Sometimes I get stuck in a creative hump. My camera sits around, sometimes for days and days. Nothing strikes me, though I'm surrounded by beautiful things.
This past week was like that.
All photographers - all artists, even - no matter their subject or experience level have these moments, I think. The solution isn't so much how to prevent them as it is how to get through them.
Here are five tips I've found useful, especially in the last 6 months - and some pictures from a little styled mini shoot with my baby boy.
1. Just do it throw together a few of your favorite things, think of color schemes that make you happy, go to a well-loved location and just shoot. Making things personal is a great way to find new inspiration.
No color makes me happier than blue. If my whole wardrobe were blue, that would be fine with me. Baby blue is especially beautiful. Paired with the sweet pastels of Beatrix Potter's watercolors I created a setting that made me happy to just look at. Focusing on my favorite little boy made it all the better.
This wasn't a session I envisioned over time. This was a five minute decision to do something about my inspirational hump. I thought of my favorite colors, picked out a few toys and books of Ralphie's, and put them all into a big basket with the quilt I made him. We walked down to Glencairn garden, because the world is pure and peaceful in that little patch of heaven. The rest just happened.
2. Do something new Have you tried free lensing yet? What about shooting at a different time of day? A different lens? I borrowed a 28-70mm lens from a friend recently, and it was an exciting challenge to make that thing work the way I wanted it to. Trade lenses with a friend! It could be the next best thing for your creativity. Seeing the world through a wider, or narrower angle can be inspiring.
3. Challenge yourself Don't get stuck doing the same thing, at the same time, the same ol' way. Try different angles, or different light. These pictures of Ralphie were taken at two o'clock in the afternoon. When I left my house I half grimaced at the high, hot sun. Finding that perfect little spot under the big oak trees in the gardens was rewarding, though.
4. Look beyond yourself Take some time to look over the portfolios of your favorite photographers, again. Spend some time on Pinterest. Your inspiration doesn't have to be completely original to be great. Admiration of other's work is one of the greatest vehicles of motivation for me.
5. Just take a break Sometimes, that's totally legit, too. Even when you're doing something you love, you can get burnt out. Taking a rest, and just letting things be can be a great way to create new inspiration. After a week off, using your camera will be so exciting that ideas will just be oozing out of you. [Well, hopefully. ;)]
What do you find helpful for creating inspiration? I'd love to hear your thoughts!
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