Are You Brave Enough? 

I was teaching chemistry in a community college, a student came in to select courses for the next semester. He was struggling in his studies. He said ,"I can remember in detail every mistake I've make." We were alone in my office and I took a chance. I spoke quietly."When you were a child and spilled milk at the dinner table, did your parents say, get a towel and clean off the table or did they call you a fool for spilling the milk?" He was called a fool and he carried that wound with him for 15 years. Afraid of any misstep. We should be kind to each other. Inside every adult is a child who can be hurt.

I teach photography at an art college in Canada and often tell my students to watch your channel as it's the absolute best source on RU-vid for constructive, meaningful, and informative photographic dialogue. Keep it up!

I think this channel is freakin' marvellous! At last It's good to see someone on RU-vid who's a photographic professional at both an economic and academic/intellectual level, communicating complex ideas that are usually only accessible through a university art school level. Photography is an unholy amalgam of art and technology that as far as I know has no parallel. Both aspects are equally important and neither should be ignored. You have the ability to bring both together within a single narrative. There's nothing quite like this anywhere else.

Based on my experience when I started this passion around 10 years ago, people that I photographed ( my genre is portraiture ) mostly have a lack appreciation of my works and some of so-called photographers ( I live in Jakarta ) slandering me as a poser and spreading false information about myself. Yep, it had given me a bad impact for my business actually. Almost 3 years I live in depression but at the end I realised, I must get out from this zone and keep making great images. I don’t care about viewers, likers and so on. As long as I could carry this passion and make money , even is not much, I strongly believed that I was destined to be a photographer before I was born. Thank you Alex for this lovely video. I really appreciate it. You motivate me to be stronger. Zillion thanks.

Love this channel so much. So many photography channels are just full of egotisitical and narcissistic personalities...which is not 99% of normal photographers. Most of us, are insecure, and its so refreshing that you're discussing this. Thankyou

Illigitimus non carborundum! Roughly translated: "Don't let the bastards wear you down." You have a meaningful message in almost every presentation. The "almost" is only because I am not personally interested in one or another particular subject or aspect of photography. My lack of interest or appreciation is my loss or deficiency so does not lie at your doorstep. I have painted and photographed most of my 74 years, having had several exhibitions , sold a quite a few works and have had photos published in various venues, none of which amount to a hill of beans. I treasured every sale and acceptance as it was "validation" as you put it. On the other hand, I never heard any negative comments, though I'm sure there were some. Career-wise, I spent thirty years in law enforcement and corrections during which I heard much criticism and many unkind words, none of which hurt because I recognized the source and the intent. Same goes for art, those who would tear you down or try to hurt you have an agenda and therefore their comments are worthless. A real professional or valid artist would likely not offer criticism unless asked, as they have no need to bolster their ego by putting someone else down. My goal is to present a piece of art which is appreciated by or which leads someone to think. If that occurs, then I have succeeded. Using that criteria, I find your work beautiful, inspiring or thought-provoking. You are a success.

Dont you dare give up, we love what you do, and most of all, the honesty, thats a huge plus, being true to other, and you always inspire, and lift, a massive thank you Alex.

Thank you for talking about the emotional, and psychological side of this art. It is not all about the gear, or the medium, and you talk so honestly about that.

I'm so grateful for having found your channel. Finally a "human" approach to photography, with all the ups and downs of feelings and the creative process itself, as opposed to "Camera reviews" and "Photoshop tips" that are all around... The "soft" creative skills IMO are just as, if not much more, important to talk about. Thank you for not giving up on this channel, and for sharing your unique point of view.

I’ve been looking for the exact words but in the end the only think we should all tell you is a big thanks !! you are not trying to sell us anything , no trying to get fame you focus on sharing your knowledge in a passionate way and it’s all we need … This channel is a gold mine for the one trying to improve their craft… There is plethora of people talking gear, pure technicality but almost only you take the time to educate us and make us think about that think that we love ! So especially after this video i felt like a big thank you very much sir ! should be adress to you

Alex your honesty and generosity in being willing to share some of your vulnerabilities, discoveries, and insight on this channel is truly inspiring. I think that like most artists I too struggle with criticism and compliments. And I also tend to "qualify" compliments, disassemble them into different qualifications and education as you described. And I also tend to give way more weight to criticisms than I should or for the most part the person offering it intended. But here is the thing, over the years I have come to learn that this fear, perhaps too strong of a word, of not having my work liked and yearn for validation are both the same thing. They are both emotions that help me in my struggle to create. What I truly dread, and I think we as creatives should really fear is when we stop caring what anyone things about our art. We create art for ourselves yes, but we do not exist in a vacuum, we also create to share with others and that act, by its very nature makes us vulnerable to the reactions of others. So I encourage us to embrace that fear as an essential component of how we create our art. Thanks again Alex for yet another enlightening and inspiring video.

Alex, I look forward to your content each week and thank you for taking the time to bring forward thought provoking topics. The world is overpopulated with trolls and it absolutely takes bravery to put yourself out there, week after week. I used to be a member of about 5 photo groups on facebook, but got so disappointed by the negativity that I simply had to stop following these groups. When I would see negative comments on a photo that I found to be quite good, I would sometimes look for that individual on social media to see what types of photos they were taking. So often, the search did not reveal a treasure trove of exciting images. Anyway, please keep on doing what you are doing; your content is worthwhile and well presented.

There is 'you', there is 'your work', don't conflate the two. There is NO photographer whose work is liked by EVERYBODY, take it as par for the course and carry on. Only 'Ego' suffers when EVERYBODY doesn't like what we produce, get the 'Ego' in check, problem solved. The objective is to create for those who DO like our work, self inclusive! (The best photography channel I've yet found, thank you!)

Dave is a very wise person and I'm glad you posted this video. I think one problem is, most people who aren't artists or photographers can't articulate WHY they don't like an image. They just say, "I don't like it." "It's no good." And that can sound very personal. Maybe it's something technical. Maybe it's just a matter of taste. But a photo just didn't move them. They may not be wrong. I know, when I look back at photos I took a few years ago, that some I used to like weren't good. There are photos I take now that aren't that good. What I appreciate is when someone can tell me why a given photo doesn't work or just doesn't move him. That doesn't mean I'll agree but at least I know the viewer thought about it, and maybe I can take a lesson from it. I personally love your channel for its uniqueness. It's a shame you got trolled early on and I'm glad you didn't quit. Unfortunately, some in our community actually do mean to hurt others' feelings by trolling or insulting, which brings no value to you but inflates their own weak egos. The guy who called you a moron early on just wanted to empower himself at your expense. Don't let the b*stards get you down. P.S. the audio is much better than last time. 👍🏿

I haven't commented before now Alex but I just want to say two things: 1) I like so many others love your channel because it's like a breath of fresh air, and I believe my photography is beginning to produce more positive reactions because of what you've shown me. And 2) it takes guts to speak so openly about reactions that have hurt and scarred you. I had no idea before now that you'd considered giving up but I mightily glad you didn’t!

I have a FB page ,post at least 2 of my images of our wee Orkney Island each week ( weather / work permitting ) I get quite a few likes ,but not many comments & hardly ever any constructive advice on how I could improve a shot . I also see shots on other pages with wonky horizons & over saturated / cooked shots getting twice as many likes as ,what I think is a reasonable well presented image . But I mostly take photos as a therapy / fresh air / dog walk and to please myself . Thanks I enjoy your vids .

I'm a person like many that wants my art to be appreciated but I'm not hesitant to show my work even to hear that it isn't 'liked'. My art pleases me like your son's Lego project pleased him. Its nice when people like but it isn't necessary. What I do struggle with in a huge way is finding passion. I wonder if this might be a topic for the future or, sorry if you have covered this off. It is too easy for me to talk myself out of the most innocent, fleeing ideas; it's raining, cold etc. That's my script - and it is a painful one.

I only ran across you a few days ago. I am 67 and just started doing photography about a year ago, so I'm certainly not in your league. I bought my camera when I was unemployed and had time to go out and take a lot of pictures and experiment. I'm working now but hope to get out of the deadening corporate environment by year's end and focus more on creative pursuits. On the weekends I like going out and shooting long exposures and I feel like a child again with what I produce. At any rate, just wanted to say that I appreciate this video in particular. I like your honesty and willingness to expose your heart. Don't ever let anyone make you think about quitting your channel. I wrote a poetry book (it doesn't sell but I'm still glad I wrote it) called a Cold Drink of Meaning. That's what I find your chats to be like. Please keep it up.

Thanks for hanging in there. I appreciate what you do.

This is by far one of my top three channels on RU-vid. The honesty, the vulnerability, the doubt the host expresses about his own photography, the admiration for other photographers. The god damn everything. I'm a TopFan!

Dear "Mr. Photographic Eye". I have watched your great channel since it started. Nearly every day since it startet I have been looking for a new photographic video from you. I have also been taking photographs for 45 years and still going. Your channel is outstanding, and around the world there are thousands and thousands waiting to watch your next one! Keep on making, there is always light at the end of the "tunnel"! Greetings from Norway!

Dear Alex I just sat through this RU-vid episode, “Are you Brave Enough?” A few years ago I totally burned out from professional photography (mostly Motorsports), and sold most of my camera equipment. However, a few years later, a friend wanted me to photograph his new car. Had he not been a friend, I would have politely turned him down, but as it turned out, we had a fun day. However, I also realised how much I was out of practice. He liked the picture - I felt I could have done better. It was a short time after that when I stumbled upon your series of chats about photography, and my almost lost passion was suddenly rekindled. I just want you to know that you have been a true inspiration. I hope my story helps offset some of the negative comments you spoke of in this episode. Cheers, Michael

You are a breath of fresh air in the photography community

There is a beautiful quote that I sadly don't know the author of. But paraphrased it goes like: "Never accept criticism from people who you wouldn't ask for advice." And it's very powerful because only those people are who you trust to have your best interests in mind and will be honest with you.

I’m happy when someone appreciates a photo I’ve given them but don’t usually believe effusive praise. And criticism doesn’t bother me much because I’m usually harder on my own stuff than whatever they could point out. Thanks for the video and I’m so glad you didn’t quit the channel! You keep me from quitting this crazy hobby.

And it's wonderful to have you here too!

'Being a creative person and putting your work out there is an act of bravery'. Spot on! Sadly, very few people know how to give feedback in a way that isn't shaming and destructive. There are ways, but it requires sensitivity and care.

I gotta say this. Thank you for not giving up back then. I really love this channel, it helps me out so much.

This is easily the best photography channel I've come across. I love how you talk about images, not gear. How, when you do a how-to style video, you reference other photographers work and discuss them with real insight, not just giving us 3 bullet points to do and everything will turn out great. And not least, the real enthusiasm, passion and emotion you put into this. Not pretending, but being yourself. These videos feel like I'm being in your living room having a pleasant conversation with you about really interesting topics.

What you do is very valuable. I may not always agree with everything you say, but my father used to quote me this, " you can please some of the people all of the time, all of the people some of the time, but you cannot please all of the people all the time". Once you understand that, life becomes easier. Thank you.

Your ability and willingness to lay your creative soul bare is refreshing. While many RU-vid viewers eat up the “3 steps to better exposures” and “is this the best lens ever” videos, I truly think your posts cover the most important camera settings - your mind and your heart. Keep up the good work!

Insightful video. When I first started taking my photography seriously, I had a mentor who said, and I paraphrase, that my work was crap. Coming from him it was a valid comment and I sought to improve with his guidance. I think there’s a difference between bad photographs and those which don’t appeal to someone’s taste. The French Impressionists ended up in the Salon des Refuses and look where public opinion is on them now. Love your channel.

I have not commented on any RU-vid videos and I watch a high number of photography gear specific channels. Thanks for being BRAVE enough to continue. I appreciate your honesty and your ability to nurture our photography as well as your own.

Thank you Alex. Being creative and “putting it out there” are two different processes with different beginnings and different motivations. They display and are effected by our own psychology in different ways. Your talks are helping in the development of awareness of that.

I’m so grateful you didn‘t give up your RU-vid channel. I love your videos. Greetings from Germany

Since I started watching your videos I haven’t felt so lonely anymore. Thank you!

First and foremost, openly talking discussing personal vulnerability on a public forum is an act of bravery and shows deep care about not only yourself, but of other artists who struggle with the same thing. Well done & thank you. I've been chasing my passion for more than 40 years and its difficult to not become resentful of the truly negative and hurtful criticisms. Creating anything whether its photographs or automobiles is a deeply personal act because it is an investment of time, effort and expression of one's own self. So yes, it can sting even when the is legitimate and designed to help improve rather than simply tear down. The thing I've learned is that criticism is about the work and not about the personhood of the work's creator. There are some who use their criticism as a personal attack on the artist, and those are the ones that may hurt the most but ultimately have the least value.

Your channel is a breath of fresh air when it comes to the philosophy and psychology behind the art of photography. Regardless of what sort of creative task an artist engages in, there's always going to be risks. I would rather take a risk with a creative work, and have it poorly received, then live with the regret of not even trying. Not everything we produce is going to land. It's through our failures that we grow. It becomes the compost that rots, and turns into fertile soil that allows inspired works of genius to blossom.

That Baz Luhrmann song (Sunscreen) has stayed with me for so long now. Full of great 'advice' (even suggesting that advice itself is just candy wrapped nostalgia :D) What song has given you comfort when things are a bit pear shaped?

First of all, please don't stop. You have over 50K followers for a reason. You appreciate us and believe me we appreciate you and your content. Every creative person I have known has expressed to me what you have here today. If negative comments rolled off your back then you would be a cold uncaring individual. I would prefer that to not be the case. I'm 73 and believe when I say it can still hurt but it has less of an impact with age. Keep this content coming. Thank you for your honesty. Cheers.

I've really been enjoying your content and I like the deep dives on the more philosophical aspects of creating art. Thank you.

I really appreciate your blunt honesty

This actually happened to me the other day when I sent my Sister some images I shot. She messaged me back and said “it wasn’t her kind of pictures”. I told her thanks for being honest, and I didn’t take any offense. I asked for her opinion and I received it, either way, it would actually help me grow as a photographer, CHEERS!

Dear Alex. Lately I've been struggling with the idea that what I do has no real value no matter how much of myself I try to put into my pictures. I've stopped "sharing" my photographs with the world as I've felt that I'm almost being ignored. And yes, it is as you say worrisome to scale the good compliments as valid or not valid while also facing the potential hurt of bad criticism, but I have a feeling that being ignored is devastating. That you don't actually make an impact, that your work and passion seems to be pointless. That's why a lot of creators hide under the blanket of "I'm creating it for myself" and yet bite our nails when we are thinking to push the "share" button. Thank you kindly for pouring your soul into these videos. They have helped me beyond extreme.

I’m a graphic designer and photographer. It sometimes happens that the people in my same organization don’t like something I’ve designed for them. It’s still a little hard to hear when the department I’m designing for has no idea about design or marketing or visual impact, etc. To keep my job I better just make the change and move on. You’ve helped me appreciate the fact that when I make photographs I like, just because I like them, I can ignore those who don’t like them. There are always a few who do like them, and I’m getting better at trusting my own aesthetic. 🙏

I’m late to the party here, but I want to say this. Firstly, thank you for your videos and recognising that photography is more than just gear. A friend of mine runs a RU-vid channel and he was trolled by an 8 year old child. There is nothing in the comments that informs on the individual’s right or credibility to make a comment. Regardless of age, there are people who feel they have the right to criticise, but often give nothing in return. One of my favourite quotes is: “a cynic knows the price of everything, and the value of nothing.” Keep doing what you do.

would love to see a video with you out on the field taking photos. thank you for sharing your knowledge of photography. God bless

Isn’t it funny how we hurt when someone dismisses what we produce and we hold it close forever and yet when someone says that they like it we dismiss it so easily. I did it this very day, a brides father text me to say his mother (the brides gran) had just seen the album and declared me a “genius” she thought it was absolutely fantastic. My reply to him? “Your mum must be easily pleased.” You make a good point Alex, let’s give ourselves a break, enjoy the positive response and let it, not the snide criticism (which is so often in the minority) be what we remember and be what feeds us.

"Hoard of Idiots" what a great name for a band! You've got to laugh when people waste their time telling you your wasting your time. In fact you only get tackled when you're going to score. Worse than being slagged off is being ignored. Then you know you're not even better than background noise. You're doing fine. Keep them coming.

Bravery appears when you reach a certain age and experience. Meanwhile have confidence in yourself. To like an image is as varied an opinion as liking a cake. All the best.

Negative comments are often based on jealousy, keep that in mind. People comment negatively to pull themselves up, so they can look down on you. It says more about them than it says about you. Please keep up the good work. Just be proud of what you do.

Alex, thank you. We all wish we could speak about the art with the clarity you do.

I know painters , especially working in oil, who can't finish a painting. they constantly alter, slightly or seriously, whatever they are working on. One of the great things about film/files is that you can constantly revisit the work over years and without destroying the original image, alter it. Make it better? Make it different? Something that you did not initially print that, 5 years later you revisit, love and need to pursue? I recently reprinted a digital file that I first created in 2001. It was worth the wait. I am old enough to not only disregard what other people think of my individual pieces of work but also be able to tell young artists that the work they do is only made because you need to make it. If someone else likes it; fine. If no one like you likes it today, maybe someone will 5 years from now.. I'm 74 and don't have time for regrets. If I am aware, cogent, curious and creative, I'm fine with it.

Not so much a photography lesson as a life lesson. Let the bad stuff go, embrace the good. It is so weird that our subconscious spends all its time trying to convince us that it should be the other way around. It can take a lifetime of wisdom to get these things into proportion. A very thought provoking video and one of your best so far.

I'd like to add that we don't just seek validation as approval, but because we are made to be personal and social creatures we want to know that someone else can relate to what we ourselves recognize. It's not enough to understand, for one's self, that we've produced something of value, we want someone else to relate to it as well, not necessarily for approval...we already recognize that it has value, to us. That's what drove us in the creative process, but what is it's real value if it is only meaningful to us? As a great teacher once said "Love is fulfilled once it's given to or shared with another self." You are your son's other self and he...yours. It keeps us from being "an only one" (a.k.a. alone). Thanks for exploring the more human side of photography.

I trained and worked as a photographer from the mid 1970’s but for the last 40+ years I made my living as a graphic designer (though photography is still my first love). I am a million miles from being the most creative person but I have still paid my bills through a creative means. I can count on one hand the number of times over that period where a customer has said they didn’t like what I did for them and at the same time I can say that probably on average only a few times a year someone said that what they received was amazing. What I am trying to say is that we can’t get too hung up on what other’s reaction to our work is, there are many reasons a person may not react the way you would like. As for being afraid of putting your work out there, as a professional you are doing that every time you undertake a job - you have no choice. Produce what pleases yourself, you certainly won’t please everyone, and that way you will be happier and the customers that come to you for your style will be happier.

I, like many have viewed hundreds if not thousands of hours of RU-vid videos on photography. This my friend, without a doubt, in my opinion has been the most open, honest and powerful one I have ever watched. You opened up your heart and soul to your subscribers and I deeply appreciate your honesty and passion. God bless.

I've moved on from worrying about how many people like/appreciate my photography to that's nice, thanks for the comment. Nowadays it's more about doing what I like and appreciate not what others may think essentially. Present-day it's all about the enjoyment of photographing things that I like and appreciate and if someone doesn't like it, so be it. I now will no longer let others dictate what I should shoot instead, I'm just enjoying my hobby! So be it.

I've watched many of your videos and, one of the things I appreciate most is that you seem to be speaking with me, not just at me. Thanks, and keep them coming.

No worries, you do more good to photography than 1000 camera club people combined. And by far. Your videos are so spot on often that you practically obsolete tons of stuff in Internet. There is nobody in this Earth who can say bad things about you and who should be listened to. Your talks are so solid.

For me, this is the best photography RU-vid channel because it is simple to understand and meets what everyone feels, suffers and nothing like a simple and humble person, like you, as well as experienced and unpretentious of economic interests, to have this type of advice, teachings and also failure that are part of everyone's life... even those who we may consider "untouchable" due to their success. Thank you very much for everything you have conveyed to us. Please accept a big hug from me.

You said that at one point (about 15:40 into the video), that not too long after you started the channel someone criticized you heavily and that you were close to stopping. I'm so glad you didn't! The content you publish or post has been worthwhile to me. I've learned about photographers I didn't know about; I've considered concepts and points of view that I hadn't thought about before; and some ideas and judgements that I've made, you affirmed. And talking about some experiences that were painful for you is a profoundly courageous thing to do. You definitely *are* brave enough! Unfortunately, that doesn't the hurtful things hurt less. But from reading the comments and reactions to your content, I think your work is valuable to a lot of people. I hope you keep going for a long time. Strength to you!

i can honestly state that i don't care a fig for what others think of or say about my photos. i like my photos so much i have, presently, 6 x Framed A3 prints in my bedroom and 4 x Framed A3 prints in my sitting room, plus many A4 prints around my home. I print my own photos.. it all sounds grand but.... i'm only a moderately good photographer although that doesn't stop me from gaining pleasure from my work, no matter what others may think of it. incidentally, printing and framing my images has helped improve my photography.. i think it's because i sit and mentally pull them apart. I can see the flaws more easily when an image is framed and hung on the wall than when on my PC monitor. Thank you Alex for being so open and honest. love the channel..

What you talk about in this video applies to so many other aspects of every day life. Thank you for being so open. You dare say what most want kept silent.

It's fine that you wear your heart on your sleeve from time to time in your videos. You are one of the few RU-vidrs willing to tackle the range of emotional issues photographers face. Admitting your weaknesses helps us all to recognize similar feelings in ourselves. Now. This does not mean you should spend every video doing this. We still need the inspirational videos to keep us reaching for the stars. Also, I'm glad you're able to ignore the buffoons who tell you your videos are rubbish and keep soldiering on. You have devoted fans. (You may print this out and add it to your wall collection if need be!)

I think the key is in respect and meaning. If people comment respectful and meaningfull - be it positive or negative - there is an opening to reflect on that and take IT with you. Otherwise you can just take them for granted. I'm still in the process of learning how to do that.

The use of hardware and software in photography is a big part of the final result! There are more than enough here on RU-vid who takes care of that, but you talk about the soft- and hardware behind(!) the camera and that seems to me to be the most important part of it all! Thanks for making me think differently, and making me more self confident in taking the kind of pics I like! Having experienced harsh words on Facebook almost made me want to stop taking pictures! Instead I stopped being on FB and hungering for likes and favorable comments! And I feel quite a lot better now! 😉 Thanks for being a voice of reason in the middle of all the (all too often) nonsense thats out there! 😎🙏🌞

THIS CHANNEL REKINDLED MY PHOTOGRAPHY! I’m working on a new project after nearly a year of pandemic dreariness and dread. Thank you for your spark, fire and light.

Know I'm a year late, but I watched one of your vlogs and decided to go back to the start and watch a couple each day that I had seen them all. So feeling like I have gotten to know you I found it upsetting knowing you had received such negativity and seeing you emotional. I can't speak for other people's view, but for you have opened up so much information and knowledge for me. I have purchased many books after watching your vlogs and I am having such a great time learning so much more about photography. So thank you and never quit. Your awesome man!!!!!

People who talk behind your are right where they belong Alex, right behind you. I’d say you’ve done rather well with this channel - from Chicago

I have learned more from you about how to stick with my photography than anyone. I’m 66 and believe I have zero talent but love taking photos and experimenting. I never share my photos cos I don’t think they are any good but you have given me the courage to do it for me and worry less. Thank you

Thank you for being there bringing valuable insight to us. I've been there. Doing a photo shoot on a public place always looking over the shoulder thinking "someone is going to point out what I'm doing wrong!". That never happened but somehow it's always there. I've started dealing with it with pragmatism. I've never told anyone I'm a genius photographer, the best in the class and I tell myself I don't have to be. Actually I often tell them precisely that. Right now I actually teach (more like I help Photography enthusiasts to practice and learn while visiting Lisbon) and I've been loving it because I know I've helped so many people improve their photography.

First of all, I'm really glad you didn't give up because I like your videos. Now, about being brave. Bravery is confronting your fears, not hiding or ignoring them. I have probably the worst self confidence of most people I know but I have figured out how to deal with all of the naysayers. I volunteer a lot with teens and, like photography, sometimes it works fantastic and it feels just over the moon, usually it's just okay and sometimes I fail. Now, for someone that doesn't volunteer to tell me I did a bad job, they lose a bunch of credibility. I put the time into it, not them. For someone that does volunteer to tell me I did a bad job, it's really rare and I just assume they're full of themselves. Finally, there are those that volunteer, understand how hard it is, and will make suggestions that are worth gold. But back to photography, I know I'm never going to be famous. I'm never going to make money either. I take photos because I enjoy it. Looking for the photo is an adventure. Getting a good one is just the icing on the cake that makes me feel fantastic. That and learning how to improve makes up for all the ho hum photos. It's similar to working with teenagers. Most of them struggle with communication, some will tell you years later they enjoyed what you did and a very few will show their appreciation, whether a word or just a smile at their own good fortune, right away. Yes, focus on the good moments.

There's a lot to unpack from this video. A lot. Good for you to tackle this topic head on. It's always a relevant topic for anyone involved in the creative process, especially if you're dependant on your gifts to make a living. And you're spot on about the time ratio re: analyzing good feedback vs bad, as we feel the need to deconstruct the negative and dismiss the positive. If anyone can create a defence that deflects negative criticism away from our easily bruised egos - like water off a ducks back - I want a piece of that. I'm 68. I've been an actor all my life. Like you who carries a 30 year old albatross around your neck, I have a flock of them. I'm deeply appreciative that you had the courage to share your thoughts. We all need more of precisely this.

I´ve been working as a part time musician under 35 years. In the beginning (when i believed i had a chance to be a rock star) i play my own songs. After the years passed i started to play more covers and the last years i´ve played blues and some rock. It have some similarities to be a photographer who publish your pictures. When you're on stage you get that response immediately when you present "your baby" to the crowd. Some times when we have had some bad gigs and bad response i have been deep down in the mental dirty ditch. I have learned to accept all people could not have my good taste ;) I do my thing, what I have to do and I am glad to get applause and when that happends i suck in every good second. We all need to be seen, to be confirmed. It's hard to learn to take bad and sometimes mean critisism. But hey .. We just live once and the only thing we must do is to live until we die. If I give up my thing, what I have to do, I give those people who do not like me or my work right. And i begin to die. I love you channel.

Shot a lovely photo of a famine-era cottage ruin here in Ireland, and showed it to a friend of my wife. "Oh, everyone takes pictures of that," she said, dismissing my work. So... I shot a series of images of her sitting in my kitchen (B&W) that absolutely captured her negative personality, and sent them to her.... They say revenge is a dish best served cold; I believe it's best served in black and white... Cheers!

I feel lucky that all those years ago you did not go and quit after the negative comment made by that individual . I have only recently got back into Photography as I purchased my Camera & lens in Nov 2021 so it's been a learning curve to get used to using the equipment again. What I am gaining from you Alex is a far deeper lesson than I could ever of though possible on Photography, as now I am starting to understand myself and what I can get out of my shots by simply paying attention and being myself. Your advice is priceless. Thank You Alex.

A heart felt message that I think we should all take note of. The photographic world is sometimes more toxic than it should be, we should be more supportive of each other. Thanks for posting this.

I was just able to watch this video and I want to say thank you for not stopping after 5 episodes! I am a hobbiest photographer and just play around with photography. There are months I don't pick up my camera for whatever reasons but the nagging feeling that I am not good enough is/was always there. Your words of encouragement were the thing I needed to here for those times. My thinking has evolved to this is my photography, yes I want everyone to like it but if only one other person enjoys it I've done something good. I've come to realize that not everyone will like my photos just like I don't like every photo I see. I've also come to realize that some of the people on this planet are just mean spirited and will hate for the sake of causing disruption in someone else's life. Please keep up the great work! It's not all about gear and techniques.

In this culture where everybody wins, I think that we lose the concept that criticism motivates us creatively. Deep down we know that something we put out wasn't our very best. The critics force us to think more deeply about our process. A "negative" comment can touch on something that we already know (or didn't already know) about our work that we may need to improve upon. Especially when critiqued by someone who we respect, the blow can either be crushing or motivating. The motivation can include changing things up in an effort to improve on something or it can mean digging deeper into our point of view. Both are valid. It's about knowing when to hold em and stay true and when to fold em and try a new way. L.S. Lowry and his mother comes to mind.

We create art, people either love it or hate it our joy is in the creation, not the praise or condemnation that follows

Thanks for opening up and being brave enough to being vulnerable in this video. Much appreciated, a very valuable lesson indeed: keep the compliment in mind and don’t get stuck with the negative comments.

A wonderful video, discussing a difficult and emotional topic in an eloquent, insightful, brave and human way. Please, keep making videos, keep wearing your heart on your sleeve, keep giving us your thoughts and opinions. In a world of social-media fakery and a society increasingly based on the externalisation of a manufactured sense of self, honest content like yours is absolutely necessarily, valid and extremely valuable. I really enjoy your videos, thank you for making them.

Those guys in the bar may talk crap about your photography. I bet none of them have a RU-vid channel with 50k plus followers. You have a knack of putting words on things that I think. I post pictures that may get hardly any attention, 5 likes, photos that I myself love and have hanging on my wall. I know then that those 5 people genuinely like that photo. They didn’t jump on the bandwagon. That’s more important to me. I look at hundreds of pictures every day. I hate to think I have to like every one of them. You do you. People talk nonsense a lot. I once did a still life with my own flower bouquet. Someone suggested I should remove the flowers… People have their opinions. But that doesn’t mean they are important opinions. I like your channel. Stick with it! 😊

I can connect with the fear of people saying they don't like my work. So hard to let go of that fear

I’m so glad you didn’t let a jealous hater stop you from providing your unique style of photography content. Your approach and attitude is so needed in this space. I recently stumbled upon your channel and soon subscribed. I’ve been enjoying a deep dive on your archives ever since. Your channel is refreshing. Keep it up! 👍🏻

Alex, this was nothing short of wonderful. It was brilliant to begin with your son's need for your validation, and your loving commitment to provide it. You're speaking for all of us in this video. Life is so very difficult when we lack significant others = parents, partners, friends - who sustain us with their belief in us. For some, it can take decades before they can comfortably accept the compliments that come their way.

I really enjoy your channel and your honesty, I have loved photography since I was a young child and my father gave me my first camera (a box brownie) almost 50 years ago. I watch many photography related channels on RU-vid, but I find that so many are just covert salespeople for camera and lens suppliers. What you bring to RU-vid is honesty and a mindful point of view. You have reminded me of why I first fell in love with photography all those years ago and helped me to realise that taking photos simply because I just love to do it, is reason enough to keep doing it. Someone once told me that the more successful you become, the more criticism you will face. Keep up the good work and please stay true to yourself.

It is very encouraging to find a fellow man that is fighting the same fight as oneself. Every so often I reflect on this topic it suprises me, that hurtful words from strangers still have such a massive impact on us. Same goes for kind words. We don't even know the person behind the screen, where he or she is coming from and what ideas and values they have. Yet we take it for granted and take them personaly and let them invade our mind and soul. It is hard to keep a balanced distance, but to me it is very important to not let any words take me away from what I love doing. It happened to me some times, I wont let it happen again. Thank you for sharing this video and your inspiring and honest words. They are as well highly appreciated. Keep it up!

Thank god you didn´t let the negative feedback stop you from developing this channel. You make me think, and inspire, nearly every time you reach out :-)

Thank you for not giving in to that bully when you started. Your channel is a fantastic resource, you talk about things that concern most creative people and you offer solutions. Then there are your explorations of photographers you find notable and interesting. Long may you continue to thrive.

Thank you for not stopping your channel when you saw that negative comment early on! We need your positive inspiration (delivered in your calm voice :) to keep taking pictures. People complain for a number of reasons, sometimes just to put others down to feel better about themselves. We don’t know what in their life caused them to do so. Most decisions/opinions are based on a number of current and past factors, not just the topic at hand.

If I could only recommend one photography channel, it would be this one. Essential viewing

I have watched 3 of your videos so and I like what you have to say. I am a Videographer getting back into photography and when it comes to our work/art it is very personal and we take it to heart when someone trashes our work.

Hi Alex I am disabled and I take my photography for me and I dont care if people say they dont like it thats their opinion,at the end of the day I like it. I have the habit to shake not on purpose its the disability and the high medication rate I have to take. I am just happy to be able to go out on a good day, if I get home when I have had enough then if I take 200 photos and I get 3 good shots then I am happy and I have enjoyed my day its better than sitting indoors festering. I love this channel and enjoy what you have to say. You take care mate and sod the loosers. Stay safe.📸📸📷

Caring so much about your work can be painful, but it shows in the passion of your work. Thanks for sharing 🙂

Everyone is different, and so not everyone will like, or even understand your work. I don't do much portrait work, but I find it to be genre where people are most vocal, particularly when viewing an image of themselves. Others may like the images, but they may not, because they have an unrealistic or pre-conceived idea of how they should look. That is not on you, that is on them. Street photography is another one. Everyone these days has their own slant on that genre, and that is cool. Whenever I go to a gallery of some famous or featured photographer, I don't always necessarily like everything that I am seeing. It's not always about whether I like all of what I am seeing, I think it's about learning to see what and how they see!… When lay people don't like our work, yes it hurts, but it always helps to remind myself these words. Great upload. 💗

Thank you for your work. You talk about photography and one can feel the passion you have for it. What makes you different from other channels is simply the fact that you never talk about gear. Instead you talk about pictures and the ones who took them. Some of my „better“ photos, I have not taken without this channel. Very inspiring😊

Despite what people say, just keep at it. Some will like what you do, some - often many - won't. Actually, people being split about what you do may actually indicate that you're onto something worthwhile, something that compels people to form an opinion, to take a stand, and that is not completely indifferent. Also, remember that some of the greatest artists ever only received true validation after their deaths. And finally, make it something that is you and that means something to yourself.

Years ago I was watching Michael Cain being interviewed by Dick Cavet and Cavet asked him about some of his movies that were not well received by the critics. His answer: I've never met a critic who offered to pay my rent. And then there was my Dad who liked to say: Oh how I despise the guys who criticize and minimize the guys who try to rise above the guys who criticize and minimize