My Greatest Obstacle and How I Overcame it: Criticism

Ah criticism, everyone's favorite subject. Let's be real, who actually likes receiving criticism? I have always had a problem taking criticism from people not only in my business, but also in my personal life. You see, I am what you would call “stubborn”. It's a family thing, I swear! I used to feel so attacked if someone made a remark about anything pertaining to my lifestyle or my work. I remember several years ago, I was talking to a photographer in my area and he told me my pictures were too blue-toned. At the time I really had no idea what he was talking about and I honestly became very offended by his comment. I even went as far as to insult some of his work...not to his face obviously but in my own head. I never and I mean NEVER liked receiving criticism, like I would have rather you took me out back and shot me instead of you telling me what I should do to be better at my craft. You might be thinking that I am crazy for doing that, and you would be absolutely right! Crazy, stubborn, and prideful. I read an article the other day that said how constructive criticism was more hurtful than helpful. The old me would be so fast to agree with that article, I probably would have felt so validated and continued to live in my safe space bubble. Did you notice I said the old me?

Criticism is a staple to our growth as humans. While there are some people who take it a bit too far, and are just simply being mean, there are quite a few people who are really trying to help you grow. Before I started using Lightroom, I only ever changed the highlights and shadows of pictures. I thought that raw, off the camera photos were much better and authentic. Actually, I was just incredibly terrified to learn how to edit photos. What if I wasn't good at it? I was always in my head about how I would never be good at editing photos like everyone else. Thankfully, I had two people who were tired of seeing me waste my talents and not grow. My husband Cody and my dear friend Kenna. I mentioned Kenna in my first blog so if you didn't read that go and do that now. Cody and Kenna knew that I would never get anywhere if I kept telling myself not to change. They have both actively played a part in the growth of my business. Kenna has been so willing to teach me new aspects of editing and photography, she is so patient and honestly just great all around. Cody has been so supportive and continues to keep me in check by making sure I never just settle for less than the best. They gave me criticism.

Earlier, I said that the old me would never accept criticism, so what does the new me do? The new me is fast to listen and learn. The new me actually takes people's criticism into consideration. I’ve also taken this problem of mine to the Lord(which I always recommend if you're dealing with something.) The Bible says in Proverbs 15:31 the ear that listens to life-giving reproof will dwell among the wise. I don't know about you but I'm tired of living an ignorant life. I'm tired of needing to feel validated, and not have my feelings hurt. Accepting the criticism from my peers has been so life changing for me! I have continued to grow my business, and it's all because I got over myself and my fear of people's opinions. I’m not quite sure if this blog was just meant for you to see the vulnerable side of me or if there is someone out there who is dealing with the same thing i went through. Whichever it may be, I hope you have learned something today, don't ever be too afraid or too prideful to accept people's criticism of you. You never know, it could be the turning point for you to actually start your business, or make your current business better. Think about that. I love you all and continue to be great people!!

Love, your friendly neighborhood photographer!

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Below: These photos are of my sister, which I took several years ago. The first picture just has some light touch ups for the highlights and shadows. The one below it is me practicing with Lightroom to enhance the colors, etc. It's not perfect by any means but it is a lot more progress than I would've made had i not accepted help from others.