I came up with a list of things off the top of my head why a person may be disappointed with his/her photography skills (or lack thereof, whatever the case may be). I will likely cover each of these in greater detail, whether I actually have them titled as such or cover them subtly in other articles. So here they are. Feel free to add to them, dispute them, ask for clarification or comment on them:
1. Lack of goal/purpose. What story is the photo telling?
2. Little or no technical knowledge relating to photography
3. Photos are devoid of artistic expression or appeal.
4. Photos have little or no “darkroom” attention or finesse.
5. The photos are unoriginal or possess very little personality (has this subject been photographed a million times before… from the same position/location?).
6. Amateur equipment – professional expectations
7. Professional gear – “snapshot” mentality
8. You limit yourself… you haven’t developed a sense of “seeing” artistic shots or framing good photos.
9. You are a part-time or occasional photographer.
10. Lack of passion or interest in photography. I’ve learned that “passion begets pain” in virtually any situation, hobby or profession.
11. You have interest, but don’t know where to begin.
12. Minimal computer skills of the photographer
13. You don’t believe you are in need of training, improvement or criticism. A few compliments by friends and family on your work and you think you’re good enough. In my book, when “the skills pay the bills” then you’re good enough. The ultimate compliment is a steady paycheck or a huge windfall.
14. You can’t afford necessary training. Let’s see… $1500 in camera gear… Maybe $150 in books and classes would be a good start.
15. YOU are interested and amused in YOUR work, but…
16. Technology marches on… do you?
17. There’s much more to photography than fun, cute and scenic. Expand your horizons. For instance, commercial photography is where the money is.
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