When it comes to growth in photography, it’s easy to get caught up in the wrong metrics. It coudl be likes, followers, number of frames, new gear or whatever. Even though we’ve shot so many frames this week, the real question is: do those things actually reflect what matters in your work?
In this week’s episode, I dig into the idea of measuring progress in ways that might make for better growth in our photographic practice.
The Metrics That Don’t Matter (As Much as We Think)
While there’s nothing inherently wrong with keeping an eye on unusual numbers, such as the number of frames I took today, mine is zero for the day so far. However, I am still working on posting content this morning. I think it is essential to remember what matters to us when we are working. Does a spike in Instagram likes mean you’re growing as an artist? A new lens doesn’t automatically create more meaningful images. Even producing hundreds of photographs doesn’t guarantee that you’re making work that resonates.
What Might Be Worth Measuring Instead
Instead of obsessing over numbers, what if we tracked things that really deepen our photography?
- Consistency: Did you show up with your camera this week, even when you didn’t feel like it?
- Exploration: Did you try a new subject, technique, or way of seeing the world?
- Connection: Did your work spark a conversation, an emotion, or a memory—for you or someone else?
- Voice: Is your photography starting to look and feel more like you, rather than like everyone else?
These are harder to quantify, but far more valuable in the long run.
Process Over Product
Sometimes the most critical progress happens in the small, quiet moments: showing up, paying attention, trusting your instincts, or sticking with a project even when it feels messy. Those are the kinds of measures that often lead to lasting creative growth.
When it all comes together, ask yourself this: What do I really want my photography to give me? When you ask that question and focus on that answer, you will likely be measuring the correct things.