When photography is no longer enjoyable.

It's been over a month since I haven't shared my photographic works in this community. Upon checking, my last post here was on December 13, 2023, featuring photos from a graduation photoshoot. When I read @macchiata post, I realized, what is the real purpose of my photography? Lately, I've been quite troubled when I feel that my camera should generate income. I don't deny it; I really want to earn money from my photography, but sometimes there's a joy that needs to be overlooked. In reality, I truly enjoy taking photos and delving into colors, even if these colors may not be liked by everyone. It brings me happiness.

The demands as a professional photographer sometimes make me tired, especially when discussing colors. There was a time when my photo colors were compared to those of other photographers, and even skin tones were commented on. Not to mention when colors on one display differed from another. It never ends when discussing technical matters like these. However, from what I've seen, renowned photographers with extensive experience have their unique color signatures. But to reach that point is not easy, and it's essential to find potential clients who resonate with our photography style. However, in my city, most potential clients have been indoctrinated by a particular photography vendor. Consequently, most colors, poses, and overall photo compositions inevitably follow that vendor, driven by the need for income.

At that point, I felt it became very exhausting. I couldn't explore due to these demands. So now, what I feel is that I'm starting to lose my passion for photography, overtaken by the desire to earn money from it. However, I'm slowly reorganizing. Perhaps, in the future, I will start promoting my photos using ads on social media. My goal is to attract clients who genuinely want to try photos with a new vibe, distinct from photos from other vendors in my city.

Below are some photos I want to share, taken when I experimented with colors. All of them feature the camera's default colors, with minor touch-ups to address a few blemishes. I know not everyone may like these colors, but I do, and that's why I take photos.

My great hope is that one day I will find clients who share the same vision and mission in the way I capture photos, allowing me to freely explore according to the mood I want to create in a photograph. Also, I hope not to be confined by the methods and styles of other photographers, as I genuinely want to enjoy every session where I begin pressing the camera shutter button. Thank you to those of you who have stopped by this post.

Warm regards from me.