As photographers, we all go through periods of time when creativity eludes us, and we're not sure how to get it back.
This can especially hit us when we take on too much. Can anyone relate during this time of the year?
Today I'm going to share with you some techniques that have helped me to light my creative spark again.
Top Tips for Keeping Creative Energy Flowing:
1. Get enough sleep: When you’re tired, it’s hard to be creative. Make sure you’re getting enough rest so you can be at your best.
2. Eat healthy: What you eat affects how you feel. Eating healthy foods will help you have more energy and be able to think more clearly.
3. Take breaks: When you’re feeling overwhelmed or stuck, it can help to take a break from whatever you’re working on. Go for a walk, listen to music, or just step away from your work to clear your head.
4. Exercise: Exercise gets your blood flowing and helps your brain to function better. Taking a brisk walk or going for a run can help clear your head and give you new ideas. I highly suggest the Peloton App. You can start just using the app; you don't need any equipment. The outdoor walking is excellent and so much more than just a workout...all of the instructions are very inspirational and motivating. Get 60 days free here: Peloton
5. Get organized: Trying to be creative when your environment is cluttered and chaotic can be difficult. Spend some time organizing your workspace, so it’s conducive to creativity and productivity.
6. Set aside time for creativity: Make sure you set aside time each day or each week specifically for working on creative projects. This will help ensure that you actually make progress on those projects instead of letting them fall by the wayside.
7. Don’t be afraid to experiment: Trying new things is how you find new ideas. Don’t be afraid to experiment and explore different techniques or mediums.
8. Keep a journal: A journal is a great place to capture ideas when they come to you. Having a written record of your thoughts can help you develop and expand on those ideas later on.
Challenge yourself with a different type of art other than photography
When it comes to staying creative, challenging yourself is key. That’s why, when you’re feeling burnt out on photography, it can be helpful to try a different type of art altogether.
There are endless possibilities when it comes to other types of art you could explore. Maybe you’ve always wanted to try painting or drawing. Or maybe you’d like to dabble in sculpture or pottery.
Here are a few suggestions for attentive art:
- Abstract art
- Painting
- Woodworking, forging, jewelry making
- Music
- Cooking
- Blogging or writing
- Create Photo Composites
Whichever type of art you choose to try, the important thing is that you step outside of your comfort zone and allow yourself to be open to new possibilities. You never know, you might just find a new passion!
There are no rules when it comes to creativity, so don’t be afraid to experiment and have fun! Not a soul needs to see what you create, just do it to help jumpstart the creative juices flowing again.
When I need a break, I create abstract art or flip furniture with expressive colors. I love the creative outlet it gives me, and I've found it also helps strengthen my visualization of color harmony, which is very beneficial in photography.
Here are a few images of the wild-painted furniture I've created:
How to Motivate Yourself to Keep Going
When you’re feeling burnt out, it can be hard to find the motivation to keep going. But it’s important to remember that your creativity is a muscle that needs to be exercised in order to stay strong. Here are a few tips to help you get back on track:
1. Set small, achievable goals. Trying to do too much at once can be overwhelming and lead to further feelings of burnout. Break your projects down into smaller pieces and celebrate each accomplishment along the way.
2. Take time for yourself. Make sure you’re taking care of yourself both physically and mentally. Get enough sleep, exercise, and eat healthy foods. Take breaks when you need them and allow yourself time to relax and recharge.
3. Find your inspiration. When you’re feeling lost, it can help to look outside of yourself for inspiration. Read books, magazines, podcasts (Photo Happy Hour) or blogs that spark your creativity, or take a walk outside and observe your surroundings.
4. Be persistent. Don’t give up when things get tough – remember why you started down this path in the first place! Remind yourself of your accomplishments and the progress you’ve made so far, no matter how small it may seem.
Conclusion
If you're feeling creative burnt out, don't despair — there are plenty of things you can do to rekindle your creativity. Sometimes all it takes is a change of scenery or some time spent exploring a new hobby. Other times, it might require a bit more effort, like attending a creative workshop or signing up for an online course. But however you choose to ignite your creativity, the important thing is to keep at it — because when it comes to being creative, practice definitely makes perfect.
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