SAFE IS WACK

First things first: do whatever you like when it comes to photograph or art in general. But if you ask me…

If you’re out on the street and the photo comes too easily, chances are it’s forgettable. It might earn likes, but honestly, you’ve probably just recreated something thousands of photographers already nailed before you. Now, how does that feel?

I want to invite you into a different mindset. Most of us picked up a camera to express how we see the world. Somewhere along the way, though, many of us drift into playing it safe: same compositions, same golden hour glow, same streets photographed a million times. Safe feels comfortable, but in photography, safe is wack.

Here’s the truth: the images that really stop us in our tracks don’t come from safety. They come from risk. Risk in perspective, subject matter, pushing film until it breaks, breaking rules until you stumble into your own style. Safe photos disappear into the scroll. Risky ones demand attention.

Chasing this mindset is a boost. It takes time, but the personal reward is beautiful. Start by leaning into discomfort. If a shot feels too easy, too expected, push further. Change your angle. Don’t settle for your first idea. Wait longer. Move closer than what feels polite. Shoot in light you’d normally avoid. Discomfort is often a signal: you’re heading somewhere new.

Of course, risk brings failure. And that’s exactly the point. Safe photography is born out of fear, fear of making “bad” frames. But those so called bad shots? They’re the stepping stones to growth. Fill rolls of film or memory cards with mistakes. It’s the only way forward.

I even made a deal with my two sons: when they lose a kickboxing fight or a football match, they get rewarded. But when they win, all they get is the good vibes. Why? Because losing is where the real lessons live. Photography works the same way. Embrace failure. That’s what makes us better, not just as photographers, but as people.

So, a note to self: stay curious. Don’t settle for the first frame, the first composition, the first safe idea. Take the other route. Embrace bad weather. And above all, keep not giving a fudge.