19. Deliberate Practice

The concept of practice has different meanings for different people. Based on my research and personal experience over a decade, I have developed a practice method that has proven extremely effective. I believe it will work for most photographers, regardless of their method of learning.

Contrary to common belief, I think artistry and talent can be learned through deliberate practice. Talent is nothing more than the result of deliberate practice, not necessarily something you are born with. When people approach me and tell me that they think I am talented, I certainly hope they don’t think I just woke up one day and a photography gene appeared in my DNA. Although I appreciate the comment, and it’s definitely flattering, I want people to realize that behind my so-called “talent” are literally thousands of hours of hard work, deliberate practice, and a relentless desire to always keep improving. The purpose of this method is to train your brain to perform tasks in a way that becomes instinctive. There is a major difference b....