You’ve spent time honing your photography skills, capturing moments with care and creativity. But still, you hesitate to call yourself a photographer. Why is that? It turns out that many budding and even experienced photographers face this dilemma. Imposter syndrome can make us feel unworthy of a title we’ve rightfully earned. So, when can you call yourself a photographer, and how do you overcome the feeling that you’re not “good enough”?
Facing Imposter Syndrome as a Photographer
It’s not uncommon to struggle with feelings of inadequacy. Imposter syndrome is a psychological phenomenon where individuals doubt their accomplishments and fear being exposed as “frauds.” For photographers, this might mean feeling like your work isn’t professional enough, or that you’re not as skilled as others perceive you to be.
As Sean Tucker eloquently explains in his video, many creatives experience this inner conflict, especially in a field like photography where talent, artistic vision, and technical skill are continuously evolving. Let’s explore why imposter syndrome is so pervasive in the world of photography and, more importantly, how to overcome it.
Why Imposter Syndrome Happens
Several factors contribute to imposter syndrome among photographers. Perfectionism, insecurity, struggle, and isolation are often at the core of these feelings.
Perfectionism: Photographers with perfectionist tendencies often believe that their work must be flawless to be worthy of recognition. This mindset can lead to constant self-criticism, making it difficult to share your work or take risks. As Tucker points out, “Anything less than perfect is a failure,” which can prevent you from fully embracing your growth as an artist.
Insecurity: Many photographers believe they need to master every technical aspect of photography before they can be considered legitimate. This can create a sense of inadequacy, even if you’ve made significant strides in your craft. As Tucker explains, “We have this deep insecurity that if we don’t have all the answers, then we’re not competent.” But the truth is, photography is a lifelong learning journey, and no one knows everything.
Struggle: There’s often a belief that success in photography should come easily to talented individuals. However, when faced with setbacks, photographers might question their abilities. Tucker reminds us that “we have this false assumption that everyone else is finding it easy,” when in reality, struggle is a normal part of growth.
Isolation: The fear of judgment can cause many photographers to avoid sharing their work or asking for feedback. Isolation breeds doubt, and without a supportive community, it can feel like you’re the only one facing challenges. Tucker encourages photographers to break free from this fear by connecting with others.
Overcoming Imposter Syndrome
While imposter syndrome can feel overwhelming, there are ways to combat it. Sean Tucker offers several strategies to help photographers overcome self-doubt:
Own the Feeling: Acknowledge that imposter syndrome is real and that it’s something many creatives experience. Recognizing the issue is the first step toward addressing it. Remember, you’re not alone, and these feelings do not define your worth as a photographer.
Gain Perspective: Instead of comparing yourself to others who have been in the field longer, focus on your personal journey. Growth and progress should be celebrated, no matter how small. Tucker emphasizes the importance of having “an honest and sober view of where you’re actually at.” You don’t need to be perfect; you just need to keep improving.
Celebrate Your Growth: Look back at where you started and compare it to where you are now. This helps you appreciate the progress you’ve made. Your early photos might make you cringe, but they serve as a reminder of how much you’ve grown. The only person you should be comparing yourself to is your past self. If you’re better than yesterday, you’re succeeding.
Get Connected: Building a supportive community can help alleviate feelings of isolation. Joining local photography clubs, online groups, or even attending workshops can provide valuable feedback, encouragement, and a sense of belonging. Tucker stresses the importance of “investing in creative friendships.” If your imposter syndrome feels too much to handle, consider seeking professional help through therapy.
When Can You Call Yourself a Photographer?
The answer is simple: you can call yourself a photographer whenever you want. Photography is about intentional creation—whether you’re a hobbyist or a professional, your passion for capturing images makes you a photographer. You don’t need to wait for someone else to validate your skills. As one insightful commenter on Tucker’s video beautifully said, “You’re a photographer as soon as you intentionally compose a photo.”
By embracing your identity as a photographer, you’ll find the confidence to share your work, connect with others, and continue growing in your craft. Remember, there’s no official title or certification that makes you a photographer—your creativity and dedication do.