creative assignment ideas photos

15 Photography Assignments to Challenge and Inspire

By Tata Rossi 23 days ago, Amateur Photography

Photography assignments allow you to experiment with something you have never tried before and play around with different photographic approaches. With such an assignment, you will challenge yourself and develop your skills.

15 Ways to Make Photography Assignments

This list of photo assignments consists of 15 points, so I am sure that you will find the idea to your liking.

1. Self Portraits

The first task is a no-brainer: just take a self-portrait picture each day. Don’t forget to use a tripod and shutter release aside from regular shooting with your arm extended and holding a camera.

Since you will be the model, feel free to unleash your creativity with all sorts of make-up, outfits, poses until you figure out a proper look. Remember to use props as well. Then share your shots with the world via social networks or the dedicated Flickr and Twitter groups.

2. Color Challenge

Here is one of the greatest color photography assignments for the urban environment photos . Bring the camera with you and take pictures for several hours. Pick a color (or ask a friend to choose it for you to complicate the task) and photograph subjects of the chosen color only.

Once you are done, you will find yourself seeing this color everywhere! Then pick the best shots and merge them into a collage or mosaic in Photoshop .

3. After Dark

Practice with night photography and try taking pictures after dark. In case you are outside the city, you may shoot moonlight or star trails. While being in the city, capture light trails of vehicles or buildings with the light-up windows. Regardless of the location, experiment with light-painting by means of long exposure photography and moving a flashlight across areas of the scene.

4. Crop or Rotate All your Photos a Specific Way

One of the best photography practice assignments is to neglect your comfort zone and try something new for a change. For instance, if you have a tendency to snap the same kinds of photos, you should modify their perspective.

Try an approach to cropping or rotating your next 50-100 shots that differs from your regular one. Play around with square photos, 180° rotation or whatever else you can come up with. Once you get out of the familiar artistic routine, you will be able to perceive the world from another angle and get creative.

5. Quit Social Media Temporarily

Social networks can serve as an excellent source of photography inspiration or lead to a complete lack of it. If you use social networks without critical thinking, you may start comparing yourself to other photographers, which will be a total waste of time and effort.

While it may be one of the hardest photography assignments these days, taking a hiatus from social networks is highly important. Log off your Instagram account for some time or uninstall apps that leave you in a bad mood.

In case your job requires staying online on a daily basis, devote some of your time to non-Internet tasks, like taking pictures or gaining knowledge on photography. I suggest taking some online photography courses .

6. Shoot Every Day for a Month

If you wish to become a better photographer , you shouldn’t stop shooting. By taking pictures constantly, you will receive more feedback and will be interacting more actively with the world.

One of the most widespread photography class assignments is to take one picture each day for a month. Do it with the help of the smartphone, DSLR camera or any device that can photograph. But don’t take meaningless pictures just because you have to. The shots you take should resonate with you in one way or another and be valuable to you.

The Zen masters suggest that you have a “daily practice.” When we repeat something, we become closer to recognizing the “truth”. You may read a great number of photo theory books , but you won’t be able to shoot properly. Only through practice, repetition, feedback and constructive criticism, you can grow as a photographer. Remember that this assignment is about forming a habit, not about taking a perfect picture each day.

7. Experiment with a Completely Different Genre

The array of photography genres is truly vast. Underwater photography , glamour, smartphone, landscape photography , portrait photography – that’s only a beginning. If you feel like you are losing interest in photography, switch to another genre.

Try staying away from your primary photography genre for a while. In case you shoot portraits, go outside and capture the area where you live in. If you are involved in photographing pets , play around with self-portraiture. By getting familiar with various photography genres, you are widening your photography horizons and gaining new knowledge that may come in useful one day.

8. Put Together a Photo Album

We live in a digital world, and even nowadays’ photography comes mostly in a digital form. We constantly find ourselves sharing our photos online. It is a rare thing to print photographs, even touch them, let alone create something physical out of them.

That’s why one of the greatest photography tasks is to compile a photo album. You can buy one at a store or online. Print the desired shots in the small 4×6 size. I suggest collaborating on this task with your friend, child or partner. Think of the main idea, theme or story of the album. Put all the printed shots on a surface and consider how you will lay them out in an album, how you will pair them and in what sequence.

No wonder that our parents and elderly relatives used to create a photo book together. It is a nice way to preserve precious memories in a physical form and bring back the moments that we sometimes tend to forget over time.

9. Take Creative Self-Portraits with a Friend

While you may enjoy your own company while taking self-portraits, you may feel bored or lonely after some time. In this case, you can implement one of the most entertaining photography assignment ideas and take self-portraits with a friend (pets are welcome as well!).

Don’t forget to think through the poses, set up the tripod and find the perfect photography light. As you will be engaged in all these activities, you will be able to get a hang of a photographer’s workflow. Then, when it comes to a real photo shoot with the clients, you will be more skilled at dealing with the camera and lights.

10. Attend a Photography Workshop

Photography workshops is an excellent investment in your education as a photographer and one of the most helpful beginner photography assignments.

Pick a workshop that is dedicated to the topic relevant for you. Thanks to workshops, you will get not only theoretical but also practical information. Also, you will have your questions answered by real professionals.

11. Photograph the Same Person or Object Every Day

In case you aren’t as excited about photography as before, try capturing one and the same person or object each day for a week or month. Similar to the smartphone photography challenge, as a result, you will realize the importance of having the freedom to photograph anything you wish.

While snapping pictures of the same object, you will boost your lighting skills. To make the shots differ from each other, don’t hesitate to play around with various types of lighting and photo editing apps .

12. Go a Month Without Using Social Media

Being the photographer of the 21st century, you may find yourself in the never-ending trap of feeling the need to post photos on social networks each day. It all turns into some sort of addiction – all you crave is likes, comments and new followers. If you don’t receive the online praise you need, your photography stops making sense.

In fact, photography is something you should pursue on your own. What truly matters here is your personal thoughts on your shots, not the opinion of users online. Simply uninstall all the social network applications from the smartphone (you can bring them back once the assignment is over). Posting photos and looking through photos of others is prohibited.

If you manage to stay away from social networks for a month, you will acquire a clearer purpose of your photography work. Besides, you won’t be so obsessed with the imaginary social network competition that everyone seems to be involved in.

13. Shoot with a Limited Amount of Equipment

Regardless of whether you are an experienced, amateur or a beginner photographer , you are likely to be after all sorts of photography gear to enhance your results.

How about photography assignments where you have to use a restricted amount of shooting equipment? You can photograph strictly with one camera body or camera lens . There is no need to do it for an entire month.

For this assignment, I suggest coming up with a plan, and do it, for instance, only once a week. Working with the same gear every day will give you more flexibility in both the creative and physical aspects of the process.

So, in case you deal only with a zoom lens, you will have to experiment whenever you shoot indoors . With a wide-angle lens only, you will need to work on cropping and correcting distortions.

14. Limit Yourself to X Photos a Day

Similar to the previous assignment, limiting yourself to 10, 20, 30 or more shots per day, week or month will help you realize what your true creative needs are. Besides, with a photo limit, you will understand what subjects or scenes you are more inclined to photograph.

Another benefit of a photo limit is that it will bring more patience and creativity into the process. You won’t be able to take numerous pictures of one place, so you will be forced to risk and play around with various perspectives.

15. Take Photos with Your Smartphone Camera Only

Take pictures only with a smartphone camera for a week. For better results, download a top-notch camera app and try to figure out all of its settings. A modern smartphone will help beginning photographers get acquainted with the technical side of the shooting process.

To complicate the task, I suggest recreating some of your portfolio photos with the smartphone camera. With this assignment, you will learn all the intricacies of shooting with a smartphone and may even start taking shots not only with a standard camera but with a smartphone one as well on a regular basis!

Freebies for Photography Assignments

Thank you for download!

Check your email to download freebies. (approx. 1-2 min)

Using these presets for beginners, you will be able to enhance portrait, wedding, newborn, landscape, real estate and e-commerce photography. The presets are compatible with all Lightroom versions. Experiment with adjustments to achieve the ideal result!

• New approach
•   Freebies

10 Photo Assignments to Inspire and Challenge Your Skills

Liz Masoner is a professional photographer and she shares her tips and techniques on photo editing and how to photograph nature, portraits, and events with film and digital cameras. Liz has over 30 years of experience and she is the author of three books on photography.

The best way to learn photography is to practice, though sometimes you can get stuck in a rut and not know what to shoot. That is why photographers love assignments; they give us a purpose and an idea of what to photograph. 

Why Are Assignments Important?

Self-assignments are key to any photographer's growth. Even professionals with decades of experience will work on personal assignments that they may never get paid for. The goal of any self-assignment is to spur creativity, solve problems, learn new techniques, and challenge yourself.

As you start out in photography, you're probably filled with excitement and ready to shoot anything you can. That being said, sometimes a little direction and guidance are necessary.

Below, you will find ten photography assignments. Each covers a new topic, skill, or concept and they were chosen to help you learn how to see as a photographer. They are meant to be a personal challenge that you can complete at your own pace and with no outside judgment, simply as a means to practice and improve your photography. Hopefully, you will learn something new with each assignment and be able to use that in every photograph you take in the future.

Remember when composing your images to keep in mind the basics: the rule of thirds,  shutter speed , aperture,  depth of field , and  exposure .

Assignment #1: Up Close

This assignment encourages you to get close and personal with your subject. It is an exercise in viewing a common object in a new way and examining its finer details.

• Choose an object that you see or interact with every day.
• Focus on a small part of it, get as close as your camera will allow you to focus, and shoot away.
• Try to capture different angles and unusual lighting to add to the mystery of this tiny world.

From the whiskers of your cat to a fragile Christmas ornament, and even common soap bubbles, there is an entire world that we often overlook because we don't get close enough.

Assignment #2: Motion

Photography is a static medium which means that it doesn't move. Conveying a sense of motion is often crucial to capturing a scene or emotion and it is an essential skill for photographers to practice.

The goal of this exercise is to understand how shutter speeds can be used to convey motion.

• Choose a subject or series of subjects that will allow you to convey motion in your images.
• It can be slow motions, like that of a turtle, or fast motion, like a speeding train.
• Blur it, stop it, or simply suggest that there is motion in the photograph.

Challenge yourself to capture the same motion in different ways. For instance, you might go to a race track and stop the movement of the cars completely in one image, then leave the shutter open and allow them to blur out of the frame in the next. 

Assignment #3: Shadows

Shadows are everywhere and they are vital to photography because this is the art of capturing light. With light comes shadows and when you begin to look at shadows as a photographer, your world will open up.

• Take a look around for shadows and record them with your camera.
• You could show the shadow as the total focus of the image. Perhaps the shadow is incidental to the subject.
• Is the shadow natural or created by flash?

Shadows are integral to creating depth in a two-dimensional medium such as photography. Take some time to seriously explore the "dark side" of the light.

Assignment #4: Water

Water is everywhere in photography and it presents many challenges. There are reflections and movements to work with and in this exercise, you will take a deeper look at water.

• Find water anywhere: lakes, streams, puddles, even the glass on your kitchen table.
• Pay attention to reflections and use them to your advantage in the photographs. Use this opportunity to get familiar with a polarizing filter (a very useful tool in your camera kit) so you can accentuate or eliminate reflections.
• Play with the motion of a stream or the crashing waves. Notice the difference between stopping the flow of water and allowing it to blur to create a real sense of movement.

Be sure to make water the subject and not an accent to the image. Water alone is beautiful and mysterious and your challenge is to explore all of its potential as a subject.

Assignment #5: Leading Lines

A classic assignment in photography schools, 'leading lines ' is a popular and fun subject. The goal of this assignment is to learn how to direct the viewer to your subject using lines.

• Choose a subject then look around for lines in the scene that you can use to 'lead' the viewer to the subject. 
• Find an interesting line then determine what the subject of your photograph is.
• Remember that lines can be man-made or natural. For instance, the yellow line down the middle of the road or a tree branch. Even a person's arm can be a leading line of their face.

Use this assignment as an excuse to take an afternoon photo excursion. Walk downtown or in the woods and look around you for interesting lines that lead the eye to a subject. There is an amazing assortment of lines out there in the world and once you begin to see them, you won't be able to stop. 

Assignment #6: Perspective

How do you normally stand when you shoot? If your answer is straight up like a 5-foot-something human being then this assignment is for you. The perspective assignment challenges you to view the world from an entirely new perspective, which in turn gives the viewer a new look at the ordinary.

• Take another afternoon or evening for a photo excursion wherever you like.
• This time, every time you find something to photograph, stop!
• Ask yourself: How would a squirrel see that tree? How would a robin view that birdbath? How would a snake view that log?
• Take your photographs from very high or very low angles. Get on your belly or stand on a chair, whatever you have to (safely) do to get the 'right' angle on your subject.

If you pay attention to professional photographs, many of the images that have the WOW factor are photographed from extreme angles. People enjoy these photos because they've never seen an object from that viewpoint. It is new and unique, and you can train yourself to shoot with this in mind.

Assignment #7: Texture

You may have captured a few textural details in the 'Up Close' assignment, but this assignment takes that to the next level. The goal in this one is to study textures and forget about the object itself: the texture becomes the subject. You will also begin to realize how light affects the appearance of texture.

• Find a few objects that have very detailed textures like trees or rocks, even knit sweaters or woven rugs.
• Photograph them as close as your lens will allow.
• Use different angles and capture the same texture as the light changes. Notice how the different lighting directions and camera angles can change how much texture appears.

Textures are all around us and many of the best photographs in the world play up the textural element. This assignment should teach you how to recognize and accentuate those elements in your photos.

Assignment #8: Color Harmony

Color is important to photography because the world is full of color. This exercise requires a bit of study in color theory, which you will then put into practice in your photographs.

Do you remember art class in elementary school? You may have learned that yellow and blue make green, but color theory goes beyond that. There are cool and warm colors, complementary and contrasting colors, neutral colors, and bold colors.

It can get quite complicated, and photographers should have a basic understanding of color so you can use that when composing photographs. You don't have to study color like a painter would but can use tricks used by interior designers to influence your color decisions.

• Once you have an idea of color theory, take another photo excursion and put what you've learned into practice.
• Capture photographs with the primary or tertiary colors.
• Look for complementary colors then contrasting colors to photograph.
• Try finding a scene to photograph that is filled with neutral colors, then one that uses a bold color to 'pop' from the scene.

This is an advanced lesson, but one that any photographer working with color images will find useful. As you practice working with colors, it will become second nature and you will know how to work with color to change the feel of your images.

Assignment #9: Emotions

Take a photo of a person smiling or scowling, right? Not so. The intent of this assignment is to convey emotion in photographs  without  a face.

• Take photographs that express each of the basic emotions: happy, sad, and mad.
• How would you express the feeling of anger with no person? What about happiness? Sadness?

This is a purely conceptual assignment, but it is important to be able to relay emotion in your photographs and you might not always have a person available to do that with. Challenge yourself to think deeper about this one.

Assignment #10: Don't Look!

Are you ready to put your photography skills to the test? In today's world of digital cameras and the ability to see image captures right there on the LCD screen, photographers are losing some of the skills needed to visualize a photograph.

In this assignment, your challenge is to shoot as if you were using a film camera. That means that you will not look at the photographs you've taken until they are downloaded on your computer. Instead of relying on the camera's screen to see if you 'got the shot' you will rely on your instinct and knowledge, just like photographers did before digital photography. Can you do it?

• Plan a photo excursion to a particular location and permit yourself to photograph only 36 images (a roll of 35mm film).
• Turn off your camera's LCD screen so it does not show you the image after you have taken it.
• If you cannot turn off the camera's screen, cut a piece of thick paper and tape it over the screen. Use masking or painter's tape so you don't leave a residue on the back of your camera.
• Go out and shoot your 36 frames, thinking carefully about each image because you don't have an endless number of shots. Bonus points if you turn your camera to completely manual settings for focus and exposure.
• Don't peek at your photos until you get home and download them.

How did you do? Were you able to get good exposures on your own? How did it feel to be 'blind' and not know how your image turned out right away? 

This is similar to what it is like to shoot with film and it does require you to think harder about every image you take. Next time you shoot, slow down and pay attention, pretend that the screen is not there and rely on your own skills to create a great image. You will be a better photographer in the end.

More from The Spruce Crafts

• Follow PetaPixel on YouTube
• Follow PetaPixel on Facebook
• Follow PetaPixel on X
• Follow PetaPixel on Instagram

40 Practical Photography Assignments to Reinspire You

Here are a list of photographic assignments that I hope help you. You can skip around and choose the assignments that appeal to you:

#1. 5 yes, 5 no

If you’re interested in street photography, often the fear of rejection is worse than the rejection itself.

If you want a simple assignment to build your confidence, try the “5 yes, 5 no” challenge.

The concept is simple: approach a bunch of strangers and ask for permission to make their portrait. You have to keep asking until you get 5 people to say “yes” and 5 people to say “no.”

You will discover it is harder to get a “no” than a “yes”.

If you’ve got all 5 “yes’s” but not 5 “no’s”, you need to purposefully go out and look for the scariest people you think will say “no.”

The purpose of this assignment is to help you face rejection. In life, photography, and everything else, we are slaves of fear. This will help you face your fear head-on.

#2. “10 no”

If you’re really, really afraid of getting rejected, try out this assignment (a variation of the 5 yes/5 no assignment).

Go out and try to get 10 people to reject having their photos as quickly as possible.

If you go out and try to find people to say “yes” to getting their portrait shot, you might become paralyzed. Instead, only approach people who you think look unfriendly and will say “no.”

Funny story: you will find that often the scariest/meanest looking people are the nicest (and vice-versa).

#3. Exposure compensation

I am a big proponent of shooting in “P” (program mode). Essentially the camera chooses the aperture/shutter speed for you, as well as the exposure.

If you want to get better exposures in your photos (in P mode), try experimenting with exposure-compensation.

Ask a person to stand in the bright sun, and take a series of different photos (with different exposure compensations):

0, +1, +2, +3, -1, -2, -3

Then look at your LCD screen, and look at the exposure of each photo. Then look at the real world — how does your exposure-compensations change how your photos end up looking?

Don’t get too nerdy with this. Figure out what exposure-compensations work well for your camera, in different settings. Each camera thinks differently and has different exposure compensation modes. So treat this assignment as a way for you to better understand the light, and how your camera thinks.

If it is really bright outside, I generally photograph at -1 exposure-compensation, to make the skin tones of my subject look more natural, and also to darken the shadows. I love the dramatic look this gives my images.

Furthermore, if you’re shooting in the shade, you will often need to shoot +1 exposure-compensation to light your scene better.

But once again, experiment with different exposure-compensations, and figure out what works best for you.

#4. 1,000 photos in a day

If you’re a photographer who only takes 1-2 photos of a scene and tends to run away, try this assignment.

The assignment: take 1,000 photos in a single day.

The purpose of this assignment is for you to learn how to “work the scene”. If you see a good scene, try to take at least 10 photos of each scene. This will allow you to capture better perspectives, angles, and moments.

I don’t want you to always take 1,000 photos everyday. But this might help you break through “photographer’s block.”

#5. Eye contact/no eye contact

When I’m shooting street photography, I’m not sure whether a photograph with eye contact or without eye contact will be better.

Solution? Try to get both.

If I’m shooting candidly, I will get close to my subject, and take multiple photos, until they notice my presence. Then I wait for them to notice me, and then I take a photograph when they make contact.

Then when I go home, I have the decision of choosing between two version of a photo: one with eye contact, and one without. Sometimes eye contact works better, sometimes it doesn’t.

There is a saying that “eyes are the windows to the soul.” I generally find photos with eye-contact to be more compelling, soulful, and intense for the viewer.

However at the same time, sometimes having photos with the subject looking away from the camera gives you a more moody feel.

I often like to study famous (painted) portraits of people in the past for inspiration. Look at the paintings with eye contact, and without.

#6. Ask your subject to look up, down, left, right

If you approach a stranger, and ask permission to make their portrait (or if you’re photographing a model), it is hard to direct your subject.

One tip I learned: ask them to look in different directions.

For example, ask your model to look into the camera, and don’t smile. Then ask them to look up, down, left, and right.

Often people have a “better side.” Not only that, but by having your subject look up and down, you change the mood of the photo.

When your subject is looking up, they look more confident, encouraged, and powerful.

When your subject is looking down, they look more downtrodden, depressed, and negative.

Another tip: ask your subject to look at your hand while you’re photographing them. Then move your hand, and see how their eyes track your hand.

Changing the eye and head position of your subject will change the emotion of the photo. Experiment with different head positions with your subject, and you will have more photos to choose from.

#7. Only photograph things on the ground

When it comes to photography, we often just photograph what is in front of us, at eye-level.

Yet we never look down, and we never loop up.

As a simple assignment, do a photo project of just photographing stuff on the ground. You will find lots of interesting subject-matter if you look closely enough.

The world is a rich and beautiful place to take photos. Sometimes we complain that there is “nothing to photograph.” Yet in reality, we’re just not looking hard enough.

Change your perspective and view. Don’t just look ahead. Look down. Look up. Look into cracks in-between walls. Be curious, and change your perspective.

#8. Take at least 10 photos of each scene

I mentioned this tip a bit earlier, but the mistake we make as photographers is that we’re easily satisfied with 1-2 photos, and we move on.

The problem with only taking 1-2 photos (and then checking our LCD screen) is that we don’t push ourselves. When in doubt, try to photograph 25% more than you think you need to photograph.

This will force you to be more creative. You will try to photograph your scene from different distances (close, far) and from different angles (left, middle, right). You can also switch up your positioning (crouching, standing, or tippy-toe).

It is rare to see a good photo-moment. Don’t settle with just 1-2 photos. “Work the scene” and try to take at least 10 photos of each scene. Then you will push your creative boundaries, and be more likely to make a good photo.

#9. Limit yourself to only 36 photos in a day

For this assignment, you’re only allowed to take 36 photos in a day (same amount of photos in a roll of film).

This exercise will help you learn restraint. It will balance out some of the other assignments which encourage you to take more.

If you only had 36 photos you could take in a day, how much more selective would you be with your shooting? What superfluous photos would you not shoot?

I also find that by taking fewer photos, I appreciate each scene more.

You can do this assignment on a digital camera, or on a film camera.

#10. Shoot 1 street corner for an hour

In street photography, we’re impatient. Rather than sticking in one good area and waiting for our subjects to come to us, we run around (often wasting our energy) to just find a few good photos.

The solution: find an interesting street corner, don’t move, and photograph it for an hour.

The purpose of this assignment is to realize that it can be more effective to find a good scene, background, or area, and wait for your subjects to come to you.

Not only that, but if you stay put in one area, you will get to know the area better. You will observe the flow of subjects, and get a feel of a place better. Not only that, but you will be more “invisible” in the scene — people will ignore you.

#11. Delete all the photos from your social media account

An occasional purge is good for our physical, mental, and spiritual health.

Try to do this every once in a while: delete all the photos from your social media, and start from scratch.

Don’t delete the original photos. Keep them on your hard drive, print them out, or archive them.

However if you have a lot of photos cluttering your social media account, make a practice of doing a 100% purge. Delete all the photos (or mark them private), and then re-start from scratch.

Often we let our past work prevent ourselves from innovating and creating new future work.

Purge your past. And start refreshed.

#12. Go a month without using social media

Often as photographers we fall victim to the “social media” treadmill of always uploading a photo everyday, just to feel relevant. We want it for the likes, the comments, the new followers. Yet we get addicted to social media like heroin. Without our daily “hit” of external affirmation, we feel our photography is pointless.

Yet photography should be a personal pursuit. Why care about what others think about your photos? How do you feel about your own photos?

Uninstall all the social media apps from your phone (don’t worry you can re-install them after a month). Don’t upload any photos, look at anyone else’s photos, and try your best not to cheat.

By “fasting” from social media from a month, you will get a better sense of why you make photos. And I can guarantee you, you will feel less stressed and anxious to keep up with the “social media rat race.”

#13. Only shoot black and white for a year

We don’t see the world in monochrome. Black and white is an abstraction in the world. That is why it looks more “artistic” to the average person. It is novel, unique, and different.

However it takes a while for you to train your eye to see the world in monochrome.

Many photographers shoot black and white their entire life, and still never master it. I’ve also found that if I switch between black and white and color too often, I can never learn how to really see the world in one.

The assignment is to shoot only black and white for an entire year. You can shoot RAW+JPEG with a black and white preview. And perhaps you can just use the black and white JPEG’s. If not, apply a simple black and white preset to all of your RAW photos (upon importing them).

How would you visualize the world in monochrome? I’ve found myself looking more for emotions, mood, smoke, shadows, lines, graphical elements, and minimalism.

This will be different for you, but learn how to see in monochrome.

#14. Only shoot color for a year

The opposite assignment to the prior one; shoot only color for a year.

To see the world in color is different than seeing the world in black and white.

Personally, I’ve found shooting color to be more difficult than shooting black and white. Why? Because color leads to more complexity. You need to compose and frame a scene well, but also think about the color-combinations of a scene.

Not only that, but different colors evoke different moods and emotions.

Monochrome is easy to use because it reduces and removes distractions. Color introduces more complexity and distractions.

I would personally recommend most photographers to first try to master monochrome before taking on color photography .

Color photography also requires your exposures to be better, and for you to shoot in better lighting conditions. For color photography, try to shoot sunrise and sunset ( golden hour ), or use a flash.

Train your eyes to become sensitive to different colors and play and have fun with it. See how you can mix different colors in a scene, whether they be complementary colors or contrasting colors.

#15. Only shoot JPEG for a month

RAW and post-processing is a blessing and a curse. The problem is that many of us modern photographers over-rely on fancy post-processing techniques to improve our (mediocre) photos.

I’m guilty of it — I’ve added HDR to my photos, added selective color, intense vignettes, and “overly-processed” many of my photos (thinking that they would make the photos better).

But no matter how much you polish a turd, it will still be a turd.

Shoot only JPEG for a month.

If you’re really anxious, shoot JPEG+RAW (but only use the JPEG’s) for a month.

This way you can’t rely on fancy post-processing techniques to “salvage” your photos. A great photo shouldn’t require any excessive post-processing.

#16. Only shoot with your smartphone for a month

We often make the excuse that we don’t always have our cameras with us. I know personally when I owned a DSLR, it would be a pain in the ass to carry with me everywhere I went.

But today we’re blessed by modern technology, especially with the smartphone. The smartphone is the ultimate camera: it is always with us, fits in our front pocket, and can also be used to edit/post-process/publish our photos.

If you have a big bulky camera and never take photos, take this challenge upon yourself: only shoot with your smartphone for a month. Lock up your “real” camera in a drawer, and see how you can be the most creative with just your smartphone.

The purpose of this assignment is to realize that photography is less about the gear and more about your personal vision, and how you see the world. The tool isn’t as important as your eye.

This assignment might also teach you the importance of just always having your camera with you, ready, and prepared to click.

#17. Stick to one camera, one lens for a year

We’re rich. We live in a culture of abundance. Most photographers I know aren’t starving. Most photographers have an over-abundance of cameras, lenses, and gear.

If you’re a photographer who has too much “choice anxiety” from owning too much gear, only stick to one camera, one lens for a year. Lock up your other gear in a drawer, better yet, sell it or give it away to friends.

If you really want to hone in your photographic vision; you don’t want to be distracted by gear. Also it takes a long time to get to know one camera and one lens/focal length quite well.

By sticking with consistent gear, you will have fewer gear distractions, which will give you more creative focus.

#18. Only shoot horizontal, vertical, or square for a month

I believe in “creative constraints”: by having fewer options, you are forced to be more creative.

For example, take framing. Try to only shoot horizontal (landscape), vertical (portrait), or square-format for a month.

Framing and composition is all about knowing what to leave out of the frame.

Restrict yourself to one orientation for a month and you will find more visual consistency with your work. And you will be forced to compose more creatively.

#19. Only shoot one square block for a month

With unlimited options, we become paralyzed. We don’t know what direction to take our creative work.

Restrict yourself geographically. For a month, only shoot one square block (both sides). This way, you will really have to dig deep, and find something very interesting in that one square block.

The benefit of this project is that you know exactly where to shoot. Just one specific area. And I think it is better to get to know one area very well, rather than knowing a lot of different areas superficially.

Being a great photographer isn’t about traveling the world, to exotic places, and making interesting photos overseas.

Being a great photographer is making the best out of what you have. For not complaining where you live; and being the best photographer in your own home town.

#20. Shoot everyday for a month

The only way to become a better photographer is to shoot more. The more you shoot, the more feedback you will get, and the more connected you will feel with the world.

For a month, take at least 1 photo everyday. It can be with your smartphone, DSLR, or whatever camera you have.

Just make sure it is something personally meaningful to you. Don’t just take the photo for the sake of it. Take a photo everyday of something that stirs your heart. That makes your soul sing.

The Zen masters recommended having a “daily practice.” By repetition, we reach a deeper understanding of “truth.”

In photography, we can read a hundred photo theory books, and still not learn anything. We only learn through taking photos, repetition, feedback, critique, and constantly seeking to improve ourselves.

Don’t put pressure on yourself that everyday the photo has to be great. But just build the habit.

#21. Don’t shoot for a month

To balance out the prior experiment; try to go a month without taking any photos.

You’re not allowed to take photos for a month.

Ironically enough, this assignment might be the best way to re-invigorate your passion for photography. Why? We take photography for granted. But when something is taken away from us we appreciate it more.

#22. Shoot “selfies” for a week

Many of us complain that we don’t have interesting subjects to photograph.

Not true; your best subject is yourself. Because you’re always available, and you won’t say “no” to yourself.

There are different ways you can shoot ‘artistic selfies’ of yourself. Photograph your shadow, reflection, or put your camera on a tripod and setup a scene and shoot yourself.

To photograph yourself is an incredibly intimate experience. It is an experience that allows you to be comfortable on the other side of the camera. Not only that, but it makes you realize that no matter what, you can always photograph something — who better than yourself?

#23. Have your portrait (professionally) shot

I learned this lesson from Sara Lando: if you don’t like being photographed, have another photographer (professionally) shoot your headshot. You will learn what is comfortable (and what isn’t comfortable) being a subject.

If you are a photographer, yet you don’t like having your own photo taken, you debilitate yourself. You assume everyone else doesn’t like having their photo taken (not true).

The secret is how can you make a photo of others (and of yourself) that makes the subject comfortable, at ease, and happy to be photographed?

#24. Shoot with a focal length (you’re uncomfortable with) for a week

We all have our preferences for a certain lens or focal length. If you want to push your creative boundaries, shoot with a focal length that you are very unfamiliar or uncomfortable with for a week.

If you’re a 28mm guy, try shooting only with a 200mm lens for a week. If you’re usually a 200mm telephoto type of person, try a 35mm lens. If you usually shoot with a 50mm lens, try a 28mm lens.

By shifting our focal length, we shift our perspective, how we see the world, and how we approach our subjects.

By pushing ourselves outside of our comfort zone for a week, you will gain a new perspective and also perhaps find more gratitude for the focal length you’re already comfortable with.

Or better yet, you might find a new focal length you prefer that can help you be more creative and innovative with your work.

#25. “.7 meter challenge” (1-arm length challenge)

I learned this assignment from my buddy Satoki Nagata. If you’re uncomfortable getting close to your subjects, pre-focus your lens to .7 meters (about 1-arm length distance), and only shoot that distance for a month.

This assignment will force you to get physically and emotionally closer to your subjects.

You don’t need to shoot all your photos candidly. Ask for permission.

The more comfortable you’re shooting at a close distance, the easier it will be for you to take a step back.

#26. Decapitate heads for a week

I often find photos of hands, feet, or body gestures more interesting than faces. So the assignment is to take photos of your subjects without including their faces/heads in the photo.

Try it out: for a week “decapitate” your subjects (don’t photograph their faces). This will force you to see the other characteristics and attributes of your subject on a deeper level.

#27. Buy a mannequin (and use it as a test subject)

I learned this assignment from my friend Charlie Kirk: if you want to learn how to make better portraits, how to better use studio/flash, or how to frame, buy a mannequin as a test subject.

The great thing about having a mannequin is that you will always have a willing subject.

Try using different focal lengths, different settings, different apertures, shutter-speeds, different lighting setups, and anything else you want to experiment with.

This will allow you to better understand how to use your camera technically, how light (especially artificial light) works. Not only that, but you will have a forever patient subject at your disposal (whenever).

#28. Only shoot with a flash for a week

There is a bias in photography against shooting with a flash. People say it looks “harsh” and unnatural” when compared to using natural light.

Yet the flash helps us overcome difficult lighting situations. It gives us more freedom to shoot at different points in the day, when the light might not be so nice.

For a week, experiment taking photos only with a flash. You will discover how the flash works during the day, in the shade, indoors, and other effects it might have on your images.

Having a flash is a good tool in photography. It can help you open up creative doors and opportunities. It will give you more freedom to shoot at all points during a day.

You don’t always need to shoot with a flash, but try to learn it to the best of your ability, and you can use it in special situations (or in all situations).

#29. Put together a photo album

Today’s world is (mostly) digital. In photography, we spend 99% of our efforts sharing our photos online. Very rarely do we print our work, arrange and edit our work, and create physical objects with our photography.

Buy a cheap photo album at the store or online. Print a bunch of your photos as small 4×6’s. Then put together a photo album.

Do it with your partner, children, or friends. Make a theme, concept, or a story. Have fun. Spread the 4×6 prints on the floor, and figure out what kind of pairing, sequencing, and flow you want to add to your album.

Handling physical prints is a different experience than just looking at them on your computer or phone. The physicality of photography adds another dimension for us to be more creative, to find more by-chance connections, and for us to be more engaged with others.

Making a photo album is a nice communal activity, something that families did a lot in the past. Making photo albums can help us re-connect ourselves with the past, but also create physical documents that will be well-preserved into the future.

#30. Print your portfolio

Most of us have our portfolios online. Few of us have printed portfolios.

Look at your entire library of images, and ask yourself: Which of these 10 photos represent who I am as a photographer?

Then print out those photos at any size you like. Figure out how you would like the photos to be sequenced. Then carry them around with you, and share them with your friends. Ask them to sequence your photos according to their emotion and feeling.

Learn to show your photos as prints, rather than just a phone or computer. See how people react differently to your photos, and see how it feels different for you as a photographer.

Photos don’t exist until they’re printed. When photos exist in atoms, we have a deeper connection with them as humans. When we can hold a photo, or a memory in our hands, it feels more real. We appreciate it more, and we feel more connected with them.

I find a nagging sense of incompletion if I don’t print my photos. I appreciate my photos on my computer, but I love them when they’re printed.

This assignment will also give you a good opportunity to re-evaluate your entire body of work and ask yourself: What photos really show who I am?

#31. Give away a photo everyday (for a week)

I feel the best gift you can give others as a photographer is prints. Why? Because prints are meaningful, easy to transport, and relatively inexpensive to print.

As an assignment, print out a bunch of your photos, and for a week, give out at least 1 print a day (to a stranger, friend, your barista, family member, etc). See how it affects their mood, and your own mood.

Photos are about sharing moments, art, and history. Share a little bit of your own soul by giving away your photos. You might discover that giving away your photos for free is more meaningful than selling them.

#32. Start your own photography blog, and blog consistently for 30 days straight

I’m not a big fan of traditional “social media” – because you have no control. You’re a slave to the platform, and you don’t have as much ownership and creative opportunities.

When you create your own blog, you have more flexibility. You can publish your photos, text, and ideas in different format. If you own the blogging platform (I recommend wordpress.org) you then really own your content.

Blogs are great because they are historical documents of our past. Blogging is more difficult than sharing photos on social media, but it is also more personally meaningful.

Furthermore, if you have a blog, it is easier indexed by Google. And anyone with a web browser can access your work rather than only people on a certain social media platform.

The assignment is to start your own blog, and blog consistently for 30 days straight. It can be about anything. You can just upload a photo everyday, upload photos that inspire you, or share some personal stories behind your favorite images. Don’t take it too seriously, but try it for a consistent month.

By making a blog, you gain more ownership of your own photography, creativity, and work on the internet. If you’re a slave to a social media platform, your influence is very limited and you don’t have as many different ways to express yourself creatively.

I see blogs as the future of photography — don’t be left behind.

#33. Write down a list of photographic subjects you don’t like to photograph

How do you know what your “style” is in photography? For me, it is knowing what you don’t like to photograph.

For this assignment, figure out what genres of photography you dislike. Write them down, and simply avoid taking those photos.

Then, by process-of-elimination, figure out what kind of photographer you are (based on what you don’t like to photograph).

Most people I know who are interested in street photography don’t like to take photos of sunsets and landscapes. People I know who like to shoot flowers don’t like to take photos of people. Photographers who like to shoot monochrome generally dislike shooting color (and vice-versa).

Find out who you are via subtraction and process-of elimination. Treat your photographic style the same.

What do you not like photographing? Then just don’t photograph it — photograph the opposite.

#34. Intentionally try to take bad photos for a week

One of the biggest barriers in our photography is that we always try to take really good photos. But it is rare that we make good photos.

So flip the concept upside down: try to intentionally shoot “sh**ty photos” for a week. Get rid of your concepts of good composition, framing, and light. Just take bad photos of whatever you find interesting.

Follow your gut, soul, and instincts. Just click. Don’t think too much.

Then after a week, see if you feel more loose in your photography, less “blocked” creatively. Do you take yourself less seriously? Are you having more fun?

Perfectionism ruins us. Seek to make “good” photos. And in order to do so give yourself permission to make bad photos.

#35. Create your own photography portfolio website

If you want to be more serious with your photography (and taken more seriously), make a photography portfolio website. It can just be your firstnamelastnamephoto.com (or better yet, firstnamelastname.com).

Make your own photography website, and put on your 3 best projects (restrict each project to your 10 best photos). This way, you will be able to think more about long-term projects, rather than getting swept away in the social media madness of just uploading a single (random) photo a day.

When you pass away, what kind of body of work do you want to leave behind? Do you really think that your social media profile will exist after you pass away? Will anyone even look at it?

Having a website (instead of just having social media) is better, but not the best.

Aim on creating a body of work, and several bodies of work, then publish them as books.

#36. Buy one photo book a month (for a year)

I’m a big proponent of photography books and education. For a simple motto, remember the phrase: “Buy books, not gear.”

Gear quickly gets outdated. A great photo book will increase in value over time, both monetarily and its value to you as a photographer.

I recommend trying to invest in at least one photo book a month (for a year). You don’t need to buy an expensive photo book — invest in a book that you plan on re-reading over and over again.

I also recommend buying photo books whenever you have the urge to buy a new piece of gear. Why? Photo books will actually help improve your photography, and the novelty of a new photo book will inspire you.

Every photographer needs inspiration from somewhere. Most of us get our inspiration online, on social media.

There are great photographers online, but if you really want to learn the work of the masters, invest in photo books. Photographers spend many years, thousands of dollars, to create their own book. Therefore you’re more likely to get better images in a photo book, than just when looking online.

A good photo book will last for your entire life and will always be a great source of inspiration for you.

#37. Look at all the portfolios of all the Magnum photographers

You are what you eat. If you look at the work of great photographers, you will aspire to make great photographs.

I also go this assignment from my buddy Charlie Kirk: go to the Magnum Photos website and study all the portfolios of the Magnum photographers.

Write a list of which photographers you admire. Analyze their work, and ask yourself, “Why” you like their work.

Furthermore, when you find a photographer whose work really speaks to you, buy all their photo books, watch all their YouTube interviews, and learn as much about them as you can from them.

The more great images we look at, the more inspired we will be to make great photos. By analyzing great compositions and images, we will subconsciously take better photos when we’re shooting.

Also you will find there are a lot of Magnum photographers whose work you don’t “get” or “like.” That is fine — just think to yourself, “What about their work do I not like? And why would other people like their work?”

#38. Attend a photography workshop

I think photography workshops are great because you get a “shortcut” in your learning and education.

For a workshop, you get a distilled source of information from your teacher, often in a few days or a week.

I personally think that photography workshops are a much better “bang for the buck” than photography schools. And they’re much shorter, focused, practical, and hands-on.

Find a photography workshop on a topic that interests you. And know that you’re investing your money into your education, which is always one of the best investments for your money.

If you want practical instruction in photography, to learn, have any questions addressed, attend a workshop or two.

#39. Learn how to process black and white film

I don’t think digital is better than film, nor is film better than digital. They’re different. But more similar than dissimilar.

I feel the process of shooting film, and learning how to develop it, makes you appreciate the art and process of photography much more.

When I started off in digital photography, I took for granted that you could take a photo and instantly see it on the back of your LCD screen.

Shooting film has taught me patience, appreciation for the process, and the tactile hands-on approach.

If you’ve never processed your own black and white film, give it a try. There are tons of YouTube tutorials on how to do it. By processing your own black and white photos , you will feel a lot more connected with your images. You might fall in love with the process and the magic.

After shooting film for several years, I came back to digital photography with new enthusiasm. I appreciated digital photography so much more in terms of the convenience, the flexibility, and the modern technology.

If you’ve never processed your film before, give it a go. And not only that, but try to print your photos in a darkroom at least once — the experience might totally change how you view photography.

#40. Photograph only hand gestures for a day

I think that great photos tend to have two things: 1) Great composition and 2) Great emotion.

We all know how to make better compositions. Few of us know how to capture emotions.

A practical way to capture better emotions: capture hand-gestures and body language of your subjects.

So for a whole day, do nothing but photograph people doing interesting hand-gestures. Not only that, but afterwards, look at your photos (with hand-gestures in them), and mimic the hand-gesture. This will help you connect emotionally, and empathize with your subjects.

Photos of people just walking (and doing nothing with their hands) tends to be boring. Hand-gestures are much more dynamic, interesting, and emotional.

Much of communication is body-language and hand-gesture based. Photos are silent and don’t say words. But hand-gestures do.

I hope this list of 40 photography assignments will help inspire and uplift you. It is hard to stay motivated in your photography, but know that photography isn’t a race. Photography is a personal journey for yourself. You want to take your time, enjoy the process, and gain personal meaning through your photography.

Never compete with any other photographer. Don’t compare yourself to other photographers by how many followers/likes you have on social media.

Only gauge your progress in photography by your own standards of yourself, and by your own gut.

Know that dips in motivation in photography are natural and part of the game. What matters the most is how are you going to overcome these mental blocks and barriers in your photography. Are you going to let them encourage you to try harder? Or are you going to give up photography all-together.

Tenacity and staying in the game of photography is the goal. Never give up friend. Let’s stick in photography together for the long-haul.

About the author : Eric Kim is an international street photographer. You can find more of his photography and writing on his website and blog . This article was also published here .

• Skip to primary navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar
• Skip to footer

DIGITAL PHOTO MENTOR

Photography tips, tutorials and guides for Beginner and Intermediate Photographers.

10 Creative Photography Assignments to Inspire You Into Action

by Andrew S Gibson | Last Updated: November 8, 2022

Finding interesting things to photograph can be one of the most difficult things for a photographer to do.

You’re surrounded by potentially interesting subjects, but you might not realize it if you’re stuck for inspiration. I have been stuck, so I know what that feels like.

The good news is that the world is full of interesting ideas and subjects. All you have to do is find the good ones and develop them into personal photography projects that work for you.

Of course, wouldn’t be easier if you could find lots of ideas in one place?

That’s why I wrote an ebook called 100 Creative Photography Assignments . It gives you lots of ideas for projects that you can do close to home, without traveling to exotic locations.

The book is structured into 20 broad themes, with five assignments for each theme.

To give you a taste of what’s in the book, and to help you get inspired into action here are 10 of my favorite assignments. (The theme for each is shown in brackets after the assignment number and name)

Assignment 3: Urban trees (trees)

Humans have planted trees in formal gardens for centuries to bring nature into towns and cities. Photographing trees in urban environments gives you something that is different than traditional landscapes.

How can you explore the juxtaposition of man-made and natural items?

In the photo below, the tree, which is obviously well-cared for fits in perfectly with the historic home. The two go together, as intended.

But in other situations, you might find a jarring contrast between the natural and urban environments. That is called juxtaposition and it can make for some really striking images.

Assignment 8: People and the sea (or a lake)

How do people interact with the sea?

The sea has strong links to leisure, sport, and industry, all of which have plenty of potential photographically. Think beyond simple photos of people on summer holidays. How can you explore the relationship between people and water in more depth?

Another approach is to show scale and photograph people in a way that shows the vast size and scope of the ocean. Yet another is to show people battling the weather, perhaps fishermen at sea.

Assignment 20: Framed by color (frames)

Some frames are visual rather than literal. One way to make a visual frame is to look for compositions where the main subject is surrounded by a solid block of color, as in the photo below.

This is another assignment that tests your observational skills. It also has the potential to make an interesting series. What happens when you group a set of photos that use color as a frame together?

Assignment 24: Weathered surfaces (texture)

Old buildings of all descriptions are made of materials with interesting textures. The definition of old is relative, your chosen building might be hundreds of years old or just a few.

The important thing is that it looks old. That means visible signs of weathering, like the metal wall and wooden door frame in the photo below. Some texture surfaces, like rust, also have interesting colors that you can use to your advantage.

Assignment 31: On the outside (buildings)

One approach to photographing buildings is to include as much of the building as possible in the frame. But what happens if you take another approach?

Have you ever stopped to notice the interesting things that people put outside buildings?

In Italy, I found a shrine on the outside of a colorful red building in Venice (below). In the United States window boxes and mailboxes are commonplace. Nearly everywhere you go you’ll see plants in pots outside people’s homes.

All these items make potentially interesting subjects and have the potential to be turned into an interesting series.

This assignment gets more interesting when you do it in different places, and compare the things you find outside buildings in one place with those in another location.

Assignment 39: Urban decay (your local neighborhood)

Some buildings can look good for centuries if they’re well maintained. But others soon fall into decay, especially if they’re not kept up. Look for the beauty in decayed or run-down buildings.

You expect older buildings to be in a state of disrepair, especially if you live in a country that has plenty of ruins. But more modern, urban decay can be just as interesting.

Why do modern buildings fall into disrepair? What stories do they tell about their neighborhoods, towns, and cities?

Another approach to this idea is to photograph urban decay in other countries, and then compare the results with what you capture in your local area.

Assignment 54: Capture the character of a place (b/w)

The absence of color gives you another way of capturing the character of a place. Yes, it’s true that in some areas color is an essential part of the essence of the place. But in others, it’s less important.

Working in black and white gives you a chance to see through the colors and get to the essence of a place. Visually speaking that’s texture, contrast, and tone.

But in another way, black and white images seem to help you see further and deeper. They’re moody, atmospheric, and timeless. Use these characteristics to create a set of photos that capture the character of a place.

It’s also an assignment you can do when you travel. It’s easier because you get to see everything with fresh eyes. But for a real challenge try it in your local neighborhood, where familiarity can prevent you from seeing things that might be obvious to newcomers.

Assignment 62: Embrace hard light (light and shadow)

In this assignment, your brief is to photograph a scene on a sunny day when shadows are falling across the subject in an interesting way.

Look at the way the sun casts shadows across the scene during the day. How do the shadows move as the sun moves across the sky? Do the shadows make interesting shapes?

For example, in the photo below the shadow falling across the building comes from a neighboring house and you can clearly see the chimney.

Assignment 71: Signs (everyday objects)

We’re surrounded by signs – signs that tell us which way to go, what to do, that advertise to us, state the name of a business, or tell us about roadworks.

Signs are designed to be informative, but they can also tell a story. Signs in the American mid-west look different from signs in New York City. Signs here in the UK look different from the ones in rural France. Old signs have character and tell you something about the place.

What interesting photos can you make using signs?

Assignment 94: People in the landscape (landscape)

Some landscapes are empty or void of visitors. But others are closer to large population centers and therefore you’re more likely to see other people there in the scene. The idea of a pristine landscape untouched by man is appealing, but it’s also interesting to see how people interact with the scene.

One way to approach this assignment is to use people for scale. A human figure can anchor a composition and show the width and breadth of the landscape. A small figure in the frame emphasizes the size of the landscape, and the idea of people being small compared to the beauty of nature.

The photo below juxtaposes two elements of human interaction. The stone pillar is part of a Neolithic settlement, and the people on the right are modern visitors who came to see it.

Taking it further – traveling and exploring your archives

You’ll get the most from these assignments if you make new photos for them. They’ll get you thinking about your local neighborhood – and areas a little further afield – in a new way.

The beauty of these assignments is that most of them are repeatable. You can select your favorites and use them as themes to follow when you’re traveling away from home.

You might also find that you can go through your archives and find photos that match a particular assignment. It’s an interesting exercise because you’ll start to see themes and connections that you didn’t realize were there.

For example, I have photos that fit Assignment 39: Urban decay from Alaska, Chile, and my hometown (see above). And I can continue to explore this theme when I travel to new places as well.

These ideas are explored further in Creative Photography Assignments: Themes & Projects, a bonus ebook that comes with 100 Creative Photography Assignments.

100 Creative Photography Assignments

Buy 100 Creative Photography Assignments now for just $14 USD.

Buy it now and get out there taking photos!

Note from Darlene: This is perfect if you want to get out there doing some photography. But maybe due to covid, finances, or other circumstances you can’t currently travel. Look no further than your front door to get started! To really challenge yourself do the 100 assignments one a day for the next 100 days!

About Andrew S Gibson

Andrew S. Gibson is a writer based in England’s southwest. His interest in photography began when his parents bought him a Ricoh KR-10m camera more than 20 years ago. Since then, he’s taken photos in over 60 countries, studied for a degree in photography, and worked as Technical Editor for EOS magazine. Today, he makes a living helping people make better photos through ebooks and photography courses.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

You must be logged in to post a comment.

Learn Photography Basics

Yes, you can learn to take better photos! It’s my passion to help you learn the photography basics and take better pictures. It’s also the same reason I teach workshops, do photo travel tours, and have online photography courses available.

Enroll in our free photography basics for beginners course, or 12-part portrait photography course , also free.

Recent Photography Articles

• How To Plan for and Take the Best Photos of Special Events When Traveling
• Get Into Gear By Completing 10 Powerful Composition Challenges
• Lifestyle Photography Tips for Realistic Portrait Photos
• Step-by-Step Guide to Making Stunning Portraits With One Light
• How To Discover and Develop Your Unique Photography Style

Useful Links

• Beginner Photography
• Intermediate Photography
• Photography Challenges
• Photography Tips
• Photo Editing
• Recommended Amazon Products
• Course Login
• Write for Us

40 Creative Photography Ideas To Try When You Need Inspiration

This blog post may contain affiliate links.  I may earn a small commission for any purchases made through these links. Click  here  for the disclosure statement.

All photos are original to the author unless otherwise noted. 

Fun Challenges for Beginners to Improve Photography Techniques

Challenge yourself with these photography ideas that encourage you to explore new styles or skills outside your comfort zone and strengthen your basic photography techniques; restricting your equipment and photographing other styles is a way to inspire fresh ideas and gain new skills.

Use Only One Camera Lens

Spending a day using the same lens helps to understand the strength and weaknesses of that lens for any situation.

Shoot Horizontal and Vertical

Challenge your photographic eye by taking horizontal and vertical pictures of the same subject and see how the scene transforms with a different perspective.

Shoot Only In One Mode

Aperture and shutter priority modes give you control of a single element while the camera automatically controls the other settings. Restricting yourself to using only one mode for a day is an excellent way to pick up the basics of photography and how they impact the photo.

Use A Phone Camera For Photography

Phone cameras take great landscape photos with minimal variations in ISO , aperture, and shutter speed ; challenge yourself to push the limits of the phone and create artistic pictures using the hidden tricks of phone photography,

Wrong Camera Lens

Intentionally photograph with lenses not best suited for that subject, such as using a wide angle lens for portrait photography or a macro lens for landscape photography. Discover how to use a lens’s limitations to your advantage to expand how you mentally see pictures and create unique photos. 

Capture Nine Critical Photography Elements

In a single location look for interesting ways to showcase the essence of light, shadows, lines, texture, color, size, depth, patterns , and negative space . 

Learn the Art of Post Processing

Amazing photography doesn’t happen after the shutter clicks, the best photos come to life after editing. Experiment with various editing styles, master an unfamiliar tool, or research new tricks in your favorite editing tool.

Avoid Looking At The In Camera Images

Challenge yourself to learn the exposure metrics ( shutter speed , ISO , aperture , and exposure compensation) found in the viewfinder, which will aid you in learning the elements of the exposure triangle and boost your photography skills with and without the LCD screen. 

Experiment With Artificial and Natural Light

Lighting is one of the most vital components in photography, which is applied artistically to impact tone, color, and exposure. Invest in artificial lighting equipment and explore the diverse ways light alters your images or learn how to work with natural light at any time of day .

• Black and White

Using this popular photography technique is a great way to become comfortable with harsh light and create cool photos where light is the subjects.

At-Home Photography Project Ideas

1 room, 72 photos.

Set a goal to stay in one room until you’ve taken 72 photos.  This will challenge you to expand your comfort zone and get creative with the everyday objects you have inside your home

28 Day Photo Challenge

• Self Portrait
• Rule of Thirds
• Macro Photography
• Reflections
• Forced Perspective
• Leading Lines
• Slow Shutter
• Good Habits

One Subject 

Take a picture of the same object every day in different settings. If the object itself changes daily – like a plant – take a picture in the same spot every day and watch how it evolves. Pets are another good option because you can never have too many pictures of your furry friend.

Single Color Challenge

Innovative photoshoot ideas for artistic pictures .

Create unique images using abstract photography that leaves the viewer wondering what it is.

Tell A Photo Story In Series Of Pictures

Tell a complete story in 5 images or fewer. 

4 Seasons  

Show the transition of the same season through the changing seasons.

Capture and image with only three colors.

Extraordinarily Ordinary

Look for photography inspiration in a common object or illustrate a routine such as a cup of coffee or a morning routine and turn them into unique pieces of art.

Photograph something to look different than it does in reality. Ideas for deceptive photos could be objects appearing larger or smaller than they are or capturing images of landscape in an urban environment. 

Unusual Subject

Take pictures of a subject most people wouldn’t.

Photograph something from underneath it, for a more compelling subject chose something you wouldn’t ordinarily see the bottom of. 

Take a picture while looking down; this would be a great opportunity to explore drone photography.

Mirror Reflections

 Photograph a reflection without showing the camera in the reflection.

Cool Photography Challenges for Eye-Catching Pictures

Create unique images that showcase the elaborate architecture used to build bridges.

Something Old, Abandoned, Or Broken

Pictures of old, abandoned objects or buildings create a beautiful juxtaposition of art and the forgotten.

Disposable Cameras

Taking artsy photos with a disposable camera is a fun retro challenge that allows you to focus on composition since there is zero setting controls or the ability to view immediate results. 

Capture murals , texture, patterns, and history in this simple but powerful subject.

Photograph the intricate details of antique doors.

Portable Subject 

Carry a subject, like a l ens ball , with you and have it in every picture

Tilt-Shift Photography

Use a macro or tilt-shift lens to photograph a lifelike scene with action figures, toys, or miniature cities.

A Glitch In The Matrix  

Inspired by How To’s by John Wilson , capture artistic photos of obscure things that don’t belong where you spotted them. For example, shoes on a telephone wire.

Go sightseeing in your own city and take pictures of iconic murals, buildings, or landmarks.

Picked And Edited By Someone Else

Sometimes we are own worst critic and it’s entertaining to see what others like about your photography or gain a new perspective on the images you capture. Coordinate with a friend to photograph a similar subject, then swap the raw files, then each of you chooses your favorite image of the other’s to edit for them.

Bad weather such as snow, rain, and fog creates the most interesting art photography

Stages of Life

In a single photo, capture different stages of life without using human subjects.

CREATIVE PHOTO CHALLENGES WHEN YOU NEED INSPIRATION

It’s natural to become desensitized to things we see every day and forget to search for interesting ideas close to home; it’s surprising what you notice when you open your eyes to the things you look past every day. If you are in a creative rut and need a challenge to inspire you, try these photography project ideas that are designed to help you see photo opportunities in seemingly mundane places and challenge you to think in new and creative ways.

Photograph something that starts with each letter of the alphabet

Go on a long walk and stop to take a picture within eyesight every 100, or whatever interval you choose. Don’t skip any stops and force yourself to come up with innovative ways to capture what is available.

Pick A Photography Theme  

Pick a theme such as color, shape, or objects and try to photograph subjects that represent that theme.

Spell Words With Photographs 

Choose a meaningful word and attempt to find interesting letters that spell the word.

Re-Shoot Old Photos

Recapture your old favorite photos or improve ones you didn’t love.  

Oil and Water Challenge

Place multicolored paper under a glass container full of oil and water, stir, and use a macro lens to take artistic photos of bubbles and vibrant colors for a cool photo project with common household objects.

Visit Your Favorite Place 

Visit your favorite place and use imagery to portray what makes your favorite place special to you.

Recreate Famous Art

Add your own creative flair to recreations of famous art or challenge your skills attempting to create an exact replica.

Artistic Photos Scavenger Hunt

A way to get creative and have fun with photography when you are out of ideas is taking artsy photos of pre-made scavenger hunt finds . 

Products Recommended in This Post

You may also like.

Delaney is a Business Analyst by day and a travel and wildlife photographer by night who is using her skills for translating complex technical language into easy to understand concepts to make photography achievable at all skill levels. You have questions; she has answers.

Understanding Minimalist Photography

Photographer’s Guide to Japan’s Most Popular Cities: Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka

Creating Effective High Key Photography

A photographer’s Guide To White Sands National Park

1-Week Yosemite, Kings Canyon, & Sequoia Itinerary

The Only 3 Lenses You’ll Ever Need

You May Also Enjoy

Secrets for capturing stunning macro photography

10 Tips For Better Travel Photography

25 Inspirational Photography Quotes

10 Common Lightroom Mistakes and How to Overcome Them

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Notify me of follow-up comments by email.

Notify me of new posts by email.

• Landscape, wildlife, and travel photographer based in Austin, Texas.

Get In Touch

• Shop Prints
• Guest Writers

Weekly Newsletter

Photo Books

• Fleece Blankets
• Ceramic Mugs
• Wedding Invites
• Anniversaries
• Baby Showers
• Cards and Stationery
• Father's Day
• Photo Prints

Wedding Invitations

65+ photography project ideas you can start today.

Written by  Shutterfly Community Last Updated: Dec 8, 2020

Do you want to sharpen your skills, learn fresh techniques or just have fun with your camera? Photography projects help you accomplish all three.

Shop Trending Categories

Christmas Cards

Canvas Prints

Photo Ornaments

Through themed projects, you can capture unique images that follow a certain framework or style. Your project can last a week, month or year—depending on how in depth you’d like to go. To offer you inspiration, we’ve compiled 68 creative photography projects that are appropriate for all skill levels.

Once you’ve completed your project, be sure to create a photo book with your images or select your favorite for a canvas print .

1. Self Portrait

By switching the focus from other subjects to yourself as the subject, your photography takes on a whole new perspective. When setting up your shot, choose a landmark item to use as a stand-in until you’re ready to jump in the frame.

Play with auto and manual focus with your stand-in until you get the shot just right. Then, enter the scene using the timer option.

For the wisdom project, the goal is to gather photographs of those who have offered you wisdom or a helpful perspective. You might feature grandparents or mentors—or be inclined to include young ones who have provided you a fresh angle on life.

Aim to capture individuals in their natural state, especially if it’s in a location where they shared a special moment with you.

3. Candid Photo

Photographing someone in their natural state allows for their true personality to shine through. With a candid photography project, incorporate a range of human subjects for a diverse collection, or capture the same subject across different settings and days.

Building a portfolio of several candids allows you to paint a vivid persona of your subjects.

4. Street Style Photography

Authentic street style photography allows you to snag shots of the latest fashion—all without the strut of the runway. Look for colors first (either eye-catching or stunningly neutral), then watch for the cut and structure of the clothes.

Aim for overall beauty within the frame, including the street or walkway, so the focus isn’t solely on the clothes.

5. All About The Details

Create a collection of shots with unique subjects that focus on the details. Whether the photos are for an engagement , graduation or everyday occasion, you can take portraits of smaller details, like wisps of hair, relaxed hands and prominent features. Making your subjects feel comfortable and confident in front of the camera is the first priority. Plan a single shoot for various angles to help capture what looks best on a given day or moment.

6. Natural Element

Plan for your gallery of photos to include candid shots of the subject in their element. Whether they love the beach or like to craft, you can capture your subject in their favorite space or place to go.

If a subject feels awkward in front of the camera, have him or her lean against something vertical, like a fence, wall or car. They’ll feel more anchored and their body angle will offer the photo some character without seeming unnatural.

7. Pet Photography

From cats to dogs to horses, the heart and soul of your pets can be captured with the right technique. Incorporate natural light in your shoot keep watch of your pet’s eyes. Expressions and personality often shine through and it’s a great time to capture these moments.

8. Motherhood

Being a mother is one of life’s greatest gifts. When we’re parents, beautiful moments take place along with messy and chaotic ones. Encapsulate the full spectrum of motherhood with photos from quiet moments like snuggling with your child to lively times like cooking together in the kitchen.

With any photography project, it’s important that your images tell a story.

9. Panoramic Pictures

A popular technique for landscapes, panoramic photography enlarges the viewpoint beyond the normal size of a camera lens. To ensure there are no gaps in your panoramic shot, overlap your image by 15-30%.

You’ll also want to keep your camera as level as possible to ensure the photo is even throughout. Don’t forget that panos work well for vertical shots, too, like waterfalls and deep canyons.

10. Sunsets Photos

Sunsets make for stunning photos—especially when executed well. For maximum beauty, be sure to slightly underexpose the sunset for rich and dramatic colors. Use manual mode and a fast shutter speed for underexposure, or use aperture priority with exposure compensation.

Make your sunset even more magnificent by arranging an object or scene in the foreground of the sunset, like a lake or mountain.

Mist and fog are natural elements that can enhance the beauty of your photography. Check the weather to determine when fog might pop up. Oftentimes the best lighting for fog photos occurs in the wee hours of the morning or late in the evening after sunset. The low lighting causes a slower shutter speed, which means a shakier camera.

Keep your camera as still as possible or use a tripod. The best places for foggy photos? Open bodies of water and other sweeping landscapes like fields and low rolling hills.

12. Cityscapes

Hovering skyscrapers and diverse skylines are part of what makes cityscapes such attractive photography. For a cityscapes project, try different vantage points across the city to see what works best (think: a popular lookout compared with a more secret locale).

Prepare for an after sunset shoot, allowing the city lights to pop against the dark sky. Remember to use a wide angle lens to cover as much ground as possible.

13. Water (Rain, Ocean)

Whether you’re hoping to create scenes of smooth, flowing water or capture dynamic waves crashing against a seawall, it’s critical to have better than average camera equipment. For nearly every water shot, a tripod is also essential to keep the frame still for the length of the exposure (usually two to four seconds).

Pack along a lens-friendly cloth to remove splashes and water marks. Plan to get wet if you’re banking on a stunning water shot.

14. Seasons

Each season offers its own charms—from snowy branches to colored leaves. Select a location for your seasons project where you’ll snap photos throughout all four seasons. Once the year is complete, you’ll have a collection of stunning images that tell the story of your special place over the course of a year.

15. Star Trails

Spectacular from edge to edge, star trails photography is an adventure to shoot. The first step is to find a clear sky full of stars, but free of pollution and other light interference. Anchoring your camera on a tripod, set your camera to shoot on manual mode. The faster the lens you have, the better.

Once you have your shot prepared, select drive mode for consecutive shots rather than a single frame. With your remote, let your camera take photos for thirty minutes up to a few hours, depending on the length of star trails you’re creating.

Capturing still images with a remote-controlled drone opens up the options for angles and perspectives in your photography. Consider sending a drone above a beach, golf course or mountaintop.

Increase the altitude of your drone for a more impressive viewpoint and try GPS mode for a more stable shot.

17. Food Photography

As a still life technique, food photography requires a few main ingredients: good lighting, props and style. Place your items near natural lighting or use a flash to give the photo a balanced look. When it comes to the arrangement, consider adding in table setting details like plates and silverware.

Amplify the photo’s texture with decorative pieces like colorful fruits and sprigs of herbs. For a well-rounded food photography project, shoot a variety of foods and dishes.

18. Black and White Month

Instead of using the full color spectrum, this project idea prompts you to capture images in black and white only. Two-toned photography provides a different perspective or feel to your work, and gives you a chance to highlight people, places and objects in a novel way.

For instance, a close-up of hands be enticing when displayed in color, but in black and white, the image paints the story that all humankind is united.

19. Everyday Moments

Photos that showcase a slice of regular life contain a certain genuine beauty. When preparing for everyday moment shots, make sure subjects are comfortable. People should interact as if you aren’t even present.

The true magic happens when you’re able to capture two people’s true connection.

20. Random Acts of Kindness

The random acts of kindness project prompts you to capture someone doing something thoughtful or helpful for another person. By photographing these moments, you’re telling a larger story of humanity.

To be successful in this project, you’ll need to keep a keen eye out for small acts of generosity, like a young man holding the door or a little girl smiling at a stranger.

21. Shoes For a Week

Narrow your photography focus for a week by capturing different styles of footwear. From boots to sandals to athletic shoes, diversify your image collection. Be sure to utilize a range of angles to create unique stories for each photo (i.e. a guy lounging with shoes on, two people talking while standing, a woman running).

22. Comfort Zone Challenge

Pushing the limits of your creativity often leaves you with impressive and surprising results. With the comfort zone challenge, throw caution to the wind and experiment without expectations.

Maybe that means you’ll shoot a paragliding experience, a fireworks explosion or animals in action. When you’re snapping shots, play around with your shutter speed, aperture, focal length and movement.

23. 30 Strangers

Taking a photo of someone whom you’ve only just met can be thrilling. It can also be personally and professionally rewarding. Through the 30 strangers project, you’ll capture 30 portraits of people you’ve never met before. Find people on the street, in a shopping mall or at a park.

Be sure to ask each person’s consent first before posting publicly. The 30 strangers challenge will certainly stretch you outside of your artistic comfort zone.

24. Duotone

Duotone photography refers to a multitone production of an image, usually imposed through photo editing techniques. The superimposition of a contrasting color halftone (normally black) over another color halftone enhances the middle tones of an image.

Photographs with one main object, like a flower, seashell or tree, are ideal for creating duotone effects.

25. Perspective

Perspective photography can take many forms: those shot from a low angle, ones with strong leading lines and those that look straight up into the sky. Whether your scene is a railroad track or skyscraper, your image should emphasize the angle and the unique perspective you’re hoping to give the viewer.

Train your eye to notice patterns, lines and reflections you can capture from different angles.

Not only is coffee delicious and rejuvenating, it’s also a work of art. Collaborate with a barista on a latte design or the type of mug to use. Choose a simple backdrop so the coffee remains the focal point.

A dark backdrop is best if you’re aiming to capture the steam rolling off of a warm drink.

27. Create a Photo Album

Let your memories last forever by creating a photo album for a recent vacation, an adventurous summer or a year filled with fun. Design your photo album with a theme in mind to build cohesion. Vary your layouts from page to page for texture and personality.

28. Traffic Lights

When photographing traffic lights and other light trails, the best time is during or after twilight on a night when minimal wind is present. Based on your camera angle and objects, you’ll need to adjust and experiment with your settings.

Often times, shutter priority mode is ideal along with a shutter speed of six seconds. Make stability a non-issue with a tripod, and remember you won’t be using a flash.

29. Happy Days

Allow joy to take the center stage of your photos. Whether they’re candid shots of family members interacting or a single subject, make sure the smiles are natural. Enhance the happiness level by highlighting the subject with ample natural lightening.

30. Photo Scavenger Hunt

Challenge yourself and your fellow photographers by setting up a photo scavenger hunt . Rather than choosing objects and locations to capture, create a list of photography styles to achieve. For instance, your list might include building a motion blur or catching a clear action shot. At the end of your hunt, you’ll have a collection of impressive photographs.

31. Night Scenes

Night scenes, also known as low light photography, allow you to make the most of dark scenes that are hard to capture. When less light is present, it means you’ll also have slower shutter speeds, which equals more camera shake. For this reason, landscapes and long exposures at night time require tripods.

Whether you’re shooting special moments around the campfire or gazing up at the stars, utilize a wide aperture or a low f-number to let in as much light as possible.

32. Polaroids

Polaroids offer a timeless feel and give photos a natural frame. When creating a collection of polaroids, be sure to switch up your angles and perspectives. Try a few upclose shots of objects along with macro shots of mountains and lakes.

For polaroids with human subjects, allow for plenty of natural light and aim for candids.

33. Letters/Signs

With any inanimate object, the challenge with photography is to bring it to life. With letters and signs, try to enrich the shot with the surrounding scene whether it’s greenery or a neat light fixture. Angle your lens in a way that makes the lettering most striking.

Build a full photography project with at least five to ten different signs.

34. Action Shots

To nail a clear action shot—for sports, animals or anything else—the most important aspect is to be prepared. Consider pre-focusing your shot, so when the subject enters the frame, you’re ready.

Because it may take several shots to capture even one solid photo, shoot in short bursts for a few seconds at a time. Keep extra space at either edge of your frame to allow for your subject’s movement.

35. Abstract

Fundamental to abstract photography are lines and curves. The shapes you highlight will guide the viewer’s eye to a certain engaging element. To get up close and personal with an object or design, use a macro lens. With the macro, your photo composition will have clearer resolution and sharpness. Complete your project by gathering a collection of abstract photo pieces.

36. New Lens

Your camera equipment plays a large role in your work as a photographer. Your tools, like your lenses, can fundamentally change the structure your art.

To sharpen your skills, try using a single lense for an entire month. Ideally, the lense will be new to you—allowing you to master the new tool and broaden your photography skills.

37. Architecture

Photographing architecture—whether modern or classic—presents unique challenges. Consider capturing an array of building styles for your portfolio and don’t forget to mix up your angles. Vary your shots by choosing a different weather conditions and times of day.

Through your diversity of shots, you’ll have richer story of the buildings’ relationship with the environment.

38. Thankful

To enhance your gratitude and happiness, consider completing a thankful project where you take one photo every day of something you’re grateful for. From flowers to pets to family members, find subjects that have personal meaning to you.

By capturing what you’re thankful for, you connect deeper with the people, places and things that surround you.

39. Sunday Mornings

Whether you’re enjoying a cup of coffee or a good book, snap a photo every Sunday morning for one month or a year. Capturing everyday occurrences through photography is a form of artistic journaling, helping you to document life’s big and small moments.

40. Top View

The angle of your shot makes all the difference in how appealing and engaging it is. Try a series of photos where your perspective comes from the top. Amp up the creativity by getting higher for your shoot and using a wide angle lens.

A busy environment, like a packed street or active household, can become a striking composition when using a top view perspective because it offers necessary distance from the cluttered setting.

41. Guilty Pleasures

We all have foods and activities we love despite feeling that they might not be held in high regard. Perhaps your guilty pleasure is cream-filled donuts or binge watching reruns of your favorite sitcom.

Collecting images of your guilty pleasures will likely bring you humor and levity, knowing that these items are a part of you, but they don’t necessarily define you.

42. Silhouettes

Forming a distinct contrast between light and dark, silhouettes highlight one or multiple subjects. Ensure your subject is backlit with the sun behind them. The best times to shoot silhouettes are in the morning or late evening.

Build a stunning image by setting the scene with open space, like in a field or along the beach. Set up your camera angle facing the sun, then ask your subject to stand between the sun and you. Play around with the exact angle until you have a strong contrast.

Create a collection of photos shot with prism filters on your lens or by placing a prism in front of your lens. The light that dances off of the prism will add creative effects to your photography by dispersing light before it hits the camera. Secure your camera on a tripod so you can have your hands free to play with the prism and lighting.

Prism photography can include large subjects like nature scenes and architecture or smaller objects like books and candles.

44. Symmetry

Finding subjects that offer you symmetry is the foundational step for this photography project idea. Look for symmetry in architecture and nature, but don’t leave out human and animals subjects. Smaller details, like hands or feet, often make for the perfect symmetrical photo.

Bokeh photography is denoted by one unique characteristic: a blur produced in the out-of-focus area of an image. The blur, produced by a lens, helps direct the focus of the photo. A fast lens is necessary to achieve this technique, with at least an f/2.8 aperture.

With a wide open lens, you can create bokeh with subjects like butterflies, humans and fencing around a baseball field. These photos are perfect for framing around your home .

46. Action Figures

Due to their size, action figures are easy to rearrange and shoot from multiple angles. Bring the scene to life by having the figures interact with each other. If you’re looking for an extra challenge, tell a story through your action figures, like one you would find in a comic book. Include action shots against a simple backdrop.

47. Steel Wool

Although it may seem like steel wool photography would require expensive equipment, it is a surprisingly inexpensive technique. For this project, you’ll need the following: a camera, lens, tripod, shutter cable, steel wool, string, stainless steel whisk, lighter and protective gloves. In a dark location—away from combustible items and other people—burn steel wool that’s loosely packed in a whisk.

As the steel wool burns, spin the whisk either vertically or horizontally to create the desired effect. The burning will only last about ten seconds, so you’ll want to set up for at least five seconds of exposure time. Steel wool photography creates wild and interesting images, but be sure to follow safety precautions to avoid hazards.

To enhance your skills and test out a nifty shooting technique, try macro photography on tiny subjects like insects, match-heads and flowers. Keeping your budget in mind, choose a magnification lens that lets you make super small items appear larger than life. For your macro project, vary your subjects.

Consider nature’s smallest members, miniature household items and up close shots of human elements for your portfolio.

49. Double Exposure

Double exposure, also known as multiple exposure, is a technique that combines two images in a single image. By using double exposure, you can create a distinct effect like a mirror image or ghost-like presence. The layering technique can be done with or without photoshop, depending on your equipment and skill set.

50. Escapism

Photography, like any type of art, can be a form of escapism. Through the camera, we can create images that help us step out of reality and into our daydreams. Prepare for your escapism photography project by thinking of your ‘happy places’ or locations you go to get away.

After brainstorming, head to one of those locations and shoot scenes that offer a mystical aura—whether it’s birds fluttering in the forest or the clouds lifting off of the mountains.

51. Shadow Art

Just as light is a critical element to photography, so is darkness. With shadow art, the focus is placed on the subject as it blocks light from reaching a surface, like a sidewalk or table. Experiment with the angle, distance and size of your light source to alter the intensity and scale of your shadows.

Consider humans as your subjects, but inanimate objects, too, like musical instruments, buildings and action figures.

52. Texture

From brick walls to tiled roofs to wooden fences, textures are all around us. Complete a photo challenge where you take one shot of a textured surface every day. Turn on your auto focus to ensure the object is in perfect focus. Adjust your distance from the subject based on how much detail you want in your image. This idea is perfect if you’re also looking for creative Instagram photo ideas .

Aim for a ninety degree angle when you shoot the image so your texture is lined up straight with the camera.

53. 365 Wardrobe

On each day of the year, snap photos of your clothes before you begin the day. Arrange them differently—sometimes orderly, sometimes more carelessly—to gain a sense of how your mood changed from day to day. Remember to include accessories like purses, shoes, belts and headbands.

54. Suspend Time

Photography is a powerful art medium: it can even pause time. Whether you’re suspending an item with a fishing line or taking a shot of someone jumping, you can create the look of time being stopped. Start this photography project by choosing three items or people you’d like to suspend.

55. Balloons

Bursting with color or more neutral tones, balloons make for versatile props. Let helium balloons off into the sky and capture photos as they float up. Surround the birthday girl with balloons in an otherwise empty room. Or tie a balloon to a child’s wrist and photograph them as they wander through a park.

56. Hotel Carpet

If you travel frequently, the hotel carpet project may be the right kind of fun for you. Next time you’re walking through a hotel lobby, glance down at the carpet beneath your feet. All sorts of patterns and colors are used in hotel carpets across the world. Take a snapshot (ideally at a 90-degree angle) of each carpet for a collection that will help you remember all of the places you’ve been.

Across neighborhoods and cities, doors provide insight to each home’s character. For this photography project, set out on an adventure to collect as many styles and sizes of doors as possible. Choose a macro approach, where the whole door makes the shot, or go micro by narrowing the frame to door handles and styles of wood.

58. Juxtaposition

To build juxtaposition in your photographs, place two opposite subjects next to one another. Like a blue ocean and a green forest, the contrast between the two is noticeable yet stunning. Types of juxtaposition might include a person and their shadow or a thin item next to a thicker item. For this photography project, try several contrasting subjects or locations.

Photos full of irony can be humorous or thought-provoking. Maybe you snap an image of a tow truck hauling another tow truck or you notice a descriptive sign in a place that doesn’t quite seem to fit. When it comes to ironic photos, a keen eye is needed along with a quick wit.

60. Fairy Lights

Fairy lights make for beautiful focal points. You can wrap the lights around a tree, weave them between human subjects or fill mason jars with them. Build a larger scene by ensuring no backdrop distractions are present or capture the fairy lights up close.

Regardless of what subjects and scenes you decide to shoot, proper exposure is crucial.

For this photography project, choose smoke as your primary accent. Incense sticks are easy to use and allow you to play with various colors. Your setup should ensure ample ventilation for the smoke to escape the room. Some photographers merge two photographs (one of the smoke and one of the object) to design a special scene, like one of a toy train blowing smoke or a tea kettle steaming.

62. Vintage Cars

From sporty models to classic town cars, vintage vehicles never go out of style. Look for vintage makes at car rallies and exhibitions, although sometimes you’ll come across them in your everyday happenings. The golden hours, right after sunrise or right before sunset, are ideal for shooting cars. Highlight specific parts, like bumpers, trunks and hoods for diverse perspectives.

63. Faces In Things

You’ve probably seen images that double as a face and another object. In this photography project, you’ll create a similar effect. Take a close look at nature, food and furniture to locate hidden human faces. Compile as many faces as you can, and see if your friends can guess what’s in the images.

Alter your perspective by shooting your subject through a picture frame. The frame technique works best outdoors where you can place ample distance between your lens and your subject. Consider creating scenes with a woman standing on the beach, a tree in an open field or a tall building at the end of a street.

65. Reflections

Any body of water—like a lake, river, pond or swimming pool—can act as your reflective tool for this photography project. You’ll want to avoid direct light on the water to eliminate glare. Practice using reflections on waterfront cityscapes or mountains overlooking a lake.

66. Take My Hand

When you can represent human connection in photography, the emotion of the image is strengthened. Head out on a hike or stroll through a garden to practice photographing two hands linked together.

67. Picception

A relatively new technique, picception images incorporate another camera or photo into the shot. It can be a picture-in-a-picture style or something more subtle like a photograph of someone taking a photograph. While often informal, picception shots can be formal if intentionally designed.

Often eye-catching, neon photos provide a stunning mix of light, shape and color. Whether you’re on the Vegas strip or exploring your hometown at night, take photos of neon signs with your camera’s evaluative meter exposure setting. Choose a low ISO of 200 or 100 to avoid noise. Be sure to place your camera on a tripod for stability.

No matter which photography projects you decide to complete, remember to enjoy the process and save copies of your photos. Design a themed calendar or metal print to showcase your results.

Explore Categories

Framed Prints

Custom Photo Blankets

Photo Puzzles

Written by Shutterfly Community | View all posts

★ Lifestyle Expert

Shutterfly Community is here to help capture and share life's most important moments. Discover thoughtful gifts, creative ideas and endless inspiration to create meaningful memories with family and friends.

Visit their Website . You can follow on Instagram and Pinterest .

How To Take Creative Photos: 48 Great Ideas

Even the most experienced photographers will sometimes find themselves in a creative rut…

There is an infinite number of ways to capture the world with your camera, but sometimes you might just need a little inspiration.

From using your camera equipment in different ways to branching out to a different style of photography, there’s no shortage of quick and easy ways to add more creativity and originality to your photos.

Whether you’re shooting landscapes or food photography, if you find yourself needing a new idea, here are 48 ideas to add more creativity to your photos.

While the ideas are sorted by genre of photography, mix and match them with whatever type of images you like to shoot.

Or…take a creative challenge and branch out into something entirely new.

So here are 48 Great Ideas on How to Take Creative Photos by Category:

Creative abstract photography ideas.

• If you haven’t already, branch out into shooting abstracts. Abstract photography makes the list here first since it’s one form of photography that many beginner photographers shy away from.   Yet as a field of photography, it lends itself to creative and imaginative photos.  Abstract photography allows you to experiment with the world around you, bending some of the standard photography rules to create out-of-the-box images.  If you haven’t tried shooting abstracts, study some examples online and then challenge yourself to shoot in the genre.
• Use everyday objects. One thing that sets good abstract photographers apart is their ability to take photos of everyday objects in creative and compelling ways.  Try using a household item like a wine glass or a toy car.  Experiment with as many different ways you can photograph the object.

• Zoom while shooting. Another creative technique that’s popular among abstract photographers is called zoom blur.  By manually zooming in or out while the shutter fires, the sensor captures a unique blur.  It gives the viewer the sensation of movement, even in situations where the subject is not. If you typically find yourself gravitating towards tack-sharp focus, challenge yourself to try adding some intentional blur to your images.

Creative Architecture Photography Ideas

• Study an architecture photography book. This could really be said for all types of photography, not just architecture.  One way to get some fresh, creative ideas for your photos is to study someone else’s.  Go to a local library or bookstore, find an architecture photography book, and then look through the images.  Decide on a few ideas that strike you as impressive, and then use it as inspiration to shoot buildings around you.
• Shoot in different weather conditions. We’ve seen thousands of city skyline and architecture photos with bright clouds and perfect golden hour lighting. So, why not try shooting in less-than-ideal weather conditions?  If you’re willing to brave some inclement weather, the lightning, mist, or rainbow might be the best way to capture a particular building.

• Get up close. One common mistake that beginners make when shooting architecture is to assume that buildings are only shot from afar.   Instead, one way to add some creative life to your architecture photography is to get up close to a building.  Shoot the details of the roof, of decorative finishes, or part of a wallpaper pattern.  By getting up close, you can challenge yourself to look at the same subject differently.

Food Photography Creative Ideas

• Try different backgrounds. This may be an obvious way to introduce more creativity into your photos, but when it comes to food photography mixing up backdrops and props is the best place to start.   There are thousands of food photos available online right now, spend some time looking at the same dish—let’s say, a slice of apple pie—and how by changing the background and a few of the props, the story about that slice of pie changes.  Experiment with different lighting, different backgrounds, and different staging ideas should be your first place to start for more creative food photos.

• Shoot the characters. At the same time you shoot the setting of your food, creative food photographers often find themselves shooting the characters that are involved in a meal or recipe as well.  If it’s a favorite family dish, shoot the family meal where your loved ones sit down to eat it together.  Sneak in some images of the chef or bartender.   Capture your kids or a self-portrait of setting the table before you sit down to eat.  Paired together with the food photos you already planned to take it can tell a more creative story.

Creative Ideas for Landscape Photography

• Shoot from above. For whatever reason, we get hung up on the idea that landscape photos have to be shot in one way, directly across from the focal point of the scene with as much in the frame as possible.  One way to see landscapes differently is to shoot them from above, using a photography kite, drone, or monopod.  Shooting landscapes from above changes the perspective, allowing you to achieve a creative bird’s eye view.
• Shoot the same place for several hours. Another way to add creativity to your landscape photos is to set up a tripod and stay for a while. By shooting the same exact scene in the same way over several hours (especially early in the morning or late the day when the light changes quickly), you might be surprised how the images change over time.  Spending some extended time looking at the same scene might also give you some creative ideas about other angles and creative ways it could be photographed.

• Experiment with infrared settings and filters. As camera technology has improved over time, many photographers now have the option to take infrared photos.  Infrared images can be particularly effective with landscape photography.  Try shooting popular landscapes like mountains, beaches, and trees.  The infrared spectrum gives the viewer a chance to see a ‘hidden’ image from what they might be familiar with.

Get Creative with Night Photography

• Master the ‘Bulb’ setting.  If you feel like your night photography images all look the same or you’re struggling to take compelling night photos, you may be missing out on bulb mode.  “B,” or the longest end of the shutter speed on your camera, bulb mode allows the photographer to take a picture for as long as the shutter is depressed.  When used with a remote or cable release, it can help to capture stunning light trails.  Try incorporating it with photos of traffic, fireworks, or stars.

• Shoot at different times of the night to find the best darkness for the location.  One of the reasons you may feel like your night images lack the spark you’re looking for is related to the time of night you’re shooting in.  Not all times of night create the same darkness in a particular scene. The darkest lighting in a specific location might come hours later than you planned.  It might also be different depending on the weather, clouds, and moon phases can dramatically change the available darkness in a location.  

• Holiday lights
• Mirrors and reflections
• Monuments, statues, and fountains
• Stars, planets, and other astrophotography events
• Hot air balloon or lantern festivals
• Theme parks and amusement park rides

Getting Creative in Portrait Photography

• Shoot your subjects in motion. Portrait photography is one of the areas where many photographers find it difficult to keep producing unique and creative images.  Highly-posed photos where the subject is looking straight forward into the camera can feel canned and lack creative inspiration over time.  One quick way to life to your portraits is to shoot your subjects in motion.  It can take a bit more practice and technique to get tack-sharp pictures if your subject is moving, but it can be a simple way to mix up a stale portrait session.

• Re-create a scene. Have a cherished family photo from a different era?  Shooting a portrait session in a place where another famous photo was taken?  Why not re-create a scene from a different picture for a clever add-on to portrait session?  Try shooting the same photo of a subject at different points in their life or re-creating a family portrait with a different generation.  Find inspiration from other famous images to capture your subject with some humor or creativity.

• Ask a subject to pose themselves. Many photographers think it’s up to them to decide the best way to photograph a particular subject.  Sometimes the most creative portraits come when you ask a subject to pose themselves. You may end up with a candid look into a subject’s personality or a subject’s most natural smile.

Creative Street Photography

• Shoot crowds.  Many beginners start taking street photos by isolating a single subject or two in their images.  Another creative option is to shoot in a crowd of people.  Try to capture the movement of the group or the day-to-day ways we all interact together.  You might also decide to highlight a specific subject’s movement within a crowd.  Using depth of field and good focus, you can isolate one person’s story among a larger group.
• Experiment with bokeh. Creating bokeh (pronounced BOH-Kay), or unfocused blurs of light in images is a creative photography technique that’s especially useful in street and portrait photography. The term comes from the Japanese word for “blur” or “haze” and is characteristic of the soft, out-of-focused light flares in the background of a subject.   While bokeh can be developed in an image in different ways, it’s commonly created by using a fast lens and a shallow depth-of-field to blur the background behind the subject.  In street photography, consider using bokeh by blurring the city lights behind a subject shot at night or when shooting through reflective surfaces like water or glass.

• Eye-level is the most common angle for street photography. It’s easy and effortless but may not always be the best option. But remember that eye level is different when shooting children, seniors, pets, or subjects sitting on a curb or street.
• Get up high and shooting a street scene from above the subjects.
• Shoot from the ground and capture “a bug’s view” of the world above.
• Shoot from the hip, with or without alerting your subject.
• Shoot in burst mode to take lots of shots.  Setting your camera to shoot in burst mode is a useful technique for all photos with movement, not just street photography.  You may find that shooting 5-10 images at a time gives you the best chance at capturing the action of a scene at precisely the right time.  You might also be able to capture a subject in a slightly different smile or facial expression that tells a more compelling story.
• Experiment with exposure. Avoiding overexposure and underexposure is one of the first skills a beginner photographer learns.   However, all good rules are meant to be broken, especially in street photography.  Learning how to creatively underexpose or overexpose images to tell the story of a scene is another creative way to push your photos to the next level.

Travel Photography Ideas

• Take a photo vacation. Feeling like you could use some more formal photography training?  Now more than ever, there are options to book a trip that’s specifically dedicated to photography.  Day-long and week-long excursions are a great way to spend time working on your composition and technical skills with a guide or expert to give you in-the-moment feedback.
• Look at how others shoot the same location before you go. If you know you’re heading to a popular travel destination, do some online research before you go about ways that other people have captured the same scene.  While no one wants to copy another photographer’s work directly, you may find that some pre-travel research can give you ideas about when, where, and how to shoot a particular location.  Maybe the best way to shoot the space is from above, or at night, or when the crowds are at a minimum.  By establishing a plan before you go, there’s a higher chance you’ll get the shots you came for.

• Revisit places you’ve already photographed. Don’t just assume that travel photography is always a one-and-done experience. Sometimes to capture the most creative images of a particular place, you may need to visit two or three times. Visit a location in the day and then go back at night.  Visit during a workday and then visit on the weekend when the sights and sounds may be different.  Try different times of the day and see how the light changes.  Revisit places that you visited many years ago and take ‘before and after’ style images.

Wildlife/Animal Photography

• Shoot from eye level or below the animal if possible. With so many pet owners and travelers looking for wildlife encounters, the popularity of animal photography continues to grow.  Working to capture unique and compelling wildlife photos starts with the right angle.  The most natural and commanding way to shoot animals is either at their eye level or from below.  It also requires the most work from the photographer.  To take more creative photos of animals, try to change up the angle from your perspective to the animal.
• Aim to capture the eyes. Humans identify with animals the most through eye contact.  Try to make direct eye contact with the animal and have the eyes in tack-sharp focus.  It requires ultra-fast lens speeds and often requires shooting from a distance. It’s one of the many reasons wildlife lenses can be an expensive investment.

• Try panning. Just like humans, pets and wildlife are always in motion.  We look for fast lenses in wildlife photography to capture an animal on the move.  But blur is not always a bad thing, especially when added creatively to an image.  Why not consider introducing camera panning to photos of pets and wild animals? It’s a popular technique for birds in flight, but can also be used for any animal on the move.
• Use rim lighting. Rim lighting is a technique in photography that involves positioning the subject and lighting source so that the light at the edge or ‘rim’ is brighter than elsewhere on the subject. It’s popular in wildlife photography, especially because many animals are most active early in the morning or late in the day when the sun is low enough to create rim lighting effects.Rim lighting requires you to make sure that the subject is directly between your camera and the sun.  It also requires some careful tweaking of your camera’s exposure settings.  However, anytime you can see a subject lit with rim lighting with the naked eye, then it should be possible to achieve it with your camera.

Other Tips for Creative Photography

If you’re not shooting in a specific type of photography but just looking for ways to branch out and expand your creative skills with a camera, here are a few more tips to try:

• Mix and match techniques from different genres.    As mentioned earlier, the methods listed above are sorted by genre just as a suggestion.  However, the creative techniques used in one style of photography can almost always be incorporated into whatever type of images you prefer to take.  Creative techniques like refraction photography, changing angles, or studying a photography book, can be a valuable addition to your toolbox no matter what type of photos you take.  The key to taking creative images is to identify a new technique or idea and then test out ways you can make it work for your own style .
• Try a 365 challenge. Made famous as photography accounts grew on social media, 365 photo challenges encourage photographers to take one photo per day on either an assigned topic or at your own inspiration.  As mentioned above, creativity is a skill that can be practiced.  After 365 days of exercising your creative inspiration, you’ll be better at it.  And you’ll have a year of gorgeous photos to show for it!

• Shoot new subjects. Sometimes it’s not necessarily that you need to change “how” you take photos to be more creative, it’s that you need to change up the “what” of your photography.  To mix it up, try one of these ideas for new subjects:
• Fairs or carnivals
• Fantasy scenes
• Fountains and water
• Silhouettes or shadows
• Still life objects
• Self-portraits
• Sunrises and sunsets
• Underwater photography

<ol start=”46″>

• Be open to critique on your photos. While it takes some courage to ask and accept a review of your photos, sometimes it can be helpful to recruit feedback from another photographer.  By showing another photographer a portfolio of your work, you’re likely to receive some fresh ideas and inspiration to push your work forward.

• Practice. Practice.  The best photographers take thousands of images.  They carry a camera with them at all times and spend time shooting images every day.  Believe it or not, to be a more creative photographer, you should actually take photos!  Shoot a set of images, spend time carefully looking at them to decide what worked well and what did not.  Then go shoot some more!

Related Questions

How do you take creative pictures of yourself?

Self-portrait photography is one of the least explored genres of photography.  Many photographers prefer to be behind the camera, rather than the subject of photos.  However, if you’re interested in some proper techniques to take better pictures of yourself, try these ideas for the most flattering images:

• Use a stand-in item to compose the photo and use auto-focus settings on your camera to get tack-sharp pictures.
• Use a tripod to allow you to get the set up exactly right before you shoot.
• Look for soft, natural lighting.
• Use burst mode to take multiple photos in succession.
• Fill yourself in the frame.
• Don’t take just posed self-portraits. Try to capture yourself in the middle of movement to take more natural images.

Leave a Comment

Currently you have JavaScript disabled. In order to post comments, please make sure JavaScript and Cookies are enabled, and reload the page. Click here for instructions on how to enable JavaScript in your browser.

15 Project Ideas to Spark Your Creativity

A Post By: Nancy Young

Photography has never been as popular as it is today. People of all ages learn photography in various schools and online universities, and lots of talented photographers have a wonderful opportunity to reveal themselves not only as artists, but also as teachers.

By Alex Eylar

Like all creatives, photographers can sometimes experience creative block or a lack of interesting ideas, no matter what side of the school desk they are sitting on. One way for photography mentors and teachers to fight this problem is through the use of creative assignments.

In this article I’ve put together 15 creative project ideas to use in your photography class (if you are a teacher) or for yourself. When completed properly, a student assignment is a great teaching tool. If it’s well-designed and structured, it enables students to develop their technical skills and artistic vision, as well as improve their general thinking abilities and subject knowledge. So whether you’re a photography teacher looking for effective assignment ideas or a self-taught photography student focused on training your eye and critical vision, this roundup will surely come in handy.

1. 365 Project

No matter what you call it, the 365 Project or Photo a Day project, the result is the same – a photo for every day of the year. These kinds of long-term projects give you an opportunity not only to explore and learn photography, but also develop creative seeing and improve your post-production skills. 365 Projects have changed the lives of a lot of photographers, and who knows, maybe you’re next?

Further Reading : 11 Tips for a Successful 365 Project

By Olli Henze

By Dennis Skley

2. 100 Strangers

The 100 Strangers project enables you to interact with 100 strangers and take a photo of each of them. It can be quite scary to start shooting people in the street, or local cafe, if you’re an introvert. But being a photographer is not as easy as it may seem at first. Photography is all about overcoming your fears. This project will help you do that.

By Louisa Billeter

3. 52 Weeks

The 52 Weeks project is similar to 365, but this time you’re supposed to come up with a new photo each week, not each day. The difference between these two projects is that you can choose a theme for every week. For instance, you may shoot particular subjects, places, or even do some photowalks. A photowalk is an awesome way to find inspiration, discover new locations, and come up with really valuable, interesting ideas in the end.

By shutterbugamar

4. Social Awareness Project

Capturing dramatic moments that will influence the minds of their viewers is a mission that many iconic photographers are dedicated to. Spend a weekend shooting the faces on your local streets, or collaborating with a non-profit can help you develop your skills as a documentarist and photojournalist. Such photo projects are definitely not easy to work on, both emotionally and technically, but the reward of being an activist is obvious – every time you click the shutter button you create a photo that could change the world.

World of Coal by Ouie Sanchez on 500px

5. Self-Portrait

Of course, you may have taken a self-portrait many times with your smartphone. Instagram has turned self-portraits into something usual and mundane.

However, self-portraits can be quite helpful in opening up, and exploring parts of photography in which you don’t normally find yourself involved. Mix it up and stay creative with your surroundings and emotions. For example, look at the work of Kyle Thompson , who has really succeeded in self-photography.

Check out these Self Portrait Photography Tips for some hints on where to start.

By Özgün ERDEM

6. New Lens Type

You may pick one lens and use it exclusively during this project. A 50mm is a good starting point , as it forces you to move around and stay selective. A fisheye lens could also make an interesting theme.

Moreover, you may experiment with freelensing which is an inexpensive way to get a similar photo effect as from an expensive tilt-shift lens. The idea behind a tilt-shift lens is tilting the lens at an angle to the sensor to change the orientation of the plane of focus (PoF). The technique of freelensing, not only gives you the ability to change the PoF, but it also gives you some pretty cool light leaks from not having the lens actually attached to the camera.

By Nuwandalice

By David Hepworth

7. Monochrome

Try to shoot all your photos in monochrome, or convert them to black and white in post-processing . The beauty of black and white photography is that it focuses more on visual elements such as tone, texture and shapes. By starting this project for yourself, you’ll see the objects in a different light, and rather than just color, your eyes will be better trained to recognize various forms and shapes.

8. Panoramas

Panoramas are one more way to develop your creative vision. Panoramas usually give the viewer a much wider viewing angle than normal. You can create some small panoramas by merging three photos in one, or go full 360 and make tiny globes like the ones in the picture below. It’s all up to you!

Further Reading: 8 Guidelines To Taking Panoramic Photos With Any Camera

By Johanna Herbst

Promised Land by Beno Saradzic on 500px

The Birds and the Barn by Bruce Hood on 500px

In today’s world of foodie-Instagram, everyone could be a food photographer. Especially if you’re fond of cooking, then food photography is right for you. It’s a myth that you need a super-wow camera to capture food. Food photography is all about styling and beautiful background. No matter what kind of photographer you call yourself, it’s advantageous to have some food photography skills under your belt.

Further Reading : How to Take Mouth watering photos of food

By Christopher Chan

10. Sunset and Sunrise

As dawn breaks and the sun comes up, you get to see the creeping rays of sunlight bathe everything in their shining glow. Such scenes are the perfect environment for memorable photos that you can’t pass up. Sunrises and sunsets happen every day. It may sound quite obvious and ordinary, but these times of the day are a golden opportunity to capture breathtaking images.

Read more about how to photograph sunsets and sunrises .

By Mike Behnken

By Linda O’Dell

Paradise Pier Sunset by William McIntosh on 500px

11. Single Theme

Pick an object and try to get a collection of snapshots representing it. For example, try to shoot only circular objects everywhere you go. Or pick a color, for instance blue, and try to go all day long photographing only blue things. The aim of this assignment is to learn to see the ordinary object in a different way.

La bicicleta by Adrian Hernandez Binz on 500px

12. Phone Camera

The main advantage of your phone camera is that it’s with you everywhere you go. Moreover, these days smartphones’ camera quality is much better than years ago and you may come up with images that look almost as good as if they were taken with an expensive DSLR. Using your phone allows you to put exposure on the back burner, and lets you focus more on composition instead. You may also use various photo-editing apps to add various photo effects.

By Takeshi Garcia

13. Urban Exploration

Urban exploration photography is the art of finding abandoned places, houses, locations; explore them and shoot in a unique way. It’s potentially dangerous, exciting, and a lot of fun. In order not to get scared, you should take your friends with you. Even if they’re not interested in photography, exploring abandoned places is really breathtaking.

Editor’s note: always follow the laws when doing urban exploration. Do not enter where prohibited and always stay safe. Abondoned buildings can be dangerous or illegal to enter. Be careful.

Read more about urban exploration photography .

By Michal Jan?ek

14. Perspectives

Shoot a whole set of images from one perspective, such as from a child’s the point of view. Or try to capture all photos from up high. We are used to seeing the majority of shots at eye level, why not to try something different? It’s a great way to learn how to deviate from the normal .

Fishing by Minhajul Haque on 500px

By Ken Owen

15. Film Photography

Film photography is something every photographer should practice for a few reasons.

First of all, unlike digital photography, you don’t get to see the image you took for a while. It may seem annoying, but you’ll get used to it.

Second of all, you will begin to think more carefully before pressing the shutter button. While shooting digital photography, you may take 10 photos of the same thing to choose the best shot in the end. But with film photography you will not have that chance.

Read this helpful post with suggestions on getting started with shooting with film .

By Gioia De Antoniis

Bonus Assignment

Once you accomplish your creative assignment, create a dedicated photography portfolio ( Defrozo and Koken provide website building tools for free) or write a guest post for some photography blog to describe your journey and share your experience with fellow enthusiasts. Developing your marketing and blogging skills increases the likelihood of building a prospering and successful photography business.

Resources for Inspiration

The web has so many opportunities to get fresh ideas for your next photography project. I’d like to share some resources you may get inspiration from.

Ted is aimed to amplify the ideas of students and teachers from all over the globe. Their mission is to spread great ideas and inspire students of any specialization. You may browse 1800+ TED talks on photography available on their site to spark your curiosity.

OKDOTHIS App

This smartphone app was made by a celebrity photographer Jeremy Cowart. OKDOTHIS is a photography community that inspires people to do more. It’s based on DOs which are creative tasks made by other members of the community. You may upload a photo in someone’s DO or create your own one. The app has also a built-in photo editor.

Behance is a leading online platform to showcase and discover creative work. All the creatives starting from web designers to photographers share their best artwork here. You may browse the Behance gallery in Photography to find new projects from other photographers.

Weekly Assignments in the dPS Forum

Check out the weekly assignments in the dPS forum for more inspiration. DPS nominates a topic for each week. It could be a lot of fun and a great way to improve your photography skills in various areas.

Make it Happen

What homework do you prefer to give to your students? What assignments appeal to you most? What project interests you and gets you thinking creatively? Share your experience and suggestions in the comments.

Read more from our Tips & Tutorials category

is a passionate writer and blogger. She writes tons of inspirational articles on photography and web design, despite the fact that she is an economist by education. Nancy believes in the magic of written words to inspire and motivate. She is a part of the Onedesblog Team .

• Guaranteed for 2 full months
• Pay by PayPal or Credit Card
• Instant Digital Download

• All our best articles for the week
• Fun photographic challenges
• Special offers and discounts

The leading authority in photography and camera gear.

Become a better photographer.

12.9 Million

Annual Readers

Newsletter Subscribers

Featured Photographers

Photography Guides & Gear Reviews

Creative Photography Picture Ideas For Your Inspiration

These 20 photography ideas are all the inspiration you need for your next photoshoot or project in 2024. Get creative, have fun and be inspired!

Learn | By Polina Raynova

Shotkit may earn a commission on affiliate links. Learn more.

If you’re looking for the restart button and you’re ready for some out-of-the-box photography ideas, you’ve arrived at the right destination.

Mastering all the technical aspects and camera settings can take a lot of practice, so sometimes it’s really nice to take a breather from all the rules.

No matter if you’re keen on still life photography, landscape photography, macro or portraits, you’ll be able to find a little something for you among the following photography ideas.

So set yourself a challenge, pick a photography technique that you haven’t heard of before from the list below, make note of some new photoshoot ideas and start your next photography project!

(After reading this, be sure to check our popular guide on photography hacks for more inspiration.)

Table of Contents

20 Photography Ideas for Your Inspiration in 2024

1. use fog and mist to capture a mystical atmosphere.

This is a photo I took while we were camping in a national park. In the early morning hours mist always forms around this spot.

If you’re in the mood for creating inspiring mystical images – check out the weather forecast. Certain weather conditions such as fog or mist can really transform the setting around you and give it a totally different vibe.

You have the option to go for a more fairy-tale look or to envision a sinister type of scenario with smoke art – it’s all up to you and your current mood.

While shooting in the fog, try emphasizing shapes and composition – playing with colour is not always a possibility since the fog often makes the scene look rather monochromatic.

To further challenge your creativity , try out long exposure. You’ll see that the movement of the fog can result in a silky smooth surface which wraps around everything in your photo creating a captivating visual effect!

It’s a great photography idea to test for your next photo project.

See also: how to get the best shots in foggy weather

2. Translate your favourite painting into a photograph

On the left you see Ophelia by the British painter Sir John Everett Millais and on the right an interpretation of his painting by Gregory Crewdson.

We all have favourite works of art which genuinely impress us and stay in our minds long after we’ve seen them for the first time.

If you ever find yourself stuck in rut or without any decent photography ideas to explore, try drawing inspiration from the Great Masters .

How to do it? Here’s a key tip: instead of trying to copy their style outright, make an attempt to translate it into your own language.

Whether it’s a three-dimensional work of art or a classical painting, the possibilities of expressing yourself through interpretation are pretty much endless.

If you can’t really imagine how this would work exactly, try drawing some ideas from our article about 8 photographers whose work was inspired by legendary paintings .

Or you could do it the other way around, and try converting your latest photo into a watercolour or oil painting with one of these apps .

3. Go out for night photography after the rain

The reflected city lights can really help you form a perfect composition.

Going out in the pouring rain may not be the best idea for your gear – even if your camera is properly weather sealed.

Going out at night after the rain has passed, on the other hand, is a win-win for both you and for your photography equipment!

What do you gain from such a scenario? The biggest advantage is that wet surfaces create awesome reflections which can be great for experimenting with – especially if you’re in a particularly creative mood.

You can also pay attention to the puddles which you’ll find everywhere around you. Look at what is reflected in them and also try to change your angle to see how what’s reflected changes.

There might be a great shot hidden just one squat away!

See also: Perfectly timed photos

4. Experiment with the Photzy Action Cards

One of the Photzy Action Cards in action!

Photography can sometimes be a solitary venture. For people who like to be more socially active, that can make it a less-than-inspiring activity.

Involving other people in order to share the experience with them can be a total game-changer. But how to do that?

One of the great options you have to combine learning with playing and competing with other like-minded people is the Photzy Action Cards collection .

These cards are designed to tickle your adventurous spirit and they can do a pretty good job at that!

To play the game, you can choose from the Genre action cards set or the Composition set. They both contain great topics to stir your imagination: Minimalist Photography, Colour Contrast, Secrets of Patterns are just a few.

(Check out my Photzy Action Cards review here , for more ideas on how I like to use them.)

You can use the cards to set up photo challenges with your friends and to compare (why not to develop together?) the creative photography ideas later.

If you want to give it a shot, you can pick up a set of the cards here .

5. Get creative with prisms (the rainbow effect)

Prisms can enhance your creative photography projects with unique light effects.

Using prisms in photography is one of the best creative ideas you can explore. It can add a really unique mood to the image and, as such, it’s something that is definitely worth trying out.

This method is also quite simple and naturally easy to put into practice. All you need to do is hold the prism in front of your lens and slowly move it to see how the effect on the object changes.

When you change the position of the prism you’ll see how different reflections appear – choose the one that fits best to your current photo idea and mood.

Something important to note here is that in this situation you’d want to operate the focus manually .

Auto-focus won’t be really able to locate the focus point since the prism itself will be too close to the camera lenses. The result would be blurry photos with lost sharpness which will ruin the nice effect from the prism. (Related: Apps to fix blurry photos )

Use manual focus and you’ll be able to create some stunning and unique images.

Once you’ve played around with prisms, go and check out our guide to using the LensBall .

6. Try out double exposure photography

Double exposure can work well for creative self portraits.

Another really great option to produce creative content as a photographer is the technique of double exposure.

Double exposure photography combines two different images into one visual. This is a technique which can easily create a surreal mood and it’s also able to convey more complex photography ideas.

You can make double exposure images in a few ways – with a traditional analogue camera, with a digital camera, or you can also create the effect in post-production.

The third option gives you more control over all the little details in your photo.

The pool of photo shooting ideas here is literally endless – try combining two objects that are seemingly totally disconnected to see how the viewer’s mind can create a link.

This link would be different for everyone and that’s the beautiful part.

7. Explore patterns and repeating elements

The original element is only one here, but I copied it multiple times in post to create this pattern.

Repeating elements and patterns not only create fantastic compositions but they also make a strong visual statement.

Patterns exist all around us – both in nature and in man-made structures. Look for colours, lines and shapes that are repeating and arrange them into your frame. You can either emphasize the pattern itself or find a way to break it and build visual tension.

Take a walk outside and set yourself a goal to spot as many repeating elements as you can for 30 minutes. Once you start seeing them, you’ll find it hard not to notice them anymore!

• How to Get More Creative as a Photographer

8. Put flowers in ice cubes

A few of the blue flowers from my vegetable garden last summer.

If you’re looking for more still life photography ideas, his little DIY project can be a lot of fun not only during the shooting process, but also before and after that (if you make sure you choose edible plants).

All you need is an ice tray and plants with attractive foliage or flower heads.

Since it’s very important to keep the ice as transparent as possible, I recommend using distilled water – when the water is purified you’re bound to achieve a more beautiful overall effect .

Once you have the ice cubes ready, try building a pattern type of composition. Do think about how you’ll arrange it in advance – the cubes will be melting quite fast!

You can also use this trick as a nice original accent if you’re doing food photography or taking pictures of fancy drinks.

Here are my suggestions for edible plants to put in the ice: daisies, lavender, roses, violets, pansies and borage.

Last year I tried this idea with borage – amazing blue flowers with great colour and with the perfect shape to fit in the ice cube!

To make your flower shots even more compelling, note the notion of radial balance in photography .

9. Try the tilt-shift photography effect

Tilt-shift is one way to give your photos a unique effect.

The tilt-shift photography effect is also called “miniature faking” and that explains the whole concept pretty accurately. It’s a real mini world you’ll be able to create with this photography technique .

Usually when you take pictures the plane of focus and the image plane are aligned. This means that you get an even depth of field in the picture no matter on which part exactly you decide to focus on.

When you tilt the lens those two planes are no longer perfectly aligned. So what happens here is that you get a new focus plane in a rather peculiar position (literally tilted) and that’s how this effect is created.

To explore the creative power behind tilt-shift photography, give it a try with some type of massive scene that contains lots of people. The tilted plane will be more obvious and will create the ultimate impact on the viewer.

10. Submerge things in coloured liquid

If you’re after creative photo shoot ideas, try adding some coloured liquid into the mix.

You’ve probably seen variations of this technique in some maternity photo shoots . Most of the time the liquid used for those has a white tint which is associated with milk and purity – see our guide to milk bath photography here .

But you can easily ditch this traditional approach and try with colours which make a bolder statement. Bath bombs work magic and are great for colouring the water in your bath.

They’re also completely safe for your subject, which is important if you’re using a human model, unlike food dye, for example, which stains the skin.

(You can check out our Model Mayhem Guide to learn some tips on how to find yourself a human subject to practice your photography on.)

As for the creative part here – you have unlimited options to play with form and colour.

The cool thing about this technique is that you get to re-invent shapes and forms .

As the chosen subject emerges from or submerges in the colourful liquid their form changes significantly – take advantage of this transformation through your lens!

11. Create a “floating” photography effect

This is a product shot that I took for a Swedish brand. The strings holding the bracelet in the air were removed in post.

This is beyond a doubt one of my absolute favourite still life photography techniques.

Basically, you make your subject gracefully float in the air – which not only looks very cool but also adds a pinch of magic to the shot.

I mainly use this technique for product photography , but it’s also applicable when it comes to food photography and can produce a stunning effect. You can also try it with a DIY lightbox .

There’s no reason for you not to attempt this technique with people as well, but just bear in mind that the process will for sure be a little bit more complicated simply because of the weight of your subject.

It’s easy to hang a product on some sort of a string and it’s even easier to delete the visible part of the string in post.

When you try the same things with models, you won’t be able to hang them on a string (in case you insist on them remaining alive!) What you can do here is to use a seating stool and position your model in such a way that the head is lower than the feet – this adds an additional layer of enchantment and makes it looks as if the person’s really floating.

Also, pay attention to the background behind the seating stool you’re using, make sure it’s something not too busy and complicated. In other words, try to use a backdrop that will be easy for you to erase or color in Photoshop afterwards.

12. Experiment with slow shutter speeds to create motion blur

Recording dance movements can always give you stunning results!

Photography is not always about taking the perfect shot and freezing your subject in the midst of an exciting action scene. It’s sometimes about capturing the essence of movement, or in other words, tracking this movement with your camera.

To achieve this effect you will need to experiment with slow shutter speeds to record motion and its trajectory.

Keep in mind that your camera should be steady, so use a tripod and take advantage of the timer settings (to eliminate the possibility of shaking the camera while pressing the shutter button).

If you’ve never tried this technique before, it’s a good idea to start experimenting at night. Shooting during the day will involve some extra problems.

Slower shutter speed leads to long exposure and long exposure means a lot of light on your image. If it’s a bright sunny day, it’s impossible to pull this off without using a neutral density filter to reduce the amount of light that gets in.

13. Find a photography partner in crime

Enlist a friend or creative partner to help you generate and execute your photography ideas.

Reading articles about new out-of-the-box photography techniques and ideas can be quite inspiring, that’s for sure. But there are few things more thrilling than a quality conversation with a like-minded person.

If you’re feeling a bit under the weather and not in the mood for experimenting and exploring, maybe you just need a creative kick from a friend.

Try organizing a short photo trip with another photographer (or it could be more than one) and see how the same subject can be perceived in numerous different ways and viewed from so many different angles.

Witnessing how other people with the same job/hobby as yours have decisively non-identical approaches when it comes to taking photos of the same scene is very eye-opening. You’ll also have a chance to make some new best friends at the same time.

14. Scout for new interesting photography locations

Use different locations to step outside of your comfort zone.

If you’re keen on taking portraits, you’re certainly aware of some of the cool places in your area. But how many do you know in total and are they enough?

It’s easy to gravitate towards your comfort zone, but there’s a slim chance that the great shots you’ve been dreaming about lately await you there.

That’s why it’s necessary to challenge yourself. Grab your equipment and explore the city where you live – and at the same time try to perceive it as someone who has never set foot in this location.

What are the things that you start to notice first?

15. Put cellophane in front of your camera lens

In this case, the cellophane piece is red, but you can go for any colour that you like.

Household items can be a lot of fun when it comes to do-it-yourself lens filters . One of the most interesting options you have here is creating a filter for your lens from cellophane.

All you need to do is cut off a small piece of cellophane and put it in front of your lens. For better attachment, you can use a simple rubber band – which all of us have floating around somewhere in the house/apartment! :D

If the cellophane you’ve chosen is coloured, you will end up with an effect similar to the one that coloured gels produce. Just bear in mind that having this additional layer in front of your lens will reduce the overall sharpness, which is not such a bad idea if you’re going for a hazy/dreamy atmosphere.

You can also play around with the position of this DYI filter. It’s not necessary to put it in front of the entire lens surface; you could cover only a small portion of it and have the effect applied to only one area (as opposed to the whole image).

16. Go for the herbarium effect

This one was shot behind a large glass piece – the breath of the model creates this cool blurry effect.

Photographing subjects pressed against transparent surfaces such as glass can give you truly mesmerizing visual results. It could work well with all kinds of subjects like plants, flowers, fruits, vegetables – not to mention that it’s also great for live models.

When part of the skin is pressed against the glass it creates a feeling of unease and it also conveys an idea of being trapped in a certain space.

This can give you food for thought for many different concepts related to our everyday life on a global and on a local level.

17. Try creating images with complementary colours

Here you can see one of the classical pairs of complementary colours displayed: orange & blue.

Complementary colours appear opposite each other on the colour wheel . In order to construct complementary harmony, you need to pick a colour from the wheel and then find the colour that lies directly on the opposite side.

Such colour combinations are also known as classical and nowadays they’re used in all kinds of visual communication.

A few examples of complementary colour combinations are: red & green, orange & blue, yellow & purple . Look around you wherever you are in the moment and try to discover such colour combos on your own.

Once you have a few combinations in your mind, grab your camera and challenge yourself to create an image with a pair of complementary colours.

In case you want to dive deeper in this topic, you can have a look at our article about colour theory for photographers .

18. Use mixed media – combine photography with graphic design

This is one was experimentally created to play with colour accents in monochromatic images.

Using mixed media art with photography and employing more than one form of visual art is honestly a lot of fun. It also feels quite liberating not to follow well established rules and to create new ones instead.

Two things that make a perfect match are photography and graphic design. The freedom you have to experiment with these is practically endless.

My recommendation is to start with something simple and obvious and to take it further step by step.

Adding typography to your photography can improve significantly not only the visual product itself, but also the overall message which your work conveys.

If you don’t own a copy of Photoshop, you can try ON1 Photo RAW which includes a text tool, perfect for experimenting with typography on photos – check out our ON1 Photo RAW review for a deeper dive into this popular photo editor.

You can further develop your own idea or even throw the viewer into a completely different train of thought by creating a contrast between the visual part and the added text.

19. Experiment with projecting an image onto your model

Projections can completely change the look of your portraits.

Something else you might consider doing to add variety to your work is to project an image onto your model. And the possibilities are literally countless.

Depending on what you want your final product to be, you can go from projecting custom graphics like stripes, dots or more complex shapes, to a combination of colours or gradients, to actual images from your favourite painters, movies or photographers.

Since, it would be really hard to combine lighting with a projector, it’s wise to consider lighting up your subject with just the projector.

Therefore, you must look for an appropriate image or video that has plenty of white in it , so you have enough light intensity. Just note that you will have to be prepared for some weird colour balancing.

Using a projector in your work will help you create a surrealistic environment and will surely step up your creative photography game!

20. Use neon light on the street for portrait photography

It’s a great idea to bring a pair of glasses for the photoshoot – the reflections from the neon signs can look truly stunning sometimes!

Wandering the streets at night in search of the perfect neon sign to light your model’s face is a brilliant way to spend your Friday evening.

Electric colours can create a unique atmosphere for a portrait and are also great for experimenting with different colour combinations.

For me, going out and looking for a sign to grab my attention is part of the fun, but if you prefer testing this kind of lighting technique at home you can also do it that way.

The easiest way to try out neon portraits from the convenience of your home is to find an image of a solid electric colour, open it on your screen or in your browser and get the screen itself closer to the face of your model.

You can effortlessly change the colour and see which version fits best with your vision for the shot.

Final words

So there you have it – 20 creative photography ideas to inspire you on your next project.

I hope these have given you some food for thought and sparked your innermost creativity.

Be sure to step outside your comfort zone a little and try something new – you never know what you might learn and what interesting and unique results you could get!

Disclaimer: All recommendations are impartial and based on user experience, with no bias to the products or the brand. The products in this post may contain affiliate links.

Hi there! I’m Polina, a freelance photographer, always on the look out for creating simple images with powerful impact.

👋 WELCOME TO SHOTKIT!

🔥 Popular NOW:

Unlock the EXACT blueprint to capture breathtaking iPhone photos!

50 Creative Photography Ideas You Can Use For Inspiration

As you venture deeper into photography, seeking new and creative ways to express your vision is natural.

Whether you’re a beginner or an expert in photography, creative ideas can inspire you.

These concepts aren’t just about clicking the shutter. They involve exploring new themes, experimenting with unique concepts, and thinking out of the box.

Maybe you’re looking for DIY photoshoot ideas that’ll add a dash of creativity to your portfolio. Or perhaps you crave an outdoor photography adventure to capture nature’s beauty.

No matter what piques your interest, there are countless ways to push the boundaries of your creativity.

Because photography has something for everyone. You can take pictures of raw emotions or transform ordinary objects into captivating subjects at home. And if you need photoshoot inspiration for professional or personal use, this article is for you!

Why Creative Photography Ideas Are Important

Creative photography is more than just capturing a moment.

It’s about telling a story and evoking emotions through the lens of the camera. Photography is a huge part of our lives; we take millions of stunning photos daily.

But, with so many being taken, you want yours to stand out.

Different Photography Ideas Help You Improve Your Photography Skills

Your photography journey is more than just capturing the world around you.

It’s about constantly growing and improving your skills.

Exploring different photography ideas lets you push your boundaries and discover new techniques.

Take outdoor photography, for instance; shooting in natural light presents its own set of challenges. From unpredictable weather to changing lighting conditions throughout the day.

But it’s these very challenges that can help you improve, forcing you to adapt on the fly and get creative with solutions.

You Can Get Creative With Props, Backdrops, and Outfits

Do you know what the best thing about DIY photoshoots is?

You have complete control over everything—from props to outfits to the atmosphere. It doesn’t matter if it’s home photography or a professional photoshoot; adding personal touches helps make each shot uniquely yours.

They Help You Build a Unique Portfolio

Having technical skills alone isn’t enough to be a successful photographer today. We all have strong smartphones with great cameras, and many photographers also have high-quality cameras.

50 Creative Photoshoot Ideas You Should Try

The changing seasons offer a lot of photographic opportunities.

Capture the fresh blossoms of spring. The vibrant sunsets of summer. The rich hues of fall and the serene snowscapes of winter.

Each season brings its unique color palette, mood, image pop, and atmosphere.

Try using different lighting conditions to enhance the seasonal feel!

2. Holidays

Holidays are full of color, emotion, family, and traditions.

These yearly celebrations are great for capturing festive decorations, themed costumes, and family gatherings. Christmas, the New Year, Easter, and Thanksgiving each have their unique symbols and aesthetics. Photographing holidays can also help you learn about different cultures and their celebrations.

It’s also a great time to experiment with your camera settings, creative angles, and compositions to bring out the holiday spirit.

3. Emotions

Capturing raw emotions can make your photos more powerful and relatable. From joy to sadness, from surprise to contemplation, every emotion tells a story.

Capture candid moments where your subject’s emotions shine through naturally. Use close-ups to capture images that emphasize facial expressions and body language.

And don’t forget the eyes. They often hold the intensity of whichever emotion the picture displays.

Colors can evoke certain moods and reactions, making them a powerful tool in photography.

Play with complementary colors for contrast, or use a monochromatic scheme for harmony. Bold, vibrant colors can create high-energy images, while soft pastels convey a sense of calm. Experiment with color grading during post-processing.

Try themed shoots based on a specific color.

Nature photography can range from sweeping landscapes to the details of flora and fauna.

Capture the intricate patterns in leaves, animals, the movement of water, or the grandeur of mountains. Each season provides new opportunities for nature photography.

6. Cityscape

Every city has its unique character and rhythm.

And cityscapes are ideal for creative photography, dynamic street scenes, and vibrant lights. Capture the hustle and bustle of city life during the day and the glowing cityscape at night.

In the beginning stages of my photography career, I often went downtown with my little sister and walked around taking pictures of her in different locations.

Sometimes, we’d encounter people who had “the look” and take pictures of them.

This is a great activity to do in the summer. You are using your creative muscles and leg muscles!

Capture the nostalgia and charm of the past. Vintage photo shoots can bring viewers back to a different era. You can use old photos, props, costumes, and locations that bring back a specific time period.

Play with sepia tones or grainy textures in post-processing to enhance the vintage feel. Old cars, antique furniture, and retro fashion can serve as great subjects for visual storytelling.

And if you have a Polaroid camera, it can do a lot of the heavy lifting in portraying the “vintage” look.

 8. Fashion

Fashion photography is all about showcasing clothes and accessories creatively.

Collaborate with models who can pose and express themselves effectively. Use lighting and composition to highlight the textures and details of the garments—experiment with different themes and styles, from high fashion to street style.

Just brush up on the fashion trends to make your photos relevant.

Sports photography requires timing and precision to capture decisive moments.

Fast shutter speeds can freeze action, while slower speeds can create motion blur. Show the intensity, passion, and athleticism of the players. Try different angles, from close-ups of the athletes to wide shots of the venue.

When taking pictures remember, that sports photography is also about capturing the atmosphere and emotions of the event.

Music photography can be as dynamic and expressive as the music itself. Photograph musicians in action, either in concerts or during recording sessions. Show the energy of their live performances, the concentration during rehearsals, or the joy of jamming sessions.

11. Fantasy

Fantasy photography allows you to create your imaginative world. Use props, costumes, makeup, and post-processing effects to build a dreamlike atmosphere. Create scenes like fairies, unicorns, or magical landscapes.

12. Childhood Memories

Recreating childhood memories can create emotional and nostalgic photos. Plus, it makes for a fun home photoshoot idea.

You can use old photos of your family, toys, or locations as inspiration. Capture the innocence, playfulness, and wonder of your childhood. And use any props you have available to add a touch of nostalgia.

13. Silhouettes

Silhouette photography is when you photograph a dark shape against a lighter background by backlighting the subject. It focuses on shapes and outlines to create a sense of mystery.

I achieve these shots by placing a strobe light behind my model.

This can also be achieved by using the sun during golden hour.

14. Black and White

Black and white photography focuses on contrast, texture, and shape. Black and white photos also convey strong emotions and have a timeless vibe.

Portraits, landscapes, and street scenes can all look stunning in black and white. Use light and shadows to create depth and drama.

Macro photography reveals the intricate details of small subjects like insects, flowers, or textures. An easy and creative photography idea is to create interesting macro landscapes using things you have lying around at home.

A dedicated macro lens or extension tube for your macro photography can help you get closer to your subject.

16. Long Exposure

Another creative photography idea is long-exposure photography. You can create dreamy landscapes, smooth water effects, or dynamic light trails. Nighttime or twilight are ideal for long exposure shots.

Food photography is all about making dishes look appetizing and inviting. Use natural light and reflectors to highlight the textures and colors of the food.

Props like cutlery, napkins, or ingredients can enhance the composition.

18. Double Exposure

Double-exposure photography involves combining two images or the same subject into one. It often results in surreal effects. For example, you’d use one image as a silhouette and the other as a texture or scene.

19. Street Art

Street art can add color and energy to your urban shots. Capture the scale of murals with wide-angle lenses or focus on details with a normal or telephoto lens.

Street photographers also include people or objects to add a sense of scale.

20. Night Sky

Another creative photography idea is night sky photography. You can capture the stars, Milky Way, Northern Lights, or anything in the sky.

Use a sturdy tripod, wide-angle lens, and long exposure. Focus manually on a bright star to ensure sharpness. Then, experiment with different ISO settings and shutter speeds. But remember, you’ll need a clear, dark sky away from city lights.

21. Reflections

Reflections can add symmetry, depth, and interest to your images. Use water bodies, glass surfaces, or mirrors to capture reflections. Even puddles after a passing rain shower can create interesting reflection shots.

If you’re looking for more home photoshoot ideas, get some help from your pets!

Fun Fact: I shot the first photo on the left! It’s my childhood dog, Bruno. I also had a pet parakeet and a cocker spaniel! I couldn’t access those old photos, so I found some that resembled how they looked. Aren’t they cute?

Pet photography is about capturing the personality and cuteness of animals. I recommend using fast shutter speeds to freeze the action of them flying, running, and jumping.

Get down to their level for a different perspective and try using treats or toys to get their attention. Crazy noises work too!

23. Underwater

Underwater photography offers a unique perspective of a world less seen. Use waterproof cameras or housing to secure your equipment.

You can capture the diversity of marine life or experiment with underwater portraits.

24. Smoke and Fog

Smoke and fog can add mystery, mood, and atmosphere to your creative photos—experiment with different sources of smoke, like incense sticks or smoke bombs. Just be safe when working with the smoke.

25. Golden Hour

Golden hour (just after sunrise or before sunset) offers soft, warm, and diffused light. It’s ideal for portrait photography, landscapes, and cityscapes.

Use warm hues to enhance the mood of your photos. Experiment with back-lit, side-lit, and front-lit shots. But remember, the golden hour doesn’t last long, so plan your photo session accordingly.

Rain can add mood, reflections, and a fresh look to your photos.

Capture people under the rain, droplets on surfaces, or ripples in puddles. Use a fast shutter speed to freeze the raindrops or a slow one for streaks.

But protect your gear with a rain cover or an umbrella.

If you’re looking for easier photography ideas, a Bokeh effect could be just what you need!

Bokeh is a fun, trendy technique that creates attractive circular spots in out-of-focus areas of your image. Think of it as jazzing up your picture’s background with a sprinkle of blurred ‘sparkle.’

28. Neon Lights

Neon lights can provide a vibrant backdrop for your photoshoot.

The rich, glowing colors can create a moody, atmospheric effect and light source perfect for edgy, urban-themed shots. Try different colored lights to alter the mood of your photos.

Aerial photography provides a special viewpoint that ground-based photography cannot match. Use a drone to capture sweeping landscape shots or interesting geometric patterns from above.

But remember to check your local laws and regulations regarding drone use before you start.

30. Infrared

Infrared photography can transform ordinary scenes into something magical. Landscapes can look surreal and dreamy in infrared photos by capturing light that’s not visible to humans.

This type of photography requires special equipment and some technical know-how, but the results can be worthwhile. An infrared photoshoot can produce truly one-of-a-kind images.

31. Abstract

Abstract photography focuses on shape, form, color, and texture rather than depicting a traditional subject. This genre encourages creativity and experimentation, making it a great choice for a photoshoot.

Look for interesting details, unusual angles, or bold colors to create a creative photo or striking abstract images.

32. Levitation

Levitation photography creates the illusion of people or objects floating in mid-air. We can achieve this through a combination of clever posing, props, and post-processing techniques.

While it’s challenging to get right sometimes, the results can be eye-catching. Levitation photos are a fun way to bring magic to your portfolio.

Use candid photography to capture authentic moments. These photos are always fun to look at afterward as they’re natural and authentic images.

This style is also great for documenting people in their element. Whether it’s children playing, friends laughing, or strangers going about their day in an outdoor space.

Candid photoshoots can happen anywhere and require little setup. Making them a versatile option. And when you focus on genuine interactions and emotions, you can create powerful images that tell a story.

34. Light Painting

Light painting involves using long exposure times to capture the movement of light sources in your picture frame. This results in beautiful light trail photography.

You’ll need a tripod and patience to pull off this technique, but the results can be rewarding.

Want to Book Clients and Earn Money as a Photographer?

Learn how with our easy-to-follow, hands-on video course. It’ll teach you how to take better photos so you can turn your passion for photography into income!

35. High Speed

High-speed photography captures fast-moving subjects in sharp detail.

This can include anything from sports action to splashing water or shattering glass. High-speed photoshoots require good timing and the right equipment, but they can produce some truly great images. By freezing motion in this way, you can reveal details that would otherwise go unnoticed.

36. Shadow Play

Playing with shadows can add depth and intrigue to your photos. Shadows create interesting shapes, patterns, and contrast in your images.

In a shadow play photoshoot, consider the time of day and the position of the sun to control the quality and direction of the shadows.

37. Conceptual

Conceptual photography uses symbolism and creative ideas to convey a message or tell a story. This genre encourages creativity and deep thought. Making it perfect for a more artistic photoshoot.

You could use props, costumes, or unusual settings to create your concept.

38. Minimalist

Minimalist photography focuses on simplicity and the power of negative space. By stripping back to the essentials, you can create clean, uncluttered, and visually striking images.

A minimalist photoshoot might involve focusing on a single subject against a plain background or capturing the sky or water. The key is to keep things simple and let your subject shine.

39. Time Lapse

Time-lapse photography involves taking multiple photos over a period of time and then combining them into a video. This technique can show the passage of time, like the clouds moving across the sky, a flower blooming, or a busy city street.

40. Boudoir

Boudoir photography is all about capturing beauty, confidence, and intimacy. It typically involves intimate and romantic images, often taken in a bedroom or private setting.

You also want to ensure your subject feels comfortable and confident throughout the entire shoot.

41. Environmental Portraits

Environmental portraits show people in their natural surroundings and tell a story about their life or work.

Environmental portraits require a good understanding of lighting and composition. That way, you can balance the subject and their surroundings effectively.

42. Still Life

Still life photography involves arranging objects in a way that conveys a particular mood or theme. This genre provides plenty of opportunities for creativity.

From choosing your subjects and arranging them to playing with lighting and composition. A still life photography session is a great way to practice your skills and create beautiful images.

43. Architectural Detail

By focusing on architectural details in images, you can highlight the beauty and intricacy of buildings. Look for interesting patterns, textures, or features to photograph.

An architectural detail photoshoot can help you see familiar structures in a new light. And appreciate the artistry of architecture.

44. Juxtaposition

Juxtaposition involves placing two contrasting elements side by side for dramatic effect.

In a juxtaposition photoshoot, look for ways to contrast colors, sizes, shapes, or themes in your images. This can create visually interesting and creative photos that make viewers stop and think.

45. Photomontage

Try snapping multiple pictures of the same thing. Next, you’ll want to stack them in your favorite photo editing software to make one big, awesome image.

The fun is in the stacking part because you have many options and ways to do it!

46. Wildlife

Wildlife photography can be rewarding and exciting, offering the chance to capture animals in their natural habitat.

Patience and understanding of animal behavior are key to getting good shots.

47. Documentary

Documentary photography aims to tell a story or document a particular issue or event. This type of photoshoot requires a keen eye for detail and a sensitivity to the subject.

Whether you’re documenting a social issue, a historical event, or a day in a particular person’s life, documentary photography can be a powerful way to communicate and inform.

48. Panoramic

Panoramic photography involves capturing wide, sweeping views of a scene. This can be effective for landscapes or cityscapes because it lets you capture the full breadth of a view.

49. Surreal

Surreal photography defies reality by using props, unusual perspectives, or post-processing techniques.

As a photographer, you need a creative vision before shooting. One that transforms believable scenes into fantastical, hallucinatory scenarios.

The resulting images are often dreamlike and tap into people’s unconscious.

50. Characters

Character photography (also called cosplay) is when people in costumes are photographed, often inspired by movies, books, or video games. It’s all about bringing fictional characters to life through photography.

Pay attention to details in the costume and makeup. Use settings and props to enhance the character’s story. Interaction between more than one character can also make interesting images.

Tips For Executing Your Creative Photo Ideas

Before you dive headfirst into your creative photoshoot, plan ahead.

Start by brainstorming unique photo concepts that excite you. Do some research on various photoshoot themes and draw inspiration from diverse sources.

Whether it’s a professional photoshoot or a DIY photography project at home, having a clear idea of what you want to achieve can make the process smoother.

Try scouting locations for outdoor photography or arranging props for home photography in advance.

Use Unique Backgrounds

Unique backgrounds play a fundamental role in adding depth to your photographs.

Experiment with different textures and colors that complement your subject. Be it an urban landscape for a portrait photography session—or vibrant graffiti walls for a street photography theme.

Try Different Angles

Looking for an instant way to infuse creativity into your shots?

Try viewing things from unique angles! Get down low, go high, tilt your camera – these are just some ways you can bring about interesting perspectives in your images.

Don’t be afraid to break the rules; after all – creativity knows no bounds!

Use Different Lighting Settings

Lighting is one of the most powerful tools when capturing interesting images.

You can create different moods in your photos by playing with lighting, from soft and mystical to intense and striking.

Have Fun While Shooting

Remember that, at its core, photography is an art form meant to be enjoyable. So loosen up and have fun while shooting!

Try spontaneous poses, unconventional props, or unplanned locations. These unexpected elements often lead to the most memorable shots in creative photoshoots.

The more you love the process, the more it’ll reflect in your work, making your images remarkable.

Making The Most Out of Your Cool Photo Ideas

So, you’ve explored creative photography ideas, experimented with creative photoshoots, and played around with unique photo concepts.

It’s been a journey!

But now that you have this treasure trove of inspirational ideas, how can you make the most of it?

First, don’t be afraid to revisit your favorite themes and photography ideas. Just because you’ve tried something once doesn’t mean it’s off the table for good. Some techniques or settings may work better on different days or in various moods. And with this list of 50 ideas, you have plenty of photography ideas to practice from.

Second, don’t shy away from revisiting locations. An old place can offer new perspectives when revisited.

And finally, while exploring various photography ideas, remember to maintain an open mind and embrace experimentation.

Kyra Chambers (KyraTheCreative) is the Co-Founder of Red October Firm. And a photographer, artist, and graphic designer. She has been in the photography industry since 2015 and loves making photography easy for everyone.

Similar Posts

Golden Hour Photography: The Complete Guide

Have you ever wondered how photographers take those magical, golden-hour photos where the light makes their subjects and…

The Best Photo Editing Apps and Tools

You’ve got a gallery of photos sitting on your device. They’re good but not quite Instagram or post-worthy….

10 Steps to Photography: A How to Guide for Beginners

Getting into photography after finding your favorite muse is exciting! Whether that’s portrait, landscape, macro, street, black and…

Why Photography is an Art (My Take Take on The Matter)

Photography is more than just snapping pictures. It’s art. Yet, some people don’t see why photography is an…

Mobile Photography Tips That’ll Help You Take Better Photos

With the power of today’s smartphones, anyone can become an impressive photographer. Your phone is a compact powerhouse…

Shadow Photography (Tips and Secrets You Need to Know)

Isn’t it cool that in shadow photography, the absence of light is just as important as its presence?…

The Creative Photographer

• Latest tutorials
• Composition Tutorials
• Landscape Photography Tutorials
• Black and White Photography Tutorials
• Exposure Tutorials
• Creative Photography Tutorials
• Lens Tutorials
• Street and Travel Photography Tutorials
• Portrait Photography Tutorials
• Composition Photo Tips Cards
• Photography ebooks & courses

Creative Assignment Cards

STORE > CREATIVE ASSIGNMENT CARDS

(all prices in USD)

My brand new Creative Assignment Cards are like an inspirational workshop on your phone.

The cards summarize each of the 250 assignment briefs in my three assignment books. Each assignment has its own page, listing the brief, helpful tips and an inspirational photo.

There are three sets of cards, one for each book ( 100 Creative Photography Assignments, 100 Composition Assignments and The Magic of Black & White: 50 Assignments ).

The idea is that they are always with you, on your phone, ready for when you need inspiration and new ideas.

The Creative Assignment Cards have been made for you:

• 250 assignment briefs and inspirational photos at your fingertips – never be stuck for ideas again.
• Assignments for all photographers – it doesn’t matter whether you own the latest digital SLR or mirrorless camera, or use a camera phone.
• You get three PDF files, one for each of the assignment ebooks.
• The PDFs are easy to navigate. Each page has a tappable link to the Assignment index, and in the index just tap on an assignment to go straight to it.

For example, here are some of the black and white assignments. Each page has a link to the index at the bottom.

This is the index that lists the assignment. Just tap on an assignment to go straight to its page. It couldn’t be easier!

What you will learn

The aim of the Creative Assignment Cards is to make sure you never run out of ideas for photography again.

The assignments also help you understand the principles of good composition and great black and white photography. You’ll start to see connections and themes, and learn how to develop your ideas and deepen your exploration of photography using long term projects.

The story behind the cards

Assignments and briefs are powerful learning tools. What’s why I’ve written three ebooks based on the lessons that I wish I could go back in time and give to myself twenty years ago.

The cards take this idea a step further by putting the assignments into a form that’s easy to read on your phone. Buy these cards and you’ll have access to 250 assignment ideas whenever you need them. It’s much better for your photography than buying a new camera (and much cheaper too).

Download your copy today

Click the Buy Now button to make your purchase and start using your Creative Assignment Cards right away. Payment is by PayPal or credit card.

What others are saying

“I purchased your new ebook; brilliant.” – Paul

“I love your ebooks and have become a much better photographer thanks to you.” – Hugh

The Guarantee

I’m so confident that my photography resources will help improve your photography that I give you an unconditional guarantee. If, for any reason, you’re not satisfied with your purchase just let me know within two months and I’ll refund the purchase price in full, no questions asked.

The Assignments bundle

Save money with the Assignments bundle: Buy 100 Composition Assignments,   100 Creative Photography Assignments , The Magic of Black & White: 50 Assignments and the Creative Assignment Cards together for just $39 (normal price $49).

• Military & Veterans in Recovery
• Faith in Recovery
• The Banyan Difference
• Corporate Team
• Clinical & Medical Professionals
• Virtual Tours
• Medical Detox
• Intensive Inpatient
• Residential Treatment
• Partial Hospitalization
• Intensive Outpatient
• Accelerated Resolution
• Family Therapy
• Gestalt Counseling
• Motivational Interviewing
• Music & Art
• Pet Therapy
• Psychodynamic
• Psychoeducational
• Solution-Focused Brief
• Ancillary  
• Biofeedback
• First Responders
• Intervention
• Military & Veterans
• Pregnant Women
• SMART Recovery
• Stabilization
• Relapse Prevention

I was completely lost to addiction.  Banyan saved my life.

• Partial Hospitalization Program
• Intensive Outpatient Program
• Outpatient Program
• Executive Rehab
• Intervention Services
• Stabilization Program
• Telehealth Program
• Trauma Treatment Program
• Accelerated Resolution Therapy
• Equine Therapy
• Gestalt Therapies
• Music and Art Therapy
• TMS Therapy
• Alcohol Detox
• Benzo Detox
• Cocaine Detox
• Crack Detox
• Heroin Detox
• Methadone Detox
• Opiate Detox
• Opioid Detox
• Prescription Drug Detox
• Alcohol Treatment
• Benzo Treatment
• Cocaine Treatment
• Crack Treatment
• Fentanyl Treatment
• Heroin Treatment
• Methadone Treatment
• Meth Treatment
• Opiate Treatment
• Opioid Treatment
• Prescription Drug Treatment
• Dual Diagnosis
• Bipolar Disorder
• Mood and Anxiety
• OCD Treatment
• PTSD Treatment 
• Schizophrenia Treatment

We provide custom tailored programs for substance use disorder & mental health

Whether you're facing addiction or mental health issues, we have beds available now.  

• Fentanyl Detox
• Methamphetamine Detox
• Banyan Alaska
• Banyan Boca
• Banyan Castle Rock
• Banyan Chicago
• Banyan Delaware
• Banyan Heartland
• Behavioral Health of the Palm Beaches
• Clearbrook Massachusetts
• Clearbrook Pennsylvania
• Banyan Gulf Breeze
• Banyan Massachusetts
• Banyan Palm Springs
• Banyan Philadelphia
• Banyan Pompano
• Banyan Sebring
• Banyan Stuart
• Banyan Texas
• Seaside Palm Beach
• Consultation Centers

Banyan Has Top-Tier Facilities Nationwide Specializing from Inpatient Care to Mental Health

• Massachusetts Location Page
• Arlington Heights
• Fort Lauderdale Consultation
• River North
• West Virginia
• Wisconsin Consultation
• Addiction Research
• Banyan Podcast
• Effectiveness Statistics
• Family Resources

We understand addiction.

• Notice of Privacy Practices
• Help For Yourself ›
• Help For A Loved One ›
• Referring Professionals ›
• Deposit Funds
• Request Medical Records

You don't have to struggle alone.

• Referring Professionals

Cool Art Project Ideas for Addiction Recovery

Art therapy is a common therapeutic approach used in addiction treatment.

It’s usually led by a trained therapist who is licensed to help recovering addicts heal from the effects of addiction and learn how to best express their emotions. Art for recovery has the potential to positively impact a patient’s well-being by addressing and alleviating emotional and physical issues. Creating recovery art is also beneficial for helping patients express thoughts and emotions that may be difficult to express in words. As a Philadelphia addiction center that offers this therapy method, we’re sharing some cool art project ideas for addiction recovery that you can try at home.

Fun Substance Abuse Art Therapy Activities

For many people, creating art is a great way to relax and channel emotions that are difficult to understand. Art helps us make sense of confusing situations and thoughts that we may otherwise try to avoid. Below are some cool art project ideas for addiction recovery that you can try on your own or with a loved one.

Fingerprints Heart Charm

You can make a heart-shaped charm out of two fingerprints. This is a lovely addiction art project to make with a spouse, close friend, or family member.

What You’ll Need:

• 2 cups of flour
• 1 cup of salt

First, mix the flour and salt in a bowl. Slowly add water while mixing until you get a mixture that has the consistency of playdough. Next, mold the dough until it’s shaped like a heart (you can make it as big or small as you want) and create the fingerprint impressions. Lastly, place the charm on a baking tray lined with a baking sheet and place it in the oven at 250 F/ 120 C for 2 hours. Once it’s done, take it out of the oven, let it cool, and paint it.

Create an Album of Past and Recent Pictures

While this may seem like a simple craft, nothing solidifies the benefits of sober living than looking at pictures of yourself from the past. You may have plenty of photos from when you were an active drug addict or alcoholic. These could be pictures of yourself with friends or family members, and while they may seem happy on the surface, underneath it all, you were struggling with a big problem. A great way to remind yourself of the difference sobriety can make is by starting a photo album that contains pictures from your past and your present. While some memories can be painful, photographs also capture milestones in our lives that are important but can be easy to forget. Whenever you’re feeling down or struggling with something, you can look back at these pictures and be reminded of your accomplishments.

Start a Memory Box

Whether it’s a bottle cap or a movie ticket, even the smallest of things can take us back to great moments. These little memories can make a huge difference when you’re recovering from addiction. Just like negative memories can cloud our judgment and take hold of our emotions, positive memories can clear our confusion and remind us of the truly good things in life. A great way to not only create addiction artwork but to utilize it for your sobriety is by making a memory box.

You can build a small memory box out of wood, or you can buy a plain wooden box at a craft store and decorate it, either on your own or with your spouse, children, friends, or family. Use acrylic paint, stickers, polymer clay, glitter, and other crafty tools to decorate your memory box. Once you’re done, you can begin filling it with small knick-knacks that bring up good memories, like a movie ticket or dried flower. Keep collecting things until a year from the day you began. Once you’ve hit a year of collecting, you can look back at your memories.

Make a Mindfulness Bracelet

For many people who have undergone drug or alcohol addiction treatment , having a physical object to fiddle can help manage stress and anxiety, which are two of the most common causes of addiction . If you’ve ever heard of a fidget spinner, then you may understand how having a small object to pick at with your hands can help a person concentrate. Many addicts in recovery tend to struggle with anxiety, boredom, and restlessness because addictive behaviors are often fidgety and one-track-minded. Mindfulness bracelets or beads are excellent art project ideas for adults in recovery that can serve as enjoyable distractions from stress and worries.

You would just need a variety of beads that you like. These can be purchased at a craft store or taken from other pieces of jewelry. Sometimes it’s helpful to take or make beads from pieces of jewelry that belonged to a loved one. Then you need some string or cord. You can find specialty string, thread, and floss that are specifically made for keychains and bracelets. Once you have your supplies, measure how much string or cord that you’ll need. Wrap it around your wrist, cut the piece, and add the beads in a pattern you like. Be sure to leave some extra so you can easily tie off the bracelet.

There are plenty of other recovery art therapy ideas out there that you can enjoy. Sometimes it’s just as simple as picking up a pencil and drawing whatever comes to your mind. The beauty of art is that it’s flexible.

If you or someone you know is struggling with drug abuse or alcoholism, now is the time to get help. Call Banyan Treatment Centers Philadelphia now at 888-280-4763 for more information about our addiction treatment programs in PA .

Related Reading:

• Athletes Who Had Addictions

Alyssa, Director of Digital Marketing

Related posts, “california sober” & what it says about sobriety, snorting dangers: the cocaine effects on your nose you need to know about, national alcohol day: say no to drinking, don’t go we can help., we have beds available. call for same day admission..

Call Now     Verify Insurance

We can help.

Verify Insurance

• Student Successes
• My Learning

15 Creative Photoshop Ideas to Try Yourself in 2024

You can also select your interests for free access to our premium training:

If you want to get creative with Adobe Photoshop, we’ve got a list of creative Photoshop ideas for you to try! Photography isn’t just about what you can do with a camera. There are great ways to get creative and try new things in post-processing . It can add different effects and take your work in a new direction using Photoshop. Read on for some of the best Photoshop tutorials to run through.

15 Creative Photoshop Ideas to Try

Here’s our list of the best creative ideas for Adobe Photoshop . Take a look, and you’ll find some great techniques for photo editing and post-production manipulation .

1. Change Color Photos to Black and White

Color photography has been around for more than 70 years. And yet, black and white photography still entices photographers today. With black-and-white photography, you can’t rely on color to make your images impressive. You’re highlighting something different. Look for textures and patterns. Think about content and composition. These days, you don’t need to go out and buy new rolls of film to create excellent black-and-white images. You can use simple Photoshop editing tools. Turn your color photos into amazing monochrome photos . Or you can even experiment with color splash effects for a unique result! The process is straightforward, and you don’t need to be a Photoshop master. Click the link in the heading and follow our easy tutorial on making black-and-white images in Photoshop .

2. Add Lens Flare to Photos

Lens flare is often an inconvenience. And Photoshop is often used to remove it from photos in post-processing. But these days, you can use Photoshop to add flare, too. Adding lens flare is a great way to give your images a dreamy glaze. It can add mystery and romance to golden hour scenes and sunsets. Lens technology is constantly improving. High-quality lenses have an anti-reflection coating. It’s a benefit to a lot of photographers. But it means achieving a flare effect naturally is more complicated. Thankfully, you can get an excellent flare effect with some photo manipulation. We have a simple Photoshop tutorial for adding lens flare in post-production. Click the heading link to give it a go.

3. Use Photoshop for a Double-Exposure Effect

Double exposure is an excellent experimental photography technique you can try. And you can make unique images. It is a feature of film photography where one section of the film is exposed twice. Initially, this was considered a malfunction. But the double-exposure effect became something photographers wanted. With a film camera, you have to rewind the film roll to expose the same piece of film a second time. It is a risky process. You never know what the final image looks like until it is developed. But now, you can add the double-exposure effect to a digital photo thanks to Photoshop. And the process is simple. The beautiful thing about digital double exposure is the creative control. You no longer need to experiment with film shots. You can get the exact effect without film waste or risk. You need two images. And using different adjustment layers , you can merge them in Photoshop for a splendid double-exposure effect. Click on the link in the heading for a full Photoshop tutorial.

4. Brighten Photos With a Double-Light Effect

A double-light effect gives your images a professional look without a full studio setup. The result is very popular with portrait and fashion photographers. Using Photoshop, you can create realistic lighting effects . You can give shots a double-light effect with color treatment. Adding two colors to pictures can create contrasting moods or warmth and coolness. There are a few steps involved. But you learn a few other Photoshop processes along the way. All you need to start is a digital photo with two light sources. Then, with some Photoshop work, you can transform your image. You can learn the whole process by following the link in the heading. It’s a great Photoshop tutorial with a complete step-by-step guide.

5. Create Surreal Miniature Portraits in Photoshop

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to be small? You can easily place yourself into a tiny world with a few Photoshop techniques! You can take inspiration from our contributor, Joel Robison. He’s a master of surreal miniature portraits, creating fantastic scenes full of fun and imagination. After you’ve browsed Joel’s gallery , you can check out his course or the tutorial through the link in the heading. Learn the specific techniques, then let your imagination run wild. You can use these effects to introduce elements of fantasy. You can experiment with self-portraits, like Joel and other self-portrait photographers. Or you can use friends and family for surreal portraits. This type of photo editing does involve some advanced techniques. But even if you are new to Photoshop, you can still try it. It’s a great way to experiment and learn new editing methods.

6. Create Amazing Cinemagraphs With Photoshop

Cinemagraphs are a great way to add magic to your photography. These are photos that feature one moving element. It could be snow falling, a swirling sky, or hair moving in the breeze. No matter your photography style, they are a great way to impress. It’s not a GIF , as most of the photo remains still. It’s only the one element that moves. Our contributor, Anya Anti, has some excellent cinemagraphs in her collection . She uses them to enhance the magic and wonder in her conceptual portraits . If Anya’s amazing cinemagraphs inspire you, you can create your own using a few Photoshop actions . You need a short video to work with. Then, you can turn it into a cinemagraph with a few steps.

7. Add a Retro 3D Effect to Images Using Photoshop

3D photography comes in and out of fashion all the time. And we’re all familiar with the 3D images you need the retro glasses to look at. But you no longer need any film studio technology to get that effect. If you click the header link above, you find a video tutorial teaching you how to get this cool Photoshop effect. If you feel inspired, you can also create a 3D text effect ! You can turn any digital photo into a retro 3D image and impress your friends. With a few blending modes and adjustment layers, you’ll be ready for the next 3D trend!

8. Create a Watercolor Paint Effect in Photoshop

You can transform your digital photos into beautiful watercolor images. It’s a great way to make portraits even more special. This photo manipulation technique uses watercolor brushes to create a digital painting . You start with any digital portrait you have. And by adding some textures and brushwork, you can make a digital work of art. This isn’t the easiest of photo manipulations in Photoshop . But learning this technique gives you plenty of knowledge to apply elsewhere. Hit the link in the heading above for a tutorial. You learn how to achieve the watercolor effect in Adobe Photoshop.

9. Create Pop Art With Photoshop

Awaken your inner Andy Warhol and turn your images into some fab pop art pieces. Take any digital image you have. And with some photo manipulation and painting techniques, you can make something bold and bright. You can change the graphic elements of your photo, turning a standard image into something retro and vibrant. This Photoshop tutorial teaches you how to desaturate your images. You then learn how to create halftone patterns. These are valuable techniques for other types of photo manipulations. The link in the heading above gives you a step-by-step guide. Click it and create your own stunning artwork today.

10. Give Digital Photos a Retro Feel

Over the years, digital photography has overtaken film. It’s cheaper and more convenient. But many photographers still want that grainy texture you get with film photography. You don’t need to run out and buy a new roll of film for your old film camera to achieve this look. We’ve got a Photoshop tutorial to give your digital images the film-photo effect. It’s a simple process with only a few steps to follow. You can use this photo manipulation technique even if you’re a Photoshop beginner . And you won’t be disappointed if you love the look of old photos. There are plenty of Photoshop tutorials online for this photo effect. Click the heading above for our detailed, step-by-step instructions.

11. Create Composite Images With Photoshop

Compositing is a creative photo manipulation technique anyone can try. You can start by combining two photos. You can then introduce more details to create stunning images. The images you use to create composites don’t have to be photos. You can play with mixed media to achieve different effects in your final image. If you’re experienced with the Adobe program, there won’t be many Photoshop actions that you haven’t seen before. But if you’re a beginner, that’s no problem. Combining images in Photoshop is easier than you might expect. The link above takes you to one of our best Photoshop tutorials. One of our creative collaborators, Anna Maghradze, loves creating composite images in Photoshop! She makes her digital collages using layers, blending modes, and other Photoshop techniques. She uses both her images and free stock photos .

12. Create a Cool Droste Image in Photoshop

The Droste effect has a picture within a picture. Usually, it’s the same picture repeated to create a surreal and dream-like effect. Often, it is the same picture repeated several times. It looks surreal and technically tricky. But the Droste effect is easy to achieve with some photo manipulation in Photoshop. Your main image needs to include a type of frame. It can be a painting or a TV screen. It is where the image is repeated. If you create the angle correctly, you can repeat your image infinite times. Or it at least gets very small. The header link above takes you to the ExpertPhotography tutorial. It shows you how to create the Droste effect in Photoshop. And it’s full of extra editing tips and tricks .

13. Try the Multiple Exposure Effect

Multiplicity is an excellent Photoshop effect that adds surrealism and humor to your work. This multiple-exposure effect  includes your subject more than once in the same scene. You can use two images to start with. This is easier because you’ll be using different layer masks . Then, once you get the hang of it, you can experiment with more layers. The images need to be of the same scene. And the framing of the composition needs to be precisely the same. You then take several photos where your subject is in different positions. After that, you bring the images together using Photoshop. Hit the link above for one of the best Photoshop tutorials on the multiple-exposure effect.

14. Go for a Unique Look With an Infrared Effect

You can completely change the feel and purpose of a set of photos with a few changes in Photoshop. Giving your images an infrared effect is a great way to make them stand out. Adding an infrared effect is simple but can have a significant impact. And there’s a lot of flexibility with this type of edit, too. You can introduce subtle effects. Or you can completely change the color palette , making them more dramatic. The process is easy. If you’ve played with adjustment layers and blending modes before, you get the hang of it quickly. There are some excellent tutorials out there. But if you click on the one in the heading above, you get a great Photoshop tutorial full of extra Photoshop tips .

15. Apply a Dreamy Bokeh Effect to Photos

The bokeh effect is when your subject is focused, but your background is out of focus. If you set your aperture to have a shallow depth of field, then the background has a soft blur . You can achieve this effect with your camera. But if you didn’t get it right at the shoot, you can use Photoshop to add the bokeh effect in post-production. There are a few steps involved in the process. But you’ll be familiar with most of the Photoshop tools you need. If you click the link in the heading above, you get an excellent tutorial to add a bokeh effect to your photos. And there are some extra Photoshop tutorials, too.

Conclusion: Creative Photoshop Ideas

Creativity with photography doesn’t end when you turn your camera off. There are so many ways to change and add effects to your work with Adobe Photoshop . You can use the program to remove blemishes , do touch-ups , or add other nifty Photoshop effects to portraits. Or you can completely change your photos using the tutorials we’ve provided in our list. Even if you’re a beginner with Photoshop, there are some creative Photoshop ideas here you can get started with. Good luck on your journey to becoming a Photoshop expert!

Popular Content

Press Herald

Account Subscription: ACTIVE

Questions about your account? Our customer service team can be reached at [email protected] during business hours at (207) 791-6000 .

• Local & State

Life-size dinosaurs, a candy store tour and more to do this weekend

Take a road tip to Wiscasset for art, food, car racing and a gargantuan amount of candy.

You are able to gift 5 more articles this month.

Anyone can access the link you share with no account required. Learn more .

With a Press Herald subscription, you can gift 5 articles each month.

It looks like you do not have any active subscriptions. To get one, go to the subscriptions page .

Loading....

One of many dinosaurs that will be at Cross Insurance Arena in Portland. Photo courtesy of Jurassic Quest

Make no bones about it, it’s going to be a great weekend, starting with  Jurassic Quest at Cross Insurance Arena . Animatronic dinosaurs will delight the kids, who will also get a kick out of digging for fossils and riding on a baby dino. Another option in our weekly roundup is “Beautiful: The Carole King Musical” at the Maine State Music Theatre in Brunswick.

‘Beautiful’ at Maine State Music Theatre, Pet Rock in the Park and Jurassic Quest

Some of the candy available at the Granite Hall Store in Round Pond. Photo by Aimsel Ponti

For an even sweeter experience, we’re sending you candy shopping. We’ve shined a light on five shops  with something extra to offer and created a nifty guide of 18 to look you can find  all around southern Maine and the Midcoast. From giant shops like Sweetz & More in Wiscasset to charming places like the Granite Hall Store in Round Pond, there’s a candy shop out there calling your name.

These 5 unique Maine candy stores are a real treat

The Brackett’s Market 4-Cylinder Pros compete Saturday at Wiscasset Speedway. Anna Chadwick/Morning Sentinel

Should your sweets-seeking adventure bring you to Wiscasset, we clue you into  several other things to do  in town, including car races at the Wiscasset Speedway.

A trip to pretty Wiscasset can also include art, history, speed

Bagel sandwich with eggs, cheese and pork roll from Dutchman’s Wood-Fired Bagels in Brunswick. Photo by Aimsel Ponti

Want to hit breakfast right out of the park? Make your way to Brunswick for an egg and cheese sandwich from Dutchman’s Wood-Fired Bagels . We’re particularly partial to the one with pork roll and bodega sauce. Your taste buds can thank us later.

Pork roll and bodega sauce on a breakfast sandwich? We’re not in Brunswick anymore

Ling-Wen Tsai, “Rising/Sinking Study Chair,” wood and milk paint, 12 x 12 x 5 inches. Photo courtesy of Corey Daniels Gallery

Farther south in Wells, check out “Life Forms,” a women’s sculpture collective at the Corey Daniels Gallery. You’ll see works by about a dozen artists as you make your way through the exhibit.

Women’s sculpture collective debuts work in Wells

U.S. Navy Band Country Current performing in Tennessee. Photo by Petty Officer 1st Class April Enos

For some Sunday afternoon live tunes, head to Memorial Park in Freeport at 3 p.m. for a free performance by Country Current . The band is the only U.S. Navy country/bluegrass ensemble, and the show should be a foot-stomping good time.

See U.S. Navy band Country Current for free in Freeport

Comments are not available on this story.

Send questions/comments to the editors.

« Previous

Next »

Portland Park(ing) Day set for Sept. 20

‘Deafening silence of information’: Brunswick Landing businesses feel impact of foam spill

Brunswick’s joshua’s restaurant and tavern shuttering after 35 years, truck that fell through covered bridge was 6 times heavier than posted limit, first tests reveal high pfas levels in spilled foam, ponds at brunswick landing, manchester fire chief resigns in wake of police impersonation scandal, member log in.

Please enter your username and password below. Already a subscriber but don't have one? Click here .

Not a subscriber? Click here to see your options