We often get asked by other photographers how we intentionally focus on growth in our craft, which is a question we love. We believe the best photographers are the ones who are dedicated to constantly refining their process in all areas of their business. The ones who approach their work with a constructive eye, always have more to learn and who never believe they’ve “made it.” Because we can tell you, friends, there is no such thing as “making it.” Making it is a myth. Show us a photographer who thinks they have nothing left to learn, and we’ll show you a photographer whose business is dying. So how do we constantly improve, push ourselves to a new level and stay inspired to grow? Well, how much time do you have? We could probably set a record for the longest coffee date in history attempting to answer a question with so much to unpack, but one thing we’ve found that’s really helped us become better photographers is putting our cameras down, and getting in front of other photographers’ cameras.

We can all agree the thought of being on the other side of the lens makes most of us as photographers uncomfortable. We all feel a whole lot safer behind the lens, which is probably one of the reasons we chose this job in the first place! But the more we step out of our comfort zone and in front of other people’s cameras, the more we learn. We’ve been in front of three different professional photographers’ lenses just this year already (we’ll be sharing more image from those soon!) and here’s why we believe it makes us better photographers:

We Get to See Things From Our Clients’ Perspective

Having our photos taken by another professional helps us remember what our clients feel like when we’re photographing them. We’re reminded how nervous we get to choose the right outfit, how we’re afraid we look awkward and how we’re suddenly so aware of our own hands. We’re not even Amy and Jordan anymore. We’re suddenly Rick Bobby. It’s a great reminder to us that our role as the photographer is to coach our clients through a process that will help them feel confident, comfortable, and before they know it, even start having fun!

We Analyze What Makes Us Feel Good

Getting in front of another camera is a little intimidating, even for professionals. We’ve been so lucky to get in front of other photographers’ cameras who are encouraging, warm, clear and affirming. Whenever a photographer gives really clear instructions or uses a certain tone or catchphrase that makes us laugh or feel more confident, we internalize that and find ways to incorporate that technique into our own shooting style. We love picking up new tricks from fellow photographers and finding new ways to love on our clients!

We Find Something Different 

Every photographer has little nuances that make them unique. Whether it’s the way they see light, the way they pose their couples, the way they interact with their subjects or the way they compose a shot, we have something to learn from everyone. Whenever we shoot after being shot by someone else, we find ourselves feeling extra inspired. We try something new and our work feels fresh again.

So let’s make it happen, friends! Contact a photographer who inspires you and get in front of their lens! Don’t let fear or insecurities stop you from growing. We’re confident you’ll walk away better at your craft than you were the day before. Let’s keep pursuing growth together.

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Photos by Annamarie Akins, Zach & Jody Gray and Katelyn James