Anyone can take a terrific image or two. The mark of a more advanced photographer is making photographs on a theme, working on a project in depth and over time that has consistency and coherence.
The long-term project can increase our determination, reduce shyness and indecision. It makes us more aggressive by pressuring us to go after those images needed to make the project better/great. It suggests goals, and increases the desire to accomplish and complete a body of work.
Projects make us more focused, more determined, braver to make the photo, more motivated.
Shoot what you are interested in and/or what you want to learn more about, become the expert on the subject. Photograph as personally as possible, from your history, your environment, your interests and knowledge. Don’t be influenced by what others say or think. Be your own guide, it might take longer to reach your destination but it will be a more exciting journey, one filled with more insight and knowledge gained.
The best way to start a project is to shoot lots and let the images speak to you. Review your work often, let the images guide you, tell/show you what you are interested in. Get ideas from the photographs.
We get ideas when we are photographing and also when looking at our work. Be open to what your images, your art is trying to tell you, see trends, patterns, paths to follow in your work, BE OPEN.
Read the full article in Street Photography Magazine.
Photograph © Harvey Stein.
