When your photography hits a plateau, it can be frustrating. You’ve taken great shots before, but suddenly, nothing seems to work. Creative slumps happen to everyone, but understanding why they occur and how to push through can make all the difference.
Coming to you from Adam Karnacz of First Man Photography, this insightful video explores how to overcome those moments when your work feels stagnant. Karnacz explains that creativity isn’t linear. It comes in waves, with high points of inspiration followed by inevitable lulls. When frustration builds, it’s easy to convince yourself that you’ve lost your ability, but the reality is different. He suggests leaning on your experience and continuing to shoot, even if the results aren’t immediately satisfying. The key is persistence, not waiting for inspiration to strike.
Another challenge is how you perceive your own work. Karnacz shares a personal experience where he expected one of his shots to be the standout from a session, only to realize later that a different image resonated more with others. Emotional attachment can cloud judgment, making it difficult to objectively assess your own images. He emphasizes stepping back, printing your work, and giving it time before making final judgments. This method can provide clarity and help you see your images more accurately.
One strategy he suggests is shifting your focus to something technical when creativity is low. Exploring a new genre, trying macro photography, or even learning a new editing technique can keep you engaged without the pressure of creating a masterpiece. Karnacz also discusses the importance of limiting distractions, particularly social media, which can skew your perception of success and fuel self-doubt. Taking a break and focusing on your own journey rather than constant comparison can be a real benefit. Check out the video above for the full rundown from Karnacz.
