Between Perfect and Real: How Imperfection Shapes Authentic Creativity
Perfectionism and I have a complicated relationship.
On one hand creating something that has been analyzed to death, a photograph, a video, a piece of art until it feels just right, feels like a real accomplishment when you´re done. On the other hand perfectionism can be exhausting. It demands constant adjustment: Wait for better light. Fix your hair. Frame it differently. Maybe reshoot entirely. And while the result might be polished, the process often comes with stress that is not sustainable.
Over time I have realized something important. Imperfection is more real. It is lighter. It lets me breathe. It makes space for other projects, other joys, and for life itself. And that feels far more sustainable.
The Truth Behind the Photo
In my eco art and culinary herbalism video courses I have started showing more of the “behind the scenes” moments.
That first serene lake photo? It was not deep in a remote forest, it was right next to a road. Another shot of a peaceful green field? You would not know it, but I had driven my car there because the place was beautiful yet far from home. Nature’s treasures are not always hidden. Sometimes they are simply not easy to reach without a little help from four wheels.
And then there are the imperfections only I might notice. The sky a bit too bright, shadows falling awkwardly, my hair not quite cooperating. My inner perfectionist still notices these things, and that is okay. I cannot switch it off completely because wanting to create something good is part of who I am. But now I am also learning that not quite perfect can tell a truer story.
Here are a couple of moments that show imperfection and authenticity in action:
A ´perfect´ family photo
This photo was taken when we just arrived in Sweden during midsommar. Making this photo took as at least half an hour. Saga was way too interested in what the field had to offer (see his distracted face). We had to keep him with us with lots of treats and cuddles.
A perfect Saga photo
This was an unplannend photoshoot! He was just chilling in the grass and I had my camera near. I just took the shot and here we are. Perfect in 1 shot.
Even with careful planning, some of the most authentic moments emerge unexpectedly , and I try to bring that same openness to all my creative projects.
Finding My Balance
I still care deeply about quality. I want to create something that shows nature at its most inspiring, something that makes people feel peaceful, curious, or just plain happy. But I also want time to explore other passions such as experimenting with herbs in the kitchen, developing new art techniques, or simply taking Saga the dog for a slow sniff filled walk.
That means choosing balance over endless tweaking.
Some of my favorite video clips include things that would once have been mistakes. Me tripping on a root, a new technique not quite working out but giving me a better idea in the process, or Saga happily wandering into the frame. Those are the moments that breathe life into my work. They are not just about capturing beauty but about capturing truth. You can see more about how I create here.
The Heart of the Work
At the heart of my work is a simple idea: beauty and truth do not require perfection. By embracing imperfection, we open ourselves to moments of discovery, joy, and creativity that are richer and more authentic. I hope my journey inspires you to notice the imperfect, yet wonderful details in your own life and creative projects.
