(3 Min Read)
I want to share an insightful experience that completely transformed the way I approach photography. As you know, overall improvement is always at the forefront of my mind, and this particular experiment truly pushed the boundaries of the way I approach my photography.
So, throughout 2023 I found myself slipping into a nasty habit that crept into my workflow. You see, despite years of improving my skills, I noticed a troubling trend – an increase in the volume of photos I was taking, coupled with a decline in so called 'keeper' images.
Determined to turn the tide, and always being up for a challenge - I embarked on a 30-day challenge to resolve this problem.
In this article, I’ll break down my experiment into four key stages: the problem, the cause, the solution, and of course, the results that left me pleasantly astonished.
The Problem
As we improve as photographers, it's natural to refine our craft and become more selective with our shots. However, I found myself trapped in a cycle of over-shooting, drowning in a sea of mediocre images. Despite my best efforts, the quality of my portfolio remained stagnant, overshadowed by the sheer quantity of forgettable captures which ultimately let to a nightmarish amount of culling once I returned home from a trip.
The Cause
Upon deep reflection, I traced this dilemma back to a subtle but significant shift in my mindset – the digital age had lulled me into a false sense of abundance. With ample storage and limitless shots at my disposal, I succumbed to the temptation of 'spray and pray' photography. The result? Lazy compositions, lost focus, and a growing pile of uninspired photographs. I had fully adopted the mentality of “capture it all & figure it out later”.
The Solution
Armed with newfound clarity, I devised a simple yet powerful strategy – emulate the discipline of shooting with film. Channeling the spirit of analog photography, I imposed a strict limit of 36 shots per outing - as if I were photographing with film. The goal? To break free from the practice of mindless shooting and rediscover the essence of intentional photography. This constraint forced me to pause, observe, slow down, and compose each frame with unwavering purpose.
The Results
Now, for the truly remarkable part – the aftermath of this experiment defied all expectations. With a fraction of my usual shot count, I witnessed a dramatic surge in the percentage of ‘keeper’ photos. When reviewing my January photos I captured in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina and the Lofoten Islands in Norway, each frame resonated with a newfound clarity and intentionality that I had been missing.
But it wasn't just about the numbers – this shift in approach unlocked a deeper connection to my surroundings. By embracing the constraints of limited shots, I entered a state of flow where every exposure felt deliberate and meaningful. And the cherry on top? A small but pleasant surprise in the form of extended battery life – yet another testament to the efficiency gained through focused shooting.
In hindsight, this journey taught me a valuable lesson – by embracing constraints, we can unleash the boundless potential of our own creativity, one photograph at a time. So, whether you're a seasoned pro or a budding enthusiast, embrace limitations, cultivate intentionality, and watch as your photography soars to new heights.
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Have a great week!
Mark D.