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 09/07/2009 04:11:17 AM · #1
I have recently noticed several advertisements of those that are "teaching" photography.  At a school of photography as a guest speaker I was asked what my thoughts were regarding the whole "I can teach you photography" thing. Well here goes. I don't subscribe to that concept for many reasons. One is how to stunt the growth of a new student by teaching them rules about what is and what isn't right for a starter.  Another is the often over used formulas that in most cases these "specialists" teach the naive student as gospel

 I do however have no problem with a school that assists one in understanding technical issues or a school that deals with the historical and artistic aspects of photography. But a school that deals with issues such as cropping, lighting style etc...Well that's where I put my foot down and say an unequivocal NO, Nein, Non.

 I have had so many poor lost assistants whom I would rather not pinpoint specifically, that have no clue what so ever who they are. If they did come into a school of photography with the hopes of coming out an individual, well that notion was sucked out of them by the energy vampires. I'm not saying that all profs are frustrated unsuccessful photographers that couldn’t make it in their field. However from what I have seen and heard, one could not help but make that assumption.

 I am saying that guest speakers, workshops and specialized advise dealing with specific technical issues might be a reason to seek out advice or when a guest lecturer has come in to speak of his or her experiences, as I did at the Orleans School of Photography in France. Do your research. Read, experiment, take tons of photos inspire yourself and grow as a human. Build up your vocabulary in all disciplines and your life shall be richer as a result. It has been proven that the greater the vocabulary the richer ones life. Take a deep breath and do what comes naturally. If you get stuck creatively, take a short break.  If you need some technical advice, just ask questions.

//www.benjaminkanarekblog.com/?p=1302
 09/07/2009 08:30:55 AM · #2
Ive yet to have a photography teacher try and change my style or preach his style as gospel. The overall jist of it is purely technical. While there are photo critiques, the main idea behind them is for the technical merit, rarely the subject matter.
 09/07/2009 08:45:51 AM · #3
I went to study photography in 2006 having had nothing more than a interest in the art, i had no portfolio and little knowledge. The course lasted 1 year and all id say it done was give me a great passion and interest in photography.
I spent the next two years self teaching and travelling, trying to mimic photographers and styles i liked until i was up to a standard i believed to be good.
Two years on i now think i have a diverse portfolio and my own style but the way the world is these days i find its not good enough to just be good enough, you have to prove you are good enough by means of qualifications.
So as of today I̢۪m back at college doing a National diploma learning things i taught myself two years ago, but picking up qualifications on the way.
09/07/2009 08:46:05 AM · #4
Originally posted by benjikan:
...teaching them rules about what is and what isn't right for a starter. 


I agree. I recall for example, somewhere that someone was once trashing the use of umbrellas. (sorry, I couldn't resist)

I agree with your post though I should add that the few seminars and workshops that I've attended have all been very open and the teachers/lecturers were actually very sensitive not to box people in.
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