The Art of Practice
Photography, like any craft, demands dedication and practice. It’s something I have to constantly remind myself to do. No matter how many years I’ve spent behind the lens or how much gear I’ve acquired, one truth remains: consistent practice is the key to growth. It’s easy to get caught up in thinking that once you’ve "mastered" certain skills or techniques, you can sit back and rely on them. But the reality is, photography is ever-evolving. There’s always something new to explore, whether it’s a new angle, a different lighting setup, or an entirely fresh way of seeing the world.
I’ve noticed that when I stop pushing myself to experiment and try new things, I start to feel stuck. It’s like my creativity gets stagnant, and I lose that spark. That’s when I turn to practice as my go-to solution.
For me, consistent practice doesn’t just mean going out and snapping a hundred photos in the same old way. It’s about pushing boundaries and being open to learning. Sometimes, it means stepping out of my comfort zone and shooting subjects or styles I wouldn’t normally gravitate toward. Other times, it’s about revisiting old techniques with a new perspective. The idea is to keep evolving and keep challenging myself.
But even with the best intentions, creative ruts happen. There have been times when I’ve stared at my camera, completely uninspired. When that happens, I turn to one of my favorite resources: The Photographer’s Playbook: 307 Assignments and Ideas. It’s a brilliant collection of prompts, exercises, and challenges designed to get you thinking outside the box. Anytime I feel blocked, I’ll open the book to a random page and tackle an assignment. It’s amazing how something so simple can reignite my passion and help me see things in a new light.
Of course, The Photographer’s Playbook isn’t the only resource out there. If you find yourself stuck, there are countless other ways to practice and experiment. YouTube is a goldmine for photography tutorials and creative inspiration. Sometimes, I’ll pull up a random video and try to replicate a technique or style I’ve never tried before. Other times, I’ll use idea cards or prompts—simple tools that can spark new ideas when I’m feeling uninspired. Another great option is finding a different book, whether it's on photography or even art in general, to get your creativity flowing.
The important thing is to keep going, keep practicing, and keep experimenting. Every photo you take, even the ones that don’t turn out as planned, teaches you something. With each click of the shutter, you’re adding to your experience, refining your craft, and building a stronger foundation for future work.
So, if you’re feeling stuck or uninspired, remind yourself (as I often have to) that it’s okay to take a step back and just practice. Experiment. Try something new. Pick up a book, watch a tutorial, or find a fresh perspective. Photography is a journey, and consistent practice is the map that will guide you along the way.