Your videos are almost always applicable to life in general, not just creative endeavors. It's honestly like receiving a mini-sermon when I watch your videos. Sean's Sermons from the Sofa. A sermon that fills me with knowledge and empowerment, a sermon that speaks not just to the mind, but to the soul. As always, you are amazing. I am grateful to you for putting yourself out there because, if nothing else were to ever come from it, know that at least one person (myself) has been bettered by it. I hope and pray that you continue to gain success after success and that no matter what, you never stop being you. Good, honest, genuine people are hard to find on social media. They're hard to find in life, really. And I'm thankful that you are one of those people.
That is the same analogy that I have mentally made as well. Your time in the church has obviously made a difference in how you listen, see and speak. I enjoy listening to your talks even if they have nothing to do with my style or subject in photography, yet your explaination of the process continually enlightens me. Carry on, my teacher.
Adam MacKintosh Photo Agree on all points. My own self-critic, too. But it’s good to have this video for those who do face trolls, and who knows, one day I might, too.
Great video Sean, I forwarded it a friend who’s daughters work is subject to some particular nasty trolls. It’s really affecting her creativity, hopefully she can take something from this, thanks Sean 👍
Our photography club banned competitions and replaced it with evaluations. Evenings where members bring their work and we collectively and constructively provide feedback. This process is so much more rewarding.
I think criticism is itself a skill, and one that very few people are good at. But those that are have the ability to teach while making someone feel positive.
This made me feel me confident. I have had my work torn apart. Once it seemed after the person realised I was a woman. I stopped going to a camera club because of it. I was upset as I only joined to have interactions with like minded people. This person liked my work and then met me... Suddenly it was trashed. Brutally. This has reminded me I am allowed to walk away especially as this person never submitted their work
I feel like I'm watching one of those "Masterclass" videos every time I see your work. Always thought-provoking and genuine. You have a real gift.... and I'm not even speaking to your talent as a photographer. Thank you for these Sean. You never fail to inspire.
I love the point: trolls are basically hoping and craving for your reply! It's a great reminder that attention is their primary objective. Ignore and block is the best medicine! Love it.
Such an honest and genuine reflection on OUR CREATIVE NEED for honest and genuine criticism is a breath of fresh air... a real testament to reflective and sincere discussion in the arts. Thank you.
In the beginning, I started with a lot of technical videos on photography. Many about gear, more than seven about "7 things to avoid". Just like in school, I learned the basics of mathematics, but never learned what to do with it. Your videos are about what to do with it. Love it !
I love youre videos. Anton Ego (Ratatouille) : In many ways, the work of a critic is easy. We risk very little, yet enjoy a position over those who offer up their work and their selves to our judgment. We thrive on negative criticism, which is fun to write and to read. But the bitter truth we critics must face, is that in the grand scheme of things, the average piece of junk is probably more meaningful than our criticism designating it so. But there are times when a critic truly risks something, and that is in the discovery and defense of the *new*. The world is often unkind to new talent, new creations. The new needs friends...
Photography is sadly mainly a man Hobby and i never felt the toxicity of comments I get from male photographers coming from women. I never feed the trolls, and i respect the rule not caring about brainless hate, but when you say you never see a talented troll, i must admit that for me some trolls are very talented at making you feel like shit using the right words that make you really feel bad about your image.
There are good reasons some of us adopt an avatar and alias online and it's a habit worth maintaining. However, giving feedback when I really like an image, or making suggestions when something might be tried, is enjoyable and worthwhile. Slating something I dislike isn't. Thoughtful content as ever, Sean; much appreciated.
Deal with this: your work on UA-cam is fantastic, when u talk I feel that is a friend talking with me... I totally connect with every word u say! You're a real influencer dude!
This is not just your ordinary photography tutorial channel but also a great counseling and soul enlightening channel for every photographers out there who are struggling with negative people around them. Thank you so much for this Sir sean!
Fiona, your videos have brought tears to my eyes and touched on a nerve with me that both hurt and was healed by your voice. I love your photos and your lovely presence. Peace to you always.
It's Sunday morning and I've just sat down in your church to hear words that touch hearts and bring a peace to souls that need it today. Thanks for a wonderfully well done video and thoughts to remember as we travel through our day. Peace and love be with you
While I certainly appreciate the technical instruction I've gotten from your videos, hearing your mindset and attitudes is far and away my favorite part of your channel. Yours is the only photography channel I follow that regularly addresses the psychological aspects of photography, for pros and hobbyists alike. Much love from this aspiring shooter in Ohio.
I keep coming back to your videos, they hold a great value for me dealry Really appreicate the great effort you put in them to give us advice and guide us through
Hands down the best video I have watched on UA-cam. “You will never find a talented troll” I’m proud to have countryman like You in the internet. Thank you for well thought out and executed videos like these.
The strength of your videos is the way you convey yourself so succinctly and honestly! Your points on the difference between criticism/ critiques and trolls is very much valid. I have had difficulty even with well intended criticism, because it requires a critic with talent to get to the “why”, why is one piece of work strong or not. I think that “why” has to come from a place of understanding and as you said... the place of understanding can only come from spending time with the person seeking feedback. I belong to a camera club, and once a month we have competition nights where a local professional photographer comes around to judge our work both in open and themed categories. Theme feedback is generally more useful than the open category because the judge has some context on which to base their critiques. But even then, they only have 3 hours to look at work from 20 or so different photographers. It’s not easy to get anything truly meaningful from that, though it is good fun and I’ve made some amazing friendships through our club. So my point is if you truly need / want feedback then find someone who is willing to spend time with your work and gain an understanding of what you’re trying to achieve... and that requires that you know what it is you’re trying to achieve. The navigator is useless if the captain doesn’t have a destination in mind.
Criticism is often a great opportunity to become a better artist, to be better if it is taken with a distant reaction (not so emotionally). I know it and others probably too. I want to push forward with photography, feeling already critically to my own work, arguing with myself if it is worth putting on the internet. Thank you for this video, Sean. Speaking this out loud, so these things finally reach to the head of a newbie like me. :D
"When it's most painful, is when we know it's most true" - really facing this one in life right now. Thank you for the video Sean, they're always appreciated.
Thank you for this. I have started taking pictures of people for about three months. I'm normally a nature photographer. For about 6 years. But now I want to keep growing. I got alot of crap for me growing. Lol!
Excellent video Sean. I am a member of a camera club and enter competitions. Although not perfect but helps you to learn and experience critics I also have learnt to like my images and accept that not everyone is going to like them. Sadly there are people on line who have nothing kind or positive to say. Please don’t let people to hurt you or change the direction of your art.
Creativity is an act of bravery. It states: i am willing to risk ridicule and failure so that i may experience this day with newness and freshness. The person who dares to create, to break boundaries, not only partakes of a miracle, but also comes to realize that in her process of being she is a miracle. Joseph Zinker, 1977
I love your philosophical videos, they are always thought-provoking, I never shy away from constructive criticism, but have learned from my 22 years as a police officer (now thankfully retired) that there is always someone who thinks they know better than you!
Thanks for another video about photography that transcends the medium. As a scientist who “grew up” attending face-to-face scientific meetings where (often junior) trainees would nervously present their hard-earned results in front of senior established experts, I quickly came to despise the ones who would crucify the junior trainees for the perceived weaknesses in their work. Then, early in my career at a small meeting, I kept seeing the same guy get up to ask questions. His comments were always insightful - I would hear them and think “that’s what I was thinking!” At the end, the junior presenter would learn something important, and leave the stage under the impression they had thought of the idea themselves. It wasn’t about the ego of the questioner - it was all about the content. I left that meeting, as a junior investigator myself, thinking that it would be wonderful to work in the presence of that scholar. Through incredible good luck, that came to pass some 7 years later. It transformed my career and my life, and I’ve tried to pass that positive approach to junior people in the same way, ever since. Great mentors set the example that others admire.
as a photographer Ive learned a lot from consecutive criticism .. but its important to find the right space to get it.. I belong to a number of Facebook groups , most are heartless & have no soul but there are a few that have genuine creatives who want to both learn for themselves & help others advance there creativity ..
I never thought that watching your videos would help me so much info many levels, photography, philosophy, life in general. Thank u so much for putting "food" for thought everytime on my mind. 🙂
Thank you for this, Sean. I've been off social media completely for a few years, and having just watched this (8 months behind the curve, I'm afraid), I find I'm reconsidering my digital abstinence. Please keep creating content like this, This is the reason I subscribed and "joined". You are a rare find, sir. Cheers!
It is a fragile line between wanting affirmation and seeking critique. I create so much I no longer self critique as I am emotionally involved in my creations. Camera club and FB critique groups for me and the occasional image published or sold and IG (theimagenius) for my friends and kindred spirits. Thanks for supporting all creatives and allaying some folks self-doubt.
I’m am always blown away by your videos. Profound and I will definitely share this. Your words ring true and I wish more would understand this process.
I just recently subscribed to your channel. You are always thoughtful and helpful as a human being and a down to earth photographer. I enjoyed your introductory video...great scenes and rich colours.
I stumbled on this looking for food or object photo learning and was drawn in by the title. My photography is mediocre, but I can learn. I put nothing on line. On the topic; the simplest summary I heard was that “It’s easy to look taller by standing on someone else’s head”. - and your videos are amongst the most strikingly and beautifully lit I’ve ever seen. Phil Atkinson
I'm thankfully too small to warrant Trolling but that's definitely great advice. Back in the days we used to suffer bullying which warranted a similar approach, Trolls are just bullies that don't need to front up but bullies just the same. I have to admit though I am less restrained than you and was back in the old days, perhaps not a good thing to admit but that's life. Last word, sage advice from a wise man, well done.
Hi Sean I first watched this when you first released it and I enjoyed it. I shared it with my son yesterday. A young man of 24- who is finding his way as a poet and just started posting in March 2020. He had a nasty comment yesterday and was very upset. We watched this video together and it really helped him a lot. He also learned some presentation styles from you- as he has been experimenting with showing text as he recites. No matter how much insight a parent can give, we just don't have the currency. So thanks again. All the best. Julie
Excellent vlog Sean, so important to have boundaries, and conversely take constructive criticism when appropriate, though that does need to be made in a thoughtful and polite way.
Very seldom will I enjoy a video where someone is just talking, but Sean, you are always so well spoken and willing to offer food for thought that I am unable to tell you how much I enjoy your posts. Thank you.
Great video, I'm starting my own channel and releasing some videos. I've been doing photography for over 10 years but never really considered youtube as an outlet for my images until now. Understanding what are and how trolls behave is always a great way to deal with them. I'm not afraid of critics, I have a good amount of years in the creative arena since I'm a graduate designer and have been working in the animation industry a long time, and critics are the only thing you can be certain of. But once you start getting armchair criticism about your personal and most cherished work is when it gets uncomfortable. I look out to my peers to review my images to create a better body of work, that is my ultimate goal. Thanks Sean!
Again, a truly superb video. Your content goes deep under the surface which is sort of unique here on YT. Keep it going Sean and thanks very much for sharing your thoughts and emotions.
After watching this (another) brilliant video offering, I just had to chime in and say thank you. Your work in the world contributes so much positivity in the collective.
I need a mentor like this in my photography, I'm ready to take criticism and learn from it to better my skills in what I love. Being criticized will make you better.
Thanks; another quality video. Your example of Mark Kermode is good: he encapsulates the true critic for me. At my time of life (late 60s) I find that I just don't have the time to engage in communication with negativity, cruelty, and obnoxious arrogance; my days are too precious.
Well said...i’ve been guilty of becoming negative sometimes. After watching this, i went to fb and deleted two posts that had a slight negative tinge that made me feel bad. I don’t want to get drawn into this stuff any more. I’ve been debating deleting Insta and fb, and just doing youtube and a website. Thanks for sharing this. It’s difficult for the sensitive-types (aka, me) to jump into publishing content online. It’s a challenge to ignore people at times. We’re all social creatures...
I ditched Facebook about a year ago and feel so much better for it. I found the environment really unpleasant, and not just the comments on my photographs, but on other's work too.
Sean, I appreciate the thoughtful way you deliver your points. You're rigorous in your research and are careful to bring good sources to provide context. It all contributes to something enjoyable to watch and I generally need to think about them afterward. Thanks for sharing your ideas.
The block button is the internet equivalent of the lock on the door of your house, it keeps people you don't want out and protects your space. Great video and one I am going to share with members of a beginners photography group I help out with. Thank you.
Excellent teaching Sean. Much appreciated. :-) You gave us some wonderful quotes (which I captured to my Notes), but I think this one is great also: "Most people leaving mindlessly negative comments on your work are only doing it for the attention, and giving it to them is way too generous." -Sean Tucker
Thank you Sean, thank you 🙏🏻 I wish you made more content ‘cause their all so thought through and mindful. But then again I know that good content takes time to create. I love your balance of the background music, the dim lighting, and your straight to the point voice. Again, thank you for a good thought through video.
When I think of criticism I think of some of my favorite filmmakers. I know that I will never reach their level of genius or mastery. Yet, for those same filmmakers, I know many people that would consider their work boring or pretentious. Even the greatest artists of all time have a lot of people that hate their work. So it teaches me that I can stop being so hard on myself!
Just discovered this channel and if this is typical of the content then it is a happy discovery. Very much agree with your comments Sean. In particular the futility of attempting a real debate. I've been naive enough to try and learnt the error of my ways as a result.
This couldn't have come at a better time. I've been a victim to armchair critics recently. And you're right, the time can be better spent on continuing work. It's bothered me lately, but after watching this, I feel like I did the right thing by ignoring them. So thank you so much!
Another outstanding video Sean.Thank you. I will share something that my then 20 year old daughter, at the outset of her acting career, said to me after I read the rave reviews of her performance as a member of Madison Shakespeare Company: "If I believe those, I also have to believe the negative ones." It has become a mantra for her father as a photographer. Brilliant work thanks for taking the time and energy to produce these videos.
I really enjoyed this video in particular. Its a very enlightened and straightforward approach to dealing with both constructive criticism as well as bullies and trolls. Well done and thank you.
Hey Sean ... as I told you I'm a beginner, I love photography, at least that fire is all the way up for almost 6 months...and I have a day job...so when I start to send my pictures to a couple of friends... everyone love them...(hmmm) I don't have many friends not at all on FAKEBOOK...maybe 50... on Instagram even less, so I ask them be honest...than they came back to much color,to much... and so and so ....I didn't change but I tried to adjust a little bit... but I still do it the way I like.... So your video really, really help me...Thank you so much.. and please keep making this videos... Thank you so very much
Many thanks for this empowering video. I didn't see a block option but there was an option "hide from channel" which probably does the same thing. The delete button was tempting, but they could post again and that would be bad. I had three of these to delete from my channel, and they all had baseless negativity at their root. Thanks for the assist! Just knowing I don't have to give these folks airtime on my channel is empowering.
Sean, this is such a wonderful talk and it is so applicable to youngsters and students as well. I wish I could give you a kazillion likes. I can see clearly how wonderful your previous years of training and studies how the fine golden line is coming through this talk and you are a master with words, spreading a positive word. You keep me inspired to push on, through and past the fluff going around on social media. Keep on your amazing work. Groete Annelien
I'm sure you put a heap of research and time into the structure of your videos and it's not a one take rant but you're so talented at communicating and delivering your messages around a topic. Your quotes are fantastic demonstrating the depth you go into your topics. This was great discussion! It's hard to find constructive criticism, social media is a fast paced consumption platform by design. I do try to slow down when scrolling through my feeds and when I stop to comment I try to say what I love about images in more detail than "great light/picture". Be the change you want to see is what I think of when I'm commenting. I also need to post more, I consume a lot but I'd add more value if I practiced photography more.
Another excellent video. Most of the comments ring true for many other environments of the internet, especially social media. The characteristics of trolls and "rude" people that Sean presented seem universal across the internet and is a reason that I generally do not read the comments or engage in online "discussions." I do however, enjoy the "conversations" that I get from Sean's videos.
As I got more invested in my photography I joined a couple of groups where we post and critique each others’ images. These were “no holds barred” critiques and I found them to be painful but also highly valuable. They taught me a lot about little things like avoiding distractions at the edge of the frame, watching for sight variations from level and white-point/black-point. But after that, I found these groups to be less useful because of their intense focus on the technical aspects of an image. Because we are peers who, for the most part, are amateurs/hobbyists, there was not a lot of useful critique of higher level elements like composition or emotion. (Note: each of these groups do have a few highly skilled artists whose criticisms are valuable- but still very subjective). I recommend joining these types of groups as it helps to thicken your skin in a safe and (mostly) friendly environment.
I've also gotten a lot of help from photography groups. It has been helpful to have someplace to ask for CC. I do take everything with a grain of salt though and I also look at the person's work that is giving me CC.
Thanks Sean another great video. I know from experience how hurtful people can be and because I was really low and depressed at the time through health issues and the pain of loss of saying goodbye to our furry family member I almost chucked the towel in. I appreciate your time as always.
I can't help but wonder if you have received comments from an account called "The Critic" then this is an even more amazing video. I've had him hit my channel and so many other creators in my community.
Thank you for the good reflections on how to process different types of criticisms! I just bought your collection 3 photobook, not only to learn from your photography skills but also as a token of appreciation for all the value you have freely provided through your channel. Given your unique background, I hope that you will continue to grow in your specialty as well as in your walk in the faith. I have never received criticism the way that you have, so I would hardly know, but if I may, I would like to remind you not to mentally ignore and block all those that are helped, inspired and strengthened by your work, as you wisely ignore and block the trolls. :D
Your videos are almost always applicable to life in general, not just creative endeavors. It's honestly like receiving a mini-sermon when I watch your videos. Sean's Sermons from the Sofa. A sermon that fills me with knowledge and empowerment, a sermon that speaks not just to the mind, but to the soul. As always, you are amazing. I am grateful to you for putting yourself out there because, if nothing else were to ever come from it, know that at least one person (myself) has been bettered by it. I hope and pray that you continue to gain success after success and that no matter what, you never stop being you. Good, honest, genuine people are hard to find on social media. They're hard to find in life, really. And I'm thankful that you are one of those people.
Thanks so much mate. That’s lovely.
So well said. I echo this statement totally. Thank you.
What a fabulous comment. I wholeheartedly agree.
That is the same analogy that I have mentally made as well. Your time in the church has obviously made a difference in how you listen, see and speak. I enjoy listening to your talks even if they have nothing to do with my style or subject in photography, yet your explaination of the process continually enlightens me. Carry on, my teacher.
What he said.
I'm a chronic critic of my own work. God forbid I start listening to others too :D
Great vid Sean. So many people will benefit from hearing this.
Adam MacKintosh Photo Agree on all points. My own self-critic, too. But it’s good to have this video for those who do face trolls, and who knows, one day I might, too.
@@zkw100 For sure! I was being half sarcastic in the first part there but absolutely, great topic to be speaking on!
Great video Sean, I forwarded it a friend who’s daughters work is subject to some particular nasty trolls. It’s really affecting her creativity, hopefully she can take something from this, thanks Sean 👍
Definitely relate to this. I'm basically my own troll.
Everyone has an opinion and that's all it is.
Our photography club banned competitions and replaced it with evaluations. Evenings where members bring their work and we collectively and constructively provide feedback. This process is so much more rewarding.
I think criticism is itself a skill, and one that very few people are good at. But those that are have the ability to teach while making someone feel positive.
Agreed. Cheers mate:)
This made me feel me confident. I have had my work torn apart. Once it seemed after the person realised I was a woman. I stopped going to a camera club because of it. I was upset as I only joined to have interactions with like minded people. This person liked my work and then met me... Suddenly it was trashed. Brutally. This has reminded me I am allowed to walk away especially as this person never submitted their work
I'm sorry to hear that Khandie. They aren't worth your time. Shame them with your great work.
I feel like I'm watching one of those "Masterclass" videos every time I see your work. Always thought-provoking and genuine. You have a real gift.... and I'm not even speaking to your talent as a photographer. Thank you for these Sean. You never fail to inspire.
" You don't have to run some sort of democracy for rude people." Lol, that's great.👏🏾👏🏾
I agree.
Sheku Sheriff yess
The time and thought that goes into your videos are so appreciated.
Thanks so much Debby:)
I'm really thankful that this channel existed! It's not just about photography, it's also about life. Thank you!
I love the point: trolls are basically hoping and craving for your reply! It's a great reminder that attention is their primary objective. Ignore and block is the best medicine! Love it.
Such an honest and genuine reflection on OUR CREATIVE NEED for honest and genuine criticism is a breath of fresh air... a real testament to reflective and sincere discussion in the arts. Thank you.
I love how your mentors watch from the darkness behind you. Great metaphor for their role in your life.
I admire & appreciate how much work you put into these videos.
In the beginning, I started with a lot of technical videos on photography. Many about gear, more than seven about "7 things to avoid". Just like in school, I learned the basics of mathematics, but never learned what to do with it. Your videos are about what to do with it. Love it !
I love youre videos.
Anton Ego (Ratatouille) : In many ways, the work of a critic is easy.
We risk very little, yet enjoy a position over those who offer up their work and their selves to our judgment.
We thrive on negative criticism, which is fun to write and to read.
But the bitter truth we critics must face, is that in the grand scheme of things, the average piece of junk is probably more meaningful than our criticism designating it so.
But there are times when a critic truly risks something, and that is in the discovery and defense of the *new*.
The world is often unkind to new talent, new creations.
The new needs friends...
love that movie! =)
I love that. Lovely movie too!
Incredible movie. I was thinking of the same thing!
Photography is sadly mainly a man Hobby and i never felt the toxicity of comments I get from male photographers coming from women.
I never feed the trolls, and i respect the rule not caring about brainless hate, but when you say you never see a talented troll, i must admit that for me some trolls are very talented at making you feel like shit using the right words that make you really feel bad about your image.
There are good reasons some of us adopt an avatar and alias online and it's a habit worth maintaining. However, giving feedback when I really like an image, or making suggestions when something might be tried, is enjoyable and worthwhile. Slating something I dislike isn't. Thoughtful content as ever, Sean; much appreciated.
Free speech is the right to say whatever you want, not the right to be heard.
This is why I watch your videos. It's about photography, but also things surrounding.
Thank you for your hard work.
Deal with this: your work on UA-cam is fantastic, when u talk I feel that is a friend talking with me... I totally connect with every word u say! You're a real influencer dude!
This is not just your ordinary photography tutorial channel but also a great counseling and soul enlightening channel for every photographers out there who are struggling with negative people around them. Thank you so much for this Sir sean!
Great video Sean. I love how much substance you put into every one of your videos. I love what you said about "criticism on an even playing field".
Thanks Thomas:)
It’s easy to attack and destroy an act of creation it’s a lot more difficult to perform one, how very true, another brilliant video Sean.
Thanks Fiona:)
Fiona, your videos have brought tears to my eyes and touched on a nerve with me that both hurt and was healed by your voice. I love your photos and your lovely presence. Peace to you always.
I prefer shooting photos, again & again. No time for negative energy. Yours is one of the most positive. Thanks
Yes, it is a shame when a few people ruin the day for everyone else. Thank you for another excellent video.
It's Sunday morning and I've just sat down in your church to hear words that touch hearts and bring a peace to souls that need it today. Thanks for a wonderfully well done video and thoughts to remember as we travel through our day. Peace and love be with you
Thanks Susie:)
While I certainly appreciate the technical instruction I've gotten from your videos, hearing your mindset and attitudes is far and away my favorite part of your channel. Yours is the only photography channel I follow that regularly addresses the psychological aspects of photography, for pros and hobbyists alike. Much love from this aspiring shooter in Ohio.
I keep coming back to your videos, they hold a great value for me dealry
Really appreicate the great effort you put in them to give us advice and guide us through
Hands down the best video I have watched on UA-cam. “You will never find a talented troll”
I’m proud to have countryman like You in the internet.
Thank you for well thought out and executed videos like these.
Actually, a real troll has got to have a fine intellect. Feeding the average internet troll is not worth it
The strength of your videos is the way you convey yourself so succinctly and honestly! Your points on the difference between criticism/ critiques and trolls is very much valid. I have had difficulty even with well intended criticism, because it requires a critic with talent to get to the “why”, why is one piece of work strong or not. I think that “why” has to come from a place of understanding and as you said... the place of understanding can only come from spending time with the person seeking feedback.
I belong to a camera club, and once a month we have competition nights where a local professional photographer comes around to judge our work both in open and themed categories. Theme feedback is generally more useful than the open category because the judge has some context on which to base their critiques. But even then, they only have 3 hours to look at work from 20 or so different photographers. It’s not easy to get anything truly meaningful from that, though it is good fun and I’ve made some amazing friendships through our club.
So my point is if you truly need / want feedback then find someone who is willing to spend time with your work and gain an understanding of what you’re trying to achieve... and that requires that you know what it is you’re trying to achieve.
The navigator is useless if the captain doesn’t have a destination in mind.
"It's all just gross"... "in whatever space will have them." 😂. I really enjoy your honesty and it really does feel like a safe space.
Criticism is often a great opportunity to become a better artist, to be better if it is taken with a distant reaction (not so emotionally). I know it and others probably too.
I want to push forward with photography, feeling already critically to my own work, arguing with myself if it is worth putting on the internet.
Thank you for this video, Sean. Speaking this out loud, so these things finally reach to the head of a newbie like me.
:D
"When it's most painful, is when we know it's most true" - really facing this one in life right now. Thank you for the video Sean, they're always appreciated.
Thank you for this. I have started taking pictures of people for about three months. I'm normally a nature photographer. For about 6 years. But now I want to keep growing. I got alot of crap for me growing. Lol!
Brilliant, brilliant opening, my friend.
Excellent video Sean. I am a member of a camera club and enter competitions. Although not perfect but helps you to learn and experience critics I also have learnt to like my images and accept that not everyone is going to like them. Sadly there are people on line who have nothing kind or positive to say. Please don’t let people to hurt you or change the direction of your art.
Creativity is an act of bravery. It states: i am willing to risk ridicule and failure so that i may experience this day with newness and freshness. The person who dares to create, to break boundaries, not only partakes of a miracle, but also comes to realize that in her process of being she is a miracle.
Joseph Zinker, 1977
I love your philosophical videos, they are always thought-provoking, I never shy away from constructive criticism, but have learned from my 22 years as a police officer (now thankfully retired) that there is always someone who thinks they know better than you!
Thanks for the intelligent talk about photography and ethics! Just happy it exists in the internet
Thanks for another video about photography that transcends the medium. As a scientist who “grew up” attending face-to-face scientific meetings where (often junior) trainees would nervously present their hard-earned results in front of senior established experts, I quickly came to despise the ones who would crucify the junior trainees for the perceived weaknesses in their work. Then, early in my career at a small meeting, I kept seeing the same guy get up to ask questions. His comments were always insightful - I would hear them and think “that’s what I was thinking!” At the end, the junior presenter would learn something important, and leave the stage under the impression they had thought of the idea themselves. It wasn’t about the ego of the questioner - it was all about the content. I left that meeting, as a junior investigator myself, thinking that it would be wonderful to work in the presence of that scholar. Through incredible good luck, that came to pass some 7 years later. It transformed my career and my life, and I’ve tried to pass that positive approach to junior people in the same way, ever since. Great mentors set the example that others admire.
as a photographer Ive learned a lot from consecutive criticism .. but its important to find the right space to get it.. I belong to a number of Facebook groups , most are heartless & have no soul but there are a few that have genuine creatives who want to both learn for themselves & help others advance there creativity ..
Be kind and have respect... I like your point of view!
Sean you are a breath of fresh air in our photographic community . xx :)
Beautiful words. Thank you for taking the time to encourage people to keep on trying on what they love, and be better.
There is so much wisdom in your videos. Wish you all the best. Greetings from Perú.
I never thought that watching your videos would help me so much info many levels, photography, philosophy, life in general. Thank u so much for putting "food" for thought everytime on my mind. 🙂
Oh and your collection volume III made it to Australia, wow, love it, thank you!
Thank you for this, Sean. I've been off social media completely for a few years, and having just watched this (8 months behind the curve, I'm afraid), I find I'm reconsidering my digital abstinence. Please keep creating content like this, This is the reason I subscribed and "joined". You are a rare find, sir. Cheers!
Thanks my friend.
It is a fragile line between wanting affirmation and seeking critique. I create so much I no longer self critique as I am emotionally involved in my creations. Camera club and FB critique groups for me and the occasional image published or sold and IG (theimagenius) for my friends and kindred spirits. Thanks for supporting all creatives and allaying some folks self-doubt.
I’m am always blown away by your videos. Profound and I will definitely share this. Your words ring true and I wish more would understand this process.
I just recently subscribed to your channel. You are always thoughtful and helpful as a human being and a down to earth photographer. I enjoyed your introductory video...great scenes and rich colours.
This video is a genius, thank you Sean for taking the time to make it. The way you explain it is simply brilliant!
Just starting out and your words are brilliant. Thank you
I stumbled on this looking for food or object photo learning and was drawn in by the title. My photography is mediocre, but I can learn. I put nothing on line. On the topic; the simplest summary I heard was that “It’s easy to look taller by standing on someone else’s head”.
- and your videos are amongst the most strikingly and beautifully lit I’ve ever seen. Phil Atkinson
I really like your opinions and your way to explain things! This channel is like gold!
Thank you for this Sean!! Its so hard to not get demoralized by trolls, I must admit I tend to avoid putting myself out there to avoid it.
I'm thankfully too small to warrant Trolling but that's definitely great advice. Back in the days we used to suffer bullying which warranted a similar approach, Trolls are just bullies that don't need to front up but bullies just the same. I have to admit though I am less restrained than you and was back in the old days, perhaps not a good thing to admit but that's life. Last word, sage advice from a wise man, well done.
Absolutely blown away Sean.
Hi Sean I first watched this when you first released it and I enjoyed it. I shared it with my son yesterday. A young man of 24- who is finding his way as a poet and just started posting in March 2020. He had a nasty comment yesterday and was very upset. We watched this video together and it really helped him a lot. He also learned some presentation styles from you- as he has been experimenting with showing text as he recites. No matter how much insight a parent can give, we just don't have the currency. So thanks again. All the best. Julie
That's great to hear. Thanks Julie.
Thanks for taking the time to create this video. Excellent content.
Excellent vlog Sean, so important to have boundaries, and conversely take constructive criticism when appropriate, though that does need to be made in a thoughtful and polite way.
Very seldom will I enjoy a video where someone is just talking, but Sean, you are always so well spoken and willing to offer food for thought that I am unable to tell you how much I enjoy your posts. Thank you.
Thanks so much Bob.
Great video, I'm starting my own channel and releasing some videos. I've been doing photography for over 10 years but never really considered youtube as an outlet for my images until now. Understanding what are and how trolls behave is always a great way to deal with them. I'm not afraid of critics, I have a good amount of years in the creative arena since I'm a graduate designer and have been working in the animation industry a long time, and critics are the only thing you can be certain of. But once you start getting armchair criticism about your personal and most cherished work is when it gets uncomfortable. I look out to my peers to review my images to create a better body of work, that is my ultimate goal. Thanks Sean!
Again, a truly superb video. Your content goes deep under the surface which is sort of unique here on YT. Keep it going Sean and thanks very much for sharing your thoughts and emotions.
For me, the most inspiring (in many ways) photo channel on YT… Thanks and congrats Sean.
So beautifully said. Thanks Sean.
Love your work, your videos, love your advice, and your thoughts, esp on photography! Keep it up!
After watching this (another) brilliant video offering, I just had to chime in and say thank you. Your work in the world contributes so much positivity in the collective.
I need a mentor like this in my photography, I'm ready to take criticism and learn from it to better my skills in what I love. Being criticized will make you better.
Thanks; another quality video. Your example of Mark Kermode is good: he encapsulates the true critic for me. At my time of life (late 60s) I find that I just don't have the time to engage in communication with negativity, cruelty, and obnoxious arrogance; my days are too precious.
Well said...i’ve been guilty of becoming negative sometimes. After watching this, i went to fb and deleted two posts that had a slight negative tinge that made me feel bad. I don’t want to get drawn into this stuff any more. I’ve been debating deleting Insta and fb, and just doing youtube and a website. Thanks for sharing this. It’s difficult for the sensitive-types (aka, me) to jump into publishing content online. It’s a challenge to ignore people at times. We’re all social creatures...
I ditched Facebook about a year ago and feel so much better for it. I found the environment really unpleasant, and not just the comments on my photographs, but on other's work too.
Sean, I appreciate the thoughtful way you deliver your points. You're rigorous in your research and are careful to bring good sources to provide context. It all contributes to something enjoyable to watch and I generally need to think about them afterward. Thanks for sharing your ideas.
So thoughtful as always, thank you.
Thank you once again Sean! So well said. Your words are food for the soul.
The block button is the internet equivalent of the lock on the door of your house, it keeps people you don't want out and protects your space.
Great video and one I am going to share with members of a beginners photography group I help out with. Thank you.
Thank you. You have no idea how helpful this was.
Love to hear your outlook on criticism. It mirrors my own and my own experiences with online interactions! Keep it up, love the channel
u are so right ... only if i find the beauti in the work of others ,, u can find the way to find the beauti in u work on u way.
Excellent teaching Sean. Much appreciated. :-) You gave us some wonderful quotes (which I captured to my Notes), but I think this one is great also: "Most people leaving mindlessly negative comments on your work are only doing it for the attention, and giving it to them is way too generous." -Sean Tucker
:)
Thank you Sean, thank you 🙏🏻
I wish you made more content ‘cause their all so thought through and mindful. But then again I know that good content takes time to create. I love your balance of the background music, the dim lighting, and your straight to the point voice. Again, thank you for a good thought through video.
When I think of criticism I think of some of my favorite filmmakers. I know that I will never reach their level of genius or mastery. Yet, for those same filmmakers, I know many people that would consider their work boring or pretentious. Even the greatest artists of all time have a lot of people that hate their work. So it teaches me that I can stop being so hard on myself!
Just discovered this channel and if this is typical of the content then it is a happy discovery. Very much agree with your comments Sean. In particular the futility of attempting a real debate. I've been naive enough to try and learnt the error of my ways as a result.
This couldn't have come at a better time. I've been a victim to armchair critics recently. And you're right, the time can be better spent on continuing work. It's bothered me lately, but after watching this, I feel like I did the right thing by ignoring them. So thank you so much!
Very important message Sean! Thank you so much for making this video.
Another outstanding video Sean.Thank you.
I will share something that my then 20 year old daughter, at the outset of her acting career, said to me after I read the rave reviews of her performance as a member of Madison Shakespeare Company: "If I believe those, I also have to believe the negative ones." It has become a mantra for her father as a photographer.
Brilliant work thanks for taking the time and energy to produce these videos.
Sounds like you have a wise daughter!
Very...I am always learning from her.
I really enjoyed this video in particular. Its a very enlightened and straightforward approach to dealing with both constructive criticism as well as bullies and trolls. Well done and thank you.
Very well done, Sean. Thank you
Beautifully well put. Thank you for the great vid👏🏾
Hey Sean ... as I told you I'm a beginner, I love photography, at least that fire is all the way up for almost 6 months...and I have a day job...so when I start to send my pictures to a couple of friends... everyone love them...(hmmm) I don't have many friends not at all on FAKEBOOK...maybe 50... on Instagram even less, so I ask them be honest...than they came back to much color,to much... and so and so ....I didn't change but I tried to adjust a little bit... but I still do it the way I like.... So your video really, really help me...Thank you so much.. and please keep making this videos... Thank you so very much
Many thanks for this empowering video. I didn't see a block option but there was an option "hide from channel" which probably does the same thing. The delete button was tempting, but they could post again and that would be bad. I had three of these to delete from my channel, and they all had baseless negativity at their root. Thanks for the assist! Just knowing I don't have to give these folks airtime on my channel is empowering.
Just purchased the book. Thanks!
Sean, this is such a wonderful talk and it is so applicable to youngsters and students as well. I wish I could give you a kazillion likes. I can see clearly how wonderful your previous years of training and studies how the fine golden line is coming through this talk and you are a master with words, spreading a positive word. You keep me inspired to push on, through and past the fluff going around on social media. Keep on your amazing work. Groete Annelien
Dankie Annelien.
This is one of the honest UA-cam videos you will ever see.
Well done.
I'm sure you put a heap of research and time into the structure of your videos and it's not a one take rant but you're so talented at communicating and delivering your messages around a topic. Your quotes are fantastic demonstrating the depth you go into your topics. This was great discussion!
It's hard to find constructive criticism, social media is a fast paced consumption platform by design. I do try to slow down when scrolling through my feeds and when I stop to comment I try to say what I love about images in more detail than "great light/picture". Be the change you want to see is what I think of when I'm commenting. I also need to post more, I consume a lot but I'd add more value if I practiced photography more.
Thank you for your wonderful video and insights.
Another excellent video. Most of the comments ring true for many other environments of the internet, especially social media. The characteristics of trolls and "rude" people that Sean presented seem universal across the internet and is a reason that I generally do not read the comments or engage in online "discussions." I do however, enjoy the
"conversations" that I get from Sean's videos.
As I got more invested in my photography I joined a couple of groups where we post and critique each others’ images. These were “no holds barred” critiques and I found them to be painful but also highly valuable. They taught me a lot about little things like avoiding distractions at the edge of the frame, watching for sight variations from level and white-point/black-point. But after that, I found these groups to be less useful because of their intense focus on the technical aspects of an image. Because we are peers who, for the most part, are amateurs/hobbyists, there was not a lot of useful critique of higher level elements like composition or emotion. (Note: each of these groups do have a few highly skilled artists whose criticisms are valuable- but still very subjective). I recommend joining these types of groups as it helps to thicken your skin in a safe and (mostly) friendly environment.
I've also gotten a lot of help from photography groups. It has been helpful to have someplace to ask for CC. I do take everything with a grain of salt though and I also look at the person's work that is giving me CC.
AirDailyX Flight Simulation Ha! No. The ones I was talking about are gloves-off, stomp-on-your-heart crit. Nothing like the Ambulant experience.
Thanks Sean another great video. I know from experience how hurtful people can be and because I was really low and depressed at the time through health issues and the pain of loss of saying goodbye to our furry family member I almost chucked the towel in. I appreciate your time as always.
I can't help but wonder if you have received comments from an account called "The Critic" then this is an even more amazing video. I've had him hit my channel and so many other creators in my community.
Thank you for the good reflections on how to process different types of criticisms! I just bought your collection 3 photobook, not only to learn from your photography skills but also as a token of appreciation for all the value you have freely provided through your channel. Given your unique background, I hope that you will continue to grow in your specialty as well as in your walk in the faith. I have never received criticism the way that you have, so I would hardly know, but if I may, I would like to remind you not to mentally ignore and block all those that are helped, inspired and strengthened by your work, as you wisely ignore and block the trolls. :D