Is Everyone a Photographer?

Between the transition from film to digital and the drastic improvement of smartphone cameras, photography has become more accessible than ever before. Freelance photographer, Edward Tomasso questions whether or not this means anyone can become a photographer.

Twenty years ago, picking up photography as a hobby required a great deal of research. Without forums and online communities to turn to for advice, diving into photography called for calculated learning. Today, this couldn’t be less accurate. In fact, just about anyone can catch the photography bug so long as they have a smartphone in hand! But does this mean that everyone is a photographer? And if so, what does it even mean to be a photographer anymore?

Edward Tomasso picked up photography as a way to document his international travels. Now, he works as a freelance photographer in Milan, Italy. A product of the digital age, his interest was sparked by adventure photography on Instagram. Initially, Tomasso dabbled with smartphone photography -- but this didn’t feel ‘real’ enough. Aiming to hone the identity of a ‘photographer’ Tomasso dived into the world of DSLRs. And while he still prefers the precise and customizable nature of ‘real’ photography, he has to admit: there’s nothing wrong with being a smartphone photographer!

Back in the day, testing the waters of photography was an all or nothing game. Sure, consumer level analog cameras certainly existed, with disposable cameras making for a simple go-to. But the entire process of having to carefully tend to your rolls of film, send each roll off to be developed and so forth and so on made it difficult for someone to dip their toes in the photography pool without fully diving in.

Jump back to the future and suddenly, smartphones are as commonly carried as wallets and watches! Lucky for casual photographers, these pocket-size computers also feature impressively powerful cameras. While some photographers may worry that this means their passion is being trampled on by the masses -- Edward Tomasso thinks differently. The idea that photography is somehow more accessible now is an incredible thing! It benefits not only new photographers, but seasoned pros as well! Sometimes, you miss out on the perfect shot because you didn’t feel like toting your ginormous kit on your leisurely stroll. Now, you can pull your smartphone out at any time -- you’ll never have to miss out on that unanticipated perfect shot ever again!

So, sure -- everyone is a photographer. But what’s the harm in that anyway?!

Be sure to stay tuned to find out more about Edward Tomasso’s adventures in photography and living abroad.