Criticism, confidence & the stories we choose to tell.

"You should have brought the exposure up."

As a beginner wildlife photographer it can be hard to be confident in your artistic choices, especially when breaking rules of thumb. You'll want to do things right and you want to utilize criticism to become a better photographer, but don't let that stifle you.

"I wish his eyes were open!"

A lot of people disagree with some of my photographic decisions. Many will say the shot above would be better if the lions eyes were open. That's generally great advice and yes, many viewers would actually enjoy this shot more- but that's just not the story I want to tell here.

"This would be better with more contrast."

Not everyone has to like the story you decide to tell. Give criticism real consideration, but understand that you don't have to agree with it. There isn't really a right and wrong way to take a shot but there may be a more effective way to illustrate your story. That's up to you and only you to decide.