Why I took a Break (Dealing with Change and Loss) 

The world is a better place thanks to people like you Sean! ❤️ Best of luck mate, I’m sure your future is bright.

It takes an incredible amount of strength and courage to open yourself up like this and speak on the struggles, not just the triumphs. Anyone that’s been watching your channel knows the kind of heart you have. As hard as it will be, you’ll continue to do great work. Not just through photography, but sharing your light with the world. Nothing but love to you, Sean. ❤️

I have been through the same Sean. 11 years ago my wife left, to this day I still don't understand why. It was the time of the financial crisis. I then lost my 22 year career, lost my home,, my mother died , my 11 year old niece was diagnosed with inoperable brain cancer and when it was all done, I had a heart attack. Getting through the grief at times seemed impossible. You did a wonderful thing by trusting us enough to let us in. You have just allowed me to do the same. Stay safe my friend and stay in the present moment.

Sean- You owe us nothing, and yet you continue to be a warm light in a cold desert of indifferent trends and meaningless likes, and you’ve done so by letting us in and treating us with respect and honesty. Thank you from all of us.

Sean, so sorry for this tough time in your life. Heal and take care of yourself. You've helped and inspired so many. Good luck in your next chapter.

“Forget perfect offerings. There are cracks, cracks in everything, that’s how the light gets in” (Leonard Cohen)

Hi, Sean. When I went through a difficult time, a wise woman said to me, “ First you will be sad, second you will be mad, then you will be very glad.” I hope you get to very glad soon.

Dear Sean my English is not the best and therefore a quote for you . “Don’t rush anything, when the time is right it’ll happen “ You will feel better take care !

“This rejection doesn’t suddenly make me useless. I’m still the same me.”

Thank you for sharing your heart. Love and internet hugs to you and well wishes in the move.

In a world of "influencers", you actually have influence. Your authenticity allows your work to have impact.

I am so sorry for your situation, Sean. It is an absolutely gutting feeling! It is good to hear you look forward and have plans for the future. I wish you all the best and good luck. Looking forward to following along on your journey as your thoughts are always incredibly interesting - thanks for making videos and sharing your life!

Looking forward to seeing you up here matey. I'm sure you're going to settle into your new home in no time. I'll bring you some welcome cake ;-)

I'm so sorry to hear of your situation Sean. However, your perspective on the positives on this were very refreshing and I am excited for this next chapter for you. The North (Yorkshire specifically) is absolutely stunning. Granted, I didn't pick up much of the accent but I lived up in Leeds for 3 years and York and Yorkshire is absolutely stunning and tranquil. Wishing you the best in this next chapter and I appreciate you opening up to your audience the way you have. You owe us nothing, but we owe you the years of great perspective and Knowledge you've given us. See you up north for a Pint one day (Hopefully by a nice log fire pub).

“Keep some room in your heart for the unimaginable” - Mary Oliver

I can't imagine that there is one person hearing this that hasn't been through a tough break. We feel your pain and fortunately it wont last forever even though it feels like it will. Feel better soon.

Oh, man…. You have no idea how it hurt to hear that. I’ve never met you, I really don’t know you personally, but boy… following your work and being an admire of your persona…. It hurts. Impossible not to feel empathy. I’m so sorry, man. I do wish you and her the best. I do wish you to feel better and keep up the amazing work of yours. Empathetic and human love thrown at you from your follower here.

Many years ago my marriage fell apart, it was like a death to me, it hit me like a sledge hammer. Eventually I felt I could trust again and found my life love, we have been together ever since, 30 years now. It will hurt, but it will get better

I had fifteen years of marriage end, when the mother of my children told me she had met someone else, and that, ' I had a week to move out as he was moving in!'. My world imploded, and if it had not been for one of my kids choosing to come with me, I doubt I would have got through. Eight years later, I have all three of my kids, and my grand children to myself, the woman I talk of is no longer alive! I wish your wife no ill will what so ever Sean, no one bit - I only wanted to say that at one point 8 yrs ago I could see no future for myself, and now I am the future for my family!

How wonderful you spend 13 years deeply with another human being. That’s the smile of life.

Hang in their mate. You are one of the rare, decent humans on this planet.

Sean, when I first discovered your channel I was going through my own period of change & loss. It was therapy through photography that really helped me through those 'shadow' moments and your content helped in part to frame those moments into a more worthwhile perspective. There are so many gear or technical photography channels which, are all wonderful in their own way but it's the emotional, human connection which I appreciate so much in your content. I am sorry for your loss, and I hope the move is a fulfilling and joyful one for you, and I very much look forward to following your new beginnings there.

One of the things my patients almost always tell me is that no matter how deep the depression, no matter now badly ravaged by the 'black dog' you have been there is always a hero's solution - the sun comes up one day and you can see colour again. Rainbows just happen. You learn to enter other people's being with much more empathy and resonance, and the world embraces an enriched and better person. The experience is a necessary journey into a cave of darkness and monsters and you do eventually come out stronger and wiser. Every hero's journey has the same strengthening descent into darkness. You are a hero Sean.

What an inspiration to be a human being using photography as therapy and as a way to live... Not only to live: A way to feel alive. THANK YOU

“I always get to where I am going by walking away from where I have been.” -Winnie the Pooh”. Good luck Sean. Sending hugs. Xoxo

I think a large part of your followers is following you not so much for the photographic part, but for the wisdom and personality you put in to your work and videos! This was one of the best YT videos I've seen for a while. And I'm curious what will come out of your move to Yorkshire - it is said to be a very nice place …

A fresh start can be a welcome change. When you are ready, be open to something better, what you truly deserve.

I’ve always impressed with your grace, perspective and courage to share. I love your work.

"Embrace your shadows and protect your highlight"...Lessons for life and light indeed.... Best of wishes sir🙏💜

I gave my wife and young daughter a hug and told them both I loved them before they went to visit family for the weekend. The following morning my Father in law rang me before work to say neither were coming back. Life can be tough but we are stronger than we believe. Wishing you all the very best.

Wow, I am going through the exact, exact same thing after 25 years. I feel your pain and can really relate to you. you are in my prayers

2 years later you are still helping people with this video. Thanks and best…

“Embrace the shadows and protect the highlights.” - Sean Tucker ...WOW ❤️

17 years of marriage and 3 children, same thing happened the exactly same way. My wife walked away from all... I ended up raising children on my own and finding a new life. I pray for you.. Much love to you ❤️❤️❤️

Know that you helped me through my own depression. I wish you all the best.

I hope every broken piece will fit into its own new place for a new, better beginning for everyone.

My favourite photographic quote: 'I am often asked which is my favourite photograph? My answer is the one I take tomorrow' - Imogen Cunnigham. When people ask me whats the best day of my life. My answer is waking up tomorrow. Stay safe, stay strong, stay you.

I was so touched by your honesty, you spoke so well and you should be proud of yourself for handling this with such dignity. Things will get better and being in nature and the countryside is absolutely the right thing. You have a lot of respect and love amongst your followers x

You are stronger and, on many levels, far more valuable , than you think. Stay strong and thank you for sharing you shadows

Thank you for your advice (protect your highlights and embrace your shadows) I hope you cope well and find peace and love again.

A breakup is never easy, but especially hard when you don't have a real closure. Wishing you strength and hope you'll thrive in your new life in Yorkshire

You're a good man, never forget that. Wishing you peace and joy in the next chapter of your life.

This happened to me after 15 years. In the same boat.

We’re with you brother! God bless you!

I've always been saying this and will say it again, when I grow older i would like to be truthful, respectful and humble like this man. ❤️

We’ve never met but having watched your channel for years now, I found I was fighting back tears. Your empathy and human touch drew me to your videos and is what connects all of us to you. I know you’ll get through this but as you said, it will take time and it will be difficult. I think of your move from South Africa back to England and can’t help but look positively on what awaits you in Yorkshire. All the best.

A long walk in the city is great. A long walk in the country is amazing. Look after yourself Séan. And keep doing what you do 👍

My heart goes out to you, Sean. Sending you good thoughts and wishing better days to come.

I am very sorry to hear the news. Relationships are very difficult in my life I have ran to them, and ran from them. I have come to the conclusion that people change. When two people meet and hit it off, its great you are both at point in your life where you connect, but at some point your paths will change and its neither persons fault its just nature of things. I hope the best for you my friend, and as always I appreciate your prospective on the situation. Jason

Yet more comments that you’ll wade into and through. Sean, my heart grieves with you. 16 years into my marriage, my wife left. I asked myself, “what do you want?” and the answer was for my marriage to be made whole. A year later she came back. 2 years later she left again and I had to ask myself the question again. I decided that I wanted what would make her happy and unfortunately that wasn’t our marriage. I’ve lived what you’re going through. I have three wonderful kids and at the time they were very young. Some 8 years later, I am happy. I loved your take on shadows and highlights. Live that. You’re doing it right. A delicate balance of letting it in and keeping it out is indeed the key. You don’t know me but I would still say I’m available to talk. I needed my friends and had friends who took my side no matter what as well as friends who held me accountable. Friends who had strong marriages and some who’d been divorced. They were all vital. Saying “I’m sorry for what you are going through” sounds so trite. How about, “I’ve been there and I’m still standing and you will too even if it means leaning on others. I know the pain and feel it for and with you.” Take care and hope Antarctica is still in your plans.

Thank you for sharing yourself with us Sean. Even in your "shadow" moments you find consolation and hope. Inspired and grateful. Thank you.

Your courage in sharing your troubles is a generous gift to so many people Sean. I'm sorry for this tough time of loss for you, much love and best wishes xx

Leonard Cohen on grieving the loss of love: “Go firmly to the window, drink it in”. From “Alexandra Leaving”.

We’ve missed you. It’s always painful when love decides to leave. Time is the greatest healer. Let time work it’s magic. Excited for your move. Best!

When I had first glanced at the video poster it surely said 'CHANCES'... a new Chance at life. Taking a new path leads you out of a dead end.

Sean, I am so sorry to hear of your loss. Stay strong. I wish you well as you embark on your future changes.Take care.

Sean, it’s refreshing to see someone who is so honest. You’re an absolute legend. The pain will heal in time. You rationalise everything wisely, give yourself time. The community is with you man.

It's sad when one of the partners gives up, no matter how much you try. I wish you healing, not having closure is difficult, but time heals. All of my best wishes!

Prayers up, Sean. ❤️🙏🏼 Always love your work.

Much admiration for sharing this, Sean. Keep strong and life will sort itself out.

10 years ago, almost to the day, my wife of five years said she was leaving. The circumstances weren't quite the same as yours, but I didn't see it coming. We'd had our difficulties, and had done a lot of work on the relationship, and it really stung when she left. I got through it, and we have an amicable relationship now. I can offer this from my own experience: you'll never get over it, but you'll get used to it. The things you shared in this video about how to go through something like this are spot on. Thank you for being vulnerable and sharing your story. I wish you all the best moving forward, and I can't wait to see what the next chapter(s) in your life bring for you, and us.

It takes a lot of strength sitting in front of the camera and sharing this with us. And even more to learn from the situation and seek ways to empower others with your own experience. Best wishes to you and to her as well.

You're an inspiration, such grounding and clarity in an incredibly challenging time. Wishing you all the best in your next chapter

It's an unfortunate thing that through pain we have been given some of the most beautiful art in this world. Best of luck ❤

I'm so sorry to hear this Sean. Life can bring forth such unexpected events. I wish you nothing but growth, healing, wisdom from this.

First time commenting on one of your videos, but been watching for a while. The abruptness with which this happened is something I and anyone else can only sympathise with. Everyone who watches you - whether they are interested in photography or not - thinks one thing within two minutes of hearing you speak...you're a good guy. So it's sad you have to go through this. Your 'Straight talk for people thinking of staring RU-vid' was an instrumental part of giving me realistic expectations for starting my own channel. So I'll tell you about something I have some experience in myself, which is a traumatic breakup: You're clearly the kind of person who has the perspective to know that suffering is part of life, and you will absolutely get past this. As ever, time is the healer. And even if it doesn't feel like it right now, eventually you will be fine and happy again.

Hang in there man! You've always been an inspiration and I know things will work out well for you and thanks for all the work you did.

You bring so much positivity, teaching photography with generosity. So wishing you the best for the next chapter in your life.

Total respect for making such a personal film. If it helps remember “Broken crayons still color.” (Quote unknown)

So sorry to hear about this Sean, for what it's worth, I'm going through absolutely crippling depression and no therapy has been helpful- videos like yours make me realize that sadness isn't unique to me, and your positive outlook is an absolute inspiration.

I’m sorry you’re going through this difficult time. Stay strong.

The line “life doesn’t move in straight predictable lines” really hit home for me. The last year has been one of the most dynamic times of my life and it’s changed my entire perspective. I would like to personally thank you Sean, your approach towards life and photography was a huge inspiration when I found myself stuck in a mental blockage about my work.

Hey Sean! Take all the time you need to recover and get better. I don't know you but I care. Hugs from Spain!

I'm very sorry to hear youre having to go through this, Sean.

Great and healthy seeing such honesty, despite it being painful, I wish you good things in the future Sean.

You’re a good and genuine man Sean, all the very best.

Thank you. In a way. I’m glad that you feel tremendous pain - to me it’s a sign that love really existed in the relationship.

I'll be praying for you through these dark days - thank you so much for being so open and honest.

Just hearing about this for the first time. Will be keeping you in my prayers, my friend. You’ve got this.

Best wishes to you brother, I feel your pain. I had the same with two long term relationships. They walked out suddenly and out of the blue. But thanks to that happening I’m now in the best relationship of my life. Good luck in your next chapter!

Sean your openess to this “society” is exceptional and I know that often hurts. I wish you strenght in a trying time and very much look forward to your new evolution in photography.

Hang in there, you got this, Sean! Sending you healing vibes and lots of love. 🖤

So sorry for what you're going through, sending much love

I've been going thru something similar. i wish you the best in your future. you have much to learn and do in life in your future, and to experience things you never imagined. all the best in your struggles

You inspire me - and I consider myself lucky to be part of a community you've cultivated. Hope your situation gets better good sir. Sending hugs from the Philippines.

Thank you for the peace that you have brilliantly weaved into this message; always giving, you are always giving!

So sorry to hear that. Wish you will get through this soon. Much Love.

So sorry hear this Sean. You touch so many of our lives in many different ways, you inspire us constantly and make us reflect upon ourselves in a very special way. Just know that there are almost a half a million of us out here wishing you all the very best and good luck for the future. Take care buddy.

Wishing you peace Sean. I know it's tough, been there as well. You seem like a kind soul and you'll get past this and be stronger for it. Stay you, brother.

You’re such a great human being! Thank you so much for sharing what you’re going through with so much authenticity. I wish you the brightest future after the darkness. Much love to you.

Thank you for sharing this and for your honesty, Sean. I wish you nothing but the best and can’t wait to see the beauty that arises as a result of the pain you endure.

Glad I came across your message today..Thank you. - you've done a lot of processing & have a bright future to look forward to... The move sounds exciting...

You and your work always "Pay it forward," Sean. No Matter what the day has been, never, never go to sleep without saying, "I love you."

You’re a real light in the world. Thank you for your wisdom and positivity

Wonderful message during such a tough time for you. The highlights and shadows analogy is spot on and I'm glad that you are protecting and embracing them. I wish you well my friend.

Sean, this is the first vid of yours I've watched in a year. I've been through something difficult and although photography has always been a joy for me, I haven't picked up my camera or watched any of my favourite photographers on youtube during this time. Your honesty and your wise, calm nature are a tonic, and I'm glad I chose this morning to watch this. I'm so sorry that this has happened to you, the heartbreak and the lack of closure will take time to heal (I know from experience), and my heart aches for you. Your decision to move north will prove to be serendipitous - what wonders will life bring you? Thank you for letting us into your life, and thank you for inspiring me to pick up my camera again and go for a walk. I wish you every happiness.

Keep the highlights coming and I wish you the best from Kansas, USA.

Sorry to hear about the tough times going on. Amazing words and stay safe and look after yourself. Keep moving forward.

Thank you for sharing this with us. I've been going through a similar situation of loss and change, and your words are hopeful and encouraging. Wishing the best on your journey forward.

Sorry to hear this and I wish you and your wife all the best for the future 💕