Here is a summary of “THE PHOTOGRAPHER” by Eric Kim, presented in bullet points:
- Purpose of the Book: An attempt at a mini magnum opus, encapsulating everything Kim has learned about photography, designed to guide readers from novice to expert levels.
- Chapter I: Why Photography?:
- Explores the fundamental reasons for engaging in photography.
- Emphasizes the importance of asking “why” in photography and in life.
- Discusses the philosophical aspect of photography as a tool for self-understanding and reflection.
- Photographer as a ‘Visual Warrior’:
- Describes a photographer as a visual warrior who uses the camera as a sword to fight inner demons and slice away false realities.
- Emphasizes the power of selective framing in photography.
- Making “Good” Photos:
- A good photo is characterized by emotion, soul, and composition.
- Encourages photographers to express their personal vision and feelings through their work.
- Chapter II: Make Photos:
- Advises photographers to follow their intuition and gut when shooting.
- Suggests not overthinking and entering a state of ‘flow’ while photographing.
- Overcoming Fears in Photography:
- Discusses various fears photographers face and how to overcome them.
- Encourages embracing one’s fears as a path to growth and creativity.
- Chapter III: Inspiration:
- Encourages photographers to shoot what personally interests them and to seek inspiration in various art forms.
- Stresses the importance of creative balance between creation and consumption.
- Chapter IV: Share:
- Discusses the importance of sharing one’s work and being confident in it.
- Suggests sharing work that brings joy and meaning to the photographer.
- Chapter V: Soul Photography:
- Focuses on capturing the photographer’s soul in their work.
- Encourages making unique, personal photographs that reflect the photographer’s vision.
- Chapter VI: Changing the World with Photography:
- Believes that photography can change the world by influencing individual perspectives.
- Encourages spreading positivity and personal vision through photography.
- Building Your Own Platform:
- Advises photographers to create their own platforms for greater creative control.
- Discusses the limitations of social media and the benefits of blogging and email lists.
- Branding and Marketing Yourself:
- Emphasizes the importance of self-promotion and confidence in one’s work.
- Encourages taking risks and embracing one’s unique vision and voice.
- Conquering Fear as an Artist:
- Encourages embracing and channeling fear into courage and creativity.
- Suggests taking risks in both photography and life as a path to growth.
- Conclusion & Beginning:
- The book concludes with an encouragement to continuously evolve and embrace change as a photographer and artist.
- Emphasizes self-confidence and creative exploration.
Eric Kim’s book is a comprehensive guide, blending practical photography advice with philosophical insights, aimed at inspiring photographers to find deeper meaning and purpose in their craft.