Creative collapse. If you’re a photographer (or any creative, for that matter) then chances are you’ve suffered from it.

Wanting to shoot something (anything!) but feeling like you’ve done it all before. The same photos, the same scenes, the same equipment, the same boring monotony that leaves you feeling anything but inspired.

So what are some photography ideas to boost creativity?

Here are a few I’ve found to be extremely helpful when things begin feeling a bit stale.

1. Try New Styles

Most photographers specialize in a particular style. So if you’re feeling stuck, why not mix it up a bit and branch out into another genre? A few you could try include:

Landscape
Street
Portrait
Sport
Aerial
Macro
Abstract
Night
Underwater
Fashion
Wildlife
Food
Architectural
Time-Lapse
Black & White

So, if you’re bored and think there’s nothing left to shoot, you’re sorely mistaken!

2. Use A Different Camera

We tend to shoot on the same camera. We know every bell and whistle and after a while it becomes second nature. But, with that comfort comes complacency.

So challenge yourself by using a different one! Get your wheels turning and embrace the opportunity to learn something new.

Are you used to a top-of-the-line DSLR camera? Then limit yourself to a point-and-shoot or polaroid for the day. Have an entry level camera? Then how about renting a nicer one and testing out its capabilities?

An unfamiliar camera forces you to change the way you shoot, which can make taking photos a lot more interesting.

3. Bring A Different Lens

Similar to using a different camera, try shooting with a different lens! Bring along a lens you rarely use and shoot with it for the day. Or, better yet, rent a lens you’ve never photographed with before! Taking one on a test drive is a great way to revive creativity (and maybe even find the next weapon in your photography arsenal!)

It’s amazing how much excitement you can muster by simply mixing things up with your equipment.

4. Discover New Locations

Whether you travel to a far off destination or discover new locales closer to home, a change of scenery can work wonders on your creativity.

Going on a trip will uncover limitless possibilities for your photography. Discover natural wonders, explore interesting architecture, document local traditions and cultures. Imagine you’re on assignment for National Geographic and shoot away!

And while traveling to an exotic location seems obvious, trying to find something exciting in your own backyard can be a creative challenge in and of itself! Venture to a part of town you’ve never explored before. Or, look for local events and festivals that catch your creative eye. You’d be surprised by how many opportunities you’ve overlooked if you simply put in the effort.

5. Do A Daily Photo Challenge

Daily photo challenges are a great way to push yourself to shoot on a regular basis.

Take at least one photograph every day for a year. As time marches on, you’ll have to get creative to avoid shooting the same thing over and over. And with that challenge comes a more discerning eye. You’ll notice nuances you may have otherwise overlooked, and it will train you to constantly search for what’s interesting, beautiful, and intriguing in the things around you.

Plus, you can turn it into a really awesome photo album! Bonus!

6. Create A Seasonal Series

We’ve all seen the four-block compositions of a particular scene in all four seasons. So, why not create one yourself?

Find a landscape you find interesting and photograph it in spring, summer, fall, and winter. Or, alternatively, take a photo of it once a month for a year. Pay particular attention to your framing so it matches up, and notice how the scene changes as the year progresses.

You’ll find yourself getting excited whenever it’s time to shoot again. And, you’ll also begin to notice the subtle differences in the passing months and seasons (which, in turn, makes you a better photographer).

Once complete, you can turn it into a beautiful piece of wall art (either as a whole or in tiles) that your friends can marvel at when they visit.

7. Recreate A Favorite

Is there a particular photo you’ve seen before that inspires you? Why not recreate it!

Maybe it’s an exact scene. Or, maybe it’s just a particular style. Whatever it is, get your creative juices flowing by trying to mimic the composition!

I always gravitate towards travel photos of interesting landscapes and architecture. One, in particular, that always fascinated me was looking up at the Brooklyn Bridge. I just love its gothic style and extensive cables! So, on one of my trips through New York City, I made it a point to shoot it.

Sure, it’s not going to win any awards or stand out to anyone else. But, finding something that inspires you and trying to capture it in a similar (or even completely different) way can work wonders on igniting your creativity.

8. Experiment With Settings

Because photographers often shoot in the same style, they also tend to shoot with the same settings.

Mix it up a bit!

Try using a different aperture, change your shutter speed, experiment with time-lapse, or test out a remote. And if you’re used to shooting in Auto (come on, we’ve all been guilty of it), try shooting in a different mode! See how switching to shutter priority, aperture priority, manual, and bulb affects your photos.

The more comfortable you are with different settings, the more control you’ll have over your photos. And the only way to learn is to practice!

Plus, if you’re not used to shooting in other modes and settings, the challenge of figuring out exactly what your camera needs to be set at to achieve the desired result can be a rewarding challenge.

9. Find New Ways To Display Your Photos

Another way to revive your excitement about taking pictures is to look for new and interesting ways to display your photography.

Find a blank wall and fill it with your framed imagery. Create a collage with your favorite shots. Start a photography website and use it as a portfolio of your work. Customize a photo album for your coffee table. Or, go on Shutterfly to find an array of display options that include photos on home furnishings, office supplies, bags, blankets, stationery, glassware, and more!

The possibilities are endless!

10. Go On A Photography Adventure

Finally, one of my favorite ways to boost creativity is to go on a photography adventure with friends.

This is especially great if you have a friend who’s also a photographer! You not only have the chance to get out and shoot with a friendly face, but you can also learn a lot from each other.

If you don’t have a fellow photographer friend, check out some local photography groups, workshops, or walks to meet some!

Because photography is always a lot more fun when there’s someone to share it with.

So, instead of wallowing in your creative collapse, embrace it as an opportunity to push yourself! Step outside the monotony of your old habits and try something new. Whether it’s different equipment, a change of scenery, or a photo challenge, there are countless photography ideas to boost creativity!

What are some ways you get past feeling stagnant? Comment below, I’d love to hear about them!

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