I read a book that changed the way I look at photography. It's called No More Second-Hand Art, and though it was written for visual artists there's a lot we photographers can learn as well.

First, let me explain what the title means. It's not a condemnation of finding a great piece of art at a garage sale. It's a play on the phrase second-hand religion (SHR). SHR means to truly know God, you must create a direct connection yourself rather than depending on others to tell you what God is or isn't. That direct connection can be different for different people. Maybe it's attending church, or maybe it's meditation. Maybe it's doing good works or just taking a walk through the woods and appreciating the beauty of the world around us. But whatever it is, it's real and it's yours alone.

The same ...