As photographers, we often find ourselves caught up in the excitement of a shoot, eagerly anticipating the unforgettable shots we’ll be able to capture. However, even seasoned professionals aren’t immune to making mistakes. On this particular day, I found myself stumbling through a series of blunders as I set up my equipment, leaving me with valuable lessons learned and a renewed appreciation for attention to detail.
Not connecting the Mic
First on the list of my unforgivable mistakes was not properly connecting the microphone to the camera. The audio is just as crucial as the visuals, conveying a comprehensive narrative that immerses the audience into the heart of the story. Unfortunately, this meant no sound on the vlog video rendering the vlog unusable on this particular episode. This careless error reminded me of the importance of double-checking every connection before diving into a shoot, as even the slightest oversight can have significant consequences.
Wet feet because I failed in the basics
A photographer’s gear is an extension of themselves, aiding in capturing those magical moments while ensuring their own safety. However, another gaffe of mine was forgetting to put on my trusty wellington boots. I was engulfed in the excitement of the moment, overlooking the sea front that lay before me. As I trudged through the damp ground, feeling the cold seeping into my shoes, I silently gave myself a stern word for neglecting an essential part of my protective gear. The discomfort turned out to be a constant reminder of the importance of being fully prepared and equipped for any kind of shooting conditions.
I keep saying ‘Don’t rush’ but I do it again and again
Lastly, the absence of the two-second delay setting on my camera was a blunder I simply couldn’t overlook. The lack of this feature meant I was unable to capture the perfect long exposures that I had envisioned, with some images having a shudder effect due to movement from the slightest of knocks. It was a missed opportunity to create stunning visuals and showcase the depth of the scene I was documenting. This error reminded me of the importance of being intimately familiar with my equipment before embarking on any shoot and ensuring that all necessary settings are in place to bring my creative vision to life.
Learning …. an ongoing process
While these errors were undoubtedly frustrating at the time, they served as valuable reminders of the importance of meticulous planning and attention to detail within the realm of professional photography. Every shoot, no matter how routine or mundane it may seem, demands our utmost focus and diligence. From meticulously connecting the gear to embracing the appropriate attire, to configuring our cameras for optimal results, every small step can make a monumental difference in the final outcome.
As I reflect on this mishap-filled day, I’m reminded that even the most seasoned professionals are not immune to mistakes. However, it’s how we learn and grow from these hiccups that truly sets us apart. With every error, we gain wisdom, sharpen our skills, and become better equipped for future challenges.
So, the next time you find yourself faced with a series of unexpected blunders, remember that even professionals stumble. Embrace these moments as opportunities for growth and improvement, for it is through these experiences that we evolve into the best versions of ourselves as photographers.




Good read Paul, it’s so easy in the moment to make mistakes. The best thing is we learn from them.
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Thanks Martin, sorry only just found out how to do this lol
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