What makes a good photographer? Is it technique? Vision? Equipment? Content? Perhaps a mixture of all of these, plus some providentially supplied opportunities and timing?
Truth of the matter is, no matter how well you have any of these things down, beauty is still in the eye of the beholder. No matter how great an artist is, they will always have their critics - This is true in every sphere of the arts, from painting to music to photography to writing.
And it's easy to focus on the critics - And to lose heart and assume you'll never get anywhere. But as I read recently from one photo-blogger, "Never ever give up." And it's true...
Art isn't about being accepted - It's about creating, it's about sharing your own vision, your own interpretation of the world in whatever medium you so choose... You can portray a sunset in a crisp, realistic photo - Or you can paint it as an abstract array of colors in oils on a canvas. You can write a smooth, legato symphony (betraying my musician roots here), or you can crank up the distortion on your electric guitar...
One medium or expression is not more valid or worthwhile than any other - And all will have their audiences as well as their critics.
What we must focus on is finding our style, our expression - And honing it to perfection. The only valid criticism of any art form should be the amount of heart, soul and effort we put into it.
So own it. Declare it. I could even go so far as to say celebrate your artistic expression - Don't shy away from it! And certainly don't let the critics worry you.
Just something to ponder...
