Create, Don't Copy: A Message for Emerging Artists

The Art of Making a First Impression

As a seasoned professional designer who occasionally puts on the hiring manager hat, I see a lot of red flags from instagram artists that can send potential opportunities in the opposite direction, FAST. 

Aspiring artists may be tempted to copy well-known photographs as a way to gain attention or make some quick money. And it’s certainly true that “copying the masters” is a long-standing tradition in fine arts training, but in the gallery of social media it’s important to be honest about the origins and usage of our work, especially when we’re presenting (or selling) it as our own. (No one wants to hire a potential lawsuit.)

I’ve also noticed that while artists are increasingly concerned with the implications of AI-generated art, they sometimes fail to recognize that their own use of others’ photography without proper attribution or compensation raises similar ethical concerns.

Now, let’s delve into the 6 reasons this “shortcut” is actually holding you back.

1. That Image Already Exists!
   

   Is this the best way to spend your valuable time and physical energy?

2. Reinforces Bad Habits
   

   Poor techniques like tracing will keep you stuck and your output limited to the works of others.

3. Ethical and Legal Side-Eye
   

   Raises questions of integrity and legality. Just because you found it online, does not mean fair-use.

4. Lack of Originality
   

   Your work gets lost in the crowd, missing a chance for authentic connection and a unique artistic identity. Where’s YOUR voice?

5. Stunts Skill Growth
   

   Without foundational knowledge of anatomy, composition, and more, your artistic progress will stay in slo-mo.

6. Devaluing Another’s Art Also Devalues Yours
   

   Photographers are artists too. Acknowledging source material builds a better creative community.

 

In case this is not abundantly clear, this message is not about using photo references for learning, it’s about the wholesale copying of someone else’s photographic work and presenting it as your own.

 

Save this handy infographic!

Crafting Your Authentic Artistic Identity

Share your creative journey — flaws and all — but don’t kill yourself churning out content for the sake of content if it’s going to undermine your credibility.

Always credit your inspirations and source material. Leave room for curiosity. Build a body of work that keeps people coming back for more.

Even experienced artists are still learning and growing in their craft. Push yourself to create something original and showcase your own unique perspective as an artist, even if it’s not perfect.

If my words don’t resonate with you, then consider the wisdom of Erykah Badu.

We’ve all seen that photo already, we want to get to know YOU.