'Ego' means different things to different people. For the most part the word has a negative connotation and those people 'with an ego' are usually what we would call arrogant, self-absorbed, and, for the most part, immature.

However, let's actually define our terms and start to think rightly about the matter. First, what is 'ego'? http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/ego

Everyone has an ego. Some are damaged, some are self-absorbed, some are self-deprecating. Some are pleasant to experience and some are pains in the a$$.

Since 'ego' is the person that only that person can really know I can only speak from my personal ego. This might come across as haughty or proud but I am willing to stick it out there if it helps this thread.

I am a good photographer. I know it for myself but hearing from others is needed for me to not become overly self-critical and tear myself down. I am a perfectionist. I am this way because I am too proud to display my imperfections for fear of what others might think. That is probably my most serious flaw. I do care for other people and will share what I know but am still careful to 'watch my back' and not give away the whole ball of wax in fear that it might train my competition.

I have a lot of confidence that is based upon my history. It has not always been this way. Just a few years ago I struggled with the feelings that I was a fraud and a fake since I had no formal training in photography and never assisted a single photographer. What I know about the subject is all self-taught with just a smattering of storing away what other shooters have let loose about their own techiniques.

My confidence is tempered by the fact that, while I know for a fact that I am gifted with a good intellect, I did nothing to earn it. I inherited it from my parents. I have a lot more pride in the results of my efforts than I do in what was freely given at birth. Still, at times I have found myself having a little high-mindedness that, in my heart, I know is a bad trait.

So, if someone is accurately judging his own work and that judgment tells him that he is an excellent photographer, some exhibition of confidence is a strong draw for clientele. As mentioned by others, this confidence (when backed up by reality) can inspire and aid in the process of making critical decisions. It can also help you have the willingness to 'think outside the box' and develop novel approaches to problem solving.

If this confidence is softened with a genuine kindness and a willingness to listen to others needs it can be a tremendous asset.

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'If the universe is infinitely large and at the same time infinitely small, then I am also one or the other, depending upon which direction I am looking' - Me

www.jimroofcreative.com