What makes me a photographer?
Recently I sat with Steve and spoke to him about who I am as a photographer. During our chat I had a little moment of clarity; I think photography is therapy for me because I have this chance to stand by the work that I’ve currently produced and without caveats, or justification, and be proud to say I am a photographer.
An Imposter - Discovering what makes me a photographer
I’ve mentioned to a number of people that I feel like an imposter. That I am somehow less than my peers, whether because of how long I’ve been shooting for, because I have weaknesses in my art, or because I’m overly critical of myself.
Yet I’ve had photos with articles published in two zines, had photos on gallery walls in an art space, and I will continue to submit work, looking to expand where and how my photos are published. That makes me a real true to life photographer, not how I view myself, or how I believe others view me.
A thousand reasons
It makes me wonder why I am so self critical, why I have this sense of inferiority that doesn’t come from anywhere other than my own opinions.
All this pushes me towards realising that I need to re-evaluate my self worth, that I need to be kinder, and more confident in my self. There could be a thousand reasons why I feel this way but being a photographer has really helped me shift my perspective.
Being a photographer is guiding me to become the best me that I can potentially be.
