When new ideas arise in photography, they’re often met with skepticism, surprise, and resistance-but the same thing goes in any field that requires expertise.

Throughout history, every important photographic innovation has faced its share of ridicule and pushback.

When we think about the early days of digital photography, there was plenty of skepticism and resistance, including mine.
 

And when our phones started including cameras, I remember a lot of the photography establishment pushing back hard.
 

The establishment—whether it’s seasoned photographers or institutions—often meets change with doubt.

But the resistance doesn’t mean there’s something wrong.

A lot of the time, it’s just the established systems trying to hold on to what’s familiar.

Other times, it’s a warning worth paying attention to.

The challenge for us is to recognize when skepticism is a hurdle to learning and when it’s a useful filter.

In our own study and practice, we can see that questioning the status quo can lead us to better, more intentional photographs.

At the same time, we know not every new trend or tool is worth adopting.

So, as we continue studying photography, let’s not be discouraged by resistance or surprises.

Let’s use them as signals to look closer, think critically, and decide for ourselves what belongs in our visual toolbox.

And that’s just one of the many things you’ll get better at doing by participating in the Photography Basics/Introduction To Photography class or during a series of private lessons.

However you choose to study and practice with me, I’ll help you become the best photographer you can be.

And if you’re not sure which class fits your needs, just ask—I’m always happy to help.

About Sam

Sam D'Amico, a professional photographer and photography instructor, helps anyone who wants to be a better photographer. 

He'll work with his students to increase their understanding of camera operation, composition, light, and lighting. 

Sam started working as a professional photographer in the mid-1980s.

Most notably, from 1992 to 1997, while working as a freelance photographer, he photographed over 500 assignments for the New York Times.

Additionally, Sam received awards for his work while exhibiting his photographs in shows. 

Sam began teaching photography professionally in 1998 through the Highland Park, N.J. recreation department. 

In 2002 Sam moved to Washington, D.C., and began teaching at the accredited Washington School of Photography in Bethesda, Md.

It was in 2003 that Sam developed his curriculum and started teaching classes in Washington, D.C. 

In 2018 and 2022, the Sam D'Amico Photography Classes were voted the "Best of DC" art class by the readers of the Washington City Paper. 

Many photography teachers spend a lot of time teaching about DSLRs and rules of composition that create homogenized, rigid photographs.

On the other hand, Sam teaches about camera operation, thought process, and the individual photographer's visual communication intent. 

This approach to teaching allows his students to use ANY camera (yes, even the camera on their phone) and break free of the rules of composition.

Approaching the creative process this way allows for fluid and spontaneous photographs unique to the photographer creating them.

Sam encourages his students to find their ways as photographers. 

He instills the skills in his students that result in creative, engaging, and unique compositions that reflect the photographer's intended one-of-a-kind visual expression.