Off the Beaten Trail

When attempting to get to your destination you can stay on the paved road where the road is smooth but often crowded. When we decide to take a different road, we can experience, something fresh and rewarding.  Making the decision to take a different road can gain you new opportunities for growth. The Missouri dirt road in this image is straight but has hills to conquer.

I saw a video about the Magnum photographers the other day. Magnum, the world's most prestigious photographic agency was having their annual meeting discussing potential membership. There was concerned because the applicants were copying current members ideas thinking this type of content would potentially offer membership. The veteran members were pleading for something entirely fresh, never seen before perspectives.

Surrounding yourself with great photographers is a great idea. But only with regards to discovering things that work for you uniquely. Beyond having a community of friends, a photographer that can carve a niche of their own, from a fresh perspective when creating a body of work will have a greater impact.

I've written a lot lately about finding your personal vision. Today what I'm trying to drive home is, think of every project as an opportunity to uniquely make a statement.  Find ways to stir your creativity. Spend time with a community of other photographers. Read books that inspire you to try something entirely different.

Whatever you decide, for your personal inspiration you'll always see new things in different ways if you get "Off the Beaten Trail."

David is a NC based photographer. Please subscribe.

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