Are Influencers Ruining Photography?
In the last decade, the photography world has totally shifted, especially with the exponential boom of social media and its influencers. Platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube have built up all kinds of photography influencers who have, for better or worse, reshaped how we, the hobbyists, think about our craft. For a lot of people, these creators are inspiring and helpful, but there’s also a downside: the constant hype over gear, the pressure to fit into a niche, and the endless comparisons. It’s like a double-edged sword that can actually end up hurting more than helping. So let’s dig into how influencer culture might be steering photography off track—and what we can do to avoid these pitfalls.
When Did Photography Become All About Gear?
Back in the early days of photography YouTubers (around 2015), most channels focused on stuff like editing, storytelling, and skill-building. It was all about the art and how to make the most of the gear you already had. Fast-forward to today, and it feels like it’s all about the latest cameras, unboxings, and comparisons. Don’t get me wrong - new gear is exciting! But the constant push to upgrade makes it easy to feel like you’re not enough if you don’t have the latest and greatest.
Here’s the thing: a good photo usually has way more to do with the person behind the camera than the camera itself. Yet, if we’re following influencers who get new gear every other video, we can start thinking we need that new setup to be “good enough.” But the truth is: the best thing we can do is invest time in learning and practicing with what we have. That's where the real magic happens.
The Trap of Comparing Yourself to Big Influencers
If you’ve ever caught yourself comparing your photos, your social media likes, or even your opportunities to those of popular photography influencers, you’re definitely not alone. Social media is a giant highlight reel, where influencers are mostly showing the best parts of their work and lives. But when we don’t see the whole picture, it’s easy to feel like we’re not doing enough.
This comparison game can really drain our creativity and make us doubt ourselves. Photography is supposed to be a personal journey, and when we’re constantly measuring ourselves against others - especially people who have very different lives and resources - it’s almost impossible to feel like we’re on the right path. So next time you’re scrolling and feeling that little pang of jealousy, just remember: the only person you really need to compare yourself to is you. Your journey, your progress, your passion.
Do Labels and Niche Pressure Really Help?
Influencers often talk about the importance of finding a niche, which can be useful if you’re trying to grow on social media. But here’s the catch: if you’re new to photography or still exploring, locking yourself into a specific “type” of photographer (like “landscape photographer” or “street photographer”) too soon can actually box you in. When we slap labels on ourselves, we limit our creativity by trying to fit into that specific mold, sometimes before we even know what really excites us.
Imagine trying to force yourself to only shoot landscapes because you labeled yourself a “landscape photographer,” even if deep down you’re starting to feel drawn to street photography. It’s like telling yourself you’re only allowed to paint in blue. If you’re early on in your journey, don’t worry about labels. Focus on experimenting and let your style come together naturally.
The Algorithm vs. Authenticity
One of the biggest pressures on influencers (whether they’ll admit it or not) is the algorithm. It rewards frequent posts and predictable content, which is why you often see influencers churning out similar videos or posts week after week. The sad part is that it can feel like a trade-off: create what the algorithm wants or do what truly excites you.
As someone watching, it’s easy to feel like we should be doing the same - following the formula that we see working for others. But photography is such a personal thing; our best work tends to come from chasing our own ideas, not just what’s trending. The algorithm might try to pull us in one direction, but when we create for ourselves, it’s easier to stay motivated and find real meaning in what we do.
Making Your Own Path in a Gear-Obsessed Culture
It’s easy to feel like “influencer culture” has turned photography into a “rich person’s game.” But while the industry’s definitely gotten more gear-focused, there are ways to stay true to yourself and keep growing. Here are a few ways to stay grounded in your own journey:
Focus on Skills Over Gear: The more you learn to do with what you have, the better you’ll get. Gear is fun, but it’s not where creativity comes from.
Stop Comparing: Influencers have different circumstances than the rest of us. Let go of comparing yourself to them and focus on what you want out of photography.
Skip the Labels: Don’t worry too much about fitting into one style or niche too early. You’ll grow into your own unique style with time.
Stay True to Yourself: Create the content and images that mean something to you. When you’re true to yourself, it’s easier to make work you’ll be proud of.
Final Thoughts
Influencer culture has its ups and downs. On one hand, it’s incredible that we have access to so many talented creators and resources. On the other, it can feel like the art of photography is sometimes being taken over by the hype around the latest gear and the constant pressure to grow on social media. But remember, the real magic in photography has always been about the moment you capture, the story you tell, and the unique way you see the world.
It might feel like photography is shifting, but that doesn’t mean we have to change with it. Stay focused on your own growth, find what makes you love the craft, and keep creating for yourself. That’s what will make your work truly stand out, no matter what trends come and go.
-Jude
P.S. watch this video I made discussing this exact question!