At times, the routine of everyday life can diminish the enjoyment and creativity that initially attracted you to photography. Looking back on the highs and lows of 2024, this excellent video provides insights from a transformative year of exploration and capturing, presenting lessons that can motivate you to reconnect with your art.
Presented by Max Kent, this insightful video underscores the significance of reviving your artistic identity. Kent opens with a pivotal inquiry: How would you photograph if no one ever viewed your images? This outlook prompted him to reconsider what is genuinely important in his photography. Re-experiencing the pleasure of taking photographs purely for the sake of creativity, rather than for outside approval, can alter your approach to your craft. If you’ve ever felt aimless or detached from your photography, Kent’s thoughts provide a pathway back to the enthusiasm that initially motivated you.
The video further highlights the influence of curiosity in producing better photographs. Throughout his journeys, Kent intentionally approached each location as if encountering it for the first time. Viewing familiar places with the same enthusiasm can lead you to unearth surprising perspectives. This practice of active curiosity revolutionized his workflow and inspired more significant images. By consistently carrying his camera with him—whether wandering through an unfamiliar city or running errands at home—Kent eliminated obstacles to creativity and captured moments he may have otherwise overlooked.
Kent’s guidance goes beyond mindset to action, particularly the importance of venturing beyond your comfort zone. He recounts the experience of photographing his first wedding on film, an endeavor that was both intimidating and fulfilling. For him, the demands of a wedding shoot represented a major progression, but it resulted in invaluable lessons and future possibilities. Overcoming discomfort, whether by exploring street photography for the first time or taking on a challenging assignment, can aid in your growth as a photographer. The sensitivity you experience in those instances is a normal component of the process. Check out the video above for the complete overview from Kent.