Sometimes, the daily grind can strip away the joy and creativity that drew you to photography in the first place. Reflecting on the highs and lows of 2024, this great video shares insights from a transformative year of travel and shooting, offering lessons that can inspire you to reconnect with your craft.
Coming to you from Max Kent, this thoughtful video highlights the importance of rekindling your creative identity. Kent begins by asking a crucial question: How would you shoot if no one ever saw your photos? This perspective led him to re-evaluate what truly matters in his photography. Revisiting the joy of capturing images for the sake of creativity, rather than for external validation, can reshape how you approach your work. If you’ve ever felt lost or disconnected from your photography, Kent’s reflections offer a roadmap back to the passion that first inspired you.
The video also emphasizes the role of curiosity in creating better images. During his travels, Kent made a deliberate effort to approach every location as if seeing it for the first time. Treating familiar places with the same mindset can lead you to discover unexpected perspectives. This habit of proactive curiosity transformed his workflow and inspired more meaningful photographs. By simply carrying his camera everywhere—whether walking through a new city or running errands at home—Kent removed barriers to creativity and captured moments he might have otherwise missed.
Kent’s advice extends beyond mindset to action, particularly the value of stepping outside your comfort zone. He shares the story of photographing his first wedding on film, an experience that was both daunting and rewarding. For him, the pressure of a wedding shoot was a significant leap, but it resulted in valuable lessons and future opportunities. Pushing through discomfort, whether by trying street photography for the first time or taking on a challenging project, can help you grow as a photographer. The vulnerability you feel in those moments is a natural part of the process. Check out the video above for the full rundown from Kent.
