Most of us picked up a camera for a genuine reason — to document our kids, to chase the beauty of nature, or to find calm in a chaotic world. But somewhere along the way, the algorithm started shaping what and how we shoot.

Personal photography projects, like a Project 52, offer a way back to creating for ourselves. Weekly themes encourage experimentation, consistent practice builds confidence and skill, and the routine helps you reconnect with your creative voice.

And when motivation dips, community becomes everything. A supportive group can carry you through the ruts, helping you grow, refine your style, and build a body of work you’re proud of.

If you’re ready to shoot for joy again—not for the algorithm—I’d love to have you join the 2026 run of 52 Clicks.

52 Clicks | Week 17 | Forced Perspective

We just completed our hardest theme to date in our Project 52 - forced perspective. Forced perspective is a technique that uses optical illusion to make objects appear larger, smaller, closer, or farther away than they actually are. If you've never attempted this technique before, you may not realize just how challenging it really is. Typically, the p52 group is mixed, trading turns each week on which themes are hard for us.  I think it's safe to say we all collectively cursed this theme, struggling to come up with ideas, battling the logistics required to pull it off, and growing frustrated with the multiple attempts that nearly ended us.

You know what, though? We did it! We persevered, and I am so very proud of us. We may never, ever try this technique again, but we can walk away with all our newfound knowledge that can be applied in the future. It's so much more fulfilling when we challenge ourselves, even if the process isn't always enjoyable.

Have you ever tried forced perspective? Are you now inspired to challenge yourself?

xo,
Angie Mahlke

Click here to join!

52 Clicks | Week 16 | Juxtaposition

The next theme we tackled in our Project 52 was juxtaposition. This is the technique of placing two contrasting elements side by side within a frame to highlight their differences or create an interesting relationship. I think it's safe to say this was one of the harder themes so far in the p52 since it's not always easy to spot in the wild and may take more time and thought to come up with an idea. But the participants rose to the occasion and produced the high quality of images we've come to expect from the group. 

Would you say you're a fan of juxtaposition or does this technique stump you, too?

xo,
Angie Mahlke

Click here to join!