Why I Don’t Chase the “Perfect Shot” — And Why My Photography Is Better for It

Photography has become an essential part of my life. My camera comes with me almost everywhere I go. Lately, I’ve been obsessed with neon shop signs — the glow, the colors, the way they transform an ordinary street into something cinematic. I scroll through Instagram and Pinterest, studying great images and wondering how I might interpret similar scenes in my own way. In many ways, photography fills most of my free time.

The Pressure to “Get the Shot” Isn’t Worth It

Even though I shoot often, I don’t pressure myself to come home with masterpieces. I post one photo on Instagram every three days, which means I only need around 120 strong images a year. Since I usually keep one photo out of every eight I take, that works out to roughly 1,000 shots — a completely manageable number.

Some people might say this shows a lack of ambition. I see it differently.

I don’t want to be a slave to photography. I want photography to enhance my life.

Photography Helps Me Explore More Deeply

Because I’m always discovering interesting locations online, I eventually go out and find them in real life. Most of the time, the effort pays off. I get a few good photos, but more importantly, I learn something new about the area. Photography pushes me to explore, to wander, to notice details I would have otherwise walked past.

It enriches my life far beyond the images themselves.

The Night I Forgot My Camera

Years ago, I went to a lantern festival determined to take great photos — only to realize I had forgotten my camera. I was frustrated at first. But as the evening went on, I relaxed into the moment. The cool summer air, the glow of the lanterns, the atmosphere… it was beautiful. And the photos I took on my phone turned out surprisingly well.

That night taught me something important: sometimes it’s better to simply be present.

Don’t Let the Camera Steal the Experience

So the next time you’re out hunting for that perfect shot, pause for a moment. Look around. Take in the sounds, the light, the feeling of the place.

If you’re too busy taking pictures, the photos might become your only memory of the experience — and that would be a shame.