The arrival of the New Year is the perfect time for reflection and renewal. For photographers, this moment can be used to evaluate practices that either foster or stifle creativity. As we move into 2025, I’m taking stock of the way we work, create and connect, and make conscious decisions about what to take forward and what to leave behind. Here is my roadmap for growth and fulfillment in photography for the coming year.
What’s in store for 2025?
In: Creation for Creation’s sake
Perfectionism can be a double-edged sword for photographers. While there is certainly a time and a place for striving for excellence, an obsession with flawless execution can stifle creativity. In 2025, I’m letting go and embracing imperfection. The goal should be to create simply for the joy of creating and not to tick boxes of technical perfection. This shift can open the door to playful experiments, spur-of-the-moment projects, and images that effortlessly hit the right tone. With less focus on the “right” settings and structure, growth naturally flourishes.
In: Sharing More on Social Media
I’m often hesitant to post on platforms like Instagram because there’s no real flow to my feed, and the work I create usually doesn’t fit in with the broader idea of what I do. But in 2025, I plan to abandon the idea of expectation and share more often, including older work that holds value. Social media isn’t just about showcasing great highlights; It’s also about sharing the journey. Posting work regularly builds stronger connections with others and keeps you visible.
In: Networking
Photography can be isolating if you’re working alone, but it doesn’t have to be. Connecting with others in the photographic community is a priority for 2025. Whether it’s visiting exhibitions, attending talks, or simply interacting with fellow creatives, networking boosts inspiration. Talking to others about their practice can help build meaningful relationships, educate, and ignite new ideas.
In: Collaboration for broader impact
Collaboration has immense potential to expand the boundaries of your area of practice. In the coming year, I want to explore joint projects with other artists, perhaps combining photography with painting, music, or writing. I already collaborate frequently with my daughter, creating images to support her career as a musician. Collaborative work creates opportunities for shared vision and synergistic results. Imagine transforming a thought-provoking piece of music into a visual narrative or contributing a new approach to a common topic. That process is certainly fascinating to explore in 2025.
In: Adapting experimental practice
Focusing on the process rather than the outcome is a key philosophy I pursue. Experimentation allows freedom and innovation. Without any rigid end goal, I’m free to both bend and mix up the rules. Initially created accidentally after my continuous shutter setting was active, I now regularly create GIFs when photographing concerts, and have begun to add some mixed media to my photography, most of these images are now Has not been seen in the light of day till now. These experiments may not always result in masterpieces, but they will hone my skills and broaden my artistic horizons, leading to new passion projects.
In: Printing Photographs
Photography is more than pixels on a screen. In 2025, my goal is to bring my work to life through print. Whether it’s creating a photo book, preparing a print for an exhibition, or even making a test print for personal reflection, the tactile experience of a printed work is transformative. This 2025 “in” coincides with the need to repaint my lounge and hallway, which is a great excuse for some new framed work on the walls!
In: Relieving Pressure
Everyone’s journey in photography is different, and comparing yourself to others is counterproductive. In 2025, I’m choosing to continue my habit of celebrating my progress without measuring anyone else’s trajectory. The playing field isn’t level, and that’s okay. By focusing on my path, I can embrace steady, sustainable growth without the burden of unrealistic expectations.
In: remove camera
Sometimes, it’s good to leave the camera behind and experience the world to increase your understanding of light, composition, and time. Being hands-free and being able to immerse yourself in what’s in front of you without having to press the shutter is invaluable. Why not pair up with another photographer and arrange an outing where only one of you brings the camera with you each time, while the other simply soaks up the view?
what am i leaving in 2024
Outside: Avoiding criticism, including self-criticism
Constructive criticism is a powerful tool for growth, yet avoiding it for fear of failure can lead to stagnation. In 2025, I’m breaking the habit of avoiding feedback. Listening to others—and critically evaluating my work—will allow me to improve.
Outside: comparison culture
It’s easy to fall into the trap of comparing yourself to others, especially on social media. But in 2025, I am leaving the comparison behind. Everyone is on their own journey, and there is no universal timeline for success. Staying focused on my progress and goals will make my path more fulfilling.
Out: Gear Obsession
I’ve discussed before why I’ve put off upgrading my gear, but the temptation and pressure of comparison has really increased over the past few months. While investing in up-to-date equipment has obvious benefits in terms of enhancing your work, for me, the endless pursuit of the latest camera or lens is completely unnecessary. In 2025, I’m focusing on making the most of the gear I already have. Using older or more basic gear is arguably more effective than relying on high-end equipment to achieve incredible results. Great photography comes not just from technique, but also from vision and creativity.
Outside: Putting off creative projects
I’m starting to feel guilty about the growing list of unfinished projects that I’m currently working on or haven’t started yet. Time is a real issue for me, as I balance a lot of things between work, family and other commitments. I know that, if I tried, I would be able to properly plan for intervals in my schedule so that I could take them one by one, at a pace that works for me.
Outside: Isolation
Working in solitude has its benefits, but too much solitude can hamper your growth. While you may think you’re protecting your best-kept secret, working in isolation can limit your trajectory. In 2025, I am making a conscious effort to connect with others. Talking to photographers in my area, sharing ideas with friends in the industry, attending workshops, and collaborating on projects will enrich my practice. Most people are approachable and willing to share their knowledge – they just need to be reached out to.
Outside: overthinking
Rigid planning and over-analyzing can stifle creativity. For example, when I am provided with a client brief that has no scope or scope for my own input, I am naturally less attracted to the project. Freeing myself from accepting rigidity will allow me to create with more authenticity and fluidity. My view is that you should always give what is asked of you, but push the envelope, and also create options as options. Sometimes, these are the preferred shots.
Outside: Technical perfection (when it is not required)
Although accuracy is important in areas like product photography or client work, not every image demands flawlessness. In 2025, I will embrace the beauty of imperfection. An out-of-focus shot or a shot with motion blur can still convey powerful emotion. Sometimes images that work can tell a story better than images that don’t, like the image below of my dog with a case of Zoomies on Christmas morning. To me the story behind the image is more important than the technical execution of it.
My vision for 2025
For me, 2025 is about progress and learning, not perfection. It’s about taking bold steps forward, sometimes stumbling, but always learning. Photography is always evolving and moving forward with time, and so should I. I plan to embrace experimentation, collaboration, and community, and eliminate perfectionism, overthinking, and isolation. I’m setting the stage for a year of growth and creative fulfillment. The intention is to use new habits and philosophies to renew and refresh your relationship with photography.
What are your “ins” for 2025, and what practices or habits will you give up in 2024?
