Only work on a photography project if it works for you — if you find it confusing, stressful, or boring; don’t do it.
Shoot like a child
When I started off in photography, I was like a child. I had a camera, and had no idea about technical settings. I didn’t know what made a “good” photograph. I just photographed whatever interested me. I followed my curiosity, I had fun, and simply explored with my camera.
When I got more experienced in photography, I felt like I had to be more “serious” — by working on a photography project. Because after all, all “serious” photographers worked on photography projects.
But as time went on, I started to realize to work on a rigid photography project was stressful to me. I stopped photographing for fun. I only photographed as a sense of obligation to my project.
What suits you?
For me, my personality is that I prefer randomness, no structure, and flexibility. So working on a rigid project wasn’t good for my creativity.
But if you are a photographer where you prefer structure— work on a photography project. That might give you a direction which helps you.
Or another idea: just photograph whatever you find interesting. Then later — figure out how you can combine these images to make a project.
Project ideas
A project can be simple as well. Some ideas:
- Only photographing one type of subject-matter (only photographing men in suits, only photographing dogs, or only photographing children)
- Only photographing one location (only one square block, one city, or one country)
- Only working on one compositional technique (only photographing leading lines, diagonals, curves, circles, or triangles)
Conclusion
To conclude, only work on a photo project if it suits your personality. Don’t feel like you need to be a “serious” photographer (according to the standards of others).
Do what is fun, exciting, and interesting to you. This is the only way to be inspired in your photography for your entire life.
Always,
Eric
Learn more: Personal Project Ideas >