Being a professional photographer is a dream job for many, but it comes with its unique set of challenges and frustrations. Here, we dive into some common annoyances that photographers face, providing insights from industry professionals to shed light on the less glamorous aspects of the photography world.
Image Copying and Plagiarism
Image copying and plagiarism are serious issues in the photography community. Photographers put immense effort into creating their unique shots, only to find their work being copied and, sometimes, awarded. This not only affects their professional integrity but also discourages creative expression. The industry’s lackluster response to such unethical practices adds to the frustration, as it fails to adequately protect the rights and originality of photographers.
Seeking Approval and Industry Contacts
Photographers often encounter peers who constantly seek approval for their shots or beg for industry contacts. This constant need for validation can be draining, as it diverts focus from one’s own work. Moreover, sharing contacts and connections is a sensitive issue. Photographers believe that each professional should build their network through their efforts, fostering a healthier, more independent industry environment.
Genre Snobbery and Exaggerated Bios
The photography community is not immune to genre snobbery, where certain types of photography are looked down upon. This attitude undermines the skills and efforts of photographers in those genres. Additionally, exaggerated bios, where photographers or models inflate their credentials, create an unrealistic and often misleading portrayal of their experience and capabilities. This not only sets false expectations but also devalues the authenticity of genuine professionals.
Gear Shaming
Gear shaming is another pervasive issue, where photographers are judged based on the equipment they use. The belief that better gear equates to better photography is misguided. True skill lies in the photographer’s ability to use whatever tools they have effectively. This toxic culture discourages beginners and perpetuates a superficial understanding of the craft, where the focus should instead be on skill and creativity.
Asking for the Lighting Setup
Many photographers are often bombarded with questions about their lighting setup. While it’s natural to be curious, repeatedly asking about specific lighting setups can be annoying. Photography is as much about intuition and creativity as it is about technical setups. Some photographers set their lights by feeling rather than following strict rules, and constantly being asked for setups can feel like an undermining of their creative process.
Unsolicited Critiques and Advice
Photographers frequently receive unsolicited critiques and advice, often from individuals who lack professional experience. While constructive criticism can be valuable, uninvited opinions, especially from non-professionals, can be frustrating. It’s important for critics to understand the context and creative vision behind a photograph before offering their input.
Client Misunderstandings
Another common frustration is dealing with clients who have a very specific but often uncommunicated vision of what they want. This can lead to misunderstandings and dissatisfaction when the final product doesn’t match the client’s mental image. Clear communication and the use of mood boards can help, but it remains a challenging aspect of professional photography.
People Shooting Over Their Shoulder
One of the most infuriating experiences for photographers is when people shoot over their shoulder during a commercial shoot. This often happens when others try to capture the same shot, leading to potential plagiarism and the devaluation of the photographer’s unique vision. The annoyance stems from instances where others have copied their work and claimed equal talent, undermining the photographer’s hard-earned reputation.
Buying Memory Cards, Hard Drives, and Handling Backups
Despite being essential, purchasing memory cards and hard drives is a mundane and often overlooked task that photographers dread. These items are crucial for storing and backing up photos, yet the process of buying and managing them is tedious and unexciting. Backup procedures, while necessary, add another layer of monotony to a photographer’s workflow, making it one of the less enjoyable parts of the job.
Conclusion
Photography is a fulfilling and creative profession, but it is not without its frustrations. From dealing with plagiarism to the tediousness of managing gear and backups, photographers face numerous challenges that can dampen their passion. By understanding these issues and fostering a more supportive and ethical community, we can help photographers continue to thrive and produce the beautiful work that inspires us all.
Despite these frustrations, the artistic and emotional rewards of photography far outweigh the challenges. If you’re interested in seeing more of my work, feel free to visit my portfolio. I’m always happy to connect with new clients and collaborators, so if you have a project in mind, don’t hesitate to reach out!
Wilson Santos 