Sometimes, all it takes is a search on flickr to find some amazing images to get the creative juices flowing. Other times it takes a bit more activity. A good photographer never stops learning. Here are some quick ideas for you to make the most of the coming weeks and months with your camera and your brain.
Why not try an on-line class? Check out BetterPhoto.com for their extensive list of classes in everything from basic digital camera work to studio lighting techniques to natural light landscape photography. The cool thing about this company is you are actually in a class -- it's not an independent study program -- and a major component of each class is interacting with your fellow classmates and giving constructive and positive feedback. You'll meet photographers and instructors from all over the world. Betterphoto.com also has a gallery component and resources from camera and equipment critiques to books and other publications.The New York Institute of Photography also offers on-line classes. They are a highly-regarded organization, and it's worth your while to check out their class offerings.
If a class doesn't fit into your schedule, why not subscribe to some e-mail feeds and newsletters with photography tips. Adorama is a New York City-based equipment retailer, as well as photo processing center, and they hold fascinating classes and seminars throughout the year. Get on their mailing list and take advantage of their special offers for really cheap prints, too, as a member.
Sometimes, it is not a time-waste to spend some time just hopping around the searches seeking some fresh images and ideas to inspire you. Really, it's not! Take a break from those spreadsheets and HR manuals and instead open up coolphotoblogs and see what you find there. You may find a few minutes turning into a few hours, and your eyes may glaze over, but your brain will be humming. Here are just a few blogs that turned up on a recent query:
- Amazing and surprising images of St. Petersburg, Russia
- All the excitement and hype of Holga cameras
You can find information on Holgas and how to buy them right here.
How do you find your inspiration? Leave a comment and share your genius. We'd love to hear from you.
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A world traveler and self-taught photographer, look for Ann Wilkinson wandering around city streets and tromping through woods and hiking trails with her camera. After owning an international transportation business for many years, Ann has found her creative spirit again through the lens. See more at Ann's shop and her website, and say hello to her on her blog too.