You're Being Lied To... I'm Done

#476 In this episode of the Beginner Photography Podcast, I pull
back the curtain on the deceptive world of influencer marketing
within the photography industry. I'll uncover how financial
incentives and unethical practices are designed to mislead you
when buying new gear. Learn why developing your skills should
always take precedence over accumulating more gear. Reflect on
your genuine needs before making purchases, and arm yourself with
the knowledge to distinguish honest reviews from biased ones. As
you listen, I encourage you to question the marketing messages
you encounter, prioritize honing your craft, and aim for
transparency in your own creative endeavors. 


THE BIG IDEAS



Skeptical Consumption: Always question product reviews
to determine if they’re influenced by sponsorships. Trust your
own instincts and needs.


Skill Over Gear: Focus on improving your photography
skills instead of constantly upgrading your equipment—it's your
ability that makes the difference.


Transparency Value: Understand the ethical implications
of influencer marketing in shaping your buying decisions. Aim
for transparency in your own practices.


Personal Needs: Evaluate how, why, and if you will use a
product before making a purchase—tailor your toolkit to your
specific requirements.



PHOTOGRAPHY ACTION PLAN



Evaluate Current Gear: List out all your current
equipment and consider which items you use frequently. Identify
gaps in your skills that you might improve with your existing
gear before buying new items.


Research Ethically: Check multiple sources for reviews
to compare and contrast their opinions on new products. Look
for content creators who transparently disclose their
sponsorships and affiliations.


Focus on Skill Development: Spend dedicated time each
week practicing different photography techniques. Invest in
courses or workshops that focus on building your core
photography skills.


Create a Test Environment: Set up controlled
environments to experiment and learn more effectively, using
the gear you already own. Document your findings and review how
well your current gear meets your actual needs.



Board of Photography Advisors - Youtube


Creativity



Attic Darkroom: reminds me to get out of my comfort zone
and try some crazy ideas even if they seem destined to fail -
https://www.youtube.com/@atticdarkroom


Kim Grant: Has an idea and tests it. Encourages me to go
deeper into smaller subjects -
https://www.youtube.com/@kimgrantphotography



Technical



Daniel Norton: In depth discussions about light and BTS
- https://www.youtube.com/@DanielNortonPhotographer


Mark Wallace: Always sharing tips on using different
kinds of light -



Learn What Camera Settings to Use in our free guide!
https://perfectcamerasettings.com/


Sign up for your free CloudSpot Account today at
www.DeliverPhotos.com


Connect with Raymond!


Join the free Beginner Photography Podcast Community at
https://beginnerphotopod.com/group

Get your Photo Questions Answered on the show -
https://beginnerphotopod.com/qa

Grab your free camera setting cheatsheet -
https://perfectcamerasettings.com/




Thanks for listening & keep shooting!