This past week I went to Joshua Tree with the family. I felt like bringing a small point/shoot camera (Ricoh GR3) was the right move in case there’s a couple of pics I wanted to get. Then once we got there, it was like my eyes were draw to the landscape. The desert is a special place as harsh of an environment that it is. So I kept shooting and little by little wanted to put together a photo/slideshow.
I’m learning that moments in between projects are good if you’re not sure what to work on. The feel the need to constantly create and share isn’t sustainable. But there’s ways to cultivate a space where creativity strikes.
It usually comes to me in an instant so I try to be ready. Either with a camera or something technical idea I want to try. That way, when I do feel inspired, the camera is already in my hand.
Why? Usually the reason is self-imposed. Could be to capture a personal memory or sharing a person/place I think is inspiring. I try to keep the idea super small at first and see if the it develops organically. If it doesn’t come, then I let it go.
Traveling or going somewhere new always seems to jump start things. I think because everything is new or different. That space of curiosity and seeing things with that perspective keeps me going outside and experience the real world. Then once I’m in the flow, it’s easy to keep things moving.
Davinci Resolve recently added a photo page where you can edit still photography natively in the program. I had always wanted to try it and this was the perfect opportunity. Low stakes and experimenting with the combination of film style effects and still imagery. There was a lot that I tried that didn’t work for this sketch, but you never know where it will re-surface.
If you’ve made it this far, send me an email and I’ll mail you a small print!
