Many photographers will tell you that they started out taking photos simply because they enjoyed the process. The question is are you going through a period where taking photos has become more of a chore than a source of enjoyment?
If you are facing a point in time when your camera is a source of stress, rather than than of enjoyment, here are some steps you could take to change that.
1. Rethink The Process
The first way to get joy back into the photography process is to try something new. That could mean photographing a new subject, or it could mean shooting a new way. Try using a different shooting mode, one that will allow you to relax a little more. This could even mean shooting video, rather than stills. Also consider shooting with a lens or focal length you don't use very often, to get new perspectives on things you've photographed before.
2. Slow down
Photography isn't a race (unless you are photographing a race), so slow down and take your time. Part of taking your time is learning to enjoy the subject you are shooting. Think about what you like about the subject and focus on that, rather than camera settings and how you feel at the moment. If you normally shoot free hand, try shooting with a tripod. Shooting with a tripod can really help you to slow down and look at things differently.
3. Take Time Off
Unless you are a working professional, there is no rule that says you need to take a photo of everything that moves, breaths or falls before your eyes. Just leave your camera at home. It's okay if you take a day or a week off!
4. Go out with a new photographer
Going out with someone who doesn't know all the ins and outs of photography, but just loves doing it, can also be helpful. They can show you a new perspective, or draw you back to the point where photography was enjoyable. Just try not to turn this into a training session, or it will just be work.
If you are facing a point in time when your camera is a source of stress, rather than than of enjoyment, here are some steps you could take to change that.
1. Rethink The Process
The first way to get joy back into the photography process is to try something new. That could mean photographing a new subject, or it could mean shooting a new way. Try using a different shooting mode, one that will allow you to relax a little more. This could even mean shooting video, rather than stills. Also consider shooting with a lens or focal length you don't use very often, to get new perspectives on things you've photographed before.
2. Slow down
Photography isn't a race (unless you are photographing a race), so slow down and take your time. Part of taking your time is learning to enjoy the subject you are shooting. Think about what you like about the subject and focus on that, rather than camera settings and how you feel at the moment. If you normally shoot free hand, try shooting with a tripod. Shooting with a tripod can really help you to slow down and look at things differently.
3. Take Time Off
Unless you are a working professional, there is no rule that says you need to take a photo of everything that moves, breaths or falls before your eyes. Just leave your camera at home. It's okay if you take a day or a week off!
4. Go out with a new photographer
Going out with someone who doesn't know all the ins and outs of photography, but just loves doing it, can also be helpful. They can show you a new perspective, or draw you back to the point where photography was enjoyable. Just try not to turn this into a training session, or it will just be work.
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