I’ve got a few tips that can help jump start your creativity today- three to be specific. These are very simple decisions that you can, and should apply to your image taking mentality and methodology. They’re designed to get you thinking actively about your photography, because creating powerful images should never be a passive activity.
1. Be Deliberate
Be bold. Know what you want to portray in your image, and then get right out there and show it, dammit! Don’t be timid about your photography or your compositions, come up with a creative idea, grab the moment with both hands and then slam it down onto the sensor with all your might. If it works, great. If it doesn’t, brush yourself off and try something different.
2. Think Relationships
The most compelling photos aren’t just about the subject alone, they tell a story of how the subject fits within its environment and how relates to the other elements around it. These relationships can revolve around similarities, contrasts, parallels, convergence, diverging ideas… whatever you want. It’s your picture. It’s your subject. It’s your story, so narrate your visual tale as you see fit.
3. Strive for Simplicity
Get rid of all that other crap in your photo and just give your viewer the bare essentials. Nothing kills a good photo like having too much stuff in the frame. Tell the story with as few words as possible and don’t try to include too many sub-plots and side stories in your photograph. Keep it simple… don’t worry, I won’t call you stupid. Just don’t clutter your pictures. The end.
If you liked this post and want even more creative tips, check out my brand new ebook, Creative Photography Techniques – 20 Tips for Stronger Images.
These 20 tips are all short, concise and easy to remember, and yet they clearly outline a few necessary elements that are needed to produce a great image. They’re meant to inspire and jump start your own creativity.
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juxtaposition ???
I love the shot of the sled dogs! Thanks for the tips 🙂
I love the shot of the dogs too – with their tongues hanging out. Great capture. Love the cliff hanger too – bold colours.
Great tips Dan, especially striving for simplicity! Thanks for sharing
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