How I Got Good At Photography | 93

I want to kick off with a question: Are you putting in the reps?

It's all about understanding the power of repetition in mastering your craft.

And no, it's not just about perfecting that one great shot or making the perfect video. It's about consistency, repetition, and the process.

Embrace the Process

Have you ever found yourself dwelling too much on creating the perfect thing?

Days go by, and you end up creating nothing at all.

I understand. I've been there. But let me tell you something - it's okay not to be perfect.

The beauty of the creative journey lies in embracing the process, not in the pursuit of perfection.

Back in 2019, when I was striving to improve my photography skills, I set myself a simple goal.

Not to capture the perfect shot or win awards but to post a photo daily on Instagram.

Some were great, some were not, but that wasn't the point.

The point was to keep shooting, keep exploring, and keep learning.

Every day, whether commuting to my 9-5 job or going on a walk, I had my camera with me.

Sure, I was busy. But I saw each moment as an opportunity to snap a photo and learn something new.

Even when the days were packed, I never made excuses.

Just as a pianist practices scales to master their craft, a photographer learns by capturing image after image. The most powerful learning happens when you are fully engrossed in the process, putting in your reps day after day.

The Lessons from Repetition

Over time, my daily photography practice began to bring results. I learned about lighting principles and composition. I learned about patience and timing. I learned to be a master behind the lens.

And all of these valuable lessons came from one thing - consistent repetition.

I have seen people who are caught in the trap of perfectionism, and I've seen how it ruins their progress. They worry about creating the ideal project, and when it doesn't receive the praise they were hoping for, they're disappointed and feel like giving up. This cycle then repeats itself.

The truth is, your first attempt will not be perfect. Neither will the tenth or the twentieth.

But each repetition, each 'rep,' is a step towards success. You learn, you improve, you grow.

Your Path to Success

Now, let's talk about how you can apply this in your creative journey.

Whether you're growing a creative business or getting better at your creative skills, the strategy remains the same. Your goals should be oriented around consistent, deliberate practice - the reps.

If you want to get better at product photography, your goal should be to capture a certain number of product photos every day. The focus should be on what you can control - your effort, your consistency.

Remove the outcome from your goals. Focus on the process.