This is probably the best video in the photography industry.

Another year, another winter, another time to watch this vid and wake the heck up.

Wow. Been following you for years now, but I've never seen this for some reason. Congrats on succeeding in ripping my emotions out and throwing them on my face in the form of snot and tears. MAN this is relatable and honest. But, from you, why would I be surprised? You were the same open and vulnerable person a decade ago as you are now.

One of those films I keep coming back to when I am low and down .. This is an emotion

Holy sheeeit, been a fan of your work for a few years but just now watched this. It floored me. The footage of your dad really hit home, damn. An extremely insightful few minutes of introspection right there. Thank you.

I'd like to thank you again for this video. I still watch it from time to time. When I need to reaffirm that even though I'm still a hack it doesn't mean I need always be one. When social media is praising my shots and I need to remind myself to be humble.When I'm feeling the funk and need to remind myself that I am not alone in this feeling. When I need a heavy dose of reality. I was very close to quitting photography at the beginning of the year. I mainly do concerts and festival and I was really not sure my questionable health was worth putting through the wringer of another season that would see me lose money on doing what I love. My Mum passed away at the end of February (not covid related) and she was a massive supporter of my photography and I know she would not want me to give it up. So once I am allowed out of quarantine (4 months so far with at least one more to go) and concerts start up again I will get out and do it all again. This time though I want to slow down a bit. Rather than just shooting everything and hoping something looks good, take the time to absorb the things I can learn from each concert. Spend more time finding THAT shot rather than just hoping that THAT shot is among the ones I took. So thankyou for helping me keep it all real and in perspective.

I've watched this video several times this morning. It is an eloquent depiction of the artistic struggle of the photographer, and his transformation. The creativity of the words and the videography are great, but it is the song performed by your wife that really makes it hauntingly brilliant, like a soul-searching dream. It is truly memorable. And it is truly great.

This video is as inspirational today as the day it was made. When not re-post it? Thank you for curing my quarantine photography blues😊.

Dear Zack , i watch this video at least once month to ground myself , its a great piece , you are a wonderful human and i wish you the best.

I've been following you for 8 years now and today is the first time I came across this video! It's truly amazing. Thank you man.

It's 2022 and this video is still just as meaningful as the day I first watched it more than a decade ago.

Turned up in my Facebook feed. Normally skip this sort of thing but decided to make it an exception. Has stopped me dead in my tracks this morning. Thoughtful and inspiring.

I remember the day this video came out. I was in a dark place and related to it so much. Whenever I want to throw my cameras in the bin, I play this again. Social media attacks my mental state often. The constant battle to keep up with the rules and expectations just so my work can be seen by a handful. This video reminds me that Only I matter, and no one else.

Dude that is a raw, honest and absolutely brilliant video! Thank you so much for sharing your voice with the world! Bravo! M

I think this video comes into your life just when you need it most. Since Feb this year I have been so caught up and busy with clients, many of whom can be a pain in the arse, I now find myself slowing down for the winter (I do a lot of aerial work too and the weather is turning). I am desperate to go back to getting out, like I did as a 13/14 year old, with no agenda, no thought of money, just me and my camera and an inkling that I will return with a camera mostly full of crap but perhaps that one nugget ; )

Music, pictures, words. Meaning. Amazing.

I remember watching this video back when Zack first made this video for Scott Kelby. I just watched it a few times back to back. I've lost both of my parents, both in fairly horrible, protracted ways. I was a working wedding photographer for about five years... about twelve years ago. I've done som really amazing things since those days. I've experienced some really painful times too. I'm finding my way back to a camera now. I never really stopped paying with a camera, but I'm ready now to try to say something using photos and video. Zack, I hope that you are thriving, one way or another. I hope you've been able to push on through the darkness and back to the light and find joy in your family and in your passions. I will finish by saying this: Zack, this video still to this day has an extraordinary amount of heart and power. You've inspired me for years. Keep going. Just... keep going.

That music stop in the intro was only the beginning of the amazingness... I was stunned the whole way through. The wonderful, inspiring message, the way it is conveyed through some of the most haunting camera work I've ever seen in my life... I cried when the colors took over in the end. Seriously, you have just immortalized yourself for me. This speaks both to my mind and to my heart. And tell your wife the music was incredible. ;)

Great film! And even now after more than 11 years it moves just as much as when you created it

Right between the eyes.... An insightful video by Zack Arias on the journey we're on

This is real art.. Real art is sharing yourself with others. Being able to reflect off of someones work and seeing yourself. THANKS

I had a college student interview me today about my career and he asked what led to me getting started doing what I am doing. I pointed him to this film and then watched again. The message still rings true.- EVEN THOUGH ITS ALMOST 10 YEARS LATER!!! :)

I try and watch this at least once a year, or, as needed - it is a wonderful document, and obviously so profoundly helpful to so many. I've shared this countless times with many photographers, but it applies to anyone who "makes" things. When you return to this video - after you take in its message - imagine a person or three who could REALLY use it right now, and share it with them. don't just share the link, share WHY it is so meaningful, to you. We Love you Zack, Wherever you are, we hope you are living your best life.❤❤❤

I'm certain there isn't much to say that hasn't already been said Zack. This piece has made the world more beautiful. Please know that I often watch this as piece of inspiration & reminder of humility. I greatly admire your work and your message. -mM

Even, to this day, when I'm at my lowest, I go find this video, and Meghan's music on Spotify. Thank you Zack.

Damn. 13 years later i'm watching this again. All the best to you Zack

I hit the abyss every 2 months or so. Then I watch this (again) and I climb out. Thanks, Zack...you are one guy definitely worth listening to, keep telling it like it is. ;-)

This is great and so is the music. Somebody dropped this in my feed this morning, I enjoyed it very much. Thank you.

Every time I'm down and feel like I'm hitting a brick wall, I watch this. Somehow, it gives me hope. Thanks for putting out this video, it has helped me get through some tough times.

Every time I feel my images suck, I come back and watch this. Thanks Zack! This keeps me going

It did make me cry. I sobbed my eyes out near the end. He pretty much said everything I ever thought about, and everything I needed to hear. I needed to cry and sob like this. To cleanse my soul.

thought about quitting the past couple of weeks. started getting rid of my equipment and then i remembered this. I'm nowhere near where you are right now but i draw inspiration from this every time man. thank you.

I watch in video often. So much in this that is worth to keep my self reminded about. It's a superb lecture to me. Thanks for making this Zack and Meghan. Love the music too.

If anything ever becomes of me and my photography, it will be all because I saw this video that urged me to keep going. Thank you Zach!

Damn man, in my ADD rampage through the internet today, this video stopped me in my tracks. I don't think I have ever herd anything more raw, real and truthful about what photography means to someone who cares.

Simply amazing. You said what we all think at one time or another about our craft, whether it's photography or any other art form. Sometimes we all need a reset, and to hear another artist verbalize it, it's inspiring to continue and not let the fire we love burn out.

This is deep, and it's all true, when we make the time to think about it. Thank you for sharing this wisdom.

Gotta love that guy.....raw, honest, uncensored.....rare qualities theese days....but would someone please buy him a damn moodlight for the winter season :D

I've forgotten how good this was, so moving and speaks out not only about you Zack but others in all walks of life.

Winter is here again… I needed this.

I needed this so badly right now. I've been stuck in bed more or less for 3 years, sick. I was doubting whether I could start over. Thank you.

Hey Zack. Your film presented itself to me today. The opening sequence is a humorous poke at some of the KZfaq videos I have watched, of which many were made after you made this film back in Feb 2009. I am looking for something more, a more holistic approach to my photographic creativity. And I guess because of this, I found your film. It hits the mark for me right now in so many ways. It shows me that I need to take time to reflect on where I see myself on my path, and look carefully about how I use my time and mentor myself along the way. I love that every photographer has sucked at some point in time and how important it is not to try to recreate the ways that others might suck. Thanks again.

Watched this video when it came out and still do every couple months throughout the year I fall into this deep void where no matter how happy I could be in my life it comes to haunt me I recently lost my father and my mother doesn’t want any part of it and threw me out so I’m here now... I’m here now

every december you need to watch this video to save yourself from breakdown!

This is one of the few videos on youtube i can assure you that not only i'll watch again, but I'll share endlessly and I'll revisit often. Fantastic content, Zack, and look forward to seeing more of your material.

Thank you Zack. We need more wise words and less megapixels in photography. ;-)

Thank you for speaking the words I feel before I even knew I had them. You give me hope.

Me watching this video today could not have been more appropriately timed. I just posted something last night about being intimidated about sharing my photos on G+ because so many amazing photographers have followed me on there. This video really hit home. Thank you for the encouragement through your words and images in this video.

I remember seeing this on Scott's blog years ago. I thought is was dark then but beautifully authentic. I've thought about this video often over the years thinking it would be cathartic to shine a light on my own darkness and share that story. It feels intensely personal yet I'm drawn to searching out the words to describe the shadows of a creative life.

This hits home, like you wouldn't imagine...

Every Photographer in all of the history was a horrible photographer for some period of time. They Learn, They Grew, They had dark days. They persevered that is the way of the artist just be patient keep on going transformation takes time for what I've seen in my life it's really worth the wait. anyone can correct this this is from the video so inspiring

Hi Zack. This video haunts me. It helps me to gain perspective in my dark days. Thanks for that honest and intimate message. I watch this video a lot and everytime my mindset clears up and i find me questioning myself a lot less. On to the next hill and leave the valley behind.

Keep returning to this excellent video. Still, after all the times i saw it, it's inspirational - get me back on track and into motion. Thanks!

Thank you Sir Zack, you have given me wisdom. I rush to become a great Photographer but in the event it's really a maturing scenario in my life. Patience is a virtue.

Well worth the short amount of time it takes to view. Zack comes from the heart, from his soul. This really puts things in perspective. Keep bringing it, Zack.

This is an absolutely amazing video! So relevant so true so insightful and so inspiring. Thank you

this is....moving to say the least. today i charge up all my batteries, make sure all my gear works, tomorrow i shoot - who what or where i do not know. Zack has been a great inspiration to me, i've watched the one light dvd a few times and damn near every youtube video/creative live etc that he's done. I am happy to have a good full time job that can pay for my gear but it eats all of my time in return. I imagine what life must be like to have the time but not the money.

Wow, that was a sobering yet amazing look at life.

this is one of the best things i ever watched.... thanks a lot zack for just being yourself.....

HI Zack... Wow. Amazing video you made. Technically superb, and with a solid message for all photographers that *desire* to improve. THANK YOU for this video, and for pouring your heart and soul into all you do. (Great music from Meghan, too!) :-)

Truly amazing and inspiring. This has to be at least the 5th time I have watched this.

Damn Zack, I have heard you speak on some Creative live work shops and It really moves me on the personal struggles as a Photographer. You become a personal Hero to me. Bless you for being so real. Hope to meet you one day.

Thank you for such a heartfelt video Zack. You hit the nail on the head with so many things, I felt like someone was vocalising my own thoughts. It's comforting in a strange way to know we are not alone when it comes to moments like these, appreciate all you do.

This is a really inspirational video. I come back to this video every year!!! The music sets it. Awesome video. Shame Zack sold his sole to Fuji.

Life changing video....incredible and so real! Congratulations for giving me a good life lesson! I am sharing....big hug

Just ran into this. Absolutely brilliant and poignant in the ways I needed to hear. I can really relate, except that your winter mood is my summer mood, as in Dubai, its the 45 degree heat that pushes me into my depression. Thank you for sharing.I hope you are well.

Saw video on Kelby Training with Glyn Dewis and he mentioned your video transform and how he watches it several times a year and how it helps him. I had to watch it and I will also watch it several times a year to motivate me to keep going. Thanks for making the video and for the words of encouragement.

so much going through my mind right now. watching this clip again....

This is just simply put BAD ASS!!! Love it!!

Found this via FB today. Love it. I feel like I'm travelling 100 miles an hour on that same (expensive) dead end road called the business of photography. I don't know if I want to continue. However, your fundamental message is inspiring. Thanks. BTW, the music is beautiful.

Just hope this video hits the 1,000,000,000,000.00 Zack Arias is a very inspirational persons. Hes like the professor you hate because he thinks he knows but you respect because you wanted to be at its level. Great video

I literally cried about this video thank you for reminding me of my bliss and why I'm here

Thank you so much as this film had an amazing impact on me. My biggest fear as a new photographer trying to find his creative uniqueness, is the fear I'll never achieve the photographic greatness I so much desire and hope for...I WANT IT NOW! This film put me in check and caused me to re-evaluate my photographic ambition. Than You.

This was raw...real...and so appreciated! It did make me see that I wasn't the only one that called themselves a photographer that went throught the doubts and self loathing. :)

Thank you Zach.... I can't hold a candle to your photography as I still suck, but I fully get the winter blues/doldrums.

Well, Zack, that was awesome! I saw your lecture on Creative Mornings, watched the video, watched it again, and then came over here to find it, link it on my weblog, and watch it again. This is something that I want to let sink in. The timing is good. Thank you for being Honest!

wow, just what my soul needed to hear...Thank you for putting your self out there Zack

Love your Listener hoodie there at the beginning! Dan Smith is the man.

oh...my god. That was beautiful

This is awesome! Thank you for making this video!

I was really touched by this video, thanks for putting this out there.

This is absolutely breathtaking! Great job!

Beautiful. Piece of art

I don't know how to describe this because I don't know what to say about it. All I can say is that it gave me a huge rush of something. Perhaps inspiration perhaps stirred up more of my fears. Either way it was so very satisfying.

Had to rewatch this video today...

Glad I went searching back. I will get there 👍

Just what i need to see and hear, thankyou!

Thanks for the film. Setting up as a photographer as the job market is currently so crap & I cant stand benefits! This puts so much perspective on things. I know I am doing what I love, yes there is little to no money in it so far, but I am good at what I do (maybe not great... yet). I'm in a great position where money isn't so much an issue cause of other means so I can knuckle down and focus on living that dream. No regrets, dark days pass & light always finds a way through...

Inspiration, pure and simple

WOW! Thank you for this.....I needed that.

This was amazing. I needed to hear this today. I really did. Thank you. I am beyond speechless with the amount of emotion and direction that this film has.

still incredible and insightful for art and life.

Watching this really encouraged me..Thank you!

This was amazing, really impressed. The cinematography, narration, everything kicked ass

Oh this is.... I needed this right now. Thank you!

I was referred by Mark Galer. Thanks for such honesty Zack

Zach this was a beautiful video! Love the message!

it's only fitting that he's rocking a listener hoodie in the first part. one of the realest and most hard hitting music i've ever heard.

Great video! Very inspiring

This is one of those videos I came back to at least once a year! Just to get things back into perspective…