As a photographer it might seem easy to find inspiration for photo sessions.  We can find our ideas on Pinterest or social media with just a click or tap of a button.  The unfortunate part is that most of the time we are viewing what other photographers have done.

I think that as photographers we must step away from this and draw inspiration from other sources.  It forces us to see the world differently, form our own opinions and thoughts.  It drives us to be creative in our own way, rather than somewhat copying what other photographers have done.

One of the best ways to find inspiration is to experience life! If you find yourself in a creative rut it may be that you just need to get out. Try something new, perhaps? Maybe you just need to go enjoy something you haven’t done in a while.

Sometimes simply taking your dog for a walk in a new place can get your creative juices flowing. If you don’t have a dog, just go out and walk! It’s healthy. You never know, you may run into an old friend while you are on this walk.  Then one thing leads to another and you find out your friend owns this really cool business.  Suddenly you find out this  friends business is located in an even cooler building, which would make a great photo location (by the way). Before you know it, your wheels are turning and you’ve made a connection and have drawn inspiration for a photo session!!  (This is the way my mind works people.)

Just to recap…

You turned off your computer. You got out of the house and went for a walk in fresh air. You are being healthy. You reconnected with an old friend.  You now have inspiration for a photo shoot! Voila!  (please don’t hold me liable if your next walk doesn’t go exactly like this.)

So, I think you get what I am saying.  Aside from getting out and experiencing life, here is a list of places I turn to for inspiration.

– Commercials

I watched Hallmark commercials on YouTube for hours before finding inspiration for my Senior Portrait Promo Video. You can watch it HERE.

– Television shows, and Movies

– Music Videos

This is where some inspiration for my upcoming Model Shoot came from. I’ll share that with you in April!

– Magazines

I will thumb through some pretty random magazines while in the checkout line just to find some unique inspiration. You never know how a Reader’s Digest can spark your creativity! I’m not joking either!

Today’s post is a challenge for you.  I challenge you to step outside of social media.  Step away from following what other photographers are doing.  Look for inspiration in new and unique ways.  I’d love to hear about your ideas! Be sure to comment below or message me.

Today’s guest blogger is Melissa Hunt of Melissa Lynn Hunt Photography in Concord, North Carolina.  Melissa is a monthly contributor to Seniorologie and runs a successful photography business that consists of high schools seniors, families and weddings.  Melissa also has a special project called The Natural Beauty Project where she photographs women to show off their natural beauty, inside and out!