Overcoming Creative Blocks in Photography: My Personal Journey from Procrastination to Passion

Have you ever felt like you had all the ideas, the gear, and the know-how, but still couldn’t bring yourself to create? Maybe you’ve labeled it as “creative block,” or chalked it up to “just being in a rut.” More often than not, I’ve realized it was neither—I was simply procrastinating or feeling too lazy to pick up my camera. In this post, I’ll share my personal journey through the ups and downs of photography, how I lost and then rediscovered my passion, and why it’s okay to reimagine your creative path.

The Early Excitement: Camera Always in Hand

There was a time when I was head-over-heels in love with photography. I carried my camera everywhere, snapping photos without caring whether they turned out perfect. The act of capturing moments was enough to satisfy me—I didn’t even need to develop the film right away.

However, life happened. Over time, my enthusiasm waned. I found myself questioning whether I was disappointed about not shooting for big magazines like Sports Illustrated or Vogue. Looking back, I realize the real issue was never about high-profile assignments; it was about the joy I had in those early days—just me, my camera, and a desire to create.

Life Interruptions and Return to Photography

Like many creatives, I took a few unplanned breaks:

• Teenage Loan Gone Wrong: At 14, I loaned my camera to a cousin, it got stolen, and I went years without one.

• College Days: Around 19, I finally got my hands on a Nikon F2 while working at a 1 Hour Photo Shop. Soon after, I bought a Nikon FM2, a camera I absolutely loved.

I moved to Guam in the early 1990s and put photography on hold to focus on college. But inspiration struck again, and soon I was wandering around campus, taking pictures of anything and everything—especially the people I encountered. Seeing a few shots turn out well was all the motivation I needed to build a portfolio and keep pushing forward.

From Side Gigs to Full-Time Passion

After graduating, I worked at my family’s business while juggling side photography gigs. I did portraits, covered events, and got my first taste of professional assignments at a local newspaper. My main passion, though, remained photographing people—particularly models. When social media platforms like Instagram took off, I was hooked on the instant feedback of likes and comments. But I started creating for the wrong reasons: external validation rather than my own artistic fulfillment.

Navigating a Changing Industry

As camera phones improved, many aspiring models found they didn’t need a professional photographer for every shoot. At the same time, the societal climate changed—an older photographer approaching younger models could be perceived differently in modern times. Recognizing this shift, I decided to reinvent myself and focus on what truly mattered: the art of photography, the stories I wanted to tell, and the knowledge I could share with others.

Embracing New Opportunities and Sharing Knowledge

Today, I still take on photography assignments, having been fortunate to work with notable publications like The Wall Street Journal, The Washington Post, The New York Times, and Bloomberg Businessweek. In addition, I’m passionate about mentoring and encouraging others—especially those who want to explore model photography. Through my blog and Patreon, I offer insights and tutorials that aim to spark creativity and boost confidence in fellow photographers, whether they’re just starting out or feeling stuck in a creative rut.

How to Overcome Creative Roadblocks

1. Revisit Your Why

Ask yourself what originally inspired you to pick up a camera. Was it the excitement of capturing fleeting moments, the joy of creating art, or the freedom of self-expression? Reconnecting with that initial spark can be a powerful motivator.

2. Take Small Steps

Sometimes, the hardest part is simply getting started. Commit to taking one photo per day—even if it’s of something mundane. Over time, these small wins add up and reignite your passion.

3. Experiment and Play

Try different photography genres or techniques. Experiment with new locations, props, or lighting styles. Stepping out of your comfort zone often leads to creative breakthroughs.

4. Set Manageable Goals

Avoid overwhelming yourself with large-scale projects. Start with achievable tasks like updating your portfolio, re-editing old photos, or scheduling short photo walks.

5. Seek Feedback and Community

Engage with other creatives through meetups, forums, or social media groups. Constructive critiques and supportive conversations can fuel motivation and offer fresh perspectives.

Moving Forward with Purpose

Procrastination and laziness can feel like insurmountable barriers, but they don’t have to define your creative journey. If you’ve ever felt stuck, know that it’s okay to pause, reflect, and then take small but determined steps to regain your momentum. Sometimes, the spark you’re missing is simply a reminder of how much you love creating, regardless of accolades or social media attention.

I hope my story encourages you to pick up your camera—or whatever creative tool you use—and start making art again. If you ever need guidance, inspiration, or just a friendly voice cheering you on, feel free to explore my blog and Patreon. Remember, your creativity is valuable, and it’s never too late to reinvent yourself or rekindle the passion you thought you’d lost.

Keep shooting, stay inspired, and let your creativity lead the way!

Ready for more tips on overcoming creative blocks?

Check out my Patreon for in-depth tutorials, behind-the-scenes insights, and community support. Together, we can keep the joy of photography—and creativity in general—alive and thriving.