overcoming doubt and intimidation
Gaining confidence in your photography.
by Justin Mott
As I prepare for an upcoming exhibition in August to showcase my Kindred Guardians project hosted by Leica Singapore, I've been reflecting on doubt and intimidation in photography and how I've navigated them throughout my career.
I've always been an optimist, tempered with a healthy dose of irrational confidence. Despite my own self-doubts over the years, I've never allowed external skepticism or intimidation to hinder my progress.
Sadly, I see many amateur photographers succumbing to these pressures. I've spoken with numerous photography enthusiasts who feel daunted by the industry and crippled by self-doubt. It's disheartening because it often prevents them from taking meaningful steps in their photographic journey.
They look at the polished work of seasoned photographers with admiration, only to dismiss their own potential with thoughts like, "I could never produce something like that." They yearn to embark on projects, create books, or exhibit their work but believe they lack the credentials or recognition to do so. They fear ridicule due to their modest social media following or compare themselves unfavorably to more established names in the field.
Let me share a truth: every successful photographer, including myself, has wrestled with doubt and faced industry intimidation. The key difference lies in not letting these obstacles become roadblocks. Everyone starts from somewhere, and everyone has moments of uncertainty. I vividly recall my early days as a budding photographer, juggling bartending shifts to make ends meet, and a chance encounter with a framing store owner who believed in my potential enough to exhibit my work.
Back then, my portfolio lacked cohesion, and my style was still evolving. I wasn't entirely ready, but I didn't let self-doubt paralyze me. I've always been one to take risks, knowing that even if things don't pan out perfectly, the experience itself is invaluable.
Sure, there were skeptics at that first exhibition, and plenty who questioned my decisions—whether it was my move to Vietnam or my shift into wildlife photojournalism. People tried to pigeonhole me into specific photographic genres or roles, but I've never let others dictate my path or dictate how I view myself.
The journey hasn't always been smooth; criticism and negativity can sting. Yet, I've learned to harness my self-doubt as a motivator rather than a barrier.
So, to all aspiring photographers out there: share your work boldly, build your online presence, start those passion projects, embark on that dream trip, publish that book, and hold that exhibition. Success isn't just about acclaim—it's about the personal growth and satisfaction that come from pursuing your passion against all odds.
Define success as daring to embrace what you fear, not merely the outcome
