Is Gatekeeping in Photography a Thing?

Today, I'm diving into a hot topic that's been stirring up the photography community: gatekeeping. What is it really, and how does it affect both veteran and aspiring photographers? In this video, I break down the concept of gatekeeping, dispel common misconceptions, and share my thoughts on why it's important to distinguish between constructive criticism and true gatekeeping.

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[Oracio]

You’re spot on Justin. You happen to be one of the most generous photographers on social media giving out more “free” ideas, techniques and inspiration to aspiring photographers than is currently out there! Thank you!! 🙏👍🙌

[ewrzosek]

Really happy you made this quick video! I too have been confronted with the term "you're just gatekeeping me" on multiple occasions when I tried to provide critique to a few street photographers who, I guess, cannot take any criticism without feeling threatened? And you're also right that some photography is just straight up BAD, and sometimes calling it out, especially when provided with some context as to why it may be that way, is actually a great way for the OP to get better instead of feel they are being gate kept.

[dangilmore]

Good analysis of "gatekeeping." My analysis of gatekeepers is "editorial discretion." It generally has little to do with technical or artistic qualities in editorial (news/journalism) but rather more to do with editorial decisions as to relevance and editorial agendas. In really simple terms, a "gatekeeper" is someone with the authority to decide what they want people to see.

[danfiorephotos]

Justin, great video and well said. Mama Stella always told me; “expect nothing, appreciate everything”. If some is “gatekeeping” you, go find a new gate. Take care and be well📸

[steveoc]

It’s not limited to photography

I’m mostly in software dev - many decades experience in all sorts of fun things

Almost everything I have learned over the years comes from listening to ppl more experienced than me, and bending it to fit my way of doing things

But that has stopped. It’s now a criminal offense to offer any words of advice to newcomers with barely 3 months in the game

Our job is to just “be accepting” of them, and work extra hours to clean up the mess they create

… having said that, it’s a huge thrill when you meet some outliers that want to learn everything. You give them all the time in the world

[ChrisWhittenMusic]

The worst thing about the internet is that everyone thinks they are equal. People who don’t have the experience and haven’t done the hard yards demand to be treated with the same respect as those who have.
Also, there are so many bad photography channels and bad photographs on YouTube.

[chocolatecatdad]

Gatekeeping to me is more when some says you are not real <genre> photographer because of <idiot reason here>. Like say you are not a street photographer because use the wrong lens in their view (bugsbunny398's comment). Some of the idiot reasons would be you don't use a full frame camera or sometimes you use a phone instead of a camera.

[jeremyfielding]

It's nothing new, top professionals have often closed ranks to prevent lesser photographers from advancing.

[artofmichel]

Gatekeeping is real and not certainly not limited to photography. However as with many terms, over time it's meaning can be misused or substituted for something it is not. The art world– fine art, photography, and the motion picture industry are full of individuals who'd rather not be challenged with artists that may put their positions into question. Usually its a sense of insecurity from those who are "in" that they might be put "out" by young new talent. Rather than seeing that a diversity of voices/visions help innovation flourish, they see it as a threat. On the other hand there are those who haven't put in the necessary homework and built up the skill set to be in the circles at the top of their craft. So I really think it comes down to both parties being honest and open about where they are in their careers. Veterans should pass on their knowledge and support serious beginners. And in the same token, beginners need to respect veterans and learn from their journeys.

[ckoerner]

On the subject of feedback, if it’s unsolicited, then I can see someone considering that gatekeeping. The intent might be good, but if it makes someone feel unwelcome, then you’re excluding – intentionally or not. Like most things in life, context matters!

[dummybert]

Damn, there it goes my excuse that I'm not part of Magnum agency because of gatekeeping and not because lack of the amazing talent needed to get in there.

[bugsybunny]

Someone told me my photograph didn't qualify as street photography because it was taken with a telephoto lens, and 'street photography could only be shot with lenses below 50mm'. I thought that was gatekeeping, but perhaps it was just his opinion. Cheers, Brian.

[mikedodd]

Coming from the corporate world, gatekeepers are a fact of life. PA's, secretaries, front desk. The list goes on. Keep em close. Like your enemies. 😃 But in that world, they don't criticise your ability, contructive or not. They keep the gate. If some in our community want to conflate the 2 then they are not worth listening to IMHO

[AskMOTT]

Do you feel Gatekeeping has hindered your success in photography?

[judeemclaughlin]

Gate Keeping is the new catchall phrase for people who do not want to have a dialogue but only want praise.