Too Many Client-Directed Projects Make You Stale
[by Rosh Sillars]
Personal projects give you the freedom to think beyond the limitations of your client photography. Yes, digital has allowed us to experiment a little more while photographing on assignment. Unfortunately we can only use so much of our client’s valuable time for personal experiments and pushing the limits.
Take time to pick up the camera and try something completely different to make yourself a better photographer.
Keep the fun in photography. One way I do this is when I am on the road. I enjoy photographing the people, the landscapes, and the distinctive details of the cities I visit. Many of the images are touristy. Just have fun with it. This is important for all photographers. It is especially important for those who have been photographing for decades.
When we regard photography as a job, it shows in our work.
Look for inspiration in magazines or on Flickr. Do a Google search for a unique photography topic to get ideas and concepts that challenge your creativity. Look for ideas that will help put the excitement back in photography. If nothing else, pick up your camera and explore your neighborhood.
Have a little fun.
Rosh Sillars is a Detroit photographer.
