Inspiratie 3

When asked, “What do you shoot?” I often respond simply, “Anything.” I don’t consider myself a specialist in one area of photography. I will always see myself as a student of the medium, as one who uses the camera to sharpen my vision and skills as much as I use photography to express myself. 

I live in a beautiful place, so landscape is a common subject. But so much of my growth as a photographer occurs when I push myself toward what is new or uncomfortable.

This fall, I worked indoors on still-life photography. I started shooting with natural light, which I love, before dusting off and setting up my strobes, which I don’t love. I had the work of a few artists in mind, and I thought about how to use them as inspiration but say something different. 

Five things that work for me:

1. Seek out the work of other artists – any medium, not just photography-for inspiration;

2. Remain curious – try new subject matter, new places, old places with a new eye, new equipment, etc;

3. Share your work;

4. Make prints;

5. Find the support of fellow photographers and be generous in return with your support of them.

Lisa Ryan-Boyle was featured in PHOTOSNACK #395.