How to get inspiration in your photography when you get stuck.
1. Set clear photography goals
What to do:
Write down specific things you want to improve (e.g., lighting, composition, manual mode).
How I would do it:
I’d create a short list like:
- Learn manual mode in 2 weeks
- Practice portrait lighting every weekend
Then I’d plan actions (watch tutorials, practice daily, etc.), because having a clear plan makes it easier to stay motivated and focused.
2. Study other photographers’ work
What to do:
Look at photos from platforms like Instagram or photography websites and analyze what you like.
How I would do it:
I’d scroll through photos and pick a few that stand out, then ask:
- Is it the lighting?
- The colors?
- The composition?
After that, I’d try to recreate similar techniques in my own photos—not copying, but learning from them.
3. Start a personal project
What to do:
Create a project based on something you enjoy (no pressure or expectations).
How I would do it:
I’d choose a theme I like, such as:
- “Shadows and light”
- “My neighborhood”
Then I’d commit to shooting it regularly for a few weeks. This helps bring back enjoyment because it’s something meaningful and personal.
4. Shoot without a plan
What to do:
Go out and take photos without worrying about results or goals.
How I would do it:
I’d grab my camera (or phone) and just walk around taking pictures of anything interesting—textures, people, random objects—without overthinking.
This removes pressure and allows creativity to flow naturally.
5. Try creative activities outside photography
What to do:
Do something creative that isn’t photography to refresh your mind.
How I would do it:
I might:
- Draw or paint
- Go for a walk and observe nature
- Cook something new
Taking a break from photography can actually help inspiration return because it gives your mind space to reset.
16 Personality test
My result on the 16 Personalities Test was the Mediator type (INFP). This personality is known for being idealistic, empathetic, and guided strongly by personal values. Mediators tend to focus on understanding others and creating meaning in their lives, often preferring deep connections over surface-level interactions. They are also described as creative and introspective, which I find aligns closely with how I think and approach situations.
I believe I received this result because I naturally spend a lot of time reflecting on my thoughts and emotions before making decisions. I tend to prioritize what feels right to me rather than just following logic or external expectations. I also value authenticity and try to understand other people’s perspectives, which fits with the Mediator’s empathetic nature. At the same time, I can be reserved and prefer working independently or in smaller, more meaningful settings rather than large, highly structured environments.
Overall, the Mediator personality type feels accurate because it reflects both my strengths and challenges. While I appreciate being imaginative and compassionate, I also recognize that I can sometimes overthink or become too idealistic. This result helped me better understand why I approach life the way I do and how I can balance my values with practical decision-making.
Ted Talk
In the TED Talk “How Photography Connects Us,” David Griffin explains that photos are powerful because they tell stories without using words. He shows pictures that capture real moments, like people struggling, celebrating, or living their everyday lives. Griffin says that photography helps us understand each other better because a picture can make us feel emotions like sadness, hope, or curiosity. I learned that photos can connect people from different places and help us see the world in new ways.
I think the talk was interesting because it made me realize that photography is more than just taking a picture. It’s about paying attention to what is happening and sharing something important with others. I liked how Griffin used real examples from National Geographic to show how strong and meaningful photos can be. One thing I wish he added was more tips for kids or beginners who want to take better pictures. Still, I believe the message was clear: photography can change how we see the world, and it can help us care about people we don’t even know.
CONCEPTUAL SELF PORTRAIT
INDEED JOB SEARCH
1. Photographer Assistant
Location: Los Angeles, CA
- Do you meet the qualifications?
Partially. Entry-level roles usually don’t require much experience, but some basic photography knowledge is expected. - Skills needed:
Camera handling, lighting setup, organization, communication. - Why would you want this job?
It’s a good starting point to learn from professionals and build experience. - Starting pay:
~$16–$20/hour - Could you support yourself?
It would be difficult in LA without roommates.
2. Real Estate Photographer
Location: Riverside, CA
- Do you meet the qualifications?
Maybe not yet—you’d need a portfolio and editing experience. - Skills needed:
Photography composition, drone skills (sometimes), editing software like Lightroom. - Why would you want this job?
Flexible schedule and consistent demand. - Starting pay:
~$20–$40 per shoot - Could you support yourself?
Possibly, if you get enough clients consistently.
3. School Portrait Photographer
Location: San Bernardino, CA
- Do you meet the qualifications?
Yes, many companies train employees. - Skills needed:
Working with kids, basic photography, patience. - Why would you want this job?
Stable hours and easy entry into the field. - Starting pay:
~$17–$22/hour - Could you support yourself?
It might be tight but possible with budgeting.
4. Freelance Photographer
Location: Anywhere (including Fontana, CA)
- Do you meet the qualifications?
Yes, if you build your own portfolio. - Skills needed:
Photography, editing, marketing, client communication. - Why would you want this job?
You’re your own boss and can choose your projects. - Starting pay:
Varies ($50–$200+ per session depending on experience) - Could you support yourself?
Yes, but income is inconsistent at first.
5. Studio Photographer (Retail Studio)
Location: Ontario, CA
- Do you meet the qualifications?
Likely yes, these jobs are often entry-level. - Skills needed:
Customer service, posing subjects, basic editing. - Why would you want this job?
Stable job with regular hours and steady pay. - Starting pay:
~$16–$19/hour - Could you support yourself?
Probably not alone you’d likely need roommates.- Rent: $1,200–$2,000
- Utilities: $100–$200
- Food: $300–$500
- Transportation (gas/car): $200–$400
- Phone: $50–$100
- Insurance: $100–$300
- Miscellaneous: $100–$300
Total: ~$2,050–$3,800/month
My future career goal is to become a professional photographer, possibly specializing in portraits, events, or real estate. I would like to eventually work independently as a freelance photographer or start my own photography business. To reach this goal, I plan to build a strong portfolio, improve my editing and technical skills, and gain experience through entry-level photography jobs.
SILHOUETTE STORY
Movie story about my life
Letter to next year photo students
Welcome to Digital Photography at Jurupa! This class was fun because we got to take pictures in many different ways. I liked learning how light, shadows, and angles can change a photo. Some projects let us walk around and take pictures outside, and those were my favorites because we could be creative and try new ideas.
There were also things that were a little hard. Some projects took longer than I thought, especially when we had to edit our photos. The work is not too hard, but you do need to stay on top of your assignments so you don’t fall behind. Even the parts I didn’t enjoy helped me learn more about how to take better pictures.
My advice is to take your time and really look at what you are photographing. Pay attention to the background, the light, and the small details. Don’t be afraid to take lots of pictures until you get the best one. Try new things, help your classmates, and have fun. If you do your best, you will learn a lot and make photos you can be proud of.
CLOSE UP PORTRAITS
