Stepping into photography felt like unlocking a door to endless creativity—light, shadow, and countless stories waiting to be told. Over the years, my journey has led me through various platforms and communities, each shaping how I capture and share images. But as I’ve ventured deeper into this craft, I’ve discovered that the world of social media is not just about aperture, composition, or technique. It’s an ever-changing universe that has transformed not only how we share our work but also how we perceive it.
When I first started, I joined Flickr and created a Facebook page to share my images with a small, supportive community. These early days were all about the love of photography—posting carefully crafted images and engaging with fellow enthusiasts in a relatively quiet, intimate space. Over time, I expanded into other platforms: I set up a Twitter (now X) account, dipped my toes into Instagram and Threads, and even explored newer spaces like Bluesky. Recently, I’ve also created profiles on TikTok and YouTube. Despite being present on all these channels, I’ve often posted sparingly. I’ve always been a shy person, much more comfortable behind the lens than in the spotlight. Sharing my life or self-promoting feels like stepping onto a stage without a script.
Yet, the allure of these platforms is undeniable. Social media has revolutionised photography, turning it into a global conversation. However, that very power has its downsides. In the early days, platforms like Flickr felt like cozy corners where the focus was on the images and the genuine exchange of ideas. Today, the game has changed: it’s about likes, shares, and retweets—a numbers game that can sometimes overshadow the art itself.
I often find myself caught in a tug-of-war. Am I composing this shot because it resonates deeply with me, or because I worry it might trend on Instagram? Is my post an authentic expression of my vision, or is it tailored to meet the latest aesthetic criteria dictated by the algorithm? These questions are a constant reminder that while social media can amplify our reach, it also exerts a pre
One of the most exciting aspects of social media is how it has democratised photography. With a smartphone in hand, anyone can capture and share high-quality images with the world, breaking down barriers that once confined photography to a select few. Platforms like Instagram and TikTok have given birth to a new generation of creators who influence trends and redefine what’s visually “in.” Amateur photographers now stand shoulder-to-shoulder with professionals, and inspiration truly flows across borders.
Yet, this openness also casts a long shadow. The flood of images—often polished to near perfection—can drown genuine creativity in a sea of sameness. Hashtags like #nofilter, #goldenhour, and #moodygrams have become instantly recognisable, but they also carry the risk of homogenising our output. I’ve felt that pressure too: the urge to replicate popular aesthetics, even when they don’t align with my personal voice. It’s a delicate balancing act—engaging with the trends to stay connected, while ensuring that my work remains true to my own vision.
Social media’s instant feedback can be both exhilarating and overwhelming. There’s nothing quite like the rush of seeing likes, comments, and shares roll in—it’s a tangible reminder that your work is being seen. However, this immediate validation can also become a distraction. As someone who values learning and quiet experimentation, I’ve found that the pursuit of online approval sometimes interferes with the creative process. The dopamine hit from a well-timed like can push you to prioritise what is “shareable” over what is genuinely meaningful. It’s a challenge I’m still working to overcome: to remember that the true worth of a photograph lies not in its digital applause, but in the story it tells and the personal satisfaction it brings.
There was a time when photographers shared their work in galleries, magazines, or printed portfolios—spaces where every image was carefully curated and savoured. Those were the days when you had to be patient, as every photo was a deliberate choice. Social media has turned that world on its head. Today, images are shared in endless feeds, often scrolled past in seconds, judged by algorithms and metrics rather than artistic merit. The intimate experience of a photo book is now replaced by rapid, fleeting engagement.
This shift has forced me to rethink how I share my work. While I still love the idea of a well-curated portfolio, I’m also learning to navigate the fast-paced world of social media, where standing out requires not only technical skill but also a savvy understanding of digital trends. It’s a balancing act—between keeping the integrity of my art and embracing the connectivity that these platforms offer.
For someone as reserved as I am, the pressure to constantly perform on social media is challenging. I’ve always preferred to let my images speak for themselves rather than shouting my achievements from the rooftops. The platforms I use—Flickr, Facebook, Bluesky, Instagram, and more—are tools for sharing, not for self-promotion. However, the desire for likes and shares can be hard to ignore. It’s a constant reminder that behind every photo is not only an artistic expression but also an opportunity for validation.
This pressure has, at times, pushed me to post more frequently or adjust my creative decisions to fit a trending style. But I’ve also learned to set boundaries, to post only when I feel a genuine connection to my work, and to value learning over digital applause. In the end, the most rewarding moments in photography come from quiet experimentation and the pursuit of personal growth—not from chasing fleeting metrics.
As I look to the future, it’s clear that social media’s role in photography will only continue to grow and evolve. New platforms are emerging, and technologies like AI and augmented reality are reshaping how we capture, edit, and share images. While these developments open up exciting new possibilities, they also underscore the importance of staying true to the timeless principles of photography—composition, light, emotion, and storytelling.
The landscape is dynamic and sometimes overwhelming, but it also offers unparalleled opportunities for connection and creativity. Every scroll through a feed, every comment on a post, is part of a global dialogue about the art of photography. And as we adapt to these changes, the core of what makes a photograph powerful remains the same.
I’ve learned that while social media can be a powerful tool for inspiration and connectivity, it’s important to remain true to oneself. I’m not here to chase likes or to conform to every new trend. My focus remains on the art of capturing genuine moments—those that speak to the heart, rather than just the algorithm. There’s a beauty in working quietly, learning from every shot, and gradually refining your craft without the constant pressure to perform.
For me, the journey of photography is about exploration, personal growth, and the pursuit of meaningful expression. Social media is simply one avenue among many through which we share our stories. And while the metrics may sometimes feel overwhelming, the real success lies in the images that make you pause, reflect, and feel.
As I continue to navigate this digital age, I’m committed to striking a balance between engaging with the vast world of social media and maintaining the integrity of my creative process. I plan to keep experimenting, learning, and, most importantly, capturing moments that are true to my vision—even if that means posting sparingly and letting my images do the talking.
In the end, the impact of social media on photography is a double-edged sword. It has the power to amplify our reach and connect us with a global audience, yet it can also create pressure to conform to trends and chase validation. For me, the challenge is to harness these tools while staying rooted in what truly matters: the art of storytelling through images.
Regards
Alex