ICM Colour Waves
I have recently tried to become more creative with my photography because I believe that if we are involved in any kind of creative pursuit, it is important that we take steps to continually develop our creativity. This is what keeps us interested and motivated, helps us to express ourselves in new ways and challenges us to constantly learn and grow.
So how do you develop creativity in photography?
There are many ways in which you can become more creative, you just have be open to new opportunities and possibilities.
Here are some of the ways that have helped me to become more creative with my photography.
1. Letting go of what others think.
It is very easy to hold ourselves back from experimenting and expressing ourselves in our own unique way when we think that our images might not be approved of by others. We must let go of this mindset if we want to develop creatively. We must be prepared to do what pleases us, to take risks, to challenge ourselves and to make the images that we want to make, even if we are stepping outside our comfort zone to do so. We cannot progress on our own creative path if we are constantly looking over our shoulder for approval from others.
I recently began to experiment with intentional camera movement (ICM) photography. It's not a form of photography that appeals to everyone and it is also difficult to know what makes a good ICM image, so I have to trust my own instincts, do what feels right to me, and just enjoy the process.
On the escalator
2. Becoming more curious.
Curiosity is one of the best qualities to nurture if we want to grow creatively. Always be on the lookout for new ideas, new techniques, new information. Become more observant; notice things you didn’t notice before, be prepared to see the world with new eyes. Experiment to see what works, try and fail and try again. Don’t give up until you have exhausted all possibilities.
I have found ICM photography challenging but I have continued to experiment, to try out different techniques, to put my failures down to learning opportunities, and this has resulted in moments of great satisfaction and enjoyment when I have produced some images that I love.
Climbing the steps
3. Experimenting with new ideas.
Throw out the rule book. Give yourself the freedom to experiment, to try new ways of doing things, to enjoy the process of discovery. Let the process of creating be your guide, rather than the product.
Branching out
4. Accepting ‘failure’ as part of the learning process.
In the world of creativity there can be no such thing as failure. Creativity is a process of evolving, of becoming, of expressing ourselves more fully. It is a journey, not a destination. Our images will all represent creative steps along that journey. None of them will be a final product because there will always be more to discover, more to learn, more to enjoy. And that is the real joy of the creative process.
Walk in the woods
5. Enjoying the process.
This might be the most important step in developing our creativity. If we are having fun and enjoying what we do, we will be inspired and motivated to learn more. Give yourself permission to play with your camera and settings. Create simply for the joy it brings you.
Among the trees
FINAL THOUGHTS
Becoming more creative with your photography really is quite simple. It’s about getting out with your camera, trying new things, daring to push yourself out of your comfort zone and watching your creations take shape.
There is no right or wrong way to be creative. There is only your way, the way that allows you to express who you are.
Why not take the next step on your creative journey today.