So let’s face it, those around us impact what we create. Whether we are fishing for likes and shares on social media or a simple compliment from a friend it fuels what we do. After a while it may even change the focus of what we create, how and/or when we create. Maybe you slowly start to create art you don’t “love” but others do. Maybe you force yourself into a schedule that is hard to keep up with just in hopes the algorithm pics you.

Then let’s look at photo and video (and others mediums as well I’m sure). The reaction here has a tendency to go one step further. The “You’re not sharing that are you?”, mentality spawns thoughts of: Did I get the angle they like? Will they be okay with me posting this anywhere? Can I print it and sell it? Did I get the right permissions?

I love the photo above. The individual in question enjoyed it as well and was nice enough to allow me to use it as needed. For every photo like this I have 20 that someone said no. I don’t like my chin. My shirt looks weird. I’m making a funny face, don’t use that one. I don’t like that because it reminds me of my ex.

The list goes on and on. I respect those wishes, but those people don’t see the same beauty in the art that the creator does. The moment they captured it. The memories that are wrapped up in it. The joy of editing the photo/video and bring it to life.

So today as I scrolled through the sea of photos I can’t use out of respect for my friends thank you to those brave souls who help share in our creative journey. Weird faces and all.