How I maintain my creative flow in the winter

It’s the middle of the Dutch winter. That means a never ending lack of light. I’m suffering, because gloomy, moody conditions are not my favorite circumstances for taking photos.

For the past few weeks, the sun has appeared only a couple of times. Each time, I was at work. Once or twice I managed to finish early, grab my camera, and rush to the beach, but by the time I got there, the sun had disappeared.

On one of the weekends I managed to catch a bit of sunlight. I was so stunned and surprised (the forecast consistently showed heavy clouds) that I didn’t even know which part of the coast to drive to. So I ended up where I always do, at my local beach.

That’s fine too. But you always want more.
In these conditions, it’s hard to maintain a regular practice and head out with the camera. The deeper we get into winter, the more tricks I need to take care of my creative flow and energy.

If you’re having difficulties getting out, you might need to know how important it is anyways.

On the other hand, getting out and shooting isn’t the only way to maintain creativity in these hard, cold times.

Winter Is a Time to Recharge

Simply put, you can’t go full speed all year round. It’s not only impossible, it’s unhealthy.
That’s why in winter I allow myself more time to enjoy slowing down.

But slowing down doesn’t have to mean being lazy.

WINTER IS A TIME For CONSUMPTION

Winter is the only time of year when I consume more than I create, without guilt.
If I’m not going out to shoot, I look at photographs at home. I browse through photo books, watch YouTube, explore the portfolios of photographers I know.

I watch films, listen to music, go to theatre, read.

I do all the things I don’t have time for when the weather calls me outside. Especially the things that inspire me and fuel my hunger to create. Instead of getting frustrated, I recharge and store all my ideas in my head (or in a notebook).

Winter Is a Time for Shooting at Home

In winter, I take more photos of my loved ones than ever. At home, whenever there’s enough light, I photograph my partner. And the cat, if he doesn’t run away from the camera.

This year I’m also experimenting with film photography under artificial light. Considering how short the days are and how much time I spend at home, these are perfect conditions to play.

Winter Is a Time for Escaping Toward the Sun

Winter photo trips - or family trips - are one of my favorite things to do for myself during this season.
This year I managed to sneak away solo to Portugal and Mallorca with my partner.

Winter trips, besides the low sun, have many advantages. First, they’re budget-friendly. And second, even the most beautiful places in southern Europe aren’t crowded, which makes them perfect for photography and recharging.

If you feel like you need such a getawat too, I collected all my do’s and dont’s when planning a winter getaway (photography focused or not).

Winter Is a Time to Work on Other Projects

All the ideas I came up with in recent months, but didn’t have time to pursue because I was constantly out of the house, get their five minutes in winter.

Right now, I’m working intensively on some project. It’s going through its final touches and will be available very soon.

You might remember how last year I started the “one photo a day” challenge. Adding photography to my daily routine has changed my photography forever. So I decided to create a tool /guide in the form of a 100-day challenge for photographers.

If winter has drained all your energy, motivation, and inspiration to take photos, this will be something for you.

More details coming soon.

But now, try to get out and make something that matters to you.

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