Sooner or later, even the most talented and creative photographers find themselves in a situation when they feel like they can’t find inspiration to continue their good work. This is a widespread thing, and there is nothing to be ashamed of. Nobody can do excellent shots 24/7 and 365 days per year. If you faced a creative block (yeah, there’s a term for that), the first thing you need to do is to take a cup of tea and read my awesome guide on how to overcome creative blocks as a photographer!
Take a Break
Once you find yourself unable to generate new ideas and keep creative work, you need to take a break. This can be a signal that you are tired, stressed, or just bored. Regardless of the reason, your body and brain need to rest to get back to normal. Besides, a little vacation is good for your mental health too.
Switch to Other Creative Activities
One of the methods of boosting creativity is writing. And for me, it’s quite an interesting and relaxing activity, as I actually love to write. That is, basically, why I keep this blog. You can also create a blog or write all your thoughts and ideas into a notebook. Some people find handwriting more soothing than typing. Next time you have a creative block, try to find out which kind of writing works better for you.
Listening to music is also a great way to reduce anxiety and restore emotional balance. Besides, it has been scientifically proven that it’s good for your brain. So whenever you have a chance, turn on the music and just enjoy the right feeling, peace, and calmness it gives to you.
Drawing sketches is another kind of creative activity that can help you unleash your possibilities and inspire you to come up with a new idea. You can draw basically everything that you see around or the first thing that comes to your mind. It doesn’t matter how good your drawing is. The bottom line is you need to do that as often as possible, and the result will follow quickly.
Look for Inspiration
Photographers, similar to other creative people, often depend on inspiration. Nothing will be good for them if they are not under the influence of something truly majestic. And, naturally, they can’t stay in such a state forever. So most of the time, they spend looking for inspiration. They read all kinds of books and magazines, visit art galleries, listen to various bands and podcasts, travel the world, and talk to extraordinary people. Try to do the same.
Try New Equipment
I know it may be expensive, but this method works out pretty often. Working with new gear can be a breath of fresh air that you need to become creative again. It may happen even if you don’t expect it. As you know, experimenting with all kinds of shooting accessories is such an exciting activity. In case you aren’t ready to make large scale purchases, try to get at least a new filter, prism, or extension tube. You may even buy an old camera or lens from a thrift store and try to master all the tricks it is capable of.
Change Your Focus
A little distraction is something that can help you clear your head and get new ideas. Whether it’s a trip abroad or just a nice walk in the garden, the result will be basically the same. If you don’t have much time, a simple change of activity will help. Cook a meal, have a shower, or talk to the neighbor. All these insignificant things might help you overcome creative blocks.
Work in a New Genre
The reason for your creative burnout may be the fact that you work in the same genre all the time. I agree, there is nothing wrong with being a specialist in one genre of photography, but learning a new technique or subject can help you overcome a creative block. For example, if you are used to shooting landscapes, try switching to portrait photography for a while. It will be an exciting experience for you, I mean it. Go outside your comfort zone and master new skills and techniques. Perhaps, you will like them even better and never come back to the old stuff you did before.
Keep a Visual Journal
Similar to your portfolio that contains your best shots, it will be nice to keep a journal of your pictures but with extended notes, samples, and basically any kind of material that may be useful for your career as a photographer. Such a collection is a perfect representation of your creative thought, development, and inspiration. You may make a real journal in A4 size or create a blog page on Instagram or Pinterest and gather your artistic materials there. So every time you struggle with creative blocks, just open your visual journal full of much precious info and get inspiration from there. It should quickly put you back to work.
