“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
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!
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!
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