#584 In this episode of the podcast, I explore the idea that your photos are not broken just because they aren’t technically perfect or heavily edited. I share my own experiences as a photographer, reflecting on how the rise of digital editing and AI has made many of us feel like every photo needs to be “fixed” to be worth keeping or sharing. I encourage you to let go of those expectations and to rediscover what made you pick up a camera in the first place—whether it was to slow down, see the world differently, or simply enjoy making images.

KEY TOPICS COVERED

1. The Pressure of Perfection and Editing in Modern Photography - Raymond discusses how digital tools, social media, and AI have shifted expectations toward perfection. He challenges the presumption that photos must always be edited, and recalls the joy of simple, unedited film photography. The key takeaway is to let go of perfection and rediscover the fun in photography.
2. Imperfection as Art and Authenticity - The episode illustrates, with anecdotes from Raymond’s wedding photography, the value of candid moments (like a flower girl picking her nose), emphasizing that these “flaws” make photos memorable and human. He connects this to the broader theme of authenticity, suggesting that imperfection is what sets human-made images apart from AI-generated ones.
3. Practical Approach: Enjoyment and Mindset Shift (Plork) - Raymond introduces “plork” (play + work). He encourages listeners to shoot for enjoyment, intentionally practicing and experimenting with their cameras rather than working only to “fix” images later. Actionable advice includes shooting JPEGs, skipping editing, and focusing on moments that feel right rather than those that look perfect.

IMPORTANT DEFINITIONS & CONCEPTS

• Plork: A blend of play and work, meaning practicing a craft with a playful, no-pressure attitude. In photography, “plorking” means shooting for enjoyment while still improving your skills—the core mindset Raymond urges listeners to adopt.

DISCUSSION & REFLECTION QUESTIONS

1. When do you feel most pressure to edit your photos, and how does it affect your enjoyment of photography?
2. Can you think of a photo you love because of, not in spite of, its imperfections? Why does it resonate with you?
3. What habits can you adopt to “plork” more during your photography sessions?

RESOURCES:
Check out the Headway App for book summaries - https://makeheadway.com/
Book: "The Creative Act" by Rick Rubin
Book: "The Dude and the Zen Master" by Jeff Bridges

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• Join the free Beginner Photography Podcast Community at https://beginnerphotopod.com/group
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Thanks for listening & keep shooting!