The WORST Street Photography Advice
Street photography can be one of the most liberating and enjoyable forms of creative expression. But there’s advice floating around that can turn it into a chore rather than a passion.
1. The Bad Advice: “Shoot Even When You Don’t Feel Like It”
Some say you should force yourself to go out and photograph daily, even when you’re uninspired. This mentality can quickly lead to burnout.
“Who wants to go out there and self-flagellate, forcing creativity?”
2. Why This Advice Fails
- Kills Joy and Creativity
Photography should be about fun, curiosity, and discovery. Treating it like a grind can strip away the joy. - Creativity Requires Authenticity
When you don’t feel like shooting, your work can come across as forced, lacking the spontaneity that makes street photography special.
“Only photograph when you feel like it.”
3. Trends and Pressures
- The Trap of Trends
Following trends, like the resurgence of film photography, can sometimes feel more like an obligation than a creative choice.
“Why subject yourself to grueling processes for the sake of trends?”
4. The Alternative: Photograph with Joy
- Embrace Spontaneity
Let your intuition guide you. Photography should be about exploration and satisfaction, not forced output. - Focus on Quality Moments
You’ll produce better work when you’re genuinely in the mood to create.
Conclusion
Forget the hustle mentality. Street photography isn’t about grinding through uninspired days. It’s about capturing life in its most authentic moments—when it excites and moves you.
“Photographing should be joyful, not obligatory.”