As I've mentioned before, there are some times when my creative tank runs completely dry. Usually, however, I have some techniques to bring myself out of the funk; most often, it's using only a prime lens for a few days, as they tend to limit me to a specific frame and perspective. This exercise overlaps into another "creatively constricting" technique as well, which works just as well: color. Specifically, my task becomes to capture a specific color in every photo; in the case of the below photo, red.
Lake George, 2009
What can this accomplish? Doesn't this actually limit what photographs you're taking? Yes and no. While you may be selectively looking for photographs based on a specific color, you are in essence training your mind to look in the minute details of your surroundings, often at things you would ordinarily overlook. The color you choose need not be the dominant one in the photo, as well; oftentimes it will be subtle, as in the photograph above, which is mostly blue. However, try to use framing guidelines like the 4/3rds rule to compose and "anchor" your color of choice.
I combined the "color challenge" with the "prime lens challenge" (Orange and 35mm f1.8) in this snap
When you've had a few days of a single color, move on to another one. Combine selective color with a prime lens for more of a challenge, and if you're feeling particularly bold, look for two contrasting colors. Although there isn't much scholarly research to verify this claim, these mental exercises are similar in concept to physical fitness training: the more you challenge yourself with new goals, the broader your ability to take on new challenges and see new photos everywhere you go.
Tim Kauger is a blogger and photographer based in Short Hills, NJ. You can visit his website here.