the myth of the ‘perfect photo’
This week on The MOOD Podcast, I sat down with Ian Plant, a photographer who left a career in law to pursue his passion for capturing breathtaking landscapes and wildlife. During our conversation, Ian shared his thoughts on the elusive pursuit of the “perfect photo” and why he believes the journey matters far more than the destination…
“Every photo I take is a work in progress.”
Ian’s insight challenges us to let go of the idea of perfection and embrace growth through practice. Here’s how you can apply this mindset:
Focus on Progress: Try your best to enjoy the process and be present with that. See every photo you take as a stepping stone toward improvement.
Experiment Fearlessly: Try different styles or techniques without worrying about achieving perfection. Growth often happens outside of your comfort zone.
Let Time Add Perspective: Revisit past photos with fresh eyes after a year or two. You’ll notice new ways to improve or appreciate your earlier work. Reflect on what you’ve learned (without hating or judging yourself too much!).
Ian shared a pivotal moment from his career: after years of pursuing flawless images, he realised the “perfect photo” is a myth. Instead, he reframed his mindset, viewing photography as an ongoing story rather than a final product. This perspective transformed how he approaches his craft, giving him freedom to experiment and find joy in the process itself.
He described photography as both reactionary and intentional—balancing spontaneous moments the world offers with creative visions born in the mind. This duality means perfection is not only unattainable but also unnecessary for meaningful art.
“It doesn’t always matter about what’s in front of you. If you think something is a good shot or a photogenic moment, then that’s what it is. You want to capture it, right?”
Photography isn’t about perfection; it’s about progress, connection, and creativity. Ian’s approach reminds us to let go of the pressure to create flawless images and instead embrace the joy of learning and improving with every shot.
If you found Ian’s insights inspiring, check out the full episode and don’t forget to subscribe to the podcast for more thought-provoking conversations!
Happy Shooting,
