Now that we are starting a new year, most people are doing the “New Year, New You” thing with setting resolutions for 2017. Resolutions can be good or bad depending how they are handled.
So, What about your photography? Should you make some Resolutions for 2017?
I think it’s a good idea, as long as you follow a few simple suggestions.
Be Specific
Don’t say “I’m going to become a great photographer” That’s a way too broad, expansive and general a goal. Look at where you are right now with your photography, and then pick One thing you want to be better at. For example, if you’ve always wanted to learn how to create stunning High Dynamic Range images, set that as your goal. Or perhaps Macro Photography, or whatever you really want to learn and master.
Be Realistic
Unless you have an unlimited source of discretionary income and money is of no concern to you, don’t set yourself goals that are not within your financial reach. Most of us would like to upgrade our gear, or take fantastic trips, but the realization of that goal is just not possible. Setting yourself a goal that is impossible is just discouraging.
Know What You Need to Do
Once you have a goal, or resolution, you need to know how to reach that goal. If you are not sure what you need to do to succeed, how are you going to know if you do? If your goal is to learn HDR, what do you need? How can you learn techniques? Where can you get training? Do some research, and decide what the solution is to your resolution.
Be Time Sensitive
Every great plan has one key ingredient, a time frame. You need that. You need to set yourself a realistic time frame for completing each stage of your plan. For example, if you are going to learn HDR, you need some sort of software. Set yourself a date that you will have that software installed. Are you planning to get training? Pick a date that you will have your training scheduled. Give yourself the appropriate time needed to get things done, but set a “Done By” date.
Write It Down
It’s very easy to make goals in your head, especially at the end of a long day. But what happens tomorrow or after when you’ve forgotten half of the great plan you made. Write it down. It doesn’t have to be perfect; just a list you can refer to. They’ve proven that when a person works a list and checks things off as the go; they feel more of a sense of accomplishment.
Finally, Acknowledge Your Accomplishments
As you get closer to realizing your goal, remember it’s okay to be proud of yourself.
So, What’s Your Resolution for 2017?
Latest articles by Dan Wampler (see all articles)
- Seal Bay photoshoot - March 7, 2023
- Major Copyright Infringement site Scroller.com - March 6, 2023
- Kangaroo Island Wallabies and Roos - March 1, 2023
Dan Wampler
Dan Wampler is a digital artist from St Louis, MO. Having been interested in art and photography since childhood, he spent most of adult life working for Kodak and in the portrait photography industry. A student of the works of Ansel Adams, Any Warhol, and David Hamilton, Dan attempted to keep a wide range of artistic style.
As an early adopter of digital imaging, he found it gave him a way to completely incorporate art and photography. Began shooting Digital Infrared in 2004, and had first camera converted in 2006. His work has been seen in numerous gallery shows, is featured in an iTunes app. He produces Infrared and natural color digital art for sale and teaches his post-production techniques online.
Dan is LifePixel's Creative Director, social media manager, lead blog author, main workshops and training sessions instructor. His images appear in this gallery and throughout the website.
If you have a topic suggestion or request feel free to shoot him an email at danwampler@lifepixel.com
Otherwise all LifePixel customer service inquires should be directed to service@lifepixel.com or by phone at 866-610-1710.
View more of Dan's work on his Website | Facebook
See All Articles by Dan Wampler
Leave a Reply