When I first viewed my classmates’ portfolios, I was immediately intimidated by the apparent experience and substance their work possessed. It was clear that each of them had a better understanding than me on the subject of photography. Some of their shots almost looked professional, and others, while not overly impressive, still looked better than what I am currently capable of. Truth be told, I thought about ditching the course at one point, thinking that photography just wasn’t for me.
My photo capturing skill is that of an average youngster, and even then, I can say that I was still at a level below theirs. I was never too critical in taking good pictures, I only took pictures that looked “good enough”. However, at one point, as I observed my designated photographer friends, I started to get interested. I wanted to take aesthetic and Instagram-worthy pictures as well. Seeing my classmates’ works did make me anxious, but there is also a sense of excitement — excitement at the possibility that maybe I, too, will be able to produce not good enough, but truly and objectively great photos. So, I decided not to let intimidation take over and instead I’ll give this course a shot and see where it leads me.
During Assignment 2, when I was looking at my classmates’ works one by one, it was reassuring to see that I’m not the only one lacking experience in photography. There were also those who have similar, if not, less experience than I have in the subject. But what really eased my mind was the fact that there are quite a few that will also use their phones as their main equipment for this course.
It was the one thing that I’m insecure about as I don’t have and never owned a professional camera. It’s also the biggest reason why opted out on volunteer study groups or the upcoming face-to-face session. I would certainly feel out of place, and it would be difficult for me to learn effectively, let alone apply what I’ve learned — in the context of professional cameras — when I don’t even have the proper equipment.
However, I’m not too bummed about it. As I’ve mentioned in my Assignment 2, there were those who, despite not having a camera, were still able to capture impressive shots with their phones. For now, I’m striving to consciously apply what I’ve learned so far, such as considering the rule of thirds or making an interesting composition, before committing to a more advanced level of photography involving technical features. While this slight disadvantage may eventually become a challenge to me in future assignments, I will do my best with the resources I have available and approach it with feelings of excitement and optimism.
Wanting to take pretty pictures is not the only reason I’m looking forward to learning more. I realized that many of the concepts and techniques that is applied in photography could also be incredibly useful in art. Exploring concepts such as composition, lighting, and perspective will allow me to not only improve my skills in taking photos but also in creating my artworks, giving me a deeper understanding of storytelling and visual expression. As both a digital artist and a beginner in photography, I’d be killing two birds with one stone.
With this newfound inspiration, my worries and insecurities about my lack of experience and proper equipment will not be greater than my eagerness to learn and improve. While I do still feel intimidated, there is also a spark of determination pushing me forward to reach my classmates’ level and perhaps even surpass the work of those I admire.
I realize that my lack of a proper camera may not be a setback, but rather a challenge to work around creatively. This fuels my motivation to adapt and make the most of what I have. I’m excited to learn new techniques, receive feedback that will allow me to overcome my weaknesses, and push past my self-doubt. My goal is not just to keep up, but also to truly grow and evolve as both a photographer and artist.
By the end of this course, it’s not an exaggeration to say that I will acquire a deeper understanding of photography, improve my technique, and gain a sense of what will look good on a camera. Ultimately, my appreciation for the draft would have grown, and perhaps my interest in it as well. Who knows, by the end of it all, I might find myself becoming more of a photographer than a digital artist.
22 Mar 2025