Setting goals might seem basic, but it's one of the most crucial steps in improving your photography.
Coming to you from Mike with North Borders, this practical video emphasizes the importance of keeping your goals simple. Trying to tackle too many things at once can lead to decision fatigue, where your ability to make effective decisions deteriorates. Think of it like being handed an encyclopedia-sized menu at a restaurant—too many options can overwhelm you. The same goes for photography. On a shoot, you’re already making numerous decisions about lighting, angles, settings, and more. Adding too many goals or tasks can overwhelm you, especially if you're also managing the business side of things. The key is to focus on one aspect at a time, allowing your brain to fully absorb the information and improve effectively.
Another critical point Mike addresses is the importance of finding the right kind of inspiration. While social media might seem like an endless source of ideas, it can easily lead to overload. Scrolling through countless images can overwhelm your brain, leading to creative burnout. Instead, Mike suggests seeking inspiration from more curated sources like magazines, local art museums, and books. These sources provide a fresh perspective without the overwhelming noise of social media. Remember, great artists don’t just copy—they take inspiration and make it their own. It’s about finding ideas that resonate with you and then adding your twist.
Perfectionism is another common roadblock in photography. It’s natural to want your work to be perfect, but this mindset can paralyze you. Perfectionism often stems from a fear of failure or a need for approval, leading you to avoid risks and stick to safe, familiar techniques. This, in turn, stunts your creative growth. The truth is, creativity thrives on experimentation and mistakes. Embrace the weird and the imperfect. Done is better than perfect. That's just the start, so check out the video above for the full rundown.
