Are you constantly searching for the perfect moment to take photos? Waiting for that elusive foggy morning or the ideal light filtering through the trees? As photographers, we can fall into the trap of striving for perfection and limiting ourselves in the process. In this article, I want to share a simple but powerful tip to break free from these constraints, boost your creativity, and improve your photography.
It’s natural to follow patterns in our creative work. If something worked well in the past, we’re inclined to repeat it. Over time, this habit sharpens our skills, but it also narrows our focus. We become so selective about when and how we shoot that we can miss opportunities
Take macro photography, for example. You might think the best time is early morning, with dew on the leaves, or during summer when butterflies make excellent subject. But by waiting for these “perfect” conditions, you risk overlooking other opportunities where the light or subjects might offer something unexpected and unique.
This tendency can lead to creative block or even burnout. Repeating the same routines can become uninspiring, leaving you stuck in a rut. So how can you break free and rekindle your passion for photography?
Here it is: stop trying to be good at photography!
Yes, you read that right. Sometimes, the best way to grow as a photographer is to switch off the part of your brain that’s always striving for perfection. Go out with no expectations. Let go of the pressure to capture award-winning shots.
Switching off perfectionism unlocks your creativity. You’ll start seeing opportunities you’d usually dismiss and gain insights into different techniques and styles. Even seasoned photographers can benefit from this reset, especially if they’re feeling stuck or uninspired.
For beginners, this approach is invaluable. It accelerates learning by exposing you to a broader range of scenarios and challenges.
This simple yet transformative tip has made a big difference in my own photography. While I may take some “bad” photos along the way, the process leads to moments of inspiration and learning that ultimately improve my work.
So why not give it a try? Set aside perfectionism, loosen up, and shoot without expectations. It might feel uncomfortable at first, but the freedom and creativity you’ll gain are well worth i
I also made a video on this subject, which you can watch below.
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