Sean Tucker: The Meaning in the Making
All images in this article © Sean Tucker
“We are trying to speak without first taking a breath.”
In this interview, Sean Tucker and I talk about what it means to create meaningful work. Other topics are how to deal with creative challenges, venture into new projects and evolve as an artist. At the end we also tackle the question how AI might change photography.
„The sooner you stop listening to the social media score, the sooner you’ll be able to start on a journey to becoming a great photographer and realizing that all that stuff is pointless.“ Sean Tucker
In a previous episode we talked about his book „The Meaning in the Making“*.
This time we met in Cologne, Germany, where he was to give a talk about what it means to lead a creative life. And in a way that is also what we talked about in this interview.
It was a real pleasure to sit down with Sean. I enjoy his philosophical way of approaching photography instead of obsessing over gear. The camera is just a tool that we have to master – but then what? Sean reminds us to ponder our reasons why we pick up a camera.
He says:
„What are you building and why? And think longterm!“
I hope you enjoy the conversation as much as I did.
Half way through you’ll hear a snippet of the audio that comes with the first issue of Seans new magazine called „Parable“.
Other topics in this interview
Overcoming nervousness and embracing failure
The impact of moving to a rural area on creativity
Honesty and doubt in the church
Struggling with the decision to continue or change projects
Introducing the new magazine format “Parable”
Finding beauty in light and shadow
Struggling with engaging with people and seeking comfort
The challenge of asking for access and facing rejection
Balancing one’s own photography and building an audience
Embracing technological changes in photography
The possible impact of AI on photography and photojournalism: In this context we discussed the project by Magnum photographer Michael Christopher Brown “90 Miles”
The challenge of assessing information in the Digital Age
Emphasizing personal responsibility in information consumption
In case you haven’t done already – please check out Seans YouTube-Channel and get a copy of his book „The Meaning In The Making“*.
Both are tremendous resources if you want to grow as an artist and storyteller.
Previous interview with Sean Tucker
Musician, waiter, priest: Based on his own biography, Sean Tucker reveals in his book "The Meaning in the Making" how he became a photographer who is now followed by more than half a million people on YouTube and Instagram.
With his authentic style, he charts a path that combines art with psychology, philosophy and spirituality.
Sean openly discusses his struggles with anxiety and self-doubt, which resonates with his audience on a deeply human level. His willingness to share these vulnerabilities has helped create a sense of community and empathy among his followers.
Images by Sean Tucker
Sean Tucker
“My camera had become a sort of therapy; a tool of self-discovery.”
Why do people long for meaning? And what role does creativity play in this context? Photographer and filmmaker Sean Tucker deals with the human urge to express oneself in art. On the way to his own artistic voice, he draws a bow to psychology, philosophy and spirituality.
On YouTube, he reaches an audience of millions. He encourages people not to take their cues from others, but to run their own race. But before we get started, he urges us to pause. In the beginning, it's about getting to know ourselves and clarifying the question of what we actually want to say.
Sean Tucker is more than a photographer and YouTuber; he is a guide for those navigating the artistic journey. His fusion of photography, philosophy, and personal experience creates a space where creativity and introspection converge, making his work and teachings uniquely enriching.
Sean's introspective videos provide viewers with a chance to explore their own creative struggles and motivations. His ability to articulate complex thoughts in a relatable manner helps his audience reflect on their own artistic journeys.
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