As photographers and creatives, we can sometimes find ourselves in a bit of a rut. Other areas of our lives can become complicated or difficult and our mental health can take a hit. This can all have a negative impact on our creativity. We can find we have stopped picking up our camera completely and when we decide we want to start creating again, we can feel a bit lost and unsure how to get back into it. Especially if the break has been over several weeks or months. Our confidence, motivation and inspiration might be lacking. I have personally found myself in this situation before so I wanted to share with you some ideas that have helped me and can hopefully help you to rediscover your photography joy.

In the age of social media, where photographers showcase their best work to the world, it’s easy to fall into the comparison trap. Does this sound familiar? You scroll through your feed, seeing stunning images from other photographers, and suddenly your own work feels inadequate. I know I’m guilty of falling into this trap myself. This cycle of comparing your photography to others—whether it’s their style, skill level, or creative journey—can be incredibly damaging to your growth, creativity, and self-esteem. Here’s why it’s time to step away from the comparison game and embrace your unique path as a photographer.