How I Improved My Photography
Over the years, I found a few different things that helped me improve my work. When it comes to street photography, it’s all about practice, repetition, and putting in that time. The journey of improvement is continuous, but there are specific practices that have made a real difference for me.
One Camera, One Lens
“First and foremost, it’s important to consider the gear itself.”
Simplicity in gear is key. I believe in the philosophy of using one camera and one lens for an extended period of time. By sticking with a single setup, you can improve incrementally and become intimately familiar with your equipment. The more you switch between different lenses and cameras, the less you’ll progress.
Why Stick to One Camera, One Lens?
- Builds familiarity with your tool.
- Encourages focus on composition and moment over technical considerations.
- Reduces distractions caused by constantly switching gear.
Recommendation: A Ricoh GR camera is ideal—compact, fixed lens, and easy to carry wherever you go.
Practice Daily
“One simple idea I have is to make a picture every single day.”
Consistency is crucial in photography. It’s easy to lose motivation or fall into a rut, but making a habit of photographing every single day can make a big difference. Even if you only make one frame a day, it’s still a worthwhile practice. Don’t get caught up in trying to capture a keeper every time. Treat each day as a chance to flex your creative muscle.
Benefits of Daily Practice:
- Develops discipline and consistency.
- Improves your eye for light, composition, and moments.
- Keeps the creative process fresh and active.
Go Slow
“When you’re walking the street, walk slowly.”
To improve your photography, learn to slow down. When you move slowly, you enter a zen-like state that allows you to recognize the patterns of life. The slower you walk, the more you’ll see, and the more you’ll photograph. By wandering at a slow pace, you can immerse yourself in your surroundings and see beyond the surface.
The Zen of Going Slow:
- See more by taking your time.
- Find yourself in a state of wandering.
- Avoid rushing and let moments come to you.
The more you rush, the more the moments slip away. Slow down and allow life to flow toward you.
Find a Route and Stick to It
“In your hometown, find a certain path that you want to take each day.”
Repetition is the key to mastery. Find a route in your hometown and stick to it. Walking the same path every day allows you to study the street and become familiar with the daily rhythms of your environment. By photographing a familiar place consistently, you increase your chances of making a successful frame. Embrace the mundane and discover the beauty hidden in everyday moments.
Why Repeating a Route Works:
- Builds intimacy with your environment.
- Increases the likelihood of capturing unique moments.
- Helps you notice subtle changes and nuances.
Study the Light
“As you observe your town, study the light.”
Light is everything in photography. As you explore your town, take time to study how the light interacts with different places. Notice where the sun hits, where shadows fall, and how people move through these spaces at various times of the day. Understanding light helps you decide where to position yourself and when to press the shutter.
The Importance of Studying Light:
- Predict where good light will be.
- Learn ideal shooting times.
- Improve your ability to create dramatic and compelling images.
Collect a Few Books
“There’s something about studying the work of others, and finding inspiration within the realm of photography.”
Inspiration often comes from studying the masters. Photobooks offer a window into how other photographers see the world. Look at their composition, the times of day they shoot, and how they approach different subjects.
Tips for Learning from Photobooks:
- Analyze compositions and lighting choices.
- Incorporate elements that resonate with you into your own work.
- Build a small library of books that inspire you.
“The goal is to learn from your masters, then kill them.”
Study them until you’ve learned their methods, and then make them your own.
Separate Yourself from the Work
“It’s easy to become emotional about a particular photograph that you’ve made.”
A key to improving your work is learning to separate yourself emotionally from your photographs. Allow yourself time to review your images objectively after a year of shooting. This doesn’t mean neglecting your archive—go through your photos regularly to keep things organized.
Daily and Yearly Review:
- Daily selections: Quickly review your photos after each walk.
- Yearly review: Take time to detach and evaluate your best work from a broader perspective.
When you can view your work without emotional bias, you’ll be better able to see what truly stands out.
Make a Sketchbook
“After you’re done photographing for a year and find your selections, make a sketchbook of your best work.”
Once you’ve selected your best photos, create a sketchbook. Use a compact printer like the Canon SELPHY CP 1500 to print your images, making notes about each one. Carry this sketchbook with you to keep your work physically and metaphorically close.
Why a Sketchbook?
- Helps you study your progress over time.
- Keeps your best work within reach.
- Encourages daily reflection on your photography.
Travel and Test Your Skills
“Once you spend your first year photographing in your hometown and flexing your muscles daily, it’s time for the real test.”
After a year of consistent practice, take your skills on the road. Travel to a new location—a place that challenges you and offers fresh inspiration. Don’t overthink or overplan. Instead, go with an open mind, ready to explore without preconceived ideas.
Benefits of Traveling for Photography:
- Pushes you out of your comfort zone.
- Introduces you to new cultures and ways of seeing.
- Offers new challenges that help you grow.
Recommendation: Visit Mumbai, India. It’s a city rich with life and endless photographic opportunities. It’s one of those places where you could spend a lifetime photographing and still discover something new each day. Check out my behind-the-scenes videos of photographing in Mumbai on my YouTube channel.
Remember, travel isn’t about creating the best images—it’s about embracing the adventure and cherishing each moment.
Conclusion: Improvement Is a Journey
Improving your photography isn’t about shortcuts; it’s about consistent practice, embracing curiosity, and staying open to the world around you. Stick with one camera and lens, practice daily, and take time to study your surroundings. Separate yourself from your work and challenge yourself with new experiences. Photography is a journey, and each step you take is an opportunity to learn and grow.
“This is why photography is so powerful. It brings us to these new places and allows us to explore with an open mind without any preconceived notions of what we will find.”
Stay curious, stay dedicated, and let the world unfold in front of your lens.