alister, always a pleasure! I’ve been a photographer for over 60 years now and and I love it as much as I ever did. Switched to digital in the 90’s and love it … I believe the digital age is truly the golden age of photography, it has allowed so many to reap the benefits of a wonderful pastime. I have been fortunate to have travelled to many wonderful locales, but I can honestly say, I have never gone with the expectation of wonderful photographs. I rarely look at images of an area beforehand … I love to be surprised by what I see around the next corner no matter where I am. Although photography is a huge part of my life, I love life even more!
The easiest way is to live in an epic region like you !? ;-) Seriously, this is what I call "fashion effects". This also exists in wildlife photography, and if you don't photograph a polar bear, a musk ox, or a snowy owl, you don't exist as a photographer. I'm a photographer since 20 years, I've never given in to this form of dictatorship, and I'm very happy about it. Thank you Alister
So as someone who comes from hiking before the photography joined my journey I still find myself sometimes going for the photograph and not the adventure. I lost inspiration in for a while just upset with my work and then I was able to pull myself out and remember that it’s the journey that makes it and like you said take it as it is and enjoy the journey and then capture was drives it 🙇🏻
💯 we are our own worst enemy. It takes effort to break away from the pack and try a different, deeper, more meaningful approach. I appreciate your comment, thanks
Another mind opening video Alister. I'm still relatively new to photography and am enjoying the whole learning process. When I think I've got it down then BAM !!! I come back from an outing and find I don't like any of the photos I've taken. I use your videos to think about why my outlook on those photos were disappointing to me, Learn from it, and it usually puts me on the right track for the next outing. Thank you for your time and effort on these videos, I appreciate them.
That’s awesome, and you’re not describing anything unique in that experience; we’ve all been there, most people still are there. Only though change and some hard thinking can we elevate from there and actually grow as a creative person. I appreciate your comment
This is almost spooky, after a bit of a creative slump I've made a real comeback these last weeks. The spooky thing is that the things you're talking about in these videos is almost in perfect sync with my own thought process. One of the things that made me get out shooting again was deleting my social media accounts because I have no desire for imaginary friends, the other was to stop comparing myself to unknown photographers. When it comes comes to the issue of locations I have a super power, really poor sense of direction. I enjoy my photography the most and make my best images when I'm a bit lost. Due to me being "geographically challenged"® I can get lost within 5 km from my home without even trying hard, thus saving thousands of £ or $ 😉
LOL< thanks so much for the great comment, made me smile, but also really true. I'm delighted the video connected with you, and thanks so much for joining the forum. I am sure you'll really enjoy it and it's such a great group of creative people. Thanks again,
One thing that really jumped out at me, something you also mentioned in a reply in the forum, is that if we have multiple sources of creativity there is less chance of being frustrated. I found this to be the case for me and it made me happy. Is it easier to be creative in Iceland than around my city? We might think so but is it true? I'm not sure...
I agree 100% that we can be inspired to be creative by visiting different habitats, environments, ecosystems, countries etc. I also believe that creativity is effectively negated and destroyed if we go there with a shopping list of images we want to make based on the vision of other people. Yes, we can learn from that process, but it isn't creativity, and it doesn't give us the benefits of being creative. Thanks for your comment mate, really appreciate it.
@@pascalthiebaud I am finishing writing my latest eBook, and in it I discuss the whole concept of Creative Living and our Creative Identity. These transcend the concept of being a "photographer." I sometimes use a camera to express my creative identity. Sometimes I use a guitar, or a pen.
I went to Skye last November, hoping to get the shots I regularly see in various places - Elgol, The Quiraing, etc. As is sometimes the case, I didn't get what I thought I would image wise, BUT equally, I never thought I'd climb the Old Man of Storr to see a sunrise, in 60mph winds, snow, hail, and rain, with 3 strangers that I met, and say "I've never felt so alive in my whole life" whilst up there. It was the experience of a lifetime and I saw the natural beaty of Skye with my own eyes. I was disappointed with my images, but only for a short while when I got home, but soon realised again that I'd actually had the experience of a lifetime. Also if it wasn't for my camera, I probably would never have gone to Skye, or several rather more local places.
This is very much the point I’m making; sure, we all love going to beautiful places, and if having a camera is a catalyst for new experiences then that’s great too
If we travel to a location with a preconceived outcome or images previously seen in a book or on social media, we have already biased our mindset and the outcome of our trip. Whether shooting landscape or cityscape, the moment and the light will determine the potential for a meaningful image. The photographer needs the skill (their eye to see it) and the ability to use the equipment to capture that image.
I'd rather see a lessor known location in amazing light that another shot of Moraine Lake in crap light. Artists want their work to be seen and appreciated and I think that's fine but creating the same shot as a million other togs will ultimately be unfulfilling even if the image becomes super popular. Create the art that inspires you firstly and if others gain enjoyment from that it's a win win.
Hey buddy, thanks for stopping by. Yeah, I have no issue with anyone doing any type of photography they want to if it brings them contentment and a feeling of satisfaction. Deeper "art" where we infuse ourselves into the work requires a far more introspective and thoughtful approach than tripod mark musical chairs!
I like to take my 100mm Macro along when I am in the field, if the conditions are crap I can always make tiny landscapes around my campsite. If it is really bad I get out my beloved banjo and scare of all wildlife and people within hearing distance (:
Can you imagine a time when there will be concrete bases around the world, helped by three little words, queues of people lined up to take the shot of whatever waterfall, lighthouse, etc? It is a sad day when we can't see for ourselves. Thanks for posting and well worth listening to.
Shudder at the thought!! Thanks for cheering me up this morning 🫠
If you want Somebody else's perfect photograph, then buy it!
I'm fully aware of my limitations so my first goal is, as you say, to BE there. A fine picture is a bonus. (In this way I also avoid expectations set too high as I stated elsewhere).
I realize now this resonates with another thing of mine: I never prepare for a trip in too much detail. When you prepare too good, the trip turns out to be a series of boxes you have to tick. "Beautiful location, check".
If you however let things happen, everything you experience is a gift.
Thank you for your wisdom and honesty.
Thanks again for your input..
Thank you for your frankness! You are speaking reality! Because of where I live I have had to learn to have no expectations when I go out shooting. There are no grand vistas, no mountains, valleys, cliffs, oceans fronts, sand dues, ancient forests and rarely ever any fog. These things all exists in the U.S. for sure but they are anywhere from from a couple hours to several days drive time to get to them. So typically I end up focusing on the intimate or macro world to find inspiration. So when I do get some time to go and shoot I have nothing in my mind that I want to shoot so I walk/hike until I see something that moves me. Many days I come back empty handed.
That’s a great way to be, I even changed the. If so title to Creativity is a state of mind, not a GPS location ❤️
Love the title!!! ❤️
Glad to know that I am not the only one.... 😁
Sounds familiar, I'm in forested hill country so views are usually quite constricted so I really love my macro lens.
@@nikhiltrama LOL< yeah, it really came to me in a flash!! So true though...
Add environmental impact from travel to the list of cost to bare. Regarding frustration, the pressure on professional photographers to create standout images must be considerable. The maturity to enjoy and be grateful for the experience first, can’t come naturally to everyone. As an enthusiast, I am working on mental preparation to bring that attitude to a trip in a couple weeks. Being happy to be there, if I am lucky I return with a few images to cherish.
The Photography Guru speaking swathes of truth yet again. Thank you for articulating the thoughts many of us experience in a rational and linear way so that we can learn and develop our perspectives.
Thanks so much - I'm blushing, but I appreciate it...
Alister, thank you for your honesty in this video. You went straight to the point. Many photographers, me included have to make sure about the why we're in a certain place and why do we photograph what we photograph. Location envy is really bad specially regarding landscapes. The problem also lies in anxiety and expectations. One thing that I think it helps is to shoot photographic projects (for example a series about trees in the whole world), or a series about rock formations, or about anything, then you have a clear objective and can then shoot and go to places with a purpose, with a why. Instead copying other's work or going to touristic and well-known photographic locations. This is a great video and I'll save it in my favorites. Cheers.
I don't think I came across your video by accident my friend! Oh the irony! I'm sat in my room, on a gorgeously sunny day, but not too sunny, and I just want to be out there making photographs.. but alas I forgot to charge my mobility scooter last night, so I can't even go out locally, let alone to the other side of the world!
My problem is not that I compare my photography to others. My problem is actually GETTING to these locations in the first place. Firstly I have what society refers to as a 'disability'. Also I can't drive, so I cannot go very far afield at all. I'm in receipt of benefits, so financially I'm not very well off either. I haven't left the country since 1997. However, having said all this, I do still seem to find things to make some nice photographs of. I've travelled quite extensively in the UK. I've even been to the West Coast of Scotland! 😄😄In fact I would say I've travelled the length and breadth of the UK. I've had to learn to be satisfied with making photographs of quite simple things.. flowers..trees..water..finding beauty in very unexpected places. And I think for me personally that's been the key.. being able to see beauty in the relatively ordinary things.
Thanks so much Ash, what a great contribution to the thread. The best upside of COVID was so many people making amazing photos close to home, even in their homes. One of my clients has very limited mobility and he makes incredible photos in his house that keep him stimulated and creative. Creativity is a state of mind and not a GPS location. Thanks so much for your great comment
I can’t really think of any other photographers, except for Sean Tucker, who really make us think and help us to be true to ourselves. Although it is not easy in practice, we always have a choice as to how we react to “disappointment “ but far better to not to be disappointed in the first place! Thank you.
Cheers Nick, I always hugely appreciate your comments. I believe the expression is "Life is suffering!" The root of our suffering is mostly in our own heads: Expectations, judgements, reactions to emotions that are negative and a striving for "good states" and fleeing "bad states."
I can attest to the fact it is possible to change our relationship with these thoughts and emotions, although, like most things of value - requires effort.
Thanks again mate...
I just found your channel and am really enjoying it. I couldn't agree more with your wise words! I have been on this very journey as I've gotten older and realized that these old knees just can't do the type of photography that I want to do due to developing arthritis, but instead of being frustrated about not being young any more it made me open my mind to seeing what WAS around me and honing in on that and I feel so much more satisfied because I am making my own creative soul happy and not trying to please anyone else. I look forward to watching more of your Vids!
Really happy to hear that - it's what we can do that is important. I can't run sub 3 hour marathons anymore, but I still love to run.
This really hit home with me. I don't have the money to travel but have gone to places close to home that others have gotten great photos at only to be disappointed with my photographs. I will return to these places and try going with an open mind to look for something unique this time. Thank you.
Thanks for the comment. Looking is a curious thing. It is hard to look creatively. Noticing is a better approach. Allow the landscape to guide you to your compositions.
Applies not just to photography, but to life as well.
100% - Thanks for your great insight.
I don’t think i ever learned that much on youtube then listning to Alister. It’s like it’s always been there somwhere in my brain, but woolden’d came out. Listning to you helps me a great deal. Thank you very much. I will bring my expectations for my journey to Sky in september to another level!
Really appreciate your feedback, that means a lot to me ❤️ thanks
I use to be a professional location photographer and completely familiar with the problems of having to be in a location with a preconceived brief from a client, and nothing going according to plan. In the end, I got sick of it. Now I live somewhere where I want to be, and when I walk out the door I have idea of what is going to happen - and I don’t care - I am free!
That sounds great William, I am the same, my life in creativity is more important than glorifying the landscape for my own ego.
One of the best and meaningful videos of all time. Thanks for this one!
That means a great deal, thank you
Great food for thought and I am guilty of it as well-I usually have several shots in mind wherever I go. It might be better to go with nothing in mind at all, as hard as that is!
EVERYONE suffers from this to varying degrees. I did for years, but not anymore. The last 6 years for me has just been an open mind and a curiosity to experience. I make less photos for sure, but I have a far greater time.
The antidote to suffering is Joy.Life is abundant with challenges,curve balls .If I find myself in a space in nature ,any amount or conditions,I am the fortunate one.The question for me is always am I maximally present,will I be curious ,will I be grateful for the myriad of unpredictable moments in my life,that is the ongoing practice in my art ,in my life .It is simple really .It is my choice what I choose to see in a total white out in a 7hr drive in the West Fjords ,getting lost etc .It is totally my choice what I choose to see,experience.
You’re an open mind and this is why you can feel what you do. Raw energy flows through you when you’re in nature.
@@Alister_Benn those are the sweetest words to hear💙
@@renagoodfriend-leve9443 No BS either ❤
It's so easy for me to get frustrated because the conditions aren't right or they are good but I make too many mistakes anyway. As someone who is trying to learn and gain experience, I will always find reasons to be disappointed in my photography in some way. I will likely be that way even if I were to become an elite photographer. I have learned, however, that it doesn't mean I have to be disappointed in the experience. If I remember to enjoy the pursuit of a photo as much, or more, than the end result, I cannot fail to have a great time.
It can be tough for people who are naturally driven. I feel this way with my guitar playing; always inspired bye other, better players. They seem so free compared to me. Photography is the same, a great photographer makes it look so easy...
Fantastic video, so full of insights, so far away from the nitty gritty technicalities of other TH-cam channels, thx so much for this! Reminds me of my trip last month to Provence lavender fields, 2 weeks late however for the perfect conditions, due to dry spring.... i met some people who were just there for the one and only perfect picture, very frustrated about the suboptimal conditions. I tried to make the best of it, enjoying the absolute beauty of the scenery, and looking for other opportunities nearby. Finally i ended up with some pictures far better than the classic ones i was looking for, on some very unexpected locations. ALWAYS KEEPING YOUR EYES OPEN, not limited by any fixed ideas in your head about that one pefect picture, GOLDEN RULE NUMBER ONE imho.... thx for this Alister!!
Awesome attitude ❤️❤️❤️ yeah, I’ve said it a million times, if your reason for being there is to get THE SHOT, which relies on all kinds of optimal conditions, then your setting yourself up for a bad experience. Such a waste of energy! Appreciate you..
This is such an eye opening talk. After reading some of the comments I think you’ve hit it out of the park with this video. And I also discovered that I am not alone in feeling frustrated, envious, etc. The grass isn’t always greener somewhere else, the light isn’t always perfect somewhere else, the scenes aren’t always more beautiful somewhere else, the mist doesn’t arrive on que somewhere else……
Really delighted to hear that. To be honest, I needed to get back my passion for making content on TH-cam and all I can do is make videos about what I am passionate about and on my mind. I kinda figure I worry about the same stuff as most folks, so I am really happy it hits home with you. Really appreciate the comment, thanks,
Thank you.
Hi Alistair
I watched this video yesterday and it summed up exactly how I felt about a trip I have just returned from to the Cordilleras Blanca region in Peru.
I had watched virtually every TH-cam video of the treks in the region and had a good guide book of the area. Worked out an itinerary of what I would do, upgraded my kit with new heavy duty tripod, lenses, camera body, filters, etc etc. What could go wrong I planed an easy week acclimatising In Huaraz which is just over 4000m so no problem with altitude or so I thought.
Well the first problem was after day 2, I was struck with diarrhea, that is best described as infantile Hmmmm not good. After a few days recovering I attempted a day hike but an additional 600m gain in altitude made the last steep section an impossibility.
I had hoped to do the 10 day Huayhuash Circuit but it was plainly obvious that this was not something this 72 year old could ever contemplate, so the dream photo shoot was canned.
Next was something new, an over night trek camping at around 4600m to shoot sunset, sunrise and the Milky Way. Till the day before the weather had been perfect, but luck was not on our side and as we came closer to the location the clouds began to build and by the time our evening meal was ready we were in, as you described it our ping pong ball. It was a first however for me as we awoke to find the roof of our tent covered with a few inches of snow. But we still had the dense cloud cover. We were assured by the guide that this was not normal, but due to climate change the weather patterns are far from normal or predictable any longer.
I did a few other day treks which proved something of a let down and the only trek that may make the trip worth while was the 4 day Santa Cruz trek.
Again the weather was not favourable, the normally clear blue skies had been replaced with foggy low cloud, it also started to get colder. Day 2 meant a pass of 4750m and this reduced me to a 7 step zombie, it was also very cold, snowing and very windy. It was certainly a low point in my life and my sanity at doing this was seriously questioned. It is significant that most photos now were quick grab shots with my mobile phone, the new tripod never made it out of the carry case the entire time I was away.
What have I learned, well organised treks are not ideal for photography. And future trips will be at lower elevations, canal walks or the mountains of Holland and Belgium perhaps. But certainly the more altitude friendly area of Southern Patagonia.
And finally a great video Alistair, they make great and inspiring viewing.
So sorry to hear that Steve. I've spent a lot of time above 5000m and it can be really brutal. Best laid plans of mice and men, as an old Scottish poet once wrote. I am glad you have found a sense of equanimity in the experience and it sounds like you will manage better moving forward. Kindest regards and thanks for the kind feedback.
Very nice video Alister! I was curious to watch this to give myself a bit of a reality check and hear someone else's thoughts around what I would like to do and see. What I learnt from this is I am doing more so these days than when I started in landscape photography 5 years ago (even though I have been a photographer for much longer than that). When I started I wanted to shoot certain places at certain times and get a similar or same result, I felt good when I nailed it but I felt like I was just walking in someone else's shoes in creating the same piece. Now when it comes to my photography I use social media as a way to start scouting places and seeing what else is around there, I like to look for something unique and something that has a personal connection with me rather than me thinking "I hope people will like what I have captured" and using that to reassure myself.
What I am learning is that it is way harder to actually think about creating a image, I find most of the time rushing doesn't work which is why I give myself way more time. I see these amazing places on social media and instead of me looking at the scene the artist as captured I'm looking deeper into the scene and seeing what catches my eye and how I would like to experience it.
Photography for me is more than just taking a photo it is everything involved, planning, travel, gear needed, setting up, scouting, hiking etc... if the end goal is to walk away with a photo then I think that's already putting pressure on yourself heck I've done this, but the days I get somewhere I have never been I have walked away with images I never thought I'd get and I also enjoyed every aspect. I also don't mind now if I don't get my camera out at all so long as I remember to enjoy the time there, I always think it is better being out there than in a office looking at a desktop wall paper or a image on the wall.
Another great video fella and I look forward to watching your next one! hi from Australia.
Hey, thanks so much for the time you've taken to write your insights and thought, plus the Instagram Story you recorded. It means a great deal when my work can stimulate this level of engagement and self-analysis. I appreciate you mate.
Spot on Alister! One of the most frustrating shoots of my life was in Scotland, across the Loch from Castle Kilchurn with great, late afternoon light on the Castle, a rainbow off to my right and it was raining on me! By the time the rain stopped, the light had gone. Took a few images anyway as the sunset light on the mountains behind was nice but the Castle was flat. I live in Australia so I may not get back there, But if I do...............
Ah, you've just described pretty much every day I go out!! I think this is a key question, can our relationship with those experiences be pure and valid EVEN if we miss the shot? Scottish light is so fleeting, so tenuous and brief. I've discovered the importance of making space to enjoy it rather than chasing perfection. I have too many days that I have no memory of because I was too busy fighting with my creative output than actually being present.
Thanks so much for your comment...
Great content!
Thank you for making this style of content
Glad you enjoy it!
I heard a phrase once that said "Effort is overrated in photography"..... What did they mean? Well you can spend $15k to travel to a location halfway across the planet to get a photo of a specific location. You will have put in a lot of effort for the photos produced... But the guy the person that lives 30 minutes away and goes there 4 times a week probably has many more photos of it that are more unique than yours. Simply because the fact that the person has more opportunities. So they put in less effort and came out with better photos.... Thats why your point about having realistic expectations is important. Once I accepted this, the photo trips I did take became more enjoyable, because I no longer put the pressure on myself to come away with a photo of some location that's as good as anyone else's photo of the location. Simply, I should take the best shot that I see, and enjoy the experience.
Absolutely, I’ve said this so many times. This is why I don’t run photography tours, I run retreats and workshops where the focus is on engagement, insight and growth. Surprising photographs are a byproduct of these deeper, more meaningful experiences. Appreciate your comment, thanks
I am 100% with you on this, 5mins walk from my apartment is a section of coast that is littered with large granite boulders and on the right days you get great sunrise and sunset shots. And you can manage more than 7 steps at a time :)
Well said Alister, always a pleasure! I’ve been a photographer for over 60 years now and and I love it as much as I ever did. Switched to digital in the 90’s and love it … I believe the digital age is truly the golden age of photography, it has allowed so many to reap the benefits of a wonderful pastime. I have been fortunate to have travelled to many wonderful locales, but I can honestly say, I have never gone with the expectation of wonderful photographs. I rarely look at images of an area beforehand … I love to be surprised by what I see around the next corner no matter where I am. Although photography is a huge part of my life, I love life even more!
Wonderful sentiments, I agree with you completely. Thanks so much for your comment and support
The easiest way is to live in an epic region like you !? ;-)
Seriously, this is what I call "fashion effects". This also exists in wildlife photography, and if you don't photograph a polar bear, a musk ox, or a snowy owl, you don't exist as a photographer. I'm a photographer since 20 years, I've never given in to this form of dictatorship, and I'm very happy about it.
Thank you Alister
LOL, yeah, I live half an hour from Glencoe and virtually never photograph there. ❤️ great comment, agree with you 💯
@@Alister_Benn Sacrilege ! ;-) 😂
Fantastic talk, AB! I have been awed by your recent Instagram posts, this talk has taken me to the emotional source of those great images!
Fantastic, delighted to hear that ❤️
So as someone who comes from hiking before the photography joined my journey I still find myself sometimes going for the photograph and not the adventure. I lost inspiration in for a while just upset with my work and then I was able to pull myself out and remember that it’s the journey that makes it and like you said take it as it is and enjoy the journey and then capture was drives it 🙇🏻
💯 we are our own worst enemy. It takes effort to break away from the pack and try a different, deeper, more meaningful approach. I appreciate your comment, thanks
Another mind opening video Alister. I'm still relatively new to photography and am enjoying the whole learning process. When I think I've got it down then BAM !!! I come back from an outing and find I don't like any of the photos I've taken. I use your videos to think about why my outlook on those photos were disappointing to me, Learn from it, and it usually puts me on the right track for the next outing. Thank you for your time and effort on these videos, I appreciate them.
That’s awesome, and you’re not describing anything unique in that experience; we’ve all been there, most people still are there. Only though change and some hard thinking can we elevate from there and actually grow as a creative person. I appreciate your comment
This is almost spooky, after a bit of a creative slump I've made a real comeback these last weeks. The spooky thing is that the things you're talking about in these videos is almost in perfect sync with my own thought process. One of the things that made me get out shooting again was deleting my social media accounts because I have no desire for imaginary friends, the other was to stop comparing myself to unknown photographers. When it comes comes to the issue of locations I have a super power, really poor sense of direction. I enjoy my photography the most and make my best images when I'm a bit lost. Due to me being "geographically challenged"® I can get lost within 5 km from my home without even trying hard, thus saving thousands of £ or $ 😉
LOL< thanks so much for the great comment, made me smile, but also really true. I'm delighted the video connected with you, and thanks so much for joining the forum. I am sure you'll really enjoy it and it's such a great group of creative people. Thanks again,
One thing that really jumped out at me, something you also mentioned in a reply in the forum, is that if we have multiple sources of creativity there is less chance of being frustrated. I found this to be the case for me and it made me happy.
Is it easier to be creative in Iceland than around my city? We might think so but is it true? I'm not sure...
I agree 100% that we can be inspired to be creative by visiting different habitats, environments, ecosystems, countries etc. I also believe that creativity is effectively negated and destroyed if we go there with a shopping list of images we want to make based on the vision of other people.
Yes, we can learn from that process, but it isn't creativity, and it doesn't give us the benefits of being creative.
Thanks for your comment mate, really appreciate it.
@@Alister_Benn In multiple source I was thinking also about music, writing etc..
@@pascalthiebaud I am finishing writing my latest eBook, and in it I discuss the whole concept of Creative Living and our Creative Identity. These transcend the concept of being a "photographer." I sometimes use a camera to express my creative identity. Sometimes I use a guitar, or a pen.
I've taken off work to go to places just to take pictures and have been disappointed by the weather.
I went to Skye last November, hoping to get the shots I regularly see in various places - Elgol, The Quiraing, etc. As is sometimes the case, I didn't get what I thought I would image wise, BUT equally, I never thought I'd climb the Old Man of Storr to see a sunrise, in 60mph winds, snow, hail, and rain, with 3 strangers that I met, and say "I've never felt so alive in my whole life" whilst up there. It was the experience of a lifetime and I saw the natural beaty of Skye with my own eyes. I was disappointed with my images, but only for a short while when I got home, but soon realised again that I'd actually had the experience of a lifetime. Also if it wasn't for my camera, I probably would never have gone to Skye, or several rather more local places.
This is very much the point I’m making; sure, we all love going to beautiful places, and if having a camera is a catalyst for new experiences then that’s great too
If we travel to a location with a preconceived outcome or images previously seen in a book or on social media, we have already biased our mindset and the outcome of our trip.
Whether shooting landscape or cityscape, the moment and the light will determine the potential for a meaningful image. The photographer needs the skill (their eye to see it) and the ability to use the equipment to capture that image.
💯 agree, thanks for taking the time to comment and share your thoughts
I can relate totally to this, in the trip I commented on, the shots that I am happiest with are the street scenes in the town not the mountain vistas
Develop an interest in natural history and you'll never be disappointed, wherever you go.
I'd rather see a lessor known location in amazing light that another shot of Moraine Lake in crap light. Artists want their work to be seen and appreciated and I think that's fine but creating the same shot as a million other togs will ultimately be unfulfilling even if the image becomes super popular. Create the art that inspires you firstly and if others gain enjoyment from that it's a win win.
Hey buddy, thanks for stopping by. Yeah, I have no issue with anyone doing any type of photography they want to if it brings them contentment and a feeling of satisfaction. Deeper "art" where we infuse ourselves into the work requires a far more introspective and thoughtful approach than tripod mark musical chairs!
I like to take my 100mm Macro along when I am in the field, if the conditions are crap I can always make tiny landscapes around my campsite. If it is really bad I get out my beloved banjo and scare of all wildlife and people within hearing distance (:
Haha, sounds like a great plan ❤️❤️❤️
𝖕𝖗𝖔𝖒𝖔𝖘𝖒 ✌️