Photography: Tech Skills vs. Creative Vision

Technical know-how and artistic intuition?

It’s the eternal question that keeps coming back all the time:

What defines a "real" photographer?

• Is it the mastery of camera settings?

• The ability to find the perfect exposure?

• The knowledge of every gear spec?

• Having an innate eye for composition?

• Capturing the soul of a moment?

And the list goes on and on.

The answer is not easy.

In photography, there are two types of extremes:

The "pure engineers" and the "pure artists."

The Pure Engineers

These are the tech nerds.

They read camera manuals cover to cover, dissect every single menu option, and follow gear reviews like a religion.

And they can discuss the finer details of their equipment for hours.

They are the ones who love to play with settings, shoot in manual mode, and adjust every single parameter like an obsession.

But it comes at the cost of focusing on the artistic side.

The Pure Artists

These photographers know their camera's tech specs inside out but with a major difference:

They have a natural instinct for composition, lighting, and storytelling.

They focus on what matters most: creating images that captivate people.

But on the other hand, their lack of tech expertise can sometimes limit their creative potential.

So What’s Best?

It’s in the balance.

Most photographers fall somewhere in between these two extremes.

But it’s great that you have both skills.

They complement each other.

The key is to find the right balance that works for YOU.

Flexibility Is A Must

You must be adaptable.

Different situations call for different approaches.

For example, you might need to use auto-mode for event photography as the lighting conditions change fast.

But for a studio shoot, you’ll probably use full manual control.

In the end, what matters the most is the final result.

Photography is an art form.

The ultimate goal is to express your vision in a way that is unique to you.

The Gear Myth

The latest and most expensive camera gear will not make you a better photographer.

High-quality equipment is sure important.

But it will never replace your creativity.

Your camera is just a tool. What matters is how you use it.

And That’s It

Photography, like any art form, is about personal expression.

Your journey as a photographer is unique.

And it doesn't have to fit into a specific category.

It's about finding what works for you only.

There's no single path to becoming a "real" photographer.

Don’t listen to some photography gurus who want to tear you down ‘cause you don’t have “enough experience”.

Instead, focus on what matters the most and keep learning.

It’s the result that counts.

Happy shooting!

Hakan.