Guide to Creativity for Non-artists: How to Become a Creative Photographer

How to become a more creative photographer presents a challenge, particularly for those who do not perceive themselves as being artists. Creativity does not always come easily for non-artists, but even an amateur photographer enjoys a challenge.

Here are some secrets professional photographers may offer amateur photographers.

Begin to see everything as representing a possible subject to be photographed, at some time or in some place, by you. Do not relegate that task to an artist; instead be one.

Learn to play with your camera or cameras regularly, as that can be fun. See it as your new toy, one that you can enjoy or share with others. You still have that child in you, who loves to play.   

Begin to discover your inner, creative genius. You might suddenly discover that you have a unique style of artwork or find a new area of interest. For instance, perhaps photographing children at holiday time, is your specific area of creativity. It just needs to be developed further. Or, maybe you are better at wilderness photography, so go exploring.

Attempt the impossible in terms of photography, but do not do anything that might put you or anyone else in danger. In other words, mountain climbing may not be your niche, but shoreline photography might be truly exciting to you. Your bird watching hobby could be turned into a bird photography project.  

Start to dialogue regularly with other amateur and professional photographers. 

Join a photography club, if there is one in your area. Find out what others are attempting to accomplish in terms of their own artwork. Learn why they are doing what they are doing and discuss what you are trying to do with them. 

Everyone loves to learn little tips on photography, every now and then.

Be aware that beauty is in the eye of the beholder. People always love to look at something that is truly beautiful, so strive for beauty in your artwork. Seek a higher level of creativity and perfection in your photography, at all times.

Be challenged by what you see others as having already accomplished. Commend them for their efforts because it probably did not just happen. They had to work at being creative, too. Strive to exceed them in terms of your own creativity.

Do not claim the photography of others, as your work. Instead, become known for what you can accomplish, in terms of your own creative genius.

When you are weary or are becoming frustrated with your efforts at creativity in your artwork, take a break. You may see things differently later. Even a change in lighting can lead to a more creative effect in your photos. Try dawn, dusk and night pictures or take photos in the rain. (Keep your camera dry!)

Do not discard or destroy any of your old photographs. Instead, use them for comparative purposes. You will soon learn what you can do differently or better, the next time. You may also be able to edit them. Learn some new editing skills and you will be amazed at how different even a mundane photograph can appear.

Do not force others to view your photographs, all the time. If your work exhibits true, creative genius, others will invite you to share your photos and your creativity secrets with them.

Do not waste money on purchasing expensive, professional, photography equipment, unless you are seriously interested in creative photography. Use what you already have. You may discover that buying a more advanced camera, tripod or computer program may prove to be a good investment for the future.

Remember to catalogue your new works. Keeping a diary or a notebook will show a record of your artistic accomplishments in the field of creative photography. Before long, you will see yourself as being an artist and you may be recognized as one, too. Your hard work will not have been in vain.