Don’t see yourself as a “photographer” — just see yourself as a kid running around with a camera.

1. Let’s learn from children

Why is it that we love to use the word “work”? Perhaps it is from the protestant work ethic— where we value our self-worth by how hard we work, and how much money we earn.

But if we look at children, they are the wisest. They are the purest — they only do things they want to do, and don’t do anything because of any social obligations.

Above all, they prefer playing. The best “exercise” that we can do is what is fun, and feels like playing. Kids play soccer, play on the jungle gym, and do cart wheels for fun. They don’t force themselves to join some gym, to do pointless repetitions in the gym, or to sign up for a fitness class (which feels like an obligation).

The same thing in photography — don’t feel like you need to always shoot, just to please your social media following. Just have fun in your photography.

Treat your photography like playing. Playing visually with the world, using your camera as your tool.

2. Have fun

How can you have more fun with your photography?

What are some novel ways you can play with your photos?

How can you integrate different subject-matter in your photos, in a fun way?

How can you create contrasts or juxtapositions, which are weird, odd, or unusual?

3. Don’t be a photographer

Play; don’t photograph.

Always,
Eric

Learn more: Creativity >