Creativity52 - A Photo Project - Post 14 of 52 - "Pause Point"

May 27, 2024

"Enthusiasm is excitement with inspiration, motivation, and a pinch of creativity."

- Bo Bennett

Creativity52 - A Photo Project - Post 13 of 52 - "Lost & Found"

April 27, 2024

“Art enables us to find ourselves and lose ourselves at the same time.”

– Thomas Merton

I have recently been thinking about my dissonance of feelings for my photography. For me, photography is an immersive activity with benefits to mental and physical well-being. Photography is also a source of creative pride, allowing me to seek and enjoy recognition for my craft. I love being in the creative zone for photography! But my photography is also a distraction, a way of avoiding feeling and dealing with the demands of life.

As a person in recovery with a history of substance abuse primarily to avoid feeling and dealing with life at a real and honest level, I sometimes wonder if photography is like an addiction that lets me escape reality. I admit to heading out for a photo walk or diving into a photo editing session, acknowledging an awareness that I may be procrastinating on the harder and necessary tasks of life.

I find joy when engaged in the creative act of photography, but I hear a whisper of doubt and criticism that tells me I should be doing more "responsible" things with my time. I become bored with activities and situations required for doing those more "responsible" things. A word I like to use for "responsible" things is "adulting". Examples are paying bills, taxes, routine appointments, lawn and home maintenance, parenting, and relationships with others.

What I am seeing in these thoughts and what has had me feeling ungrounded lately is a lack of balance. I know I must give attention to both my creative side and my "grownup" side to be in balance, or "living a balanced life", as they say in Smart Recovery. So, I will continue researching and learning ideas, tools, and habits to help me find my healthy balance.

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In last week's blog post, I ended with the promise to list a few resources about mental health, creativity, and photography that I have recently found helpful on my continuing creative journey. These are just a handful of available resources on the subject, as any web search about "art and creativity and mental health" will provide many rabbit holes to jump down.

I will give a summary for each source explaining what I find of value for my needs.

The Van Gogh Blues: The Creative Person's Path Through Depression, by Eric Maisel, Phd

This book, was recommended by a friend, and I've just started it, but it hits the target. The point of working with depression, particularly with creatives, is finding meaning in life. This fits the theme of one of my favorite books, “Man’s Search For Meaning”, by Viktor Frankl.

YouTube Resources:

How To Use Photography as a Therapeutic Tool

Channel - Wex Photo Video: Pro photographer Paul Sanders talks about connection and mindfulness in photography, and how it has helped with his mental health issues.

Street Photography and Your Mental Health (feat. Pete Wands)

Channel - Sean Tucker: I like Sean's channel in that his content and presentation style are clear, comfortable, and meaningful. I consider him to be a philosopher photographer. Sean interviews a well-known Scottish street photographer about mental health and photography.

Photography for mental health

Channel - Dan Greer: Dan presents a concise video with examples and studies about the therapeutic benefits of photography, similar to what has been proven in art and music therapy.

Here is a bonus blog post from Dan Greer about a depression toolbox for photography and mental illness:

https://depression-toolbox.com/2022/07/17/photography-for-mental-illness/

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Creativity belongs to all of us and is unique to each of us. Finding the spur or the spark for a new creative interest, reaching a higher skill level, or discovering a new direction for an existing creative interest can guide us on the creative path.

Discover your creative passions, enter your creative zones, and take pride in your efforts and results. Listen and learn with an open mind from valuable critique. Above all, give yourself the freedom to create, and then create with freedom!

If my thoughts in this photography project can benefit anyone on their creative journey, I am proud to be of service! I invite feedback from readers for different perspectives on creativity. Please use the comments feature at the bottom of this post, if desired.

#Creativity52 #creativity #create #crafts #hobbies #art #innovation #photography #photographyproject #photoproject #Recovery52 #Meetup

Creativity52 - A Photo Project - Post 12 of 52 - "Push The Boundaries"

April 21, 2024

“To be timid, safe, complacent, or overly satisfied doesn’t push the boundaries of creativity.”

~ Mark Mehaffey, Fine Artist

I completed my last photography project, Recovery52, with intention and pride. It was focused on my 52-week recovery journey in real-time, each week addressing a topic that resonated with me in that week. I was not seeking Likes or followers or approval. My success at recovery and long-term sobriety was the goal. I met that goal, and meet it every day!

In this current photography project about creativity, I have struggled with finding a topic and meeting a deadline for each weekly posting. With some thought and background processing, I realize the following issues have been holding me back:

⦁ I am addressing the topic of creativity too broadly, with a stale, academic voice, rather than speaking confidently and directly from my experience as a photographer.

⦁ I find myself caught up in self-criticism, throwing away topics that resonate in the week, and rejecting my ideas and expressions as unworthy or incorrect.

⦁ I try to be safe by filtering or sanitizing my thoughts and opinions to avoid upsetting others or invoking harsh criticism or disagreement.

{A perfect example of this is my avoidance of discussing my rejection of a "higher power" in my recovery work, as is foundational to some recovery groups.}

I must admit that these same issues were in play for the Recovery52 project, but the importance and immediacy of the recovery work kept up the momentum. My recovery work continues, and I think bringing resonant thoughts and feelings about recovery regarding my creativity is essential for the "voice" I want to share in this blog.

The areas of being unrealistically self-critical, and fearing disagreement and criticism, demand my vigilance as I continue this project. Vigilance to be open, honest, and vulnerable. This is important for my growth and well-being, and necessary for my continued recovery. I believe herein lies value for others.

My Main Points:

Recognize and correct self-sabotage.
Speak from experience.
Be sensitive to other's thoughts, beliefs, and feelings, but be honest and sincere.
Be open to valuable criticism and make necessary changes, but keep going!

Finding myself held back by self-criticism and uncertainty this week, I began seeking out online resources about mental health, creativity, and photography. Next week I will link resources I found valuable for my creative journey.

#Creativity52 #creativity #create #crafts #hobbies #art #innovation #photography #photographyproject #photoproject #Recovery52 #Meetup

Creativity52 - A Photo Project - Post 11 of 52 - "Always On"

April 12, 2024

“One doesn’t stop seeing. One doesn’t stop framing. It doesn’t turn off and turn on. It’s on all the time.”

— Annie Leibovitz

I do agree with this quote by Annie Leibovitz. When I'm out in the world, natural or urban, and photography is not the goal, or conditions aren't inspiring, I always seem to have a "photographer's eye" open for scenes and subjects that strike me as photogenic.

My eye for photography is always on!

I can analyze candid compositions. I can judge a scene for light, shape, and color and do a field critique, mentally rehearsing and developing my skills without needing to capture an image. Furthermore, I can remember locations for return visits to places where changes in time of day, weather, season, or popularity could offer improved opportunities for better photos.

I get out for planned photography events, sometimes alone and sometimes with others, with the hope but not the necessity that I capture satisfying images.

I attend group events where photography is not the intention, and I can leave the camera in my pocket, with my attention on the group goal.

I mindfully dampen the desire to take pictures when the opportunity is not optimal, without being troubled or frustrated.

But, I am always on.

I believe the "creator's eye" is always on for passionate creators of any art or craft. Consider the following:

Do musicians and other sound artists hear the world through an artistic filter?
Do visual artists see the world through an artistic filter?
Do passionately creative people encounter examples and inspiration for their "art" in everyday non-creative life?

Creativity is always on!

I invite feedback from readers for different perspectives on creativity. Please use the comments feature at the bottom of this post, if desired. If my writings in this photography project can benefit anyone on their creative journey, I am proud to be of service!

#Creativity52 #creativity #create #crafts #hobbies #art #innovation #photography #photographyproject #photoproject #Recovery52 #Meetup

Creativity52 - A Photo Project - Post 10 of 52 - "Lone Wolf Pack"

April 04, 2024

“Creativity is contagious, pass it on.”

- Albert Einstein

This post is intended to include a blatant self-promotion, so let me just put it here at the start, and then I’ll describe below how I got here.

I have created a new Meetup Group for persons interested in photography in the metro region of Portland, OR. My intent is to lead small groups of photographers for photo walks on hiking trails or city streets, looking for anything that may capture one's interest. Events are based on nature trails for landscapes and wildlife, city and urban areas for architecture and street photography, and other areas of interest that may arise. So that I can be a confident leader and guide for each event, if I have not visited a location previously, I scout the location for suitability and safety.

The Meetup group was created in Feb. 2024 and the first event to a wildlife refuge was held on Feb. 24th. Since then, we have enjoyed 14 events with a mix of people with varying skill levels and interests, though all intent on photography as a shared experience.

My Meetup group: https://www.meetup.com/pdx-metro-area-photography-outings-scoutings/

For a good basic description of Meetup, check this link:

/https://edu.gcfglobal.org/en/meetup/what-is-meetup/1/

Here is part of my history and reason for starting this social photography group:

My first real foray into photography began a few years ago. My early efforts involved trying different genres, learning from books, blogs, and web videos, and trial-and-error. Most of my time doing photography was spent alone; I was out in nature looking for snapshots, or arranging objects and flowers for abstract and macro work on my kitchen table, or experimenting with different edits of images with a variety of software tools on my computer. I did enjoy the solitude these activities provided, and I enjoyed the creative zone that held my focus. But it was primarily a solitary joy.

Prior to 2020 and the pandemic, I had attended a handful of photography events and workshops that allowed me the pleasure of working with other like-minded creatives, learning new skills and sharing perspectives. My most memorable experience was a week-long photography workshop to explore and photograph Death Valley and the Eastern Sierras in late 2019. It was a great time for immersion into a new and beautiful environment and for learning my art!

Then the pandemic arrived, and the ability and freedom to travel and attend group events were seriously restricted. Even Meetup groups had suspended most group activities because of social distancing requirements. As the pandemic eased and severe lockdowns were lifted, Meetup groups began to function again. After some struggles with the isolation of lockdowns, I swore to myself I would look for all opportunities to connect with others through Meetup events, typically hiking and social activities.

So, I began taking advantage of every possible event that helped me to get out and connect with others. It was very healing to reconnect with other people on trails or while engaging in shared efforts. I almost always carried a camera with me, in case a photographic opportunity presented itself. A problem I found was that may appetite for photography was often unsatisfied, as hiking groups and social activity groups are not always conducive to my contemplative need for slowing down to look, to feel, and to capture the world around me. I love the Meetup groups I belong to and attend events often. But I need, as I think other photographers do, to slow down and enjoy the artistic "zone" that feeds us.

Hence, the reason for my photography-centric Meetup group. If you live in the area or are visiting and want to enjoy a group photography outing, please check out Meetup details via the link given above for "PDX Metro-Area Photography Outings & Scoutings".

#Creativity52 #creativity #create #crafts #hobbies #art #innovation #photography #photographyproject #photoproject #Recovery52

Creativity52 - A Photo Project - Post 9 of 52 - "State of Mind"

March 31, 2024

"Things are not difficult to make; what is difficult is putting ourselves in the state of mind to make them."

- Constantin Brancusi, Romanian sculptor and painter

Ideally, when I am with my camera, seeking and capturing compelling images, the world and my worries recede. I find myself in a mindful state, paying attention to light, color, contrasts, shape, and form. Even sounds like water flowing or birds singing will draw my interest for a visual opportunity. It would be wonderful if every time I chose to engage in my artistic effort, I could achieve the creative "zone", and be rewarded with photographs that met my expectations.

As I work to mature my skills and talent in the photographic arts, I am learning to plan and pursue photographic opportunities to make better use of my time. I am also learning to set my expectations for "creative" outings and to have a flexible mindset for when things don't go as planned. Sometimes I have the intention of getting hoped-for images, packing and carrying all the requisite gear. Other times I will just get out with my phone or compact camera and let my sight roam for anything that interests me, just in case.

The photography sessions I have been engaging most recently in have involved solo walks and explorations, photo walks with like-minded people to explore places together, and hikes with people having no interest in photography, intent on a destination, leaving little time for composing and shooting scenes. I have been preparing for the different kinds of events by setting my expectations and planning appropriately. I have become comfortable returning home empty-handed, and satisfied with making the effort.

Furthermore, I have also been successfully mindful of conditions outside my control that may require a change in my expectations and mindset. These could include weather, blocked viewpoints, unanticipated crowds, and anything that may ruin my attempt at that expected "award-winning" photo. Disappointed, sometimes, sure, but it's OK, I can find other opportunities.

My Main Point:

The creative state of mind, the "zone", for me, is not just a single heightened state, a photographer's Nirvana, that I must experience, to fully enjoy my art. I accept that flexibility to adjust my expectations, open-mindedness to changing conditions, and embracing opportunities instead of disappointments allow me to enjoy any creative state of mind that is appropriate based on my situation.

I invite feedback from readers for different perspectives on creativity. Please use the comments feature at the bottom of this post, if desired.If my writings in this photography project can benefit anyone on their creative journey, I am proud to be of service!

#Creativity52 #creativity #create #crafts #hobbies #art #innovation #photography #photographyproject #photoproject #Recovery52

Cathedral Park, St. Johns Bridge, Portland, OR, 03/22/24

Creativity52 - A Photo Project - Post 8 of 52 - "Unsafe Photography"

March 22, 2024

"Crime is the price society pays for abandoning character."

- James Q. Wilson, American political scientist and co-creator of the “broken windows theory”.

In my last photography project, I completed 52 weekly blog posts about addiction and recovery from my experience and perspective. I recognized oftentimes during the effort that I was safely exploring and revealing myself. I avoided topics that could be controversial or invite disagreement, perhaps even scorn. Still, the project was a success for me!

In this current photography project, "Creativity52", I started on the safe path, committed to sharing my thoughts and experience about being creative. This week, I am going to be more honest about a rather broad and deep problem that impacts my ability to be creative. I believe that crime and violence make our public spaces unsafe and unsavory.

As part of my seriousness in progressing my photography, I have recently organized a Meetup group, specifically for joining together people to visit areas for picture taking in the city and around the metro area. I’m intending to take groups of like-minded creatives to local area parks, wildlife refuges, city districts and landmarks, and other areas providing opportunities for photographers. So that I can be a confident leader and guide for each event, if I have not visited a location previously, I scout the location for suitability.

There are public spaces in the city and surrounding area that I am extremely uncomfortable taking a group of people to for an enjoyable experience. In the last two weeks, I have walked the Willamette River to view the bridges a couple of times and to plan group walks. For me, a beautiful activity if I look past the vandalism and tagging. But, in the days following my walks, there were local news reports of violent acts, beatings, and murders, that occurred along my planned routes.

Here is a recent news article of the current state of violence at Portland’s Waterfront:

www.oregonlive.com/crime/2024/03/spate-of-portland-waterfront-killings-leave-locals-unnerved-city-leaders-determined.html

This morning, I visited Cathedral Park under the St. Johns Bridge, and while walking the park shortly after sunrise, thinking this would be a great location, rapid gunshots broke out nearby. When I was close to ending my walk, I saw police arriving to investigate the gunfire and a car that had been the target.

I hesitate to encourage fellow photographers, with expensive equipment, to drive out to local hiking destinations due to the number of car break-ins and thefts. I have been to many trailheads in Forest Park and seen evidence of broken auto glass. These break-ins occur at busy locations and in broad daylight. I am reluctant to take anything but my phone or a single small camera out for public excursions, because my equipment may invite nefarious intent.

Based on the above experiences, I will take groups to some questionable areas, as there is safety in numbers. But I will not suggest to others that they go solo without knowing the risk. Some people may consider me fearful for shying away from activities and locations that invite crime. But many people in my community of photographers are women and seniors that I would not put at risk by suggesting a laissez-faire attitude.

I am not providing a solution to our current crime climate, but I do believe that ineffectual leadership, unenforced laws, and lack of real consequences for committing crime leave our public spaces unattractive and dangerous.

Broken windows beget more broken windows!

My next post may continue with thoughts on things that impact my creativity.

I invite feedback from readers for different perspectives on creativity. Please use the comments feature at the bottom of this post, if desired.

If my writings in this photography project can benefit anyone on their creative journey, I am proud to be of service!

#Creativity52 #creativity #create #crafts #hobbies #art #innovation #photography #photographyproject #photoproject #Recovery52

Creativity52 - A Photo Project - Post 7 of 52 - "Just Do It"

March 15, 2024

“Knowledge is of no value unless you put it into practice.”

— Anton Chekhov

If I could give one bit of guidance to anyone getting into photography, in fact, any creative interest, it would be to learn, practice, and repeat.

There are so many opportunities to learn about photography. Endless YouTube videos are available to teach us about the technical and artistic concepts of photography, how the exposure triangle works, the rules of composition, and detailed tutorials on how to use our cameras and gear. There are also beautiful and entertaining vlogs about being out in the real world taking photographs. And another heap of videos teaching us how to edit our photographs with our software of choice to a “wow” level for sharing with the world via social media.

There are many other sources of learning including podcasts, courses, websites and blogs, books, and manuals that are available to educate us in our field of interest.

I do appreciate all of these knowledge sources and the content creators, some I have paid for, but I finally came to two essential realizations:

Binge-watching and binge-reading and binge-listening were wasting my time. I was convinced my time was being wisely spent increasing my knowledge. But I was not increasing my skill and not truly enjoying my art. I spent too much time learning and not enough time doing.
When I did go out to practice the craft, I was unfocused in my intent. I had consumed too many ideas and concepts without mastering any, making my efforts to see, compose, and capture images a scattered and oftentimes frustrating experience.

My more recent effort has been practicing my creative art instead of learning about it. I have learned to use my camera more effectively and efficiently, and I know that my equipment has much room for my growth. I have given more effort to get out with intention, to have a purpose for my photography sessions and to practice specific skills when the opportunities arise. As one area of knowledge and skill is attained, I can then add more depth of knowledge, repeat the practice, and grow my craft.

My Main Point For This Week:

I do believe creativity and artistry requires education, but practice is essential. Watch some videos, read some blogs and books, visit some art shows and museums … but get out there and do your art!

Learn something
Practice that something
Integrate the new something with the old something’s
Repeat the cycle

I invite feedback from readers for different perspectives on creativity.

If my writings in this photography project can benefit anyone on their creative journey, I am proud to be of service!

#Creativity52 #creativity #create #crafts #hobbies #art #innovation #photography #photographyproject #photoproject #Recovery52

I was looking for birds at a wetland, a simple capture with a compact camera, crop only.

Creativity52 - A Photo Project - Post 6 of 52 - "The Freedom of Constraints."

March 07, 2024

“I work using the Brian Eno school of thinking: limit your tools, focus on one thing and just make it work… You become very inventive with the restrictions you give yourself.”

Anton Corbijn - Dutch photographer and filmmaker

Last week, I wrote about letting the desire for new tools and technology get in the way of enhancing my own skills and artistry. This week, my thoughts are about the problems of not having a plan and too much gear getting in the way of creating.

I believe I have overcome my GAS (Gear Acquisition Syndrome) problem with photography gear, no longer drooling over the latest new releases from the camera companies, and I haven't purchased any gear or accessories for a long time. I do have a high-end mirrorless camera system with multiple lenses to cover everything from macro to super-zoom. I have a couple of great little compact cameras to take on the road or trail when I want to comfort of knowing I can get quality candid shots for any opportunity that presents itself. I have filters, lights, tripods, bags of different capacity for different types of photo outings. And I always have my phone. Yeah, plenty of gear. Too often, it is too much gear.

My problem impacting my creative ability and productivity has been two-fold:

Not having a clear intent or scope for a photographic endeavor.
Having too many choices for gear, tools, and subjects.

The lack of focus for my photographic effort and the choice overload of genres and tools leaves me uncertain of intent and purpose in a photography activity. Carrying unnecessary gear, scrambling with lens changes and camera settings, in order to react to any subject that seems interesting, too often results in frustration with in my sessions and dissatisfaction with my results.

What has been helping me to motivate my creative desire and to improve my skills is to decide what genre I want to shoot when the camera bug bites: wildlife, landscape, street, floral, macro, etc. This decision helps me select an appropriate time and location, and then to choose just the gear that is best suited for the genre I am working on.

Before loading my gear bag, I review each gear choice, oftentimes leaving unnecessary items at home, lightening my load, and limiting my options. But reduced options can be very freeing, even enabling. Restrictions force me to learn the capabilities and limits of the equipment I am using, and allow me to appreciate the creative power that I possess and that I can express with a minimal tool-set.

Let me extend my thinking to analogies in other areas of creativity.

Cooking: I've been in kitchens with cabinets and counter-tops loaded with utensils and gadgets, appearing to be a perfect environment for making anything one's appetite may desire: Instapot, Crockpot, bread maker, blender, toaster, toaster oven, pots and pans of all sizes and shapes, dozens of knives, etc. A shelf or more of cookbooks with recipes to satisfy any appetite. A cooks dream! I could work with this, but figuring out buttons, dials, and settings, reading manuals, following step-by-step recipes, and imagining all the cleanup involved would, for me, limit my "Joy of Cooking."

Pottery: At the invitation of a friend, I attended a pottery class in the backyard of a local area artist. I found the process of Raku to be fascinating, the artwork produced to be beautiful, and enjoyed taking pictures as an observer. The main observation that stayed with me, though, was the overwhelming amount of tools and gear, stored in at least two large work sheds with benches and work tables, racks and hooks holding brushes and blades and torches and glazes and all sorts of shaping tools. Such an environment and tool availability does work for some, but, for me, too many choices offering too much freedom can be a distraction.

My Main Points For This Week:

⦁ Have an intention - Know what you want to make or capture, generally to start, and be flexible as your creativity flows.

⦁ Reduce “Choice Overload” - Work with the basic tools and gear needed for your creative intent, and learn and master what you have.

⦁ Enjoy the freedom that restrictions to your intent and gear can provide.

I invite feedback from readers for different perspectives on creativity.

If my writings in this photography project can benefit anyone on their creative journey, I am proud to be of service!

#Creativity52 #creativity #create #crafts #hobbies #art #innovation #photography #photographyproject #photoproject #Recovery52

Simple capture and edit with a compact camera.

Creativity52 - A Photo Project - Post 5 of 52 - "Gear Does Matter, But...”

February 29, 2024

"Choose your tools carefully, but not so carefully that you get uptight or spend more time at the stationery store than at your writing table."

Natalie Goldberg

My thoughts this week are about my history of discovering and pursuing activities and interests for pleasure and creativity throughout my life. Interests and activities that I began chasing with over-enthusiasm and carelessness. These are just a handful that all bring to mind a familiar hunt for new tools and equipment, sometimes known as "gear lust” or GAS, “gear acquisition syndrome.”

Electronic Music: A couple of decades ago, I bought a small Yamaha synthesizer, because of my love of ambient music and sound effects used in cinema. I thought it would be fun to make the same kind of music and sounds. I did not sensibly work to refresh my basic music composition and music reading skills from school. I gave up after a few years of spending money and never really learning or mastering the new hardware and software music creation tools, frustrated and creating little musical art.

Jigsaw Puzzling: A couple of years ago, during winter, I picked up a 500-piece jigsaw puzzle to occupy my time, remembering that I enjoyed the activity in years past. I loved it! Looking for edge pieces, matching patterns, and shapes, feeling that dopamine hit every time I found a "fit". I immediately brought a 1000-piece puzzle of Parisian cafes and the Eiffel Tower. This one kept me deeply engaged for almost two days. Then I found myself drawn to puzzles at bookstores and gift shops, purchasing for a "rainy day". I have reined in this hobby, with one in process, and four more on a shelf, one being a 1500-piece monster.

Photography: I never had any real interest in photography growing up or while raising a family, letting my wife worry about things like family portraits and annual Santa photos with the kids. After divorcing, I was wandering a Costco one day and saw a pallet of basic Nikon DSLR camera kits in the electronics section. I bought one. After a few months of play, not satisfied with the quality of the images, I did not recognize my lack of skills and motivation to learn. I developed a case of "Gear Lust"! I thought just one more piece added to my equipment puzzle would have everything fall into place and that I would be able to take better pictures. Another lens, another camera body, another tripod, another software photo editor, another thing, would do it. Finally, an awareness of my limitations, and focusing on my skills instead of gear capability, has given me more freedom in my efforts.

These have been some of my experiences. I've wasted a lot of time and money in pursuit of pastimes. I've followed the excitement of the chase for new gear and items, listening to experts describe the latest technology, and reading reviews about the "must-have" gear, like a zombie after brains. Fortunately, I have grown wiser about my behaviors. Thinking more carefully about my true passions leads me to better decisions and more pleasure in creating.

Let me give a simple analogy using crayons. How many crayons does one need to color a book or draw an image? Crayons cover the essentials of the color spectrum with just a box of eight crayons. Crayons also come in larger sets, with additional colors to give a more granular selection across the color spectrum. Currently, crayons come in sets of 8, 24, 48, and 96. They come in standard colors, neon, metallic, skin tones, scented, confetti, and other categories. I ask again: How many and what kind do you need to make your art?

I have also seen others in my life behaving in the same way with new interests and hobbies, buying the most expensive gear and tools to start a creative journey, before knowing with certainty and passion that this was the journey they wanted to travel. It's not for me to judge anyone in this matter, but I hope I can provide some wisdom, my own experience serving as a caution to others.

My Main Points For This Week:

⦁ Start with essential tools: Explore your interest in new creative activities or your desire to return to a dormant creative time with only essential tools to realize if your interest leads to passion or abandonment.

⦁ Improve your skills before improving your tools: Don't think that the next new lens, more megapixels, brush set, expanded color palette, or software synthesizer will advance your productivity or product. Does your current gear hold you back or are you holding yourself back? Do learn the capabilities and limitations of your tools and equipment. Recognize when you have outgrown a tool and need an upgrade to continue advancing your skills and creations.

⦁ Use educational resources wisely and frugally: By all means, learn as much as you can from everyone you can. Just remember that instructional magazine articles, YouTube videos, and other sources will sometimes post "How To's" with gear promotion being evident. Craft and trade magazines are filled with glossy, glowing reviews of the newest and latest tools. Don't let the marketing ads and dopamine hits lead you to unwise and unnecessary purchases.

I invite feedback from readers for different perspectives on creativity.

If my writings in this photography project can benefit anyone on their creative journey, I am proud to be of service!

#Creativity52 #creativity #create #crafts #hobbies #art #innovation #photography #photographyproject #photoproject #Recovery52

Creativity52 - A Photo Project - Post 4 of 52 - "You Do You”

February 25, 2024

“Practicing any art, no matter how well or badly, is a way to grow your soul. So do it.” — A Grammarly-corrected quote from Kurt Vonnegut

Here I am, three days past my self-imposed deadline of completing a weekly blog post for this project. And that is OK. I permit myself the freedom to slip my leash.

My reason for being "late" is that I was allowing too many thoughts and ideas to swirl around, making focus difficult and excitement about any one topic elusive. Discussing my project ideas with a friend was productive, deciding to "sleep on it" for a couple of days was freeing, and leading a group of fellow "creatives" on a nature walk last night was energizing. But still, I woke up this morning, reviewing some of my thoughts about creativity for the week and just not feeling confident in my ideas.

After a morning meditation, a first coffee, and some creative time with photo editing, I realized my topic. I was drifting from my original intention and purpose and letting doubts interfere. Here is the original intent and purpose from Post #1:

⦁ My intention for Creativity52 is a 52-week photography project where I will create a weekly blog post, containing at least one image from my photographic efforts and share my thoughts on creativity that resonate with me in the week.

⦁ My purpose for Creativity52 is to deepen my awareness of creativity and enhance my engagement in the creative process, and I hope my thoughts on creativity will be a source of understanding or even a spark of inspiration for other creators and, especially, for those thinking they aren't creative. Creativity is essential for us to find meaning for ourselves and connect with others.

The topic of creativity is broad and deep, spanning many arts and ways of being. Getting caught in a web of connected ideas had me pulling on too many thought strands at once, thinking I must be comprehensive and speak to everything about a topic. No, I realized that keeping things simple and having one main idea to keep the post short and simple to keep the reader's interest was a healthy constraint for the weekly posts.

Additionally, I have been reading books and blogs, watching videos, and listening to podcasts, by others considered experts, teachers, masters, and gurus on the subject. This consumption of "creative" education was leading me away from my intention and purpose. My thoughts and presentation of the subject were being shaped by the teachers and content. Their ideas and language were interfering with my work, in some cases leaving me doubting my voice. I was beginning to worry that I must wrap my thoughts in an intellectual writing style not my own, or that the thoughts of others will strictly inform and constrain my thinking. Nope, I reminded myself, these "sages" are just guides.

My Thoughts For This Week:

⦁ Whatever creative act or adventure is being engaged in, begin with both intention and purpose. Decide on healthy limits and goals that guide focus and efforts, such as art style or genre, topic limits, page length, time expended, money spent, etc., but leaving space for flexibility and freedom.

⦁ By all means, use the expertise and talents of others as an invaluable critique for your efforts, as both aspiration and inspiration, but in the end, the art is yours. You do you!

I invite feedback from readers for different perspectives on creativity.

If my writings in this photography project can benefit anyone on their creative journey, I am proud to be of service!

#Creativity52 #creativity #create #crafts #hobbies #art #innovation #photography #photographyproject #photoproject #Recovery52

Learning a new technique at a local park pond.

Creativity52 - A Photo Project - Post 3 of 52 - "Begin Again"

February 15, 2024

“The artist’s world is limitless. It can be found anywhere, far from where one lives or a few feet away. It is always on one’s doorstep.”

- Paul Strand, Photographer

(I would substitute the word "artist's" in the above quote with "creator's”.)

My early focus in this photography project about being creative is to take aim at anyone thinking they are not creative, and to encourage all of us to rediscover our suppressed or repressed desire to create, no matter what creative passions may be calling us.

We were born with innate creativity. We engaged creatively in play and thought as children. But for a variety of reasons, over the course of our lives, many of us have developed doubt in our ability to create or in the worth of our creations.

In my last post, I provided a definition of creativity. In this post, I want to encourage anyone curious about creating, about being artistic, to give some active thought and time to rediscovering the creative beast within. The following questions could be valuable as a journaling activity or just for brainstorming.

Consider your past engagement in creative activities:

What did you enjoy that you may have stopped doing? Why?
What did you want to try but never did? Why?
What creative activities do you still engage in, for which you have lost your zeal? Why?

The answers to these questions may lead you in a direction for creativity. Pick something and try it. If it excites you, dive in. If it bores you, move on to another. You'll know when you find the creative zone.

Whether you are thinking about pursuing a new creative interest, or resurrecting an old creative interest, you have the rights and freedoms to do so, within reason, and with passion. Try something new. Try something again. Ignore the critics, especially that often cruel one inside of you. Look at the work and efforts of others in a field as inspiration for your work and as aspiration for what you can be, but ultimately what you create is uniquely and perfectly yours!

Just a simple photograph with some creative processing.

Next week, I intend to address some of the below ideas about limits to being creative that have impacted my efforts and as a guide for others.

Time
Money
Ability
Geography
Negativity

I invite feedback from readers for different perspectives on creativity.

If my writings in this photography project can benefit anyone on their creative journey, I am proud to be of service!

#Creativity52 #creativity #photography #art #innovation #photographyproject #photoproject #Recovery52

Creativity52 - A Photo Project - Post 2 of 52 - "Be Creative"

February 08, 2024

“Creativity is inventing, experimenting, growing, taking risks, breaking rules, making mistakes, and having fun.” – Mary Lou Cook

What is creativity? A simple Google search for "creativity" results in many links and sources to get lost in. I found that this link from one of my favorite knowledge resources defines it well:

www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/creativity (an article about creativity worth reading)

“Creativity encompasses the ability to discover new and original ideas, connections, and solutions to problems. It’s a part of our drive as humans—fostering resilience, sparking joy, and providing opportunities for self-actualization.

An act of creativity can be grand and inspiring, such as crafting a beautiful painting or designing an innovative company. But an idea need not be artistic or world-changing to count as creative. Life requires daily acts of ingenuity and novel workarounds; in this sense, almost everyone possesses some amount of creativity.”

We are all creative. Engaging in creative activities, learning from creative efforts, "mistakes", and "successes", feeling drawn forward on a journey of creation, and recognizing the sense of purpose and meaning that comes from creating, I believe, nourishes the human spirit.

For me, photography has become my primary creative outlet, but I also enjoy other activities that involve both thinking and feeling, seeing and hearing, stirring the imagination, and engaging the mind:

Writing, Cooking, Problem-solving, Jigsaw puzzling, Music, Reading ….

For others, there are so many other creative pursuits, just a small list coming to mind, and I apologize for all acts of creativity I have missed:

Painting, Ceramics, Woodworking, Computer programming, Crafting of any sort, Gardening, Dancing, Performing, Entertaining, Child rearing, Pet training, Flower arranging, Arranging store displays, Restoring antiques, Painting Warhammer miniatures ….

My point for this post:

I will suggest this list of free-from words and ideas to consider when beginning and continuing any creative endeavors:

Engage
Learn
Start
Stop
Move
Pause
Practice
Start simple
Keep it affordable

Next week, I intend to address the above free-form ideas in more depth, as they speak to me, and as a guide for others.

I invite feedback from readers for a variety of perspectives about creativity.

If my writings in this photography project can benefit anyone on their creative journey, I am proud to be of service!

www.bdionne.photography/

#Creativity52 #creativity #photography #art #innovation #crafts #hobbies #photographyproject #photoproject #Recovery52

Creativity52 - A Photo Project - Post 1 of 52 - "Playing With Blocks"

February 02, 2024

"Creativity is not the property of artists alone. It's a basic element of the human character, no matter what culture you're in, no matter where you are on Earth or in history." - Bill Viola

"Intention refers to something one plans or intends to do, while purpose is the reason or motivation behind that intention. Purpose gives meaning to our actions and helps us focus on our goals."

My intention for Creativity52 is a 52-week photography project where I will create a weekly blog post, containing at least one image from my photographic efforts and share my thoughts on creativity that resonate with me in the week.

My purpose for Creativity52 is to deepen my awareness of creativity and enhance my engagement in the creative process, and I hope my thoughts on creativity will be a source of understanding or even a spark of inspiration for other creators and, especially, for those thinking they aren't creative. I believe that creativity is essential for us to find meaning for ourselves and connect with others.

I will avoid giving direct advice, meaning I will not tell anyone how to be creative. I am not an expert, I don't have the only path for a journey in creativity, and I can offer no "hacks" to being creative. It requires effort and open-mindedness, the last being a stumbling block I encounter often. So instead of giving direct advice or offering recipes for success, I will offer my ideas and suggestions for being creative for others to consider.

My thought for this week:

Recognize when you say "No" to creativity, what is blocking you, and how can you rearrange the blocks, letting your inner artist play freely. Instead of allowing the limits of negative beliefs about yourself and your perspectives of the world to constrain you, when the "safe" voices begin to reject opportunities and possibilities, challenge the "Why I can't" excuses with the "Why can't I" questions and move beyond the blocks that are holding you back. Believe in yourself!

As stated in my announcement post for this project, my primary creative outlet is photography and I can speak specifically about my experience in this realm, but I also love to cook, listen to music, read, assemble jigsaw puzzles, solve problems, and other activities that engage and spur creativity and inventiveness. I hope that my thoughts and images offered in these posts find common ground with the artist in everyone.

I also invite feedback from readers about how you deal with your blocks, and also even to share your creations here. Don't worry, this is a safe space.

If my writings in this photography project can benefit anyone on their creative journey, I am proud to be of service!

https://www.bdionne.photography/

#Creativity52 #creativity #photography #art #innovation #photographyproject #photoproject #Recovery52

Creativity52 - A Photo Project - Post 0 of 52 - "Creativity - A New Photography Project "

January 24, 2024

“The worst enemy to creativity is self-doubt.” – Sylvia Plath

I am excited to announce that I have chosen a theme for my second photography project. My intention is a 52-week project, called Creativity52, where I will create a weekly blog post, containing at least one image from my photographic efforts and my thoughts on creativity that resonate in the week. I believe that creativity is essential for us to find meaning for ourselves and connect with others. Though photography is my main medium for creativity, I hope my thoughts on creativity will be a source of understanding or even a spark of inspiration for other creators and, especially, for those thinking they aren't creative.

Besides excitement to start this new effort, I also feel apprehension. Recovery52 started with a bit of fear. I had not done such a project before. I doubted my skills and conviction. I questioned my knowledge and ability to guide others in recovery. Over time I developed my confidence and certainty of my efforts. But now I am starting at the beginning of a project with a new focus, addressing a subject that so many others can speak to with more knowledge, experience, and eloquence. So, I admit to self-doubt now, but I believe there is room for one more voice in the chorus.

The Recovery52 project was a good experience in time and resource management, a way of being accountable to myself and others for meeting schedules, a vehicle for improving my writing and photo editing skills, and, most importantly, a way to focus on understanding myself, my behaviors, and my choices while working on recovery from alcohol abuse. I am proud of the project, but I will remain humble as I know that recovery work is never finished

https://www.bdionne.photography/

#Creativity52 #creativity #photography #photographyproject #photoproject

Creativity52 Blog:

Featured posts:

Creativity52 - A Photo Project - Post 14 of 52 - "Pause Point"

Creativity52 - A Photo Project - Post 13 of 52 - "Lost & Found"

Creativity52 - A Photo Project - Post 12 of 52 - "Push The Boundaries"

Creativity52 - A Photo Project - Post 11 of 52 - "Always On"

Creativity52 - A Photo Project - Post 10 of 52 - "Lone Wolf Pack"

Creativity52 - A Photo Project - Post 9 of 52 - "State of Mind"

Creativity52 - A Photo Project - Post 8 of 52 - "Unsafe Photography"

Creativity52 - A Photo Project - Post 7 of 52 - "Just Do It"

“Knowledge is of no value unless you put it into practice.”

— Anton Chekhov

Creativity52 - A Photo Project - Post 6 of 52 - "The Freedom of Constraints."

Creativity52 - A Photo Project - Post 5 of 52 - "Gear Does Matter, But...”

Creativity52 - A Photo Project - Post 4 of 52 - "You Do You”

Creativity52 - A Photo Project - Post 3 of 52 - "Begin Again"

Creativity52 - A Photo Project - Post 2 of 52 - "Be Creative"

Creativity52 - A Photo Project - Post 1 of 52 - "Playing With Blocks"

Creativity52 - A Photo Project - Post 0 of 52 - "Creativity - A New Photography Project "