Creativity is a topic that stirs up many questions, especially for those passionate about their craft. Whether you’re holding a camera or playing an instrument, the quest to unlock creativity is a journey that’s both challenging and deeply personal.
Coming to you from Alister Benn, this insightful video addresses one of the most common questions aspiring creatives have: how can you become more creative? Benn draws on his 20 years of experience in photography and teaching, offering not just tips, but a profound exploration of what creativity truly means. He argues that owning the best tools or mastering every technical aspect doesn’t automatically make you creative. Creativity, according to Benn, is more about what you have to say and how you express it, rather than the tools you use.
Benn emphasizes that while technical skill is essential, it’s not the end goal. Craft is the foundation, but creativity comes from within. It’s about having something meaningful to say and finding your own voice in a world where originality can seem elusive. He compares photography to music, noting that while musicians can create something out of nothing, photographers must find and interpret what’s already there. This challenge of finding new perspectives in a world where everything seems photographed is where true creativity lies.
Another critical point Benn makes is the importance of not merely copying others. He discusses the danger of falling into the trap of replicating the work of those you admire, which can hinder your own creative development. Instead, Benn advises that the path to creativity is personal and unique. It requires not just skill, but the courage to explore your own ideas and perspectives, even if that means deviating from the well-trodden paths of others. Check out the video above for the full rundown from Benn.
