Embracing the New Year with a Click: Top 5 Photography Resolutions for 2024
As the New Year unfolds, it's a fantastic opportunity for photographers, whether amateur or professional, to set fresh goals and explore new horizons in their photographic journey. Here are five inspiring photography resolutions for 2024, crafted to ignite your passion and enhance your skills in the art of capturing moments.
1. Experiment with Different Photography Styles
Sticking to one style can be comforting, but the real magic happens outside your comfort zone. I remember when I first started taking photography seriously - I wanted to find my style. I started with landscapes and some wildlife, but it wasn’t until I started photographing weddings as a second shooter that I connected with my subjects through photography. I was creating images that people would treasure for a lifetime. Family portraits, engagements and weddings, and other events became my comfort zone.
Trying out different photography styles – be it street, portrait, landscape, or macro – can immensely broaden your creative perspective and technical skills. Getting out of a photographic pattern and releasing your creativity in other types of photography can be challenging and rewarding.
How to Achieve: Dedicate each month to a different style. Connect with other photographers specializing in these styles, join workshops, or take online courses. One of my early introductions to portrait photography was a local meet-up where models and photographers, under a leader's instruction, created sets with various lighting and props, allowing us to interact and be creative. Photographers and models exchanged contact information and processed photos for use in their portfolios. Remember, the key is to be open-minded and creative with your camera.
2. Commit to a Personal Project
All the great photographers I’ve met had one thing in common - they all worked on or were looking to start a personal project. Personal projects are a great way to stay motivated, focused, and creative. They give you a sense of purpose and can often lead to your best work. Attending this past year’s B&H BILD Expo, I was excited to hear what Jared “FroKnowsPhoto” Polin had to talk about. Expecting his Fro-persona, I was mesmerized by “Fro Uncensored” - his presentation of a personal project regarding his mother’s illness.
How to Achieve: Choose a theme or subject that resonates with you personally. It could be a 365-day photo challenge, a documentary series, or a thematic exploration. Plan your project timeline and set achievable milestones. Try a personal project that challenges your photographic style and tackle two resolutions simultaneously! Most importantly, enjoy the process!
3. Learn New Post-Processing Techniques
If you’re shooting digitally, post-processing is an integral part of photography that can transform a good photo into a great one. Shooting film? That allows for experimentation and creativity in the darkroom. Learning new editing techniques can open up a world of possibilities for your images. The post-processing step also helps improve capture skills, allowing me to “get it right in camera.”
How to Achieve: Invest time in learning software like Adobe Lightroom or Photoshop, or any of the creative applications available today. There are plenty of online tutorials and classes available - paid and free. The options on YouTube are endless. Experiment with different techniques on your old photos and observe the transformations.
4. Incorporate Photography in Your Daily Life
The best way to improve your photography is to practice regularly. Although many of today’s modern cameras are smaller and lighter than those just a few years ago, they’re still not easy to carry all of the time. When asked my opinion on the best camera I always respond with, “The one you have with you.” For me, that’s typically the camera in my cell phone. The modern cell phone camera is extremely effective - usually multiple lens selections, sharp, and capable in low light. While I certainly prefer shooting with my mirrorless camera with interchangeable lenses, I always have my cell phone in my pocket. My point, don’t get hung up on the equipment, use what you have. By incorporating photography into your daily routine, you can refine your skills and develop a keen eye for details.
How to Achieve: Carry your camera wherever you go or use your cell phone. Look for unique perspectives in mundane settings. The key is to keep your eyes open to photographic opportunities in everyday life.
5. Share Your Work and Seek Feedback
Sharing your work exposes you to different viewpoints and constructive criticism, which is essential for growth. It also boosts your confidence and connects you with the photography community. I enjoy sharing on social media, but the public can be rough, especially when starting out. Use the people close to you and ask them to provide critical feedback on your images. What do they like, and what can be improved? Find a local photography club or meetup where like minded people may provide an alternative perspective on your photography. Regardless of the forum, be open to feedback. As the artist, only you know what you were trying to achieve in your image. But others can help you develop your eye and see things with a different point of view.
How to Achieve: Utilize social media platforms, join photography clubs or online forums, or participate in local exhibitions. Be open to feedback and engage in discussions about your work. Remember, every critique is a step towards improvement.
In conclusion, let these resolutions guide you through a year filled with creativity, learning, and personal growth. Photography is not just about capturing what you see; it's about conveying how you feel. So, pick up your camera, embrace these resolutions, and let 2024 be the year where you not only capture moments but also create memories. Here's to a year full of wonderful clicks and beautiful stories!
