5 Reasons why Photography is Important

This post is about why photography is important

I got my first camera on my 10th birthday. My mom had just bought herself a DSLR and the old point-and-shoot camera was just sitting there. So I asked for it as a birthday gift. I was already taking pictures with it, but finally owning it encouraged my love for photography.

Eventually, I went on to collect other cameras. Soon I bought a black and yellow waterproof camera (which I still have). Then when I turned 18 I bought myself a DSLR camera. And I still use it today.

In the last few years, I haven’t taken as many pictures as I used to. Once social media became the norm, my desire to take photos decreased. There was this pressure to make everything perfect. Or I didn’t have the ‘correct’ style that people wanted. So I put the camera down.

Social media is slowly becoming about natural moments. But after years of influencers and seemingly perfect photos, it can be hard to overcome the fear of taking photos.

But I am trying to overcome this. In the last few months, I have been focusing more on documenting my life. I even brought my DSLR on my most recent trip. What helped get me back into photography was reminding myself of the importance of it.

Here is why photography is important

Photography is an easy hobby

Photography is a hobby that anyone can do which is the beauty of it. It is easy to pull out your camera or phone and then snap a picture.

But there are so many photographers out there, especially on social media. They post stunning photos and have professional accounts with thousands of followers. It is easy to forget that photography doesn’t need to be a glamorous thing.

You don’t need expensive equipment or vast knowledge to start taking pictures. Use the phone in your hand and learn the basics of photography. By simply learning how to use your phone camera, the rule of 3rds, and how light works, you are one step closer to taking stunning photos.

Photography is art

Social media is what affected my love of photography the most. Like I already mentioned, there are so many beautiful photos out there. But it seems the photos that do well fit into a certain aesthetic.

My photos were too candid for the influencer category but too posed for a true candid shot. It felt like my photos didn’t fit anywhere. And instead of just posting what made me happy, I gave up.

Photography is an art. Each of us sees the world through different eyes. It is what makes photography so unique. While trendy photos are fun and you should take them, don’t be stressed about your photos fitting into a category. Take them to share who you are.

It is a learning experience

Learning is one of my favorite things. It might be because I am a homeschooled child. But photography comes with a big learning curve.

It is why so many people feel intimidated by it. Learning to take a good picture is one thing, but once you get handed a DSLR and put in manual mode it can feel overwhelming.

Learning photography is worth the time you put in. It is a life skill that will be with you for years. When I started photography my goal wasn’t to be a professional or influencer. My goal was to be able to take amazing pictures of my future family, trips, and important memories.

Start with learning basics. I started learning photography by reading Understanding Exposure. And it is still a resource I use today. If you prefer videos I love the Photography Masterclass on Udemy. I recommend watching the price before you purchase it. It frequently is discounted and I was able to get it for $10.

Learn to use your camera, then focus on the other stuff like editing.

Document special moments

When I started this blog I went through my phone to find pictures of myself to share. And I realized I had none. I hate being in front of the camera. Just look at my Instagram and see that it’s mostly my back.

But it also made me realize I don’t take pictures of the things I do. When I went to Aspen last year I felt like I was taking so many photos. Then I got home and realized I didn’t document everything I wanted to.

One day you will look back and wonder where all your photos are. You will go to show friends or your kids a picture of something and realize you don’t have one. You might want a baby picture for a party or to create a memory collage and not have anything for it.

In the moment it can feel awkward to take a picture. We spend so much time making fun of influencers that we begin to feel weird taking our own photos in public.

Instead of making fun of these people, join them. Take ridiculous photos in public. Stop every 10 feet to take a picture. Get down into weird positions to get a good angle.

Don’t be afraid to take that photo. Your future self will thank you.

Photography is a creative outlet

Because photography is art, it is a creative outlet too.

I learning to focus more on taking photos that do not mean anything. Social media has taught us to take pictures of ourselves, our fancy meals, or a stunning sunset. There are few photos of things around us.

Many influencers are now using this and calling it ‘filler’ photos. Photos that make their grid look pretty. But these photos can exist just because.

Take a picture of the pretty trees, the way your book looks, or anything else that catches your eye. Photography is a place to see the world through your eyes. Share how you see the world and don’t worry if others feel the same.

There are so many reasons why photography is important

It is important to document your life through a creative lens. Don’t be afraid of social media standards or others who might be better than you. Simply get out there and start taking photos.