Committing to long-term photography projects can be a deeply rewarding experience. While the immediacy of sharing photos on social media can be exciting, investing time and effort into a project that spans weeks, months, or even years allows for a more meaningful connection with the subject matter and personal growth as an artist.
Coming to you from Willem Verbeeck, this insightful video discusses the importance of dedicating oneself to a specific place or theme over an extended period. Verbeeck shares his experience of photographing Morro Bay, California, and how repeatedly visiting the same location has allowed him to discover new perspectives and stories that contribute to the depth of his project. He emphasizes the value of understanding the landscape and the people who inhabit it, which adds genuineness to the photographs captured.
Verbeeck also explores the creative advantages that photography has over other mediums, such as the ability to freeze a moment in time and showcase the changes that occur between different moments. By working within the limitations of a long-term project, photographers can push their creativity and develop unique techniques that enhance the diversity and interest of their images. Moreover, he discusses the importance of reflecting on one's own work and building upon previous images, rather than constantly consuming and being influenced by the work of others on social media. Check out the video above for the full rundown from Verbeeck.
