Day 5

Photography can be a solitary pursuit.

Many of us head out alone, walk alone, think alone, and edit alone. And while there is massive appeal in this, over time it can quietly drain the energy and excitement from the process.

One of the simplest ways to keep your photography feeling fresh is to occasionally include a social element.

Going out with other photographers keeps energy up, motivation high, and provides inspiration. You’re exposed to other ways of thinking, composing, and responding to light. It is always fascinating how two photographers will interpret the same subject, or same scene, in very different ways.

It doesn’t have to be formal. A camera club, a small group, a workshop, or just a walk with a friend who shares the same interest. The conditions don’t even need to be good. In fact, difficult weather often makes shared experiences even more rewarding and creates memories that will last a lifetime.

Photography becomes less about chasing results and more about the experience itself. The laughter, the discussions, the moments of excitement lift us and we return home with a rejuvenated interest and a buzz from spending time with friends.

So if your photography ever feels stale or uninspiring, it might not be your ideas that need changing. Embrace the social side of photography, share the experience and you will find the pictures you create have an extra sense of meaning.