Simple Ways to Crush Creative Ruts in Photography | by Melissa Richard
Every photographer hits a creative slump at some point. Maybe your pictures start to look the same, or you feel unmotivated to pick up your camera. You’re not alone. I’ve faced those moments too. The good news? There are straightforward, effective ways to reignite your passion and boost your creativity. Here are some simple tips I’ve found helpful:
1. Take Care of Yourself
Self-care is foundational. Are you getting enough sleep? Eating well? Managing stress? When you’re not taking care of your body and mind, it’s hard to find inspiration. Prioritize your well-being, and you’ll notice your creativity start to flourish.
2. Unplug for a While
Sometimes, the best thing you can do is step away from screens—no social media, no emails, no notifications. Giving yourself a digital break helps clear your mind and makes space for new ideas and perspectives.
3. Connect with Nature
Nature has a way of revitalizing the soul. Whether it’s a walk in the park, a hike in the woods, or just sitting by a lake, the sights, sounds, and smells can inspire beautiful, authentic photographs. Being outdoors also provides a calm, therapeutic boost to your mood.
4. Listen to Nostalgic Music
Music is a powerful trigger for memories. Listening to hits from your childhood or favourite bands from the 70s and 80s can bring up stories and feelings that spark new ideas. That’s where the idea of shooting through a slinky came from. I was listening to a song that triggered a childhood memory. Probably something by Bruce Springsteen or Dire Straits, I can’t remember. Did I just date myself??! The song triggered a memory of me being in grade three, playing with my slinky by myself at recess. I could even picture the jacket I was wearing, and where I was on the playground.
5. Observe Children’s Play
Kids’ imagination knows no bounds. Listening to their conversations or observing their play can give you fresh, unpredictable inspiration—plus, some hilarious moments. Even if you don’t have children of your own, you can get plenty of ideas from overhearing kids at the park or in a café.
6. Retry and Experiment
Don’t be afraid to revisit previous shots. Change up your settings, lighting, angles, or composition. Sometimes, editing the same photo differently can evoke a completely different feeling. Repeated attempts often lead to surprising discoveries. I have retried the reflection through the sunglasses lens more time than I can count!
7. Find Inspiration in Other Artists
Follow photographers and artists you admire. Exploring their work can spark ideas, but remember—do so without comparison. Your journey is unique, and your voice deserves to shine. Community and shared inspiration are vital for growth.
8. Focus on What You Love
Don’t get caught up in likes or trends. Photograph and share what truly excites you. Your passion will shine through and resonate with others, regardless of how many likes you get. I absolutely love capturing my family’s everyday life in different ways.
9. Embrace Your Weaknesses
What subjects or techniques scare you? For me, it was low light photography. I challenged myself with a 52-week technique challenge—learning to shoot in low light. Over time, I grew to love it. Facing your fears can lead to remarkable progress.
10. Capture Unconventional Shots
Find new ways to frame your subject—shoot through objects, use reflections, or experiment with unusual angles. This adds a creative spin and keeps your work fresh.
11. Help Others
Sharing your knowledge or helping others learn can reignite your passion. Teaching unlocks new insights and reminds you of your own skills and goals.
Keep Moving Forward
Most importantly, keep shooting what you love. Even on days when you feel discouraged, pick up your camera. Sometimes, in our darkest moments, we create the most powerful images. Photography is a way to pause life, capture emotion, and express your unique voice. Remember: persistence is key, and every shot is a step toward growth.
And after all, life and photography are about enjoying the journey. Keep creating, keep exploring, and most importantly—keep having fun with it!
Happy Shooting!
