THE PHOTOGRAPHER BY ERIC KIM

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.