A new year always feels like a fresh start. New plans, new ideas, and new chances to improve.

For photographers, January is a good time to pause and reset. Not to buy more gear or set big targets—but to think about how we want to shoot and why.

Here are a few simple photography resolutions that can genuinely help you grow this year.

 

1. Shoot With Purpose, Not Pressure

Not every photo needs to be perfect.

This year, allow yourself to:

• Take photos just to practise
• Try new ideas without worrying about results
• Make mistakes and learn from them
• The more relaxed you are, the better your photos will be.

Try this: Go out with one simple idea—light, colour, or mood—and focus only on that.

2. Be Consistent, Not Perfect

You don’t need to shoot every day to improve. What matters is turning up regularly.

This could be:

• A weekly photo walk
• A regular group outing
• A small personal project

Little by little, steady practice builds confidence.

Tip: Treat your photography time like an appointment—something you don’t cancel easily.

3. Learn One Thing Well

Instead of trying to learn everything, pick one skill to work on this year:

• Understanding light
• Better composition
• Telling stories with photos
• Improving your editing

Learning one thing properly is far more useful than learning many things quickly.

Exercise: Look back at your favourite photos from last year. What do they have in common?

4. Slow Down When You Shoot

It’s easy to take too many photos and rely on editing later.

This year, try to:

• Take fewer shots
• Watch the scene more carefully
• Wait for the right moment

Good photos start before you press the shutter.

Challenge: Limit yourself to 36 shots on a walk, like shooting film.

5. Stay Connected and Keep Learning Together

Photography is more enjoyable when shared.

Go on outings. Ask questions. Learn from others. Support each other.

A friendly community helps everyone improve.

One Simple Question for the New Year

Before your next shoot, ask yourself:

How do I want my photography to feel this year?

Not how many likes you get.
Not what gear you use.
Just how it feels—to you.

 

If you’d like a bit of structure and company this year, you’re always welcome to join our regular photo outings, online sessions and photography workshops. They’re relaxed, supportive, and open to all levels—no pressure, just learning and shooting together.

It’s often easier to stay motivated when you’re not doing it alone.

Wishing You a Great Year of Photography

Thank you for being part of this photography journey. Let’s keep shooting, learning, and enjoying the process together.

May the year ahead bring good light, strong images, and plenty of enjoyment behind the camera.