If you’ve been feeling stuck in your photography journey or second-guessing your approach, you’re not alone. Many photographers unknowingly follow outdated advice that can limit their growth and creativity. In his latest video, Rick Bebbington breaks down six photography myths that might be doing more harm than good. But more than that, he also offers a refreshing take on how to move past them.
Let’s walk through the six biggest myths and why it’s time to rethink them.
Myth #1: You Must Shoot in Manual Mode to Be a “Real” Photographer
One of the most persistent photography myths is that manual mode is the mark of a serious photographer. But Rick says he hasn’t shot in manual for six years. Why? Because it’s just not necessary for most situations.
Unless he’s using off-camera flash or shooting video, where precise control is critical, he’s happy with aperture priority and auto ISO. Instead of obsessing over knobs and settings, he focuses on what really matters: seeing and capturing the moment.
As he puts it, “Photography is about seeing, not about how good you are with dials and knobs.” And that’s a perfect explanation! If the camera can help with exposure so you can stay focused on composition and timing, that’s not cheating. That’s a smart approach.
Myth #2: Always Keep Your ISO at 100
This is a big one. Many photographers are taught to fear ISO above 100, as if any grain will ruin their image. But Rick disagrees. He confidently shoots up to ISO 600 without hesitation.
On most modern cameras, the noise just isn’t an issue anymore, especially when your work is viewed on small screens. Keeping your ISO too low can actually backfire. It might force you to use slower shutter speeds, carry a tripod unnecessarily, or deal with motion blur.
And with today’s editing software offering excellent noise reduction, Rick says using it isn’t cheating. It’s just part of the creative process. I personally shoot concerts with a Nikon D7000, which is a bit insane in modern day. But thanks to Lightroom’s denoise tool, I can finally crank up the ISO and actually end up with usable images. So, don’t be afraid of ISO. Use it as a tool, not a limitation.
Myth #3: Better Gear Means Better Photos
Here’s one that gets a lot of us at some point. Rick’s heard it all: “It’s easy for you to say—you shoot on a Sony A7R V.” But he’s quick to point out that new cameras can only do so much.
What actually improves your photography? Time. Effort. Practice. Not megapixels. In fact, many of Rick’s favorite recent images were taken on a used Fujifilm XT-4 he bought on eBay.
So, yes, gear can boost your confidence and give you a push to get out and shoot. But that feeling fades quickly. What you’re left with is the same reality: growth takes work and effort. GAS will only make things worse in the long run. If you’re not being limited by your current camera, buying a new one won’t take you further. It’ll just lighten your wallet.
Myth #4: You Need to Stick to One Genre
This photography myth is another creativity killer. It says you must specialize in one genre to be taken seriously. But Rick completely disagrees. He believes that real growth comes from experimentation.
The best photographers are often the most curious. Many mix landscapes with street photography or wildlife with urban scenes. Rick himself has moved beyond being just a landscape photographer. That shift brought him more fulfillment and inspiration than ever before.
You definitely don’t have to box yourself in. Explore, learn, and let your interests guide you. This will make photography a way more pleasant and fulfilling experience, no matter if you’re a hobbyist or this is how you make a living.
Myth #5: If You’re Not Always Shooting, You’re Falling Behind
Social media can really warp your view of what a photographer’s life should look like. It might feel like everyone else is out shooting constantly, creating amazing work every single day: everyone but you. But Rick reminds us—that’s just an illusion. Social media isn’t real life, and many creators rehash the stuff they shot a while ago. Rick himself spends a lot of time at home with other commitments, just like most of us. And that’s perfectly okay. That’s life!
Photography should bring you joy and calm, not guilt and pressure. Don’t fall into the hustle culture trap. Shoot when you can. Be consistent if possible. But most importantly, make sure photography fits into your life—not the other way around.
Myth #6: You Must Follow All the Rules
Ever stressed about the rule of thirds? Worried about cropping in post? Felt like you could only shoot during golden hour? There are tons of rules and you may feel 1. overwhelmed by them and 2. guilty of not following them. Rick himself followed these “rules” for years. But recently, some of his favorite shots came from breaking them. Many of them weren’t even taken during ideal lighting times.
He’s learned that rules can be helpful guides, but they aren’t gospel. Want to center your subject? Go for it. Want to crop later? Do it. Creativity needs freedom. Rules can help—but they shouldn’t limit you. Learn them, understand them, and then feel free to ignore them when it serves your vision.
Final Thoughts: Photography Should Be Fun
Rick wraps up the video with two personal “rules” that are worth keeping in mind. First, the photo should be interesting. Second, taking it should be fun. Because if photography doesn’t bring you joy, what’s the point?
Letting go of these common photography myths can lift a huge weight off your creative shoulders. Whether you’re a beginner or you’ve been shooting for years, there’s always room to challenge the beliefs that no longer serve you.
Personally, I’m so happy that I’ve ditched the ISO 100 myth, it has expanded my creativity immensely! Which of these myths have you believed? And which are you ready to leave behind?
[Photographers – you’ve been lied to | Rick Bebbington]
