No motivation to use my camera

ian-83

ian-83

Messages
1,502
Name
Ian
Edit My Images
Yes
Anyone got any good ideas how to get myself motivated to get out and use my camera?

At the minute I just feel like taking my phone with me and using the camera on that instead of taking out my D7000. The thought of taking that and my tripod to do some landscape or any other type of photography just doesn't seem appealing.

The current thought it to have a bit of GAS and downsize to 4/3 system or maybe a compact which I am more likely to pick up as i walk out the door.
 
To me the gear is a part of it but given the choice of fun gear or pictures I'd choose the pictures :D and maybe take up another secondary gear hobby for rainy days :D

So, if you'd rather take pictures with something other than a DSLR I'd say go for it. I've taken a lot more pictures since going mirrorless and if after weighing the pros and cons you think it's a good move and will get you out more and taking more pictures then why not? Also, buying something new or just different might give you a bit of a kick...
 
Do you have to use a tripod, since they are generally a bit heavy and cumbersome? I find visiting somewhere interesting (Cambridge has so many fascinating places) and just walking through, I'll find something catches my eye. Maybe try a different technique - intentional camera movement for example.
 
I'm the same Ian,
Hence I'm selling Nikon gear and going Fuji.

I bought a 4/3 IR converted Panasonic G1 from JulesP here on tyhe forum and find I'm enjoying that more than the bulky D700, grip and 2.8 lenses. Way too heavy.

Look into the Fuji X system.
5 of the guys at my camera club havew chopped their DSLR's in for the Fuji X-T1 and the results are stunning.

Terry.
 
ancient_mariner said:
Do you have to use a tripod, since they are generally a bit heavy and cumbersome? I find visiting somewhere interesting (Cambridge has so many fascinating places) and just walking through, I'll find something catches my eye. Maybe try a different technique - intentional camera movement for example.
Click to expand...

That's something I'd ask too. I very rarely do as these days fast lenses, smaller kit and image stabilisation help a lot.
 
Perhaps you should stop thinking about taking photos for the sake of photography, and instead try using your camera instead as a tool to some other end. As example, when I was into biking and hiking the various trails where I lived, I rather enjoyed using the camera to document some of the cooler aspects of what one could see along the trail. So was not trying to take these artistically beautiful photos that were composed perfectly and shot perfectly :LOL: Nope, I just wanted a photo guide of the major sights along the way so when talking about trails to others could show them what was along the way. And also used to "collect" via a small flower press various interesting flowers or leaves found along the way. So let a hobby where the camera can be useful be the motivation, not the camera or photography.
 
As Toni said, maybe a 'project' to focus your mind and challenge you ... some 'street' in your local Town/City, documenting an event or a local 'celebrity', just a couple of ideas :)
 
Thanks for all the suggestions so far. I am a member of a local camera club and each month we have an assignment to do, something different every month so it's a chance to try something new. I am just struggling with a lack of inspiration to find something to photo on a subject I am unfamiliar with.

I might try taking the camera with me to document a trip or outing. Going to try and leave the tripod and home too and find other options if I need to stabilize the camera.
 
FWIW, I am trying to get my son into photography for fun and to support some of his hobbies. So he does not need something that will produce images that can be printed in 20"x30" or larger, but just something that will produce good prints and good content for the web. As I researched cameras for him I was looking for small, but flexible. Also did not want him to have to crop images as the small camera would have a small sensor, so looked for something with a capable zoom. What I ended up getting him was an older model camera rather than top of the line as the less dense sensor meant low light capability was fairly noise free. After setting up the camera for him and playing with it for a few days before dropping it off to him, I decided it is just way fun and will probably get one for me too as it really is a small hassle-free camera and has built in stabilization so was no issue getting a nice clear shot whether low light or zoomed. Also interesting that for very low light it automatically takes multiple pictures then stacks and sharpens them so the night time pics come our really nice even handheld. And it's 30x zoom means no need to crop a photo taken ever. It has multiple full auto settings plus shutter priority and aperture priority and full manual as well. And it has a function ring around the lens that acts as the aperture or shutter ring when in those modes so very intuitive camera to operate. And it shoots raw and they supply the raw editor!

Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS50
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?O=&sku=1109395&gclid=CPzWyqznjs0CFQmRaQod7UIAXQ&is=REG&ap=y&m=Y&c3api=1876,92051677442,&A=details&Q=
 
Last edited:
Join a Photographic walking or walking group. Basically don't go specifically for the photography.
 
Ian, here's a little bean bag type thing with a tripod screw on top which is great as a lightweight alternative to a "proper" support. Any solid surface underneath it (or even a post beside it in portrait orientation) is enough (with a little care) for most normal purposes. There are some very good compacts around these days which afford as much control over exposure as you need (given that smaller sensors won't allow the ultra thin DoF that large aperture lenses on an FF body will) and allow good prints up to A3+. Maybe a fun self challenge - say an alphabet one over a month, one letter per day (or shoot all 26 as a sequence.) If you're not feeling inspired though, just leave the camera alone until you feel the need again.
 
ian-83 said:
At the minute I just feel like taking my phone with me and using the camera on that instead of taking out my D7000
Click to expand...
It's still photography. Your dick won't drop off just because you're using a phone instead of a DSLR.

Take a break from the big camera. Hobbies shouldn't be a chore. You'll pick it up again when you're good and ready. Spend sometime just enjoying the world around you.
 
Put the DSLR away, shoot with your phone if the urge takes you, occupy yourself doing other things that interest you ( even if away from photography), and most of all don't try and force yourself into doing something as a hobbie / enjoyable passtime if it feels like a chore.

The phase will pass with time and you'll either come back to your dslr at some point ( weeks, months even years) or you will have found a new area of interest , possibly within photography, possibly not.
 
I'd consider getting a compact. I got an RX100 a year back and the great thing is it's always with me when I'm out and about. Same as a phone but with RAW and a decent zoom lens
for when the light / subject is just right..
 
I sometimes don't use my slr for weeks or months as there is nothing I want to go take pictures of. But then I go and use it for several shoots in a few weeks. Meanwhile I've used my phone regularly as its always on me.

Don't get hung up on the equipment. Photography is about taking pictures, doesn't matter what you use.
 
If you do go to a 4/3 setup, remember to downsize your tripod to the appropriate size too. I sling mine over my shoulder and carry it all day without noticing it. Certainly keep your big tripod for those times you need it.

Another trick with m43 is to ditch the gadget bag. Camera on a shoulder strap and 2 more lenses in a pocket or belt pack. Allowing you maximum freedom to climb, crawl and explore.

It's the same for flash too. The tiny Nissin i40 packs a lot of power and features into a flash scaled down the same amount as the camera.

The more you lug around, the more excuses you can make not to do things.
 
Last edited:
What lenses do you use? Maybe look at a light weight walk about lens.
I quite often just take my D7000 with my 17-50mm 2.8 lens, which is not too bulky.
I went through a similar phase a few years back, and sold my canon gear and bought a Panasonic G3 and some lenses. Enjoyed that for 3-4 years, then sold it all and bought my D7000.
 
Nod said:
Ian, here's a little bean bag type thing with a tripod screw on top which is great as a lightweight alternative to a "proper" support. Any solid surface underneath it (or even a post beside it in portrait orientation) is enough (with a little care) for most normal purposes. There are some very good compacts around these days which afford as much control over exposure as you need (given that smaller sensors won't allow the ultra thin DoF that large aperture lenses on an FF body will) and allow good prints up to A3+. Maybe a fun self challenge - say an alphabet one over a month, one letter per day (or shoot all 26 as a sequence.) If you're not feeling inspired though, just leave the camera alone until you feel the need again.
Click to expand...

Cheers had seen the bean bag before might get one as they don't seem to be a big expense to buy. I do like to have control over what I am doing. The type of photography I do I don't tend to need a shallow DoF so a decent compact or 4/3rds will be fine for my needs.

Alastair said:
It's still photography. Your dick won't drop off just because you're using a phone instead of a DSLR.

Take a break from the big camera. Hobbies shouldn't be a chore. You'll pick it up again when you're good and ready. Spend sometime just enjoying the world around you.
Click to expand...

I am finding I am getting out more on my bike now the weather is improving. Tend to see a few things worth taking a photo of but don't seem to get back with the camera to try anything.

Asha said:
Put the DSLR away, shoot with your phone if the urge takes you, occupy yourself doing other things that interest you ( even if away from photography), and most of all don't try and force yourself into doing something as a hobbie / enjoyable passtime if it feels like a chore.

The phase will pass with time and you'll either come back to your dslr at some point ( weeks, months even years) or you will have found a new area of interest , possibly within photography, possibly not.
Click to expand...

I am enjoying my cycling now and just putting the camera in the cupboard till i see something I want to photo while out biking or I get the urge to actually head out with it.

ianp5a said:
If you do go to a 4/3 setup, remember to downsize your tripod to the appropriate size too. I sling mine over my shoulder and carry it all day without noticing it. Certainly keep your big tripod for those times you need it.

Another trick with m43 is to ditch the gadget bag. Camera on a shoulder strap and 2 more lenses in a pocket or belt pack. Allowing you maximum freedom to climb, crawl and explore.

It's the same for flash too. The tiny Nissin i40 packs a lot of power and features into a flash scaled down the same amount as the camera.

The more you lug around, the more excuses you can make not to do things.
Click to expand...

I have been looking at some of the travel spec tripods that fold up to around 40-43cm much more compact than my current Manfrotto one which is about 70cm folded and weighs about 3kg!

The look of a few small 4/3rds primes look so pocketable along with a small light body seems so appealing at the minute. I prefer a back pack over shoulder bags so it leaves my hands free.

Bobsyeruncle said:
What lenses do you use? Maybe look at a light weight walk about lens.
I quite often just take my D7000 with my 17-50mm 2.8 lens, which is not too bulky.
I went through a similar phase a few years back, and sold my canon gear and bought a Panasonic G3 and some lenses. Enjoyed that for 3-4 years, then sold it all and bought my D7000.
Click to expand...

Currently using a D7000 with a 16-85mm. I know it's not the biggest and heaviest set up just sometimes I feel it's too much to carry around. I have tried a few 4/3rds bodies in the local camera shop and they feel so much lighter and more manageable at times.
 
ian-83 said:
Anyone got any good ideas how to get myself motivated to get out and use my camera?

At the minute I just feel like taking my phone with me and using the camera on that instead of taking out my D7000. The thought of taking that and my tripod to do some landscape or any other type of photography just doesn't seem appealing.

The current thought it to have a bit of GAS and downsize to 4/3 system or maybe a compact which I am more likely to pick up as i walk out the door.
Click to expand...

You don't need a tripod to do landscapes, just take the camera! I mainly shoot landscapes, and times I've used a tripod - zero!

I never understood the rationale that if you're shooting landscapes, you must use a tripod.
 
Last edited:
ian-83 said:
Thanks for all the suggestions so far. I am a member of a local camera club and each month we have an assignment to do, something different every month so it's a chance to try something new. I am just struggling with a lack of inspiration to find something to photo on a subject I am unfamiliar with.

I might try taking the camera with me to document a trip or outing. Going to try and leave the tripod and home too and find other options if I need to stabilize the camera.
Click to expand...

Your first post suggest the kit is the issue but is it really this, just lack of inspiration?
 
zendog said:
I'd consider getting a compact. I got an RX100 a year back and the great thing is it's always with me when I'm out and about. Same as a phone but with RAW and a decent zoom lens
for when the light / subject is just right..
Click to expand...

It's a *lot* better than a phone in every area :)

The RX100 is a great little camera, mine has travelled the world with me and its smaller than my phone, and produced some stunning images.

It still lacked the satisfaction of using my DSLR though...
 
Last edited:
I seriously doubt a new camera will help you here. As you describe it photography just doesn't seem to be for you. Usually you might want to base photography around something you're interested in, maybe capturing views on walks, or photographing cars you like or sports for example. If you find a tripod cumbersome don't use it or try a monopod instead. Without a tripod you can experiment with high ISOs or techniques like Intentional Camera Movement. What did you buy the camera in the first place?
 
Ian, I've only read the first couple of posts, but if you want to carry on doing photography with your current kit, why not join a college course in the evening? I've been in a rut a few times, but always found inspiration, support and motivation from my fellow students, and the course has always given me some kind of focus and a reason to get my camera out.

If you decide to put the camera on the shelf for the time being, don't beat yourself up about it!!!! It's always something you can come back to in later years :)
 
HopefulM said:
Ian, I've only read the first couple of posts, but if you want to carry on doing photography with your current kit, why not join a college course in the evening? I've been in a rut a few times, but always found inspiration, support and motivation from my fellow students, and the course has always given me some kind of focus and a reason to get my camera out.

If you decide to put the camera on the shelf for the time being, don't beat yourself up about it!!!! It's always something you can come back to in later years :)
Click to expand...

I think a college course is a great idea. I have also been having motivation issues, and I think I will try and get on some sort of course
 
Scirocco_09 said:
I seriously doubt a new camera will help you here. As you describe it photography just doesn't seem to be for you. Usually you might want to base photography around something you're interested in, maybe capturing views on walks, or photographing cars you like or sports for example. If you find a tripod cumbersome don't use it or try a monopod instead. Without a tripod you can experiment with high ISOs or techniques like Intentional Camera Movement. What did you buy the camera in the first place?
Click to expand...

You don't even need to use high ISOs. I've shot in good light at 50 ISO with my 6d.

The only time I use a tripod is when shooting at night.
 
odd jim said:
You don't even need to use high ISOs. I've shot in good light at 50 ISO with my 6d.

The only time I use a tripod is when shooting at night.
Click to expand...

Exactly, I just meant he could try it for a stylistic effect, or use low ISOs for ICM
 
Ian: You're not earning a living from photography, so it doesn't really matter if you don't take any photographs for a few weeks, months or even years if you don't feel like it. Give it a break, stop worrying about it and do something else. You're motivation will come back, perhaps in a different genre, or it won't.

I wouldn't invest in new gear right now, while you're feeling a bit negative about your relationship with photography. Why not keep your D7000 but use your phone, or buy an inexpensive compact, and park the idea of 4/3 or any other system until you know where you want to go with this?

All the best.
 
Just a thought....

nikon-fg-camera.jpg


Maybe a change of pace, a little bit more planning required, a little more thinking before pressing the shutter, a little more anticipation of what you are going to get out of the film. Worked for me and I still shoot both film and digital although I have moved over to Fuji (an X-T1) for my digital shooting.:D
 
Mirrorless will definitely make a difference but obviously budget restrains you. I swapped from 5D2 and a handful of primes and L lenses to Sony A7 FE35 2.8 and way too many old manual focus lenses and I take more images now than I did before.

I've got my Mk1 Escort back on the road so I do lots of car breakfast type meets again now, I carry my camera more when out and about with the kids, I actually find I don't have the time for much land and seascape stuff anymore which I want to change...... My general photography has changed from taking photos I know will look perfect to taking more snapshot type esp with the kids as documenting or remembering a day out is more important than technically perfect shots imo

Sony, Fuji or M43 will benefit you I reckon.
 
I am signed up for a ten week Open University course starting in October. Cost is £200 but hoping it will provide more in depth knowledge and allow me to use my kit in a better way.
 
Kevin is this the course with OU and The Royal Photographic Society, because Ive been looking at it for two weeks trying to decide if i could do it.
would love to give it ago but doubts creep in as only had the camera three months'
me &wilma
 
Yes that is the course. I do not think previous experience is essential. I am hoping for assignments which act as a focus for a 40 plus year interest.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top