In an era of infinite digital storage and high-tech gear, the greatest threat to a photographer’s creativity isn’t a lack of equipment, it’s an abundance of choice. When you can take 2,000 photos on a single card and “fix it in post,” the stakes for each individual frame drop to zero. And that just spoils the fun and the skill (we all go through spells of doing this!).
Paradoxically, by narrowing your options, you force your brain to work harder, leading to more intentional and impactful images. Here is why setting limits is the secret to levelling up your photography.
1. The Cure for “Decision Paralysis”
When you carry a bag full of lenses, from wide-angle to telephoto, you spend more time wondering which lens to use than actually looking at the subject.
- The Constraint: Go out with a single prime lens (e.g., a 35mm or 50mm).
- The Result: You stop zooming with your hands and start zooming with your feet. You learn the exact “look” of that focal length, which allows you to pre-visualize shots before you even lift the camera to your eye.
2. Overcoming the “Safety Net” of Digital
Modern cameras are so capable that we often become unaware of just how many photos we take, holding down the shutter and hoping for the best in many situations where it is not needed. This detaches the photographer from the moment.
- The Constraint: Limit yourself to 24 or 36 exposures for an entire afternoon, as if you were shooting a roll of film.
- The Result: You begin to treat the shutter button with reverence. You’ll find yourself checking the edges of the frame for distractions and waiting for the perfect light rather than clicking mindlessly.
3. Forcing Creativity in Mundane Places
It’s easy to take a good photo at the local beauty spot (especially if you live here in Wales) but it’s much harder to take one in your garden or local alleyway. Unlimited freedom often leads us to seek out epic subjects rather than epic compositions.
- The Constraint: The “Ten-Foot Circle” challenge. Stand in one spot and you aren’t allowed to move your feet. You must find 10 unique, compelling images within arm’s reach.
- The Result: You start seeing patterns, textures, and macro details you would have otherwise walked right past.
4. Master the Fundamentals Through Monotony
Colour can often be a crutch. A vibrant sunset can mask a boring composition or a lack of clear subject matter.
- The Constraint: Shoot exclusively in Black and White for a week.
- The Result: Without colour to rely on, you are forced to master contrast, shape, texture, and light. Once you return to colour, your eye for good light will be significantly sharper.
Conclusion
Creativity thrives within boundaries. By removing the easy options, you stop relying on your gear and start relying on your vision. The next time you feel uninspired, don’t buy a new camera or lens, just grab a random lens to go with your camera, and go out with that.
I have written umpteen times about restricting yourself, and I have always had good feedback from people who have gone out with just a prime lens, or just a small point and shoot, or they’ve only shot in jpeg for that day. It is always surprising the freedom that having boundaries gives you.
This has been Part 10 of a 12 part series for “12 Days Of Christmas 2025”. A collection of new articles and so much more from Mark G Adams from One Camera One Lens Photography as well as guest authors. Catch them all if you missed any here.
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