Hello everyone!!! If you're anything like us, you're smack dab in the middle of the summer busy season. Here in San Diego, we notice a HUGE influx in photo shoots during the summer... locals & tourists alike all want those bright, sunny beach photos right? Well as fun as it can be to be super busy (we all love making money!), we've noticed that sometimes busy season really hurts our creativity. We get so used to driving to the same locations, doing the same types of shoots over and over again, that it can put a damper on our spirit! This week, our Three Minute Tips episode is all about how to reignite creativity! Key Takeaways:

1. Setup a Styled Shoot: Styled shoots are GREAT! They're a breath of fresh air because you get to build the shoot from scratch. You don't have to worry about things like client expectations, location issues, lighting issues, etc because everything is laid out ideally how YOU want it. Plus, you get to play around a little more & experiment because it's all for you!! If setting up your own styled shoot is overwhelming, search around for workshops either in your area or abroad... they can have the same effect without all the work!
2. Try a New Lens: It's amazing how much a different lens can inspire you & reignite creativity! I always notice when I shoot with a new lens I'm suddenly using different angles, shooting through bushes, getting more detail shots, closer or further shots, etc. Most areas have local lens rental places (or you can always go online) so it's a great way to mix up your shoot a bit without having to spend a TON of money on actually buying the lens (just don't fall in love... that's dangerous!)
3. Participate in a Photo Challenge: Fun challenges like the 365 challenge allow you to do personal photography documentation every single day & allows you to play around with your shots because again, they're all for you! These challenges help you be a little more creative in your paid shoots too because you're slowly training your brain to think a little differently!

Hope these tips help you get through the madness of the summer and reignite creativity in your photography both for your professional shoots and your personal projects! Good luck with the rest of the season! Related Links:

• Chasing Daylight Photography (Kate Mills)
• 365 Project
• Lens Pro To Go Lens Rentals