NEW REPORTS CONFIRM: A growing disconnect between modern photography practices and fundamental skills has been highlighted by seasoned photographer Simon. He urges budding photographers to return to basics, emphasizing the urgency of understanding the craft rather than relying solely on advanced technology.
In a world where cameras now include **AI scene detection** and **smart exposure algorithms**, many beginners are losing touch with the essential principles of photography. Simon, who has over **35 years of experience** in the field, notes that people are increasingly eager to capture images without grasping the mechanics behind them. His recent experience selling a collection of cameras from **2012** revealed a startling trend: **hundreds of inquiries** came from individuals wanting to know how to use the cameras, but few were interested in learning the art of photography itself.
This trend poses a significant risk to creativity and skill development in the photography community. Simon warns that modern photography has become too easy, with many users relying on technology to do the work for them. “Photography should be hard,” he insists, underscoring the importance of effort and practice in honing one’s craft.
He advocates for a radical solution: return to **analog** photography. Simon shares his own journey, recalling how he learned the art on a **Nikon EL2** from the late 1970s, where he had complete control over shutter speed, aperture, and focus. “Learning these basics became second nature,” he reflects, allowing him to concentrate on creativity rather than technology.
With the resurgence of interest in film photography, Simon encourages newcomers to find a film camera for **less than $100** to grasp the fundamentals. He believes that this hands-on approach fosters a deeper understanding of the art form, allowing photographers to experiment and grow.
Simon draws inspiration from wise words attributed to Yoda: “Do or do not, there is no try.” He emphasizes the importance of committing to learn and develop skills, stating that failure is a valuable teacher. “We will all screw up often, but don’t fear it,” he adds, encouraging people to embrace the learning process.
As digital photography continues to dominate, the call for a return to basics is more urgent than ever. Simon’s insights resonate with anyone looking to deepen their photographic skills. By focusing on the craft rather than shortcuts, aspiring photographers can reclaim their creative vision and express themselves authentically.
In conclusion, Simon’s message is clear: take control of your artistry and invest time in learning the craft. The photography community stands at a crossroads, and the choice to develop skills over convenience can lead to a more vibrant and diverse creative landscape.
For those eager to delve into photography, now is the time to take action—dust off that old film camera and start exploring. The path to mastery begins with understanding the basics.
