Getting stuck creatively is a really easy pit to fall into. Luckily, there’s an easy solution to get out of the slump.
Use a photo story “assignment” to break through a block
We all know the struggle of hitting a creative wall and wrestling to find our mojo as photographers. But guess what? I’ve discovered a fantastic self-assigned photo essay that’s just the ticket to breaking free from that block!
I recently took on this challenge, and let me tell you, it was a game-changer.
Not only did it help get me out of this creative slump, but I also became re-motivated in my photography. It reminded me that my ability to create captivating images lies within me and my mindset.
My job as a photographer is to recognize and record the beauty and intrigue of everything around me. It’s not the job of everything around me to show me how it is beautiful or intriguing so that I can record it.
Owning my skills and owning my responsibility was the key.
But, really getting into that mindset required a little creative homework, this little assignment that I gave myself.
From bored and stuck to creative freedom in 2 days
It got me thinking: how could I expect to grow as a photographer if I wasn’t trying new things during these personal shooting opportunities?
I decided to craft a mini photo story using the six must-have shots for a photo story (you can check them out here). I approached it as if a magazine hired me to document my dog’s morning outing over a 2-day shoot.
Armed with a shot list, purpose, and vision, I hit the beach and shot with intention.
The experience was truly fantastic! It gave me a fresh perspective and helped me see new possibilities in a familiar scene. There was a certain amount of integrity, intention, challenge, and purpose behind this outing that gave me fresh eyes for seeing the story behind these outings.
Because I was driving myself to think and see differently, I walked away with fresh images I was really fired up about.
For two mornings, I captured images that told the story of our beach outings, constantly challenging myself to think differently and try new approaches.
I continuously asked myself: What of this story have I not photographed before? What have I photographed that I could do differently?
Then it was time to curate all the images into a tight, cohesive visual story. To create this portfolio, I kept in mind the words of my peers in photography: “You’re judged by the worst photo in your portfolio.”
With this advice ringing in my ears, I asked myself two questions during the sorting process:
- Which photos truly tell the story and fill it out or continue it forward?
- Which photos am I clinging to for emotional reasons?”
I carefully selected 12 images that spanned all six types of must-have shots for photo stories.
The final product gave me a massive boost of joy and confidence as a photographer and artist.
Though it may have been challenging, completing this self-assigned photo essay allowed me to hone essential skills like shooting, storytelling, portraiture, and editing.
So, if you’re looking for a way to bust through a creative block and sharpen your photography skills, give this exercise a try! Trust me, you’ll walk away inspired, motivated, and ready to take on the world with your camera in hand.
Here’s exactly how you can go through and do the same exercise and find the same motivating, inspiring results.
7 Steps to breaking creative blocks with simple photo stories
Step 1: Embrace the “boring”
Pick a scene or routine that feels mundane to you – something you do often or see all the time. The goal is to choose a subject that seems like there’s hardly anything left to photograph.
Step 2: Craft your story
Reflect on your previous photos of this location or routine. What do you like about them, and what do you want to change? Decide the angle you want to take for your photo essay and the story you want to tell.
Step 3: Create a rough shot list
Consider how different shots can convey the story, such as focusing on details or providing context. Jot down any ideas that come to mind, using the six categories of images that form a photo essay as inspiration.
Step 4: Shoot with purpose
Head out to your location with your shot list in mind (or even written down) and start capturing your “boring” scene. If you fall into familiar patterns, stop and ask how you can approach the shot differently.
For instance, can you bring in some interesting photography techniques that push the envelope and turn a “regular” scene into something more artistic? Think about using low-key or high-key lighting for nature shots, or focusing on minimalism in landscape shots.
Step 5: Curate a storytelling portfolio
Select around 12 images from your shoots that tell a compelling story about your location or routine. Arrange them in a logical order for maximum impact. Need help? Check out Episode 3 for guidance on creating a storytelling portfolio, or our guide on creating photo essays.
Step 6: Assess and learn
After a few days, review your photo essay, noting what worked and what didn’t. Celebrate your creative breakthroughs and consider how you might refine your techniques or push yourself further in future shoots.
Step 7: Rinse and repeat
Whenever you feel stuck, use this process to breathe new life into familiar subjects. You’ll be amazed at how your creativity flourishes and your photography skills grow!
Now go out there and conquer that “boring” scene with newfound excitement and creativity. Happy shooting!
