How good am I? (1,00x post)

[Lonnie]

I just realized I hit 1,000 posts, and I planned on writing something introspective. Instead I commented on a CF card or selective coloring or something.

I've been doing a bit of housecleaning on 3 harddrives, trying to archive photos, perform backups, etc.

About a year and a half ago, I had an opportunity to get hired on as a second shooter for weddings. Before I went in for the interview, my friend (first shooter), told me to bring a portfolio showing a sample of some of my best photos.

So, I scoured all of my photos, found what I considered to be the best, then printed them all up. I also saved the photos to a "Portfolio" folder.

I came across this folder while housecleaning...and I was amazed at how mediocre I consider those shots to be. Just a little over a year ago, I considered the shots to be really good. Now I consider them to be average at best. Out of 30 shots, only a couple would make a portfolio I would put together now.

So, for me at least, "good" is a constantly moving target. Everytime I hit it, I redefine good and keep trying to find it. I also figured out that a lot of the critiques I've had in the past were right. Kind of like when you finally figure out your parents were right when you turn 30?

No real point, I just found it interesting how much my frame of reference has changed. This is part of what motivates me to get better at photography. The brass ring always appears to be within reach, but when you grab it, you see a shinier much more desirable one just past it.

Isn't photography great? Thanks POTN for helping me continue to reach the next brass ring.

[Grimes]

Congratulations. If you stop trying to improve your images, you might as well put the camera down....

[freebird]

Interesting.

I'm wondering if a progression in lens kit played a large part in your situation.
Same lens you show in sig for all your photos? Diferent bodies? PP play a big part over the years?

[Lonnie]

Originally Posted by freebird

Interesting.

I'm wondering if a progression in lens kit played a large part in your situation.
Same lens you show in sig for all your photos? Diferent bodies? PP play a big part over the years?

Definitely a progression in lens kit. Even moreso a progression in lighting. I just got the 5d2 so that should take me even further.

I know that photography isn't all about the kit, but it sure does make it a lot less painful and more enjoyable. The 5d2 feels like a Ferrari compared to the Rebel XT.