Just call youself a photographer and take the photos you like. Then when you are 80 and are going through all your photos you can conclude what your style was. 😄
@@robertlevinson9188 I’m getting use that philosophy. I got my scans back from my trip to Puerto Rico and I repeated the same mistake of under exposing some of my images. I was disappointed but I also got like 5-8 amazing photos, so I’m cool with that.
I don't know that you purposefully intend them to be, but your videos are a form of therapy to me. The relaxing meditative quality of seeing someone go through their creative process and share their philosophy, their highs and their struggles; it all just gives me a happy and warm feeling, and a deep desire to get out into the world and view it through the lens of my camera and capture moments. People will always be negative and even mean sometimes, it is sadly the world we live in, but I hope you know that your work effects a lot of people in ways that are deeper and more inspirational than the negative commenters realize. So thank you Faizal and please keep up the amazing work!
wow, that's one of the nicest things I've read on here in a long time. It really means a lot to me that you find so much value in what I make. Thank you so so much!
Well put. As I watched this video, my first thought was "WTF would he ask the Internet for constructive criticism?" because there are too many with no basis who will be so negative for reasons unknown to me. Most of the "criticism" offered will not be constructive. Then I thought "I really like Faizal's work and his videos are such a gentle path along his way and he shares that with us." I'm right there with you, Brandon.
To be brutally honest from a photographer myself.... your content, voiceovers and photographs are extremely inspiring to myself and my family. I can't speak of others inhumane comments, other than being extremely humorous that people that hide behind a screen that do not put themselves out in the world as you do on UA-cam, they find it ultimately fearless to dictate a response through their unhinged comments that most probably they know nothing about which is photography. Your sense of sensibility and feelings dictated through your photography, your videos and voiceovers are a blessing in disguise which I believe truly motivates 99% of us in being better photographers. Me and my family are proud of your work, your photography, your direction, and your help in pushing us in our own direction in finding ourselves and our own voice in our own photographic journey. Keep up the honest and obsessively artistic work you do that inspires us all. Great work and keep it up!!
I began doing "photography" with a Kodak Instamatic when I was ~10. I'm now 71 with health and balance challenges, so these days I use a walking stick and mostly do "shoot from the hip street photography" with a wide angle lens - something I'd never done before. The way I look at it, I'll always be "in the middle" of my photographic journey.
Gosh I am the same. 71 years. I enjoy taking landscapes, pets, wildlife, old buildings and some street photos even though I live in a small town. Harder and harder to get around. I can not decide what camera system to use. I shot Nikon for decades from film to DSLR. I then picked up a Canon ML, RF system. Now I am missing my old Nikon gear and debating to sell all of my new mirrorless gear. I know it is not all about the gear. Just trying to figure out still what is comfortable and makes me want to go out and shoot more. No one cares but me about my photos anymore so I am shooting for myself and like a good pair of shoes I want to enjoy the photos I make and the enjoyment of making them. Style, what style and who really cares.
Hey! I’m 67, I’ve just closed forty years of commercial photography and I’m STILL trying to figure it out! That’s the fun part. Don’t let it frustrate you, embrace it :D
It's still your style, even if it's so different, it's yours, it's really what we see is life, and it's also as different as our photos, life doesn't have the same genre or style, it's always different, every second. Thank you Faizal, you just do what you love, we artists do what we love!
❤I feel the same way, all the time - constantly trying to figure out what "my thing" is, but this helped me feel like my thing is just creating, and it doesn't need to be any more specific than that.
I always love your videos. You were one of the initial inspirations that got me into photography as a hobby. Thank you for what you do to encourage us all.
I was just having this conversation with myself the other day! "What is my style?"... Thank you for sharing this video with us as I am sure it resonates with so many photographers.
Thank you for doing what you do (and to continue doing it), your videos have never ceased to be an inspiration or a therapeutic break from the chaos of the world. After a while, it's the feeling that you photos and videos evoke, and my God it's peacefully amazing.
I'm a hobbyst and photography makes me feel so so good but, sometimes, I feel insecure about it or forget about why i do it at all. Your essays videos always help me to reconect and rediscover this "medicine" that we call photography. thanks ✨
Beautiful, love how you describe photography as medicine. It is truly my medicine, or a very addictive drug that frees my mind from stress and gives me a chance to create, discover and document life as I see it. I’m 54 and just discovered the world of photography. Sometimes I don’t know whether I love learning about photography or actually doing photography. All I can say is that I’m very proud of being part of this beautiful community of artists… young, and not so young ☮️🌵
WTF did I just watch? The color grading, the style. All was so beautifully retro but still had the modern quality. I. Just. Love. it. Also I think your pictures are absolutely fantastic and I hope I can someday shoot ones that are just half as good. For the haters: Its OK to not like things, it's OK to share criticism but why the rude tone and the hate? Keep going man, you're doing strong! Greetings from Germany.
Thank you for this video! I read the article that it was featured in and thought I needed to pay attention to this. I'm new here and will continue to take photos for myself. 💜
Woah, I was taken aback by that photo at 7:15. Just listening, thinking about focal length choices, and then that popped up and shook me. Such a great amount of mystery and confusion about what's happening and how the shot was even taken (I still don't know). If you had that as a print, I would buy it.
There are not only different styles in photography, but also in youtubers.. you are the social kind that likes to introduce himself in the videos and a lot of people are not looking for informative vids but for exactly that. So please keep on doing what you do. You are on the right track! Also almost 250k subscibers are nothing to complain about ;) Keep shooting!
Art is as much about the process as it is about the product. it is as much about individual expression as it is about communal appreciation. Keep being you!
Subscribed and tuning in brother. I'm in with your journey. Love your works and I get it- people will always have something unpleasant to say. I get that a lot too. People taking criticism often see that as an end point (or at least just a point) where you kind of like pause and evaluate yourself. As instinctive as it may be, I always embrace it and take it as I continue and I use it not to ever doubt myself but to give myself a better reflection of which way to go. Cheers!
I've been following your photography and your channel for quite a while now and honestly, i feel somewhat opposite in regards of you not having a particular style. I've always had this impression that you have a certain style that i recognize whenever your post pops up in my instagram feed. The way you play with reflections, that abstract feel with human elements in them. I really love them. You inspire me a lot. Thank you for the all the good work!
Thank you this video, I am in the same predicament.. went from macro to abstract to street to candied family shoots, now I figure I’ll just do whatever catches my attention for the moment, and hopefully something sticks. Thanks for your insight.
I love your artwork Faizel, you are the reason I decided to pick up a camera and try photography. It is now a new love of mine and I thank you for that. You have an incredible perspective, keep up the good work.
I'm 28 and hearing that you don't need everything figured out at 27 made me feel much more comfortable with what I don't know. I needed that. Your photography is great and your videos are the ones I enjoy the most when covering photography, thank you!
Always love watching your videos. It’s a form of relaxation after a long days work. Thank you. You deserve to hear great things. Like your photographs.
Great topic to cover and continue to explore and talk about. I find it especially relevant here in the NYC community that a lot of our peers are "struggling" with the same questions of style and perception from other photographers. I think about how much my photography style and interest have changed over the last 8 or so years of shooting but the thing that remained consistent is my love for it. So I think coming to terms with being in the middle of the journey and not the end is the best perspective to have. Sorry for the rant lol
Thank you for this video. I found out if I put photos on Instagram, there is a desire to see positive reaction. But in the end, you really making photos for yourself and for those you love. It’s an expression of art and that expression may be loved or maybe ignored. I love that this video resonates that we are all in the middle and we can never know when the end of our journey will be. As someone who is much older, but very new to photography, my hope is you always feel free to explore new formats, medium, locations, etc.
Lovely video and amazing shots. You're leagues above me! That last scene resonated with me as someone also 27... we should enjoy the journey and enjoy being in the middle! As long as we take decent photos that's all that matters!
So beautifully raw and very well articulated, thank you. I have similar feelings about my own work, and you have definitely helped me to gain more perspective. The statement you made at the end about being only 27 hit me the hardest, yet gave me even more perspective. I have been shooting for 11 years, yet didn’t start street until about 2020. I am now 59 and your comments have allowed me to double down on my own thoughts, and they are to relax and enjoy my processes, no matter which way they lead, because whilst I’m not super old, I ain’t young, and life just needs to be appreciated for what it is. ✌️
I'm 41 and have been working as a photographer for the last 15 years. Had a tough professional setback, and thus currently in a "sh*t I'm still average and uninspired" phase. I'm in Tokyo right now, supposedly to travel for fun and to get away from it all for a while, but I'm too focused on getting my shots in, and as a result I've not been enjoying myself the last couple of days. UA-cam suggested this video at the exact right time. Tomorrow I'm going to chill and just do what I like. Thanks man.
Really great topic and speaks to everything I’m feeling about my own work. Thanks for the reminder that we aren’t alone in this and that it’s ok to be “in the middle” (even though I’m 50, I was a late starter). Keep it up and don’t worry about the haters 👌🏻👌🏻
Thanks for making this video. I can really relate to your journey. Like you, I feel like I'm in the middle, but I lean more towards the documentary side since I primarily use the GR III. I didn’t go to art school either, and I used to care more about what people at work said. But now, I don’t let it bother me much-just enough to keep me thinking. Keep doing what you’re doing!
Just started my journey in photography. I’m grateful for the confirmation that I don’t need to worry about it and just shoot anything and everything for a while. That’s what I’m doing and I’ve been learning so much. Great video. Thanks for mentioning it!
I think that everyone has their own personal style that adds depth and soul to photos. You have defined the chaotic, messy, wonderful way to capture the world around you, exactly as you see it. Keep going❤
Thanks for sharing your journey. It's inspirational. When I feel stuck, I just try my best to get myself out the door with my camera and know (hopefully) something good will come of it.
Good for you, that you feel that way. I'm happy not to be a pro with a distinctive style. I don't want photography to be my main income. I don't desire fame or finding the style that defines me. I find it restrictive. Everyone expecting you to do this one specific thing they know you for, and you having to follow it. Doing different kinds of photography, always playing and trying new things is what keeps it being fun for me. I'm in my fourties, had been playing with cameras since I can remember. Never had a burnout and still do it purely for the love of it. If someone is willing to pay me to do it on my terms, I'm more than happy to accept the job, and it's a pure joy to work that way. Be yourself and don't care about people's expectations. You'll never please them all, no matter how famous or unique you'll become.
Well done, Faizal! I'm 58 this week and ive been photographing seriously for now for 35 years and I cant tell you what my style is... only that it makes sense to me and it remains open enough to still allow me to discover where it is I'm headed to. I've been based in Japan since 1983, so the next time you're in country do please reach out! Keep putting one foot in front of the other... All the very best to you!
Look, since i am not a professional photographer (i actually don't make any money from my camera, just spending...) i never asked myself about my photographic style. In my first steps i did that as a hobby (or better, a pastime). I used to take my big old DSLR with its big old lenses, my big old tripod and went out for the weekend shooting golden and blue hour landscapes. The pandemic years (and other personal matters like marriage and parenthood in the meantime) had a transformative impact on my "style" though. I started to get interested for the mundane things and the common daily activities of people. I sold my old big camera stuff and made the transition to Sony mirrorless system (an a7C and an a6000) with basically two prime lenses a 50mm on the full frame and a 23mm (aka 35mm equivalent) on my APS-C. Image quality doesn't matter for me, both are great cameras, and the only reason i picked a full frame body is for some night time shooting (generally my main camera is the a6000 because its smaller). I love to shoot and edit a "documentary" way or "vernacular". Even my landscape captures nowadays have a documentarian character rather than a visual oriented composition. And i am happy! The last touch of happiness is the printing. Every month, i am picking one of my favorite photos and send it for print i A3 size on fine art paper, so i have a selection of 12 good quality prints every year.
I’m 70 & have felt “in the middle” most of my life. My photography evolves/devolves all the time. Sometimes I feel like I’m progressing; most of the time I feel pretty haphazard. But learning & experimenting is what Life is all about- even in this love/hate relationship with photography. Keep doing what you’re doing. I always learn something every time I watch your videos. Your honesty about the journey of your Life in Protography is precious to hold onto.
Great video! I've also wrestled with sticking to one subject vs just photographing what I find interesting so it was super encouraging to see your video.
You think you're stuck in the middle at 27? Look at me, stuck at the bottom at 55 😂 Now seriously, your videos and photos are a huge inspiration for me to take my camera and create images. And your channel is not in the middle, is at the TOP, number 1 of my UA-cam subscription list. Thank you Faizal
Ok I just found your video an I’m starting photography class and I’m very excited, I like your style and how you do you , your not doing it for attention. Very inspired THANK YOU !
You're 27 and stuck in the middle? - I'm 58 and still stuck in the middle. I see folks that pigeonhole themselves into one style. They always use the same LUT and keep with the same look. The problem is that everyone knows their style and every photo looks the same. They get a lot of views and likes on instagram but aesthetically they've turned into McDonalds....not for me. I'll continue to muddle in the middle trying out different styles and shift between film and digital and keep enjoying what I'm doing. You have a ton to offer - the point is to continue and do it with your own voice.
This perfectly encapsulates my feelings. I am not "art-trained" or a professional by any means, and only picked up photography 6 months ago. The pressure to consistenly upload good photos and having an aesthetic theme paralyses me sometimes, and I was hopping between so many "styles", cause I find myself stuck in the middle too. Recently bought a 50mm lens and shot it on my first day, but was so discouraged by the shots, I wondered if it was even the right decision. But then I happened to chance upon this video immediately after, which gave me the encouragement and advice I needed to hear, and I can't wait to see where my camera and lens takes me.
Commenting for the algorithm and to say thanks for always inspiring me to get out and shoot! I have become a lot more experimental in my street shooting thanks in large part to your videos, and that’s been a lot of fun to explore. Keep making amazing photos and amazing content. Cheers.
Been following you for quite some time, and since the beginning I've always had the same thought "This is the standard where I wanna be" your works are amazing & will always support you brother. You do you
For some reason, you just know when to post what, according to where i am in my life. Your yt videos and photography is something that to me is therapeutic. Be it the visuals, voice overs, music, everything as a whole is beautiful. You keep inspiring and keeping me sane and hopeful that it is possible. Thank you Faizal, for keeping people’s hopes alive around the world, specially mine.
Bravo!!! I find your videos very inspiring from both a photographic and a personal point of view. If you are in the middle you can evolve. This is what matters most. Keep going!!
Your videos are always so inspiring and relatable. I can really connect with the feelings you describe in this video, and it's so refreshing to see someone being so open and honest. Keep creating and sharing your insights, I look forward to seeing more from you in the future!
This video was immensely inspiring. Inspiring to shoot, to have ideas, to fail and to try again. I've found myself trying to "force" out a style out of me in an attempt to match the people I admire on YT/IG. but, as your video reminds me, It's a journey and I'm not there yet. A style is not something we can really force, it will be something that flows through your work when you've matured as a photographer. Even if it's "your style" you're merely a passenger along the story/style that will be conveyed through you. Thank you for the reminder to be patient, and to spend this time learning and loving the art. For when the time comes and your style calls upon you, you will be ready. Cheers mate.
This video was so relatable. In addition, your photography, videography, and most of all storytelling is truly encapsulating. Been subscribed to you for quite some time and watching your growth not just in art but in life (perceptions and wisdom) without articulating the hardships of your journey you eloquently deliver master pieces that which is Faizal. Thank you so much for your courage and sharing your gift. Truly truly magnificent work.
Great vid. A real open heart view on photography. I've been an (amateur) photographer for about 40 years but, after a hiatus of a few years, have been reinvigorated. I used to do a lot of travel photography concentrating on places rather than people and interesting objects. I am trying to reinvent my journey as a photographer with "street photography". Your candid views on your own journey are very helpful. The world is full of competitive arseholes. Ignore the negativity. Big hugs and carry on the good work.
Thanks for making a video like this. There are times I look at my photos and feel like I am not displaying myself as a photographer with a specific style. I go back and forth trying to change it and ultimately end up getting put back in the middle of two styles. I’ve just gone ahead and rolled with it since it seems there’s no point in fighting it, if I’m actually enjoying what I capture. ❤
Faizal you were one of the first youtubers that inspired me to take photos. After watching your videos, I've always felt I've learned a little bit more about myself and photography. This video made me question "do i even have a style?"... maybe I do, or maybe I'm trying to hard to fit into one category, but when It comes down to it, I just enjoy capturing and documenting what I like regardless of anyone's input. Keep doing what you're doing, you are an inspiration mate.
Haters only exist because of their own frustration of not being able to do things the way you do and in most cases, they don't even try to do anything, they just stay in their chairs and complain. They never accomplished anything even remotely close to what you have and probably don't have the courage to pick up a camera and take even a single picture. Evolving and finding your own personal style means going out and shooting everything and failure is inevitable. But what's important is to learn from those mistakes and grow. Keep up this amazing work, you're truly inspiring!
Bro ... I did the ChatGPT trend a week ago and it roasted my feed pretty hard and it got me a little insecure about my "style" of photography (as an amateur photographer), which I didn't expect to feel. It got me thinking about whether I should "pick a lane" and stick with that instead of being a "jack of all trades" styled photographer. This video is so helpful and relieving for a guy like me...thanks for making it and sharing your thoughts so openly Faizal! You're a gem to the photography community.
I love your work, Fizal. Haters are insecure about people doing things differently because they thought they figured it all out. Don't let them dissuade you from your own journey. I have been following this channel for over two years, and it has always been inspiring. Keep doing what your heart and feelings bring you to. Thank you for the love and work you put out there!
The bottom line is that many people lack the empathy to contribute positively to a community. I've met some great photographers who, frankly, can be pretty awful humans. They might seem approachable at first, but eventually, their true colors show. I understand the feeling of lacking a particular style. But instead of worrying about it, I've embraced this ambiguity and focused on letting my photos speak for themselves. I want them to convey a feeling or emotion to the viewer, regardless of whether someone looks at my work and says, "Yeah, that's definitely you." Honestly, I’m not sure that would always be a good thing anyway. In the end, isn't it more about the subject matter and how it's photographed? What a photo manages to say matters more than the photographer behind the lens. The photographer’s influence seeps into every shot, whether we recognize it or not.
Just wanna leave a bit of my comment here: The phrase: "what interest you today, may not be same as what interest you a year ago, and there's a good chance it won't be the same a year from now" reallt struck me. It make me realize i'm not a constant variable, that i still, will be, and always changing, for the rest of my life. It relieves me.
For this reason, is why I call my photography urban I think that covers all bases. If I photograph a building that think has character, urban decay & renewal or repurposing or if I'm lucky to get a face with character. it all falls under the same umbrella! That is why I choose B&W most fo the time.
This helped me. I have had this thought in my head as well. I personally LOVE street photography, automotive photography, portraits of individuals and families. I couldn't help but notice that my online pages consisted of just a randomized set of photos. I like to explore photo recipes, different editing moods, and temperatures. seeing largely following IG pages, they seem to focus and specialize in one area of photography. Chat GPT would have roasted me in the same way. I never let it bother me, but I can't help but notice that fact frequently. Hearing you too have the same though oddly helped me bring more peace to those thoughts. Thanks
You taught me so much about photography over the years, and it empowered me to teach myself how to shoot different styles. So grateful to you and this channel ❤
i think social media def took a hard hit on being a photographer and just enjoying what you do, i got off social media and its been very freeing to just shoot and share with my other photography friends without the likes or comments. ive been told i dont have a style either but i think thats what makes things more special. your videos always inspire me and theres always something to take away from them. thank you for that.
Your photography work aside, I can definitely tell a Faizal UA-cam video when I see and hear one, and they always inspire, enlighten, calm, and teach. Keep experimenting, trying new cameras, and breaking your own rules. The only people who are stuck in the middle are those trapped by their own style, dogmatically devoted to a single camera brand, hating on anyone who deviates from their narrow definition of a genre.
Really great video, don't let the negative comments affect you too much, just carry on doing what you enjoy doing. I started photography because I wanted to get outside of the house, and DRTV videos showed how much fun it can be. Some people suggested to me to make living out of it, but I do it for the fun for the enjoyment. I don't want pressure on myself for doing my hobby. To be honest I think your videos are quite therapeutic and helps to slow things down. You don't try to sell things or being overly excited over something you are trying to sell. You are sharing your experiences with the world. Keep it up.
Really enjoyed this video! It’s so reassuring to know that not having a defined style is totally normal, especially when you’re still exploring your creative journey. I also don’t have a particular photography style-I just enjoy taking photos. What is photography anyway? It's art, and everyone should be free to express themselves however they want! Thanks for the insight and encouragement! Keep doing what you love, your passion shines through your work. Don’t let the negativity get you down-your creativity is inspiring!
There are people who create and people who react. Without the former, the latter do nothing. You have some videos that are better than others, of course, but several of them have motivated me a lot and helped me improve my photography. I am very grateful to you.
I feel that i am where you are now, at my 40´s, but i even don´t take photography as a job but only as a hobby. I think photography is a way of expression, a way to see life, a way to show others how you see the world. We, as photographers, shouldn´t explain ourselves, that's the beauty of it and you only get better by shooting, there is no loses. Keep up with your passion, and keep on share it if you want, people like me will appreciate it. Thank you in advance Faizal for inspiring us to take the camera out!!
20 years don’t have one and never wanted one. Having a style for me is just restrictive. And having your work recognized by your style seems horrifying for me. Doesn’t mean it’s bad, just bad for me.
I’ve been shooting for almost 10 years, and I would like to say I still don’t have a style. But as of recent, it’s eating at me. But, I’m grateful to feel a way about because now, I can DO SOMETHING about it. I’ve always appreciated your work but this may be my favorite video of yours yet. Thank you sir.
You’re doing an amazing job! It takes a lot of courage to put yourself out there and share your passion with the world, especially at just 27. Keep pushing forward and believing in yourself-you have so much potential ahead. Your dedication and bravery are truly inspiring, and I’m excited to see where this journey takes you. Keep going, you’ve got this! 🌟
Great video man! Joel Mayerwitz was always a huge inspiration in this way. 35mm street, large format black and white portraits, beach landscapes, documentary (Sept 11th)…he did it all and he did it well and it it looks like him because it came from his heart.
As a retired senior, I have no "genre". Just got back from a brief vacation where I shot landscape, vineyards, tried my hand at sunsets & crashing waves (surprisingly turned out better than I planned) my trip on a ferry boat both ways to & from an island in the middle of Lake Erie, birds, small cafes ,photographed a lighthouse that I used to land on every 2 weeks in my coast guard (Canadian) younger years (many decades ago )& so on. Rekindled many fond memories.It's just great to get out with the camera, therapy in a sense i suppose. Keep the videos coming Faisal !
Dear Faizal, thank you for your clear thoughts about this "problem", I feel very similar nowadays, and it is good to know I am not alone. Keep going! 👍👏
Honestly, your channel is something I constantly come back to when in need of some artistic therapy. I've worked as a graphic designer for 10 years and take photos as a hobby, and this feels all too familiar in both realms. I thinks the artists struggle is constantly batteling imposter syndrome and trying to figure out who you are. Happy to see other comments where people have seasoned a lot more and still struggle with the same things. Guess it doesn't get any better with time.
This was quite enjoyable. My social media photography profiles refer to myself as - “A devoted anti-stylist”. It is accurate and true to how I see my purpose for owning cameras and walking the streets and alleys. Thank you, Faisal.
Thats my new favorite video, couldn’t explain better all my feelings about how I document my life and how I face street protography, Im proud of myself for never giving up and now I know I am not alone 📸
Just call youself a photographer and take the photos you like. Then when you are 80 and are going through all your photos you can conclude what your style was. 😄
@@theronsan lmao! I agree!
I’m now 80, still on the streets, very happy with 1 or 2 meaningful shots per roll. Good enough.
@@robertlevinson9188 I’m getting use that philosophy. I got my scans back from my trip to Puerto Rico and I repeated the same mistake of under exposing some of my images. I was disappointed but I also got like 5-8 amazing photos, so I’m cool with that.
@@robertlevinson9188 per roll? i'd love that ratio!
Agreed
I don't know that you purposefully intend them to be, but your videos are a form of therapy to me. The relaxing meditative quality of seeing someone go through their creative process and share their philosophy, their highs and their struggles; it all just gives me a happy and warm feeling, and a deep desire to get out into the world and view it through the lens of my camera and capture moments. People will always be negative and even mean sometimes, it is sadly the world we live in, but I hope you know that your work effects a lot of people in ways that are deeper and more inspirational than the negative commenters realize. So thank you Faizal and please keep up the amazing work!
What he said!
wow, that's one of the nicest things I've read on here in a long time. It really means a lot to me that you find so much value in what I make. Thank you so so much!
Well put. As I watched this video, my first thought was "WTF would he ask the Internet for constructive criticism?" because there are too many with no basis who will be so negative for reasons unknown to me. Most of the "criticism" offered will not be constructive.
Then I thought "I really like Faizal's work and his videos are such a gentle path along his way and he shares that with us."
I'm right there with you, Brandon.
Amen
on the same page here. Keep going Faizal ✌
To be brutally honest from a photographer myself.... your content, voiceovers and photographs are extremely inspiring to myself and my family. I can't speak of others inhumane comments, other than being extremely humorous that people that hide behind a screen that do not put themselves out in the world as you do on UA-cam, they find it ultimately fearless to dictate a response through their unhinged comments that most probably they know nothing about which is photography. Your sense of sensibility and feelings dictated through your photography, your videos and voiceovers are a blessing in disguise which I believe truly motivates 99% of us in being better photographers. Me and my family are proud of your work, your photography, your direction, and your help in pushing us in our own direction in finding ourselves and our own voice in our own photographic journey. Keep up the honest and obsessively artistic work you do that inspires us all. Great work and keep it up!!
Thank you so much for your kind words !!
I began doing "photography" with a Kodak Instamatic when I was ~10. I'm now 71 with health and balance challenges, so these days I use a walking stick and mostly do "shoot from the hip street photography" with a wide angle lens - something I'd never done before. The way I look at it, I'll always be "in the middle" of my photographic journey.
Gosh I am the same. 71 years. I enjoy taking landscapes, pets, wildlife, old buildings and some street photos even though I live in a small town. Harder and harder to get around. I can not decide what camera system to use. I shot Nikon for decades from film to DSLR. I then picked up a Canon ML, RF system. Now I am missing my old Nikon gear and debating to sell all of my new mirrorless gear. I know it is not all about the gear. Just trying to figure out still what is comfortable and makes me want to go out and shoot more. No one cares but me about my photos anymore so I am shooting for myself and like a good pair of shoes I want to enjoy the photos I make and the enjoyment of making them. Style, what style and who really cares.
Hey! I’m 67, I’ve just closed forty years of commercial photography and I’m STILL trying to figure it out! That’s the fun part. Don’t let it frustrate you, embrace it :D
It's still your style, even if it's so different, it's yours, it's really what we see is life, and it's also as different as our photos, life doesn't have the same genre or style, it's always different, every second. Thank you Faizal, you just do what you love, we artists do what we love!
I’m 63 and I still haven’t worked things out, welcome to no man’s land, I send you my greetings…
❤I feel the same way, all the time - constantly trying to figure out what "my thing" is, but this helped me feel like my thing is just creating, and it doesn't need to be any more specific than that.
I just photograph what I deem strikes me. Love you channel and photographic philosophy. Keep up the inspiring work.
I always love your videos. You were one of the initial inspirations that got me into photography as a hobby. Thank you for what you do to encourage us all.
I was just having this conversation with myself the other day! "What is my style?"... Thank you for sharing this video with us as I am sure it resonates with so many photographers.
Thank you for doing what you do (and to continue doing it), your videos have never ceased to be an inspiration or a therapeutic break from the chaos of the world. After a while, it's the feeling that you photos and videos evoke, and my God it's peacefully amazing.
I'm a hobbyst and photography makes me feel so so good but, sometimes, I feel insecure about it or forget about why i do it at all. Your essays videos always help me to reconect and rediscover this "medicine" that we call photography. thanks ✨
Beautiful, love how you describe photography as medicine. It is truly my medicine, or a very addictive drug that frees my mind from stress and gives me a chance to create, discover and document life as I see it. I’m 54 and just discovered the world of photography.
Sometimes I don’t know whether I love learning about photography or actually doing photography. All I can say is that I’m very proud of being part of this beautiful community of artists… young, and not so young ☮️🌵
@@patrickminor8541 Welcome, thank you for being part of the great photography comunity ;)
Thanks man.. I needed this. Not just the photography aspect of it but life as well.
WTF did I just watch? The color grading, the style. All was so beautifully retro but still had the modern quality. I. Just. Love. it. Also I think your pictures are absolutely fantastic and I hope I can someday shoot ones that are just half as good. For the haters: Its OK to not like things, it's OK to share criticism but why the rude tone and the hate? Keep going man, you're doing strong! Greetings from Germany.
Thank you for this video! I read the article that it was featured in and thought I needed to pay attention to this. I'm new here and will continue to take photos for myself. 💜
Woah, I was taken aback by that photo at 7:15. Just listening, thinking about focal length choices, and then that popped up and shook me. Such a great amount of mystery and confusion about what's happening and how the shot was even taken (I still don't know). If you had that as a print, I would buy it.
There are not only different styles in photography, but also in youtubers.. you are the social kind that likes to introduce himself in the videos and a lot of people are not looking for informative vids but for exactly that. So please keep on doing what you do. You are on the right track! Also almost 250k subscibers are nothing to complain about ;)
Keep shooting!
Art is as much about the process as it is about the product. it is as much about individual expression as it is about communal appreciation. Keep being you!
Subscribed and tuning in brother. I'm in with your journey. Love your works and I get it- people will always have something unpleasant to say. I get that a lot too. People taking criticism often see that as an end point (or at least just a point) where you kind of like pause and evaluate yourself. As instinctive as it may be, I always embrace it and take it as I continue and I use it not to ever doubt myself but to give myself a better reflection of which way to go. Cheers!
I've been following your photography and your channel for quite a while now and honestly, i feel somewhat opposite in regards of you not having a particular style. I've always had this impression that you have a certain style that i recognize whenever your post pops up in my instagram feed. The way you play with reflections, that abstract feel with human elements in them. I really love them. You inspire me a lot. Thank you for the all the good work!
Thank you this video, I am in the same predicament.. went from macro to abstract to street to candied family shoots, now I figure I’ll just do whatever catches my attention for the moment, and hopefully something sticks. Thanks for your insight.
I love your artwork Faizel, you are the reason I decided to pick up a camera and try photography. It is now a new love of mine and I thank you for that. You have an incredible perspective, keep up the good work.
I'm 28 and hearing that you don't need everything figured out at 27 made me feel much more comfortable with what I don't know. I needed that. Your photography is great and your videos are the ones I enjoy the most when covering photography, thank you!
Always love watching your videos. It’s a form of relaxation after a long days work. Thank you. You deserve to hear great things. Like your photographs.
Great topic to cover and continue to explore and talk about. I find it especially relevant here in the NYC community that a lot of our peers are "struggling" with the same questions of style and perception from other photographers. I think about how much my photography style and interest have changed over the last 8 or so years of shooting but the thing that remained consistent is my love for it. So I think coming to terms with being in the middle of the journey and not the end is the best perspective to have. Sorry for the rant lol
Thank you for this video. I found out if I put photos on Instagram, there is a desire to see positive reaction. But in the end, you really making photos for yourself and for those you love. It’s an expression of art and that expression may be loved or maybe ignored. I love that this video resonates that we are all in the middle and we can never know when the end of our journey will be. As someone who is much older, but very new to photography, my hope is you always feel free to explore new formats, medium, locations, etc.
Thanks for sharing your thought on your photography. I really like your channel - so real, so sincere. Keep up the great work!
wonderful video, an amazing feeling go for a walk take photos, trying to show everyone how you look at the world. it's the therapy that we enjoy.
Lovely video and amazing shots. You're leagues above me! That last scene resonated with me as someone also 27... we should enjoy the journey and enjoy being in the middle! As long as we take decent photos that's all that matters!
So beautifully raw and very well articulated, thank you.
I have similar feelings about my own work, and you have definitely helped me to gain more perspective.
The statement you made at the end about being only 27 hit me the hardest, yet gave me even more perspective.
I have been shooting for 11 years, yet didn’t start street until about 2020.
I am now 59 and your comments have allowed me to double down on my own thoughts, and they are to relax and enjoy my processes, no matter which way they lead, because whilst I’m not super old, I ain’t young, and life just needs to be appreciated for what it is. ✌️
I'm 41 and have been working as a photographer for the last 15 years. Had a tough professional setback, and thus currently in a "sh*t I'm still average and uninspired" phase. I'm in Tokyo right now, supposedly to travel for fun and to get away from it all for a while, but I'm too focused on getting my shots in, and as a result I've not been enjoying myself the last couple of days. UA-cam suggested this video at the exact right time. Tomorrow I'm going to chill and just do what I like. Thanks man.
Really great topic and speaks to everything I’m feeling about my own work. Thanks for the reminder that we aren’t alone in this and that it’s ok to be “in the middle” (even though I’m 50, I was a late starter). Keep it up and don’t worry about the haters 👌🏻👌🏻
Thanks for making this video. I can really relate to your journey. Like you, I feel like I'm in the middle, but I lean more towards the documentary side since I primarily use the GR III. I didn’t go to art school either, and I used to care more about what people at work said. But now, I don’t let it bother me much-just enough to keep me thinking. Keep doing what you’re doing!
Just started my journey in photography. I’m grateful for the confirmation that I don’t need to worry about it and just shoot anything and everything for a while. That’s what I’m doing and I’ve been learning so much. Great video. Thanks for mentioning it!
I think that everyone has their own personal style that adds depth and soul to photos. You have defined the chaotic, messy, wonderful way to capture the world around you, exactly as you see it. Keep going❤
Thanks for sharing your journey. It's inspirational. When I feel stuck, I just try my best to get myself out the door with my camera and know (hopefully) something good will come of it.
At 27, you will realize that you are at the beginning and not in the middle. Keep on inspiring, learning and discovering! Love your work!
Good for you, that you feel that way.
I'm happy not to be a pro with a distinctive style.
I don't want photography to be my main income. I don't desire fame or finding the style that defines me.
I find it restrictive. Everyone expecting you to do this one specific thing they know you for, and you having to follow it.
Doing different kinds of photography, always playing and trying new things is what keeps it being fun for me.
I'm in my fourties, had been playing with cameras since I can remember. Never had a burnout and still do it purely for the love of it.
If someone is willing to pay me to do it on my terms, I'm more than happy to accept the job, and it's a pure joy to work that way.
Be yourself and don't care about people's expectations. You'll never please them all, no matter how famous or unique you'll become.
After watching a number of photos over the years, I can say you are both an artist in the truest sense and a beautiful person.
Well done, Faizal! I'm 58 this week and ive been photographing seriously for now for 35 years and I cant tell you what my style is... only that it makes sense to me and it remains open enough to still allow me to discover where it is I'm headed to. I've been based in Japan since 1983, so the next time you're in country do please reach out! Keep putting one foot in front of the other... All the very best to you!
Look, since i am not a professional photographer (i actually don't make any money from my camera, just spending...) i never asked myself about my photographic style. In my first steps i did that as a hobby (or better, a pastime). I used to take my big old DSLR with its big old lenses, my big old tripod and went out for the weekend shooting golden and blue hour landscapes. The pandemic years (and other personal matters like marriage and parenthood in the meantime) had a transformative impact on my "style" though. I started to get interested for the mundane things and the common daily activities of people. I sold my old big camera stuff and made the transition to Sony mirrorless system (an a7C and an a6000) with basically two prime lenses a 50mm on the full frame and a 23mm (aka 35mm equivalent) on my APS-C. Image quality doesn't matter for me, both are great cameras, and the only reason i picked a full frame body is for some night time shooting (generally my main camera is the a6000 because its smaller). I love to shoot and edit a "documentary" way or "vernacular". Even my landscape captures nowadays have a documentarian character rather than a visual oriented composition. And i am happy! The last touch of happiness is the printing. Every month, i am picking one of my favorite photos and send it for print i A3 size on fine art paper, so i have a selection of 12 good quality prints every year.
I’m 70 & have felt “in the middle” most of my life. My photography evolves/devolves all the time. Sometimes I feel like I’m progressing; most of the time I feel pretty haphazard. But learning & experimenting is what Life is all about- even in this love/hate relationship with photography. Keep doing what you’re doing. I always learn something every time I watch your videos. Your honesty about the journey of your Life in Protography is precious to hold onto.
Great video! I've also wrestled with sticking to one subject vs just photographing what I find interesting so it was super encouraging to see your video.
Such a great video mate ! I love the idea of the journey, I feels like a good artist will never end his journey, always evolving, creating new things.
You think you're stuck in the middle at 27? Look at me, stuck at the bottom at 55 😂 Now seriously, your videos and photos are a huge inspiration for me to take my camera and create images. And your channel is not in the middle, is at the TOP, number 1 of my UA-cam subscription list. Thank you Faizal
Ok I just found your video an I’m starting photography class and I’m very excited, I like your style and how you do you , your not doing it for attention. Very inspired THANK YOU !
Awesome message, fantastic journey. Keep doing your thing. You’re doing great!
You're 27 and stuck in the middle? - I'm 58 and still stuck in the middle. I see folks that pigeonhole themselves into one style. They always use the same LUT and keep with the same look. The problem is that everyone knows their style and every photo looks the same. They get a lot of views and likes on instagram but aesthetically they've turned into McDonalds....not for me. I'll continue to muddle in the middle trying out different styles and shift between film and digital and keep enjoying what I'm doing. You have a ton to offer - the point is to continue and do it with your own voice.
This perfectly encapsulates my feelings.
I am not "art-trained" or a professional by any means, and only picked up photography 6 months ago. The pressure to consistenly upload good photos and having an aesthetic theme paralyses me sometimes, and I was hopping between so many "styles", cause I find myself stuck in the middle too.
Recently bought a 50mm lens and shot it on my first day, but was so discouraged by the shots, I wondered if it was even the right decision. But then I happened to chance upon this video immediately after, which gave me the encouragement and advice I needed to hear, and I can't wait to see where my camera and lens takes me.
Commenting for the algorithm and to say thanks for always inspiring me to get out and shoot! I have become a lot more experimental in my street shooting thanks in large part to your videos, and that’s been a lot of fun to explore. Keep making amazing photos and amazing content. Cheers.
I love more and more your videos dude ! Thank you for sharing your thoughts of your journey
Loved this video Faizal. Great to hear your opinion on this topic with honesty and vulnerability. Very inspiring and motivating as usual. Thank you.
such a sweet video. perspective is everything & that last shot displays that very well.
Been following you for quite some time, and since the beginning I've always had the same thought "This is the standard where I wanna be" your works are amazing & will always support you brother. You do you
I just watched the most beautiful video I have seen in a long time. Thanks.
For some reason, you just know when to post what, according to where i am in my life. Your yt videos and photography is something that to me is therapeutic. Be it the visuals, voice overs, music, everything as a whole is beautiful. You keep inspiring and keeping me sane and hopeful that it is possible. Thank you Faizal, for keeping people’s hopes alive around the world, specially mine.
Bravo!!! I find your videos very inspiring from both a photographic and a personal point of view. If you are in the middle you can evolve. This is what matters most. Keep going!!
Your videos are always so inspiring and relatable. I can really connect with the feelings you describe in this video, and it's so refreshing to see someone being so open and honest. Keep creating and sharing your insights, I look forward to seeing more from you in the future!
This video was immensely inspiring. Inspiring to shoot, to have ideas, to fail and to try again. I've found myself trying to "force" out a style out of me in an attempt to match the people I admire on YT/IG. but, as your video reminds me, It's a journey and I'm not there yet. A style is not something we can really force, it will be something that flows through your work when you've matured as a photographer. Even if it's "your style" you're merely a passenger along the story/style that will be conveyed through you. Thank you for the reminder to be patient, and to spend this time learning and loving the art. For when the time comes and your style calls upon you, you will be ready. Cheers mate.
Thank you for this. Currently struggling with this but now ima just do me!
I love your work! Please keep going!
Wow amazing words and perspective on this. Thank you, this honestly changed my outlook on my photos as well.
This video was so relatable. In addition, your photography, videography, and most of all storytelling is truly encapsulating. Been subscribed to you for quite some time and watching your growth not just in art but in life (perceptions and wisdom) without articulating the hardships of your journey you eloquently deliver master pieces that which is Faizal. Thank you so much for your courage and sharing your gift. Truly truly magnificent work.
Great vid. A real open heart view on photography. I've been an (amateur) photographer for about 40 years but, after a hiatus of a few years, have been reinvigorated. I used to do a lot of travel photography concentrating on places rather than people and interesting objects. I am trying to reinvent my journey as a photographer with "street photography". Your candid views on your own journey are very helpful. The world is full of competitive arseholes. Ignore the negativity. Big hugs and carry on the good work.
Thanks for making a video like this. There are times I look at my photos and feel like I am not displaying myself as a photographer with a specific style. I go back and forth trying to change it and ultimately end up getting put back in the middle of two styles. I’ve just gone ahead and rolled with it since it seems there’s no point in fighting it, if I’m actually enjoying what I capture. ❤
your videos give such huge inspiration for my photogty path, thank you!!
Faizal you were one of the first youtubers that inspired me to take photos. After watching your videos, I've always felt I've learned a little bit more about myself and photography. This video made me question "do i even have a style?"... maybe I do, or maybe I'm trying to hard to fit into one category, but when It comes down to it, I just enjoy capturing and documenting what I like regardless of anyone's input. Keep doing what you're doing, you are an inspiration mate.
Haters only exist because of their own frustration of not being able to do things the way you do and in most cases, they don't even try to do anything, they just stay in their chairs and complain. They never accomplished anything even remotely close to what you have and probably don't have the courage to pick up a camera and take even a single picture. Evolving and finding your own personal style means going out and shooting everything and failure is inevitable. But what's important is to learn from those mistakes and grow. Keep up this amazing work, you're truly inspiring!
Bro ...
I did the ChatGPT trend a week ago and it roasted my feed pretty hard and it got me a little insecure about my "style" of photography (as an amateur photographer), which I didn't expect to feel. It got me thinking about whether I should "pick a lane" and stick with that instead of being a "jack of all trades" styled photographer.
This video is so helpful and relieving for a guy like me...thanks for making it and sharing your thoughts so openly Faizal! You're a gem to the photography community.
I love your work, Fizal. Haters are insecure about people doing things differently because they thought they figured it all out. Don't let them dissuade you from your own journey. I have been following this channel for over two years, and it has always been inspiring. Keep doing what your heart and feelings bring you to. Thank you for the love and work you put out there!
The bottom line is that many people lack the empathy to contribute positively to a community. I've met some great photographers who, frankly, can be pretty awful humans. They might seem approachable at first, but eventually, their true colors show.
I understand the feeling of lacking a particular style. But instead of worrying about it, I've embraced this ambiguity and focused on letting my photos speak for themselves. I want them to convey a feeling or emotion to the viewer, regardless of whether someone looks at my work and says, "Yeah, that's definitely you." Honestly, I’m not sure that would always be a good thing anyway.
In the end, isn't it more about the subject matter and how it's photographed? What a photo manages to say matters more than the photographer behind the lens. The photographer’s influence seeps into every shot, whether we recognize it or not.
Just wanna leave a bit of my comment here:
The phrase: "what interest you today, may not be same as what interest you a year ago, and there's a good chance it won't be the same a year from now" reallt struck me. It make me realize i'm not a constant variable, that i still, will be, and always changing, for the rest of my life. It relieves me.
For this reason, is why I call my photography urban I think that covers all bases. If I photograph a building that think has character, urban decay & renewal or repurposing or if I'm lucky to get a face with character. it all falls under the same umbrella! That is why I choose B&W most fo the time.
At this point in time, this is the video i needed to see the most. Thanks Faizal
This helped me. I have had this thought in my head as well. I personally LOVE street photography, automotive photography, portraits of individuals and families. I couldn't help but notice that my online pages consisted of just a randomized set of photos.
I like to explore photo recipes, different editing moods, and temperatures. seeing largely following IG pages, they seem to focus and specialize in one area of photography. Chat GPT would have roasted me in the same way.
I never let it bother me, but I can't help but notice that fact frequently. Hearing you too have the same though oddly helped me bring more peace to those thoughts.
Thanks
Absolutely fantastic. I relate to almost everything you said INCREDIBLY strongly, right down to the preference for a 50mm!
You taught me so much about photography over the years, and it empowered me to teach myself how to shoot different styles. So grateful to you and this channel ❤
i think social media def took a hard hit on being a photographer and just enjoying what you do, i got off social media and its been very freeing to just shoot and share with my other photography friends without the likes or comments. ive been told i dont have a style either but i think thats what makes things more special. your videos always inspire me and theres always something to take away from them. thank you for that.
Your photography work aside, I can definitely tell a Faizal UA-cam video when I see and hear one, and they always inspire, enlighten, calm, and teach. Keep experimenting, trying new cameras, and breaking your own rules. The only people who are stuck in the middle are those trapped by their own style, dogmatically devoted to a single camera brand, hating on anyone who deviates from their narrow definition of a genre.
Really great video, don't let the negative comments affect you too much, just carry on doing what you enjoy doing. I started photography because I wanted to get outside of the house, and DRTV videos showed how much fun it can be. Some people suggested to me to make living out of it, but I do it for the fun for the enjoyment. I don't want pressure on myself for doing my hobby. To be honest I think your videos are quite therapeutic and helps to slow things down. You don't try to sell things or being overly excited over something you are trying to sell. You are sharing your experiences with the world. Keep it up.
A beautiful, unique, and insightful take. Thank you. I’m going to sub right now.
This ending gave me literal tears in my eyes because it's not only photography what this is about
Thank you so much for this video!
Really enjoyed this video! It’s so reassuring to know that not having a defined style is totally normal, especially when you’re still exploring your creative journey. I also don’t have a particular photography style-I just enjoy taking photos. What is photography anyway? It's art, and everyone should be free to express themselves however they want!
Thanks for the insight and encouragement!
Keep doing what you love, your passion shines through your work. Don’t let the negativity get you down-your creativity is inspiring!
There are people who create and people who react. Without the former, the latter do nothing. You have some videos that are better than others, of course, but several of them have motivated me a lot and helped me improve my photography. I am very grateful to you.
I feel that i am where you are now, at my 40´s, but i even don´t take photography as a job but only as a hobby. I think photography is a way of expression, a way to see life, a way to show others how you see the world. We, as photographers, shouldn´t explain ourselves, that's the beauty of it and you only get better by shooting, there is no loses. Keep up with your passion, and keep on share it if you want, people like me will appreciate it. Thank you in advance Faizal for inspiring us to take the camera out!!
20 years don’t have one and never wanted one. Having a style for me is just restrictive. And having your work recognized by your style seems horrifying for me. Doesn’t mean it’s bad, just bad for me.
I totally agree, then it just becomes “predictable” 🤔 when people can recognize ur work.
Loved it, felt it.
Thanks Faizal
I’ve been shooting for almost 10 years, and I would like to say I still don’t have a style. But as of recent, it’s eating at me. But, I’m grateful to feel a way about because now, I can DO SOMETHING about it. I’ve always appreciated your work but this may be my favorite video of yours yet. Thank you sir.
Style or no style, keep doing what you are doing! It’s inspirational and educational to me. Uniquely Faizal!
You’re doing an amazing job! It takes a lot of courage to put yourself out there and share your passion with the world, especially at just 27. Keep pushing forward and believing in yourself-you have so much potential ahead. Your dedication and bravery are truly inspiring, and I’m excited to see where this journey takes you. Keep going, you’ve got this! 🌟
Great video man! Joel Mayerwitz was always a huge inspiration in this way. 35mm street, large format black and white portraits, beach landscapes, documentary (Sept 11th)…he did it all and he did it well and it it looks like him because it came from his heart.
As a retired senior, I have no "genre". Just got back from a brief vacation where I shot landscape, vineyards, tried my hand at sunsets & crashing waves (surprisingly turned out better than I planned) my trip on a ferry boat both ways to & from an island in the middle of Lake Erie, birds, small cafes ,photographed a lighthouse that I used to land on every 2 weeks in my coast guard (Canadian) younger years (many decades ago )& so on. Rekindled many fond memories.It's just great to get out with the camera, therapy in a sense i suppose. Keep the videos coming Faisal !
Dear Faizal, thank you for your clear thoughts about this "problem", I feel very similar nowadays, and it is good to know I am not alone. Keep going! 👍👏
I truly agree with other reviewers. Your photography is like a therapy and also inspiring. Keep posting more
Thank you!
Love it great content, very inspiring, so fascinating for such young (& fresh ) mind .
Honestly, your channel is something I constantly come back to when in need of some artistic therapy. I've worked as a graphic designer for 10 years and take photos as a hobby, and this feels all too familiar in both realms. I thinks the artists struggle is constantly batteling imposter syndrome and trying to figure out who you are. Happy to see other comments where people have seasoned a lot more and still struggle with the same things. Guess it doesn't get any better with time.
This was quite enjoyable. My social media photography profiles refer to myself as - “A devoted anti-stylist”. It is accurate and true to how I see my purpose for owning cameras and walking the streets and alleys. Thank you, Faisal.
Thats my new favorite video, couldn’t explain better all my feelings about how I document my life and how I face street protography, Im proud of myself for never giving up and now I know I am not alone 📸
Feel the same way, this topic sometimes takes all my thoughts! Thank you for this video!