How to Find Your Creativity Again as a Photographer

Are you feeling stuck behind the lens lately? We totally get it. Before we pivoted into the coaching space, we ran a full-time photography business. We’ve been in that “why does every frame feel the same?” funk more times than we can count.

So grab your go-to iced latte, and let’s chat about seven low-pressure ways to reignite that spark. Ready? Let’s go!

1. Hit Pause and Ask “Why?”

First things first: close Lightroom, silence the notifications, and jot down why you fell in love with photography in the first place. Was it chasing golden hour? Capturing raw emotion? Capturing real-life moments that have meaning to them? Write three reasons and three feelings you want people to experience when they see your work. 

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2. Switch Up the Scenery

Sometimes the cure is as simple as a new backdrop. Tomorrow, try one of these:

  • Brand-new location. Explore that quirky side street or hidden nature trail.
  • Reverse your routine. Always shoot sunsets? Set the alarm for sunrise instead (coffee mandatory).
  • Change the vibes completely. City slicker? Head to the woods. Nature lover? Hit downtown neon at night.

Pro tip: Keep a “Location Wishlist” note on your phone. Every time someone mentions a cool mural, rooftop bar, or hiking trail, add it. The next time inspiration tanks, you’ve got instant options.

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3. Embrace Creative Constraints

Weirdly enough, less gear can unlock more ideas. Challenge yourself to:

  • One prime lens all day.
  • Black-and-white edits only.
  • A single bold color as the hero of every shot.

You’ll spot details you normally miss and you’ll begin to feel that creative spark again.

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4. Start a Just-for-You Project

Client work pays the bills, but passion projects fuel the soul. Pick a theme that lights you up (local coffee shops? cozy self-portraits? a 30-day “strangers with stories” series?). Post your progress on Instagram Stories (or keep it just for you, that’s okay too).

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5. Take Yourself on a “Camera Date” 

Sometimes the best company is you and your camera. Block off one hour, pick a spot you’ve never explored (coffee-shop alleyways, botanical gardens, thrift-store corners—anything goes), and wander with zero expectations. Give yourself permission to shoot whatever grabs your eye: textures, shadows, quirky street signs, that latte art swirling just right. No client brief, no pressure—just play. You’ll be amazed how quickly fresh inspiration shows up when it’s just you, your camera, and the freedom to experiment.

Prep Your Date

  • Playlist: Craft a 30-min playlist that inspires you, download your favorite audio book, or listen to your favorite podcast. 
  • Pocket Props: A small mirror, a piece of tulle, or saran wrap for quick in-camera effects.
  • Zero Agenda: Promise yourself no portfolio pressure. Anything you produce is bonus art.

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6. Protect Your Energy with Solid Systems

Admin overwhelm? Been there. As a creative, the back-end side of your business may not be your favorite task. However, Automation = liberation:

Schedule a weekly “CEO time” to plan photoshoots, sort finances, and dream up your next big idea.

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Remember, systems don’t cage your artistry, they clear runway space for it to take off.

You’ve Got This! 

Creative ruts don’t mean you’re broken, they are growth spurts in disguise!

Need cheerleaders (who’ve walked the same path) to help you turn that spark into a blaze? We’d love to support you. Book a free discovery call or peek at our coaching offers—and let’s get you back to the work you love.

Now charge those batteries, cue your favorite playlist, and get out there. Your next favorite photo is waiting.