If you’ve been feeling stuck in your photography journey or constantly second-guessing your creative choices, you’re not alone. Many photographers—beginners and experienced alike—unknowingly cling to outdated myths that limit their growth and stifle their style. But the truth? Some of the most common bits of “advice” are holding you back.
It’s time to bust six of the biggest myths in photography—and liberate your creativity in the process.
1. You Have to Shoot in Manual Mode to Be a “Real” Photographer
This one has haunted photography forums for decades: if you’re not in full manual mode, you’re not legit. But that’s simply not true.
Shooting in aperture priority or shutter priority with auto ISO isn’t a shortcut—it’s smart. These modes let you focus on what really matters: capturing emotion, timing, light, and composition. Let the camera handle the exposure, especially when it can do it faster than you can.
The reality is, mastering photography isn’t about fiddling with dials—it’s about mastering seeing.
2. Always Keep Your ISO at 100
This outdated advice keeps people from capturing great shots. Sure, low ISO is great in theory—but what’s the cost?
Modern sensors handle high ISO incredibly well, and with tools like Lightroom’s denoise, the fear of grain is largely irrelevant. Sacrificing shutter speed or aperture just to keep ISO low can result in missed moments or blurry images. Use ISO as a tool, not a limitation. Crank it up if it means getting the shot.
3. Better Gear Means Better Photos
It’s tempting to think that a new camera or lens will make all the difference—but that’s mostly a lie sold by marketing departments.
Great photos come from practice, persistence, and vision—not specs. You can have the most advanced gear in the world and still produce mediocre work. In contrast, a curious eye with a used camera can create magic.
Focus on learning your current gear inside-out and pushing your skills. Upgrade your eye, not just your equipment.
4. You Need to Pick One Genre and Stick With It
This myth is creativity’s worst enemy. Photography isn’t school—you don’t have to “major” in landscapes or commit to only portraits.
Some of the most creative photographers explore multiple genres. Street one week, wildlife the next. Exploring different subjects sharpens your skills, expands your perspective, and often leads to unexpected breakthroughs.
So ditch the niche pressure. If it excites you, shoot it.
5. If You’re Not Always Shooting, You’re Falling Behind
Thanks to social media, it can feel like everyone else is constantly out capturing breathtaking content—while you’re stuck inside living a “normal” life.
That’s an illusion.
Most photographers post old work. Most have busy lives. And most feel the same guilt you do. But guilt has no place in creativity. Shoot when it works for you. Let photography be something that adds joy, not stress. Growth comes from consistency—not hustle.
6. You Must Follow the Rules
Rule of thirds. Golden hour. Never crop in post. Only shoot in RAW. The list goes on…
Rules are great starting points, but the best art often comes from breaking them. Feel like centering your subject? Do it. Want to crop like crazy? Go ahead. Your creative instincts matter more than any textbook.
Know the rules. Understand them. Then break them intentionally—and unapologetically.
Final Thoughts: Let Photography Be Fun Again
Photography should inspire you—not burden you. If “the rules” are making you anxious, stuck, or uninspired, ditch them. The only two rules that truly matter?
- Make it interesting.
- Have fun doing it.
Because the best photos don’t come from playing it safe—they come from shooting with passion, purpose, and a willingness to break the mold.
Which photography myth are you ready to unlearn?
