the key to long-lasting creativity in photography
This week it was the turn of Govinda Rumi to showcase his expertise on The MOOD Podcast. A very talented Indonesian wedding and street photographer, Govi emphasised maintaining a childlike sense of wonder and joy in his photography. This got me thinking, do we (and when I say 'we', really I mean 'me') take all this a little too seriously, and if so does that stifle creativity?
“Photography for me is like a playground, and because this is a playground, I want to play in it..."
Many photographers, especially those who have been in the industry for a while, struggle with maintaining their creativity and passion. The pressures of social media, client expectations, and the competitive nature of the field can lead to burnout and a loss of joy in their work. And sometimes, like I said, we just take ourselves too seriously.
So, how do we get back to our child-like sense of curiosity and wonder with our cameras?
Embrace Playfulness
Photography should be fun and experimental. Treating it like a playground allows you to explore new techniques and perspectives without the pressure of perfection. Govi regularly tries new approaches and experiments with different styles, keeping his work fresh and enjoyable.
Stay Curious
Curiosity fuels creativity. Continuously seeking new experiences and learning opportunities helps maintain your passion for photography, and for life! Govi finds inspiration in everyday moments, like watching children play on the beach or observing interactions in a bustling market. Our understanding of loving what we don't know can lead us to discover unique and captivating scenes.
Welcome Imperfection
Embracing imperfection allows you to see beauty in unexpected places and moments. This mindset encourages creativity and reduces the pressure to achieve perfection. Govi loves capturing candid, imperfect moments at weddings, such as a bride’s spontaneous laugh or a child’s unplanned expression. These moments often turn out to be the most memorable and beautiful.
In the episode, Govinda shared a pivotal moment from his early days when he realized the importance of maintaining a childlike sense of wonder. Near the beginning of his career, he interned with a renowned wedding photographer in Bali and discovered that the joy and spontaneity he brought to each shoot made his work stand out. This mindset helped him connect with his subjects and capture genuine, heartfelt moments.
If you want to be inspired, listen to the full episode here, you won't be disappointed and I'm sure you will finish listening with a new bout of inspiration!
Happy Shooting,
