As street photographers, we've all been there—walking the same streets, seeing the same scenes, and suddenly feeling like we've run out of fresh ideas.

It's frustrating, I get it.

Especially when life gets busy, and inspiration feels like a distant memory.

But don't worry, I've been through it too… or I should say I still struggle with it from time to time.

I'm writing this as a reminder to myself, and hopefully as an inspiration to many of you who are sitting in front of the screen, unsure of where to go or what to photograph next.

Embrace the Everyday

Let’s start with something simple: inspiration is everywhere, even in the most ordinary places. You don’t have to wait for a special event or a perfect location to find it. The streets you walk every day are packed with stories just waiting to be told. Try looking around with fresh eyes—notice the patterns, the light, the shadows, and the people passing by. Every day offers a new chance to discover something extraordinary in the ordinary.

Keep Your Gear Handy

Inspiration can strike at the most unexpected moments. That’s why I always keep my camera or smartphone within reach. You never know when a fleeting moment will pop up, and being ready means you won’t miss it. It’s like being a creative ninja—always prepared and stealthy!

Experiment with Different Perspectives

Sometimes, shaking things up is all it takes to spark your creativity again. Try shooting from different angles—get low, find a high spot, or shoot through something interesting. Play around with your camera settings. Don’t be afraid to break the rules and try something completely new. Who knows? You might end up surprising yourself with the results.

Connect with Other Creatives

One of the best ways to fuel your creativity is by connecting with others who share your passion. Whether it’s joining a local photography group or finding a community online, sharing your work and getting feedback can be incredibly inspiring. Sometimes, someone else’s perspective can help you see things you might’ve missed.

Take Breaks

This might sound odd, but taking breaks is just as important as shooting. If you’re feeling stuck, put your camera down and take a walk with no intention of shooting. Clear your mind. You might be surprised at how quickly new ideas start to flow. Remember, creativity isn’t about constantly creating; it’s about finding the right balance.

Listen to Podcasts

Listening to podcasts can be a fantastic way to ignite your creativity. I've always enjoyed exploring various podcasts, constantly on the lookout for ones that resonate with me. I find it incredibly valuable to learn from others and draw inspiration from their experiences. Whenever I search in my podcast app for topics related to photography, I dive into the relevant episodes, eager to absorb new insights and stories.

Give Yourself Assignment-Based Projects to Shoot

When I found myself stuck in my 9-5 job, I often felt the weight of routine pressing down on my creativity. With limited time to explore new places in my city, I needed a way to reignite my passion for photography. That’s when I decided to give myself assignment-based projects.

One memorable project I undertook was shooting portraits for my October-born friends as a birthday gift last year - *October People*. Through this project, I not only discovered the beauty of my friends but also had the opportunity to practice different styles of portrait photography to suit their unique personalities and vibes. This approach not only pushed me out of my comfort zone but also helped me see familiar faces through a fresh lens.

These assignments became a vital practice ground for my skills. Each project allowed me to focus on specific techniques, whether it was mastering composition or experimenting with angles. Even with a busy schedule, I found that dedicating small pockets of time to these projects was incredibly rewarding. It was a way to challenge myself creatively, discover new perspectives, and keep my passion for photography alive, even amidst the constraints of daily life.

And there you have it—a few of my favourite ways to keep the creative spark alive. The key takeaway? Don’t be too hard on yourself when the inspiration doesn’t flow as easily as you’d like. Creativity has its ups and downs, and that’s okay.

Remember, street photography is as much about the journey as it is about the destination. Some days you’ll find magic around every corner, and on others, it might feel like you’re just going through the motions. Both are part of the process, and both have their own value.

So, the next time you feel stuck, try out some of these tips, and most importantly, keep shooting. The world is full of stories just waiting to be captured, and you’re the one to do it.

Thanks for sticking around and reading this far. I’d love to hear your tips and tricks! Drop a comment below, share your thoughts, or let me know if you’ve tried any of the ideas I mentioned. Let’s keep the conversation going and inspire each other to keep capturing the world through our unique lenses.

Cheers!

How to stay in the creative mindset