Feeling stuck, unsure of what to shoot, is a common issue when you pick up your camera. It’s frustrating and can sap the joy out of photography if you let it linger too long.
Coming to you from Rick Bebbington, this insightful video tackles the mental blocks photographers often encounter, especially those triggered by social media comparisons and unrealistic expectations. Bebbington explores how seeing impressive shots from exotic locations or highly polished images on platforms like Instagram can leave you discouraged, believing everything worthwhile has already been done. This mindset limits your motivation to explore photography in everyday settings. Bebbington argues that breaking away from these limiting thoughts can reconnect you with the fundamental enjoyment photography offers.
He introduces several personal photographic philosophies aimed at reframing your approach. One philosophy emphasizes that compelling photos can be captured anywhere—you don't need exotic locations or perfect lighting. Another encourages carrying an everyday camera to ensure you're ready to shoot spontaneously. He also suggests focusing on what genuinely interests you rather than what's trendy or popular. Bebbington shares how adopting these philosophies transformed his relationship with photography, making it more spontaneous and enjoyable.
Bebbington also outlines practical exercises that have helped his coaching students regain clarity and direction in their photography. One exercise involves examining your ten favorite personal photographs, reflecting on what specifically makes these images resonate deeply with you, and noticing common elements. Another recommends paying close attention to images that stop your scroll online, collecting these, and later analyzing them to identify recurring themes or aesthetics that naturally attract you. These exercises help clarify your personal photographic interests and guide you toward subjects and styles you genuinely enjoy.
Expanding on these ideas, Bebbington suggests carrying your camera daily and photographing anything that sparks even mild curiosity or interest. Regularly reviewing these casual snapshots allows you to spot patterns in your photography—whether it's color, texture, light, or subject matter—that might indicate deeper preferences you weren't previously aware of. He encourages experimentation, recounting his own transition from strictly landscape photography to enjoying street photography because he became open to new possibilities. Being willing to take creative risks without fear of mistakes is vital to uncovering new photographic passions.
Once you've gathered insights from these exercises, Bebbington recommends committing to a photography project based on what you've learned about your interests. This structured approach consolidates your discoveries into a focused effort, deepening your connection to photography. Check out the video above for the full rundown from Bebbington.
