9 Questions To Ask Yourself As A Passionate Photographer

When I started, it was anything but easy to navigate this complex industry. Everything was archaic, people worked at the same desk for decades and there was barely any opportunity to move up the ladder quickly.

No matter how talented or hardworking you were. 

That’s when I decided not to follow the norm and instead question the status quo.

As photographers, we often focus on the technical aspects of our craft like composition, post-processing, and gear choices. But it's equally important to ask ourselves deeper questions to discover the meaning and purpose behind our work.

Here are 9 questions I continue to ask myself to this day:

1. Why do I take photos?

Understanding why we take photos is crucial. Is it to capture beautiful moments, tell stories, or convey emotions? Knowing our purpose guides our creative decisions and keeps us motivated.

2. What story am I trying to tell?

Every photo tells a story, but what story do you want to tell? 

Whether it's showcasing nature's beauty, revealing human experiences, or documenting history, defining your story brings purpose to your photography.

3. How does my photography reflect my values and beliefs?

Photos can express our values and beliefs. 

Do your photos promote social justice, environmental sustainability, or cultural diversity? Recognizing this connection adds depth and meaning to your work.

4. What impact do I want my photography to have?

Consider the impact you want your photos to have. 

Do you want to inspire, raise awareness, or evoke emotions? This shapes your subjects, compositions, and editing choices, connecting your work with your audience.

5. How do I find inspiration and stay motivated?

Photography can be challenging, so it's important to know where you find inspiration and motivation. 

Is it from other photographers, nature, or everyday life? Knowing your sources helps push your boundaries and keeps your passion alive.

6. Am I stepping out of my comfort zone?

Growth happens when we challenge ourselves. 

Are you pushing yourself enough in subject matter, techniques, or genre? Stepping out of your comfort zone leads to creative breakthroughs.

7. How can I make a positive impact with photography?

Photos have the power to change the world, even in small ways. 

Think about how you can make a positive impact in your community or society. It could be through volunteering, collaborating with nonprofits, or raising awareness.

8. How do I balance personal projects and commercial work?

Finding the right balance between personal projects and commercial work can be tough. Reflect on how you can keep your passion alive while meeting professional obligations.

9. What legacy do I want to leave behind?

It's never too early to think about the mark you want to leave on the world. 

Consider the legacy you want to create with your photography. Whether it's defining your artistic vision or inspiring others, work towards achieving it.

As a photographer, asking myself these questions helped me stay connected to my purpose, grow creatively, and make a positive impact on the world. 

So I would highly recommend you use these questions as a guide to shape your photography journey and find true fulfillment in your work.

Stay connected with me and get more insights, tips, and inspiration. Following me on Instagram: @blackvisualqueen. Sign up for the Creative Lounge Newsletter below. If you have any questions or would like to discuss your creative needs, reach out to me via email at blackvisualqueen@gmail.com