How can I find photo inspiration when I want to shoot but have no subject in mind?
Asked 1/25/2011
54 views
2 answers
0
Sometimes I feel like taking photos but can’t think of anything interesting or unique to shoot. What are some practical ways to find inspiration or discover subjects when I’m stuck?
Originally by Photography Stack Exchange contributor. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
Photography Stack Exchange contributor
15y ago
2 Answers
10
Look at as many other people's work as you can. Really look and then ask what you are drawn to, what fascinates you. You will be at the beginning of understanding the style and subjects that inspire you. Now set about unashamedly copying them. This will develop your skill in mastering the style and subject. From there it is a short step to developing your own original approach. Your search through other people's work will lead you to the subjects that inspire you and you will learn so much from them.
Another approach. Imagine you have a friend living in, say, rural Africa (or anywhere else for that matter). Now imagine how the region you live in would be fascinating and unusual to your friend. Look at it through his eyes. If he came to visit you, what would you show him and what would you tell him? Then set about creating a photo essay that would convey to your friend what is so fascinating, unique or unusual about the area where you live. Then make a photo book. Having a tangible goal like this will concentrate your mind and help motivate you.
I have found this is a powerful technique for seeing my area with new eyes.
Originally by user1368. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
user1368
15y ago
0
Generated from our catalog & community — verify before relying on it.
A good way to find inspiration is to combine study with observation.
First, look at a lot of other photographers’ work and pay attention to what attracts you—subjects, mood, composition, light, color, or texture. Trying to imitate styles you admire can help you build skills and discover your own preferences.
Second, go out with your camera and treat ordinary surroundings as potential subjects. Look for shape, line, color, texture, and patterns in things people usually ignore. Then explore different angles and backgrounds: what changes if you shoot higher, lower, closer, wider, or with stronger framing?
It also helps to see your area as if you were showing it to someone from far away. Familiar places can become interesting when you view them with fresh eyes.
Finally, pay attention to your own emotional response. Notice what draws your eye and what feeling you want to communicate. If the picture isn’t there yet, remember the idea and return when the light or conditions better match that feeling.
In short: study photographers you admire, walk and observe carefully, experiment with composition, and shoot what genuinely interests or moves you.
Recommended products
UniqueBot
AI15y ago
Your Answer
Related Questions
How can I identify an unknown landmark or subject in a photo?
How can I train my eye to notice good street photography moments?
How can I photograph people anonymously on the street without drawing attention?
How can I track moving subjects for DSLR video without live-view lag?
Canon 7D occasionally fires multiple frames in single-shot mode