We all have those moments, the ones filled with self doubt and feelings of not being good enough. I hate those feelings, they give me anxiety and just a feeling of absolutely dread...and unfortunately, I've felt those feelings far too often, especially with a hobby I love dearly - photography.
I'm not what you call a professional photographer, in fact, I'm far from it. Actually, I would classify myself lower as an amateur. I'm still learning and growing, but I know how to use my camera...and I get better every day (or at least I hope so). But, I have a downfall...I tend to compare myself to other people. I'll look at other photographer's work, mostly in my own area, and think to myself, "I'll never be that good."
Why do I do this to myself?!
First off, I'm a newbie and most of these people have been doing this work for multiple years. Secondly, why am I comparing myself to others in the first place? We all have different talents and abilities. I don't know how long they're journey was to get to where they are. They had to start from somewhere, right?!
Then comes the negative comments from other people (that aren't even about me) that are on Twitter, blogs, and Facebook...
"I don't understand why everyone with a DSLR thinks they're a photographer."
"I don't understand why everyone with a DSLR thinks they're a photographer."
"Taking a crappy picture and then editing the heck out of it doesn't make you a photographer."
To pretty much sum it up, any kind of negative comment affects me, even if it isn't about me. Where in reality I need to shake it off and be confident in my work.
The whole time I made my Facebook Fan page for my photography, I was thinking to myself..."Why are you doing this? Are you really good enough for this?"
I'm telling you, I am my own worst enemy. One thing that brings me such great joy also brings me such anxiety. For no other reason except for my own lack of confidence. One of my goals for the year is to grow my photography, not to shy away from it because I'm scared. I will overcome these thoughts if it's the last thing I do.
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3 comments:
I've been bringing myself down with negative thoughts lately too.. I compare myself to other people FAR too often, and lately it's really been getting the best of me. With photography, and everything else for that matter, there's always going to be someone out there who seems to be BETTER than you, but what's important to remember is that they all started somewhere. It takes practice, and a lot of work to get to where they are.. and you'll get there! Just don't get down, because you take amazing pictures and you still have SO much to learn! :) Chin up pretty girl!!
I hear ya, sister. I deal with this a lot too. I think the hardest part is someone not liking my work. However, we have to remember that not everyone will. But for every person who DOESN'T, there's someone who DOES! Don't be so hard on yourself! :)
I totally can relate to this post! I'm my own worst enemy and critic, which is good and bad.
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