Heading into 2026 and beyond
As we come to the end of the year, I often hear the same quiet concern from photographers:
“I haven’t picked up my camera much lately.”
“I don’t feel inspired.”
“I’m worried I’m losing my passion.”
If that sounds familiar, I want to reassure you of something right away — there’s nothing wrong with you, and there’s nothing wrong with your photography.
December is a reflective time. We’re tired. Life has been full. And creativity, like everything else, has its seasons. Photography isn’t a straight line of constant excitement. It ebbs and flows, and that’s not a failure — it’s part of the process.
As we look toward 2026, this feels like a good moment to gently reset how we think about motivation and inspiration.
Motivation Isn’t What We Think It Is
We often imagine motivation as a sudden spark — a burst of excitement that makes us want to go out and shoot straight away.
But in my experience, motivation usually follows action, not the other way around.
Waiting to feel inspired can keep the camera on the shelf for a long time. What keeps photography alive isn’t constant excitement — it’s staying connected, even in small, quiet ways.
You don’t need to feel passionate every time you shoot. You just need to stay curious enough to keep showing up.
5 Gentle Ways to Reignite Your Photography in 2026
These aren’t resolutions or challenges. Think of them as invitations — take what feels right, leave the rest.
1. Lower the Bar (Then Step Over It)
You don’t need a great idea.
You don’t need perfect light.
You don’t need a whole day.
- One photo is enough.
- A short walk is enough.
- Ten minutes with your camera is enough.
Lowering the bar removes pressure — and pressure is often what quietly drains our enjoyment of photography.
2. Shoot Without a Purpose
Not every photo needs a reason.
Try going out with no project, no plan, and no intention to share. Photograph what catches your eye, even if it feels ordinary. Especially if it feels ordinary.
Some of the most meaningful photographs come from simply noticing — not from trying to create something impressive.
3. Change the Scale, Not the Gear
When inspiration feels low, it’s tempting to think we need new gear or a big change. Often, we don’t.
Try changing how you look instead:
- Photograph closer to home
- Look for smaller details
- Slow down and stay in one place longer
A familiar place seen slowly can feel brand new again.
4. Reconnect With Why You Started
Before social media.
Before presets and algorithms.
Before worrying about results.
What drew you to photography in the first place?
For many of us, it was the simple joy of seeing the world differently — of paying attention. That reason is still there, even if it’s been a bit quiet lately.
5. Photograph for Connection, Not Output
Photography doesn’t have to be a solo pursuit.
Sometimes motivation returns when we:
- Walk and shoot with others
- Talk about images together
- Share the experience, not just the photos
Community has a way of gently carrying us forward when our own energy feels low.
A Gentle Thought for the Year Ahead
As 2026 approaches, I’d encourage you to resist big, heavy expectations.
You don’t need to:
- Shoot more than last year
- Improve faster
- Be more productive
You just need to keep the door open.
If photography is part of who you are, it will come back to you — often quietly, often unexpectedly — as long as you give it a little space to breathe.
You’re Not Behind
If you take one thing from this, let it be this:
You’re not behind.
You haven’t missed your chance.
And your passion for photography hasn’t gone anywhere.
If you’d like company as you ease back into shooting in the new year — through photo outings, Zoom sessions, or simply being part of a community that understands — you’re always welcome here.
Here’s to a slower, kinder, more connected year of photography ahead.
I’m looking forward to sharing it with you.
— Michael
