Comments on: 18 Tips for Being a Photography Original

By: Mark Mcgowan

Mark Mcgowan — Wed, 09 Jun 2010 15:49:24 +0000

Interesting tips - like most people, I find the tip about sharing your techniques the most contentious.

If nobody ever shared their knowledge, then the progression of photography would halt but if you've got some sort of secret that makes your images stand massively apart from the crowd, then what is the incentive to make everyone's images look like yours? It's a fine balance and one I've spent a lot of time thinking about.

Great article either which way!

Mark

By: Amanda Hill

Amanda Hill — Wed, 09 Jun 2010 15:05:10 +0000

Interesting post. I do agree with most points, but I think we as photographers should always showcase our best work, as long as it is specifically targeted.

By: Paul Conrad

Paul Conrad — Sun, 24 Jan 2010 01:42:15 +0000

Thanks for the tips.

In today's market, you must have something that can stand out. Mostly I think that's creativity.

By: Andrea

Andrea — Tue, 15 Sep 2009 15:45:41 +0000

I probably needed to read this list. The tip about the iphone is probably the one I need the most at the moment.

I think sharing your techniques and your images with your peers is a tricky area to navigate well. But there's a risk in being too secretive as there is a risk in being too open. When you share you often find you get more back than you give out. But if you've got an edge somewhere, then that you probably need to keep hush about. On the other hand, if you give out nothing, then you are not going to get much back and will miss opportunities.

By: Tyler Olson

Tyler Olson — Thu, 10 Sep 2009 13:03:26 +0000

re: number 15

I agree that a computer is a terrible distraction but it is also a great tool for socializing. Like myself many photographers are self employed which means working a lot alone. It is pretty great to be able so socialize with peers with a similar job, something I simply don't have in the small town I live in.

Considering this is a blog, isn't post 15 a bit of an oxymoron?

By: Shannon Hudnell

Shannon Hudnell — Wed, 02 Sep 2009 23:35:01 +0000

Great tips! I feel strongly about #13. I have taken some of my best shots with pocket sized cameras. It's not about the equipment; it's the vision!

By: Gary Crabbe / Enlightened Images

Gary Crabbe / Enlightened Images — Thu, 27 Aug 2009 00:29:30 +0000

Great List; but not sure if I can agree with #16; It seems to me that from a portfolio standpoint you need to be showing your best work to Potential clients, not just your 'actual' clients.

By: Tony Blei

Tony Blei — Wed, 26 Aug 2009 18:24:12 +0000

If you ask, I probably will tell you how I shot something because it will lead to further discussion — and you might tell me of a better way. And besides, how you do things will be reflective of your style (and not mine).

I stopped asking others what they thought of my work long ago. Sure, I want you to like it, but for the most part, shoot things for yourself -- your way. Be a leader and others will follow. This is a great blog on taking that leadership role.

By: Martine

Martine — Wed, 26 Aug 2009 14:27:56 +0000

I believe in #3 a lot

By: Marcin Retecki

Marcin Retecki — Tue, 25 Aug 2009 14:54:35 +0000

There are some really good advices in here. I especially agree with "DON’T focus on equipment" and "DON’T ask for the opinion of other photographers ". I tried it and it's always true. Most photographers won't tell you anything, unless they're your really good friends you can count on.

By: Ovidiu Bastea

Ovidiu Bastea — Tue, 25 Aug 2009 13:34:43 +0000

I really like the 3rd one! is what I believe in.

By: Denver Portrait Photographer

Denver Portrait Photographer — Mon, 24 Aug 2009 22:30:07 +0000

Interesting thoughts. I think that sharing your ideas can be a good think. I think creating a walkthrough of your exact process is bad. You're basically publishing a how to copy you book, but if you only post a general overview, then you get other people interested in your photography. At least that's my take on things.

By: Kellie

Kellie — Mon, 24 Aug 2009 14:21:34 +0000

Thanks.