Am I an Unworthy Photographer?

People often seem to believe that a person who works as a photographer never let’s go of his or her camera. People think that photographers live through their lens… that they see images everywhere they go.

I have a confession to make… I rarely take pictures of my friends and family. Does that sound strange? Let’s talk about it.

My sister Élise, singing happy birthday with her two boys, Samuel, and Louis. Sony a9, 55mm lens, f/1.8, 1/400 second, ISO 1,600.

To photograph is to observe, more than to participate

In my humble opinion, I believe that photography gives us the ability to see things from a different perspective; to be able to create lasting and (most importantly) meaningful memories. It takes concentration, anticipation, and analysis. To be in this “observation” mode, I personally need to step back and subtract myself from whatever is going on to be able to see the scene as a whole.

Whether I am at a family dinner or enjoying an afternoon with friends, I want to be in “participation” mode. I don’t necessarily want to have to think about the light or the angle that will make the best composition or wait for the moment when Grandpa Martin gives his best smile.

My dad (aka Grandpa Martin) reading a book with his grandson Samuel. Sony a9, 55mm, f/1.8 1/400 second, ISO 2,000. 

Unworthy Photographer, me?

 Well, before I get tomatoes thrown at me, yes, I do sometimes take pictures of important events, and I am always happy with the memories I create for my family. I realize that time passes, kids grow up fast, and loved ones don’t last forever. There are even times when I get pleasant surprises when I risk lending one of my cameras to my little sister!

A picture of myself walking my nephew Louis, taken by my sister Élise! Sony a9, 55mm f/1.8 at f/2.8, 1/1000 second, ISO 100.

Photography is my job.

A good friend of mine, Daniel, has been a photojournalist for more than 35 years. He has been photographing all his life, and not just for the newspapers. For him, it is his way of expressing himself, it is vital. He always has a camera ready in his car – if he doesn’t already have it hanging around his neck. He documents his life through his images. He is now retired and takes more pictures than ever. It’s absolutely wonderful!

For me, photography is my job. Just like a notary who meets with his clients (like Grandpa Martin). When the day is over, I put my cameras in my bag like you would shut the door of an office, and I move on. Does that make me less passionate, less competent, or less creative?

Granny Gisèle hugging my nephew, Samuel. Sony a9, 55mm, f/1.8, 1/320 second, ISO 1,000.

Photography is one of my many interests…

I love photography. I also love writing articles, making educational videos and online courses on the subject. These are all equally satisfying ways for me to fulfill my potential. I like variety and I like to learn in different areas. When I get off work, I get off work. The hobbies in my personal life don’t necessarily involve photography.

A very happy Samuel driving his beloved John Deere tractor. Sony a9, 55mm, f/1.8, 1/3,200 second, ISO 100.

What do you think?

Whether you are a professional photographer or not, do you believe that photography is a way of life? Or on the other hand, can it be compartmentalized into a specific area of your activity? I invite you to comment right under this article. I am very curious to know your opinion.

I look forward to hearing from you!

Until next time, have fun with self-portraits!

About the Author

Michèle Grenier is a sports photographer who specializes in BADASS action portraiture. She’s also a Photofocus author, a Skylum Software ambassador and a photography coach. You can find her at www.michelegrenierphoto.com