How I find and collect inspiration for my photography
how the work of others can make us better
Looking at other artists’ work inspires me to try new subjects, experiment with techniques I didn’t know about, or visit locations I had never heard of.
Photo books are one of my favorite ways to enjoy what other photographers are doing, but exhibitions, prints, and magazines are also great ways to draw inspiration. However, these mediums often highlight the bigger names. Social media is still the best way to discover new and lesser-known photographers, who might lack the recognition but have plenty of talent and skill.
While social media is great for discovery, I appreciate photographers who have a website showcasing their best work -- even better when it comes with a blog where they share their thoughts!
No matter the source, whether physical or digital, I collect all this inspiration in one place.
How do I go about this?
I use the Apple Notes app because it’s simple, built-in on my devices, and free (aside from whatever cloud storage you might need for syncing). But of course, any app where you can add text and images will work just fine.
I create a note for each photographer / artist I find inspiring, adding their name, website, or a link to their social media profile. Next, I add their best work, even if it’s just a low-res screenshot of an Instagram post. I also add excerpts from interviews, videos, books, blog posts, or anything they’ve said that resonates with me.
Besides photography, I keep notes for every book I read, podcasts, YouTube videos, and even from conversations with friends and family -- anything that sparks my imagination.
Why do I do this?
It is very likely that something I find inspiring today will still make me feel that way a few months or years down the road, especially once I forget about it.
When I’m in the field or on a long road trip and feeling out of ideas, I can open the Notes app and find something to ignite my creativity.
This method of finding and collecting inspiration has been very helpful to me in the past, and that’s why I spend quite some time making sure I add whatever I stumble upon.
What about you?
Many of you are probably doing something similar, and I’d love to hear about it. I’m always open to ideas to improve what I do, so please share them with me by replying to this email or leaving a comment down below.
I hope this was useful. Thanks for reading,
Adrian
The written word about a place when I'm traveling is helpful, but never pictures because I don't want to be influenced by already photographed scenes. I never run out of ideas when I travel because I'm always looking. In general, I look at any art but photography.
Actually I do none of that. Sure I read a lot of newsletters from Substacker(-photographer)s, occasionally watch youtube video's, visit personal websites, but I don't really take notes. I do keep newsletters that have useful information though, but they are more for 'later', not when I'm out doing photography.