Introversion and extroversion are part of your personality. Avoiding things you don’t like is natural and part of human psychology. This applies to photography as well. Personally, I see photography as my passion instead of a profession. I was never into specific types of photography, such as product or wedding photography. But, do you think I never wanted to try them? I wanted to, but I never did. This is how it works. Your personality could be influencing your choices when it comes to taking photos.
Ben Harvey highlighted this concept in his recent video, which explored how your personality type can impact your photography style. I find it pretty logical.
Your Personality Type Might Be Picking Your Genre for You
Personality tests available online aren’t just for fun. They all make sense. That’s what happened to Harvey. He discovered that his introverted personality was why he was drawn to landscape and architecture photography. It wasn’t that he lacked talent in other areas. Some types of photography didn’t fit his personality.
I have seen a lot of professional photographers who hesitate to start conversations with strangers. They often feel tired in busy places. Street photography might feel uncomfortable for them. It doesn’t mean they don’t like it. Ben says he felt that way too. It’s not about being brave or creative. It’s more about how some situations just don’t suit your natural tendencies.
Street Photography and Social Energy: Not a Match Made in Heaven
Street photography requires courage in unpredictable environments. If you’re introvert, this type of photography might seem challenging. Ben is very open about this. He admires street photographers greatly but acknowledges how mentally draining it can be for someone like him.
He has also covered weddings, events, and portraits. So, what changed for him? The camera itself. He mentions it as a sort of “social buffer,” which is logical. When you hold a camera, it feels like you have a mental shield. You’re not just yourself anymore—you become a photographer on a mission. This role helps you come out of your comfort zone, even if only for a little while. Everyone can work in their comfort zone. Courageous is the one who steps out of it.
Why This Actually Matters for You
I’m not talking about limiting yourself to one style forever. Ponder upon your personality and figure out why some genres feel easy while others seem tough. This can change the way you create content.
Instead of forcing yourself into styles that exhaust you, you can either try new methods or focus on your strengths and find ways to develop your skills. For instance, if you’re shy but enjoy taking photos of people, realizing this can help you develop ways to handle social situations instead of just feeling lost about it.
Gear, Conditions, and The Hidden Side of Landscape Photography
Ben also talks about one crucial thing that many people forget. Landscape photography requires a lot of patience and a deep understanding of your gear. It isn’t just about enjoying lovely views.
He shares his experience during a sunrise session at Brighton Beach. He sets his tripod very low and uses wide-angle lenses to capture beautiful foreground details. While it may seem peaceful, there’s a lot of technical skill involved. He also mentions how quickly the weather and lighting can change, so photographers must make fast decisions. There’s a subtle intensity to the process that becomes clear when you’re out there seeking the perfect light and tide.
Final Thoughts
The camera doesn’t judge whether you’re an introvert or an extrovert, but you should consider it. It’s to help you learn more about yourself. Maybe your passion for wildlife or macro photography makes sense now. Or perhaps you understand why family photo sessions feel so overwhelming.
No matter what your personality type is, let it help you. Use it to decide how to plan your shoots, what gear to use, and which photography styles to try next. If you’re figuring things out, I would suggest that you watch Ben’s video.
[Camera Confidence?]