• Anniversaries
  • Baby Showers
  • Cards and Stationery
  • Father's Day

Photo Books

  • Wedding Invitations

65+ Photography Project Ideas You Can Start Today

Written by  Shutterfly Community Last Updated: Dec 8, 2020

Do you want to sharpen your skills, learn fresh techniques or just have fun with your camera? Photography projects help you accomplish all three.

Shop Trending Categories

wedding invitation

Wedding Invitation

custom photo books

Graduation Announcements

canvas prints

Canvas Prints

Through themed projects, you can capture unique images that follow a certain framework or style. Your project can last a week, month or year—depending on how in depth you’d like to go. To offer you inspiration, we’ve compiled 68 creative photography projects that are appropriate for all skill levels.

Once you’ve completed your project, be sure to create a photo book with your images or select your favorite for a canvas print .

1. Self Portrait

photography projects ideas

By switching the focus from other subjects to yourself as the subject, your photography takes on a whole new perspective. When setting up your shot, choose a landmark item to use as a stand-in until you’re ready to jump in the frame.

Play with auto and manual focus with your stand-in until you get the shot just right. Then, enter the scene using the timer option.

photography projects ideas

For the wisdom project, the goal is to gather photographs of those who have offered you wisdom or a helpful perspective. You might feature grandparents or mentors—or be inclined to include young ones who have provided you a fresh angle on life.

Aim to capture individuals in their natural state, especially if it’s in a location where they shared a special moment with you.

3. Candid Photo

photography projects ideas

Photographing someone in their natural state allows for their true personality to shine through. With a candid photography project, incorporate a range of human subjects for a diverse collection, or capture the same subject across different settings and days.

Building a portfolio of several candids allows you to paint a vivid persona of your subjects.

4. Street Style Photography

photography projects ideas

Authentic street style photography allows you to snag shots of the latest fashion—all without the strut of the runway. Look for colors first (either eye-catching or stunningly neutral), then watch for the cut and structure of the clothes.

Aim for overall beauty within the frame, including the street or walkway, so the focus isn’t solely on the clothes.

5. All About The Details

photography projects ideas

Create a collection of shots with unique subjects that focus on the details. Whether the photos are for an engagement , graduation or everyday occasion, you can take portraits of smaller details, like wisps of hair, relaxed hands and prominent features. Making your subjects feel comfortable and confident in front of the camera is the first priority. Plan a single shoot for various angles to help capture what looks best on a given day or moment.

6. Natural Element

photography projects ideas

Plan for your gallery of photos to include candid shots of the subject in their element. Whether they love the beach or like to craft, you can capture your subject in their favorite space or place to go.

If a subject feels awkward in front of the camera, have him or her lean against something vertical, like a fence, wall or car. They’ll feel more anchored and their body angle will offer the photo some character without seeming unnatural.

7. Pet Photography

photography projects ideas

From cats to dogs to horses, the heart and soul of your pets can be captured with the right technique. Incorporate natural light in your shoot keep watch of your pet’s eyes. Expressions and personality often shine through and it’s a great time to capture these moments.

8. Motherhood

photography projects ideas

Being a mother is one of life’s greatest gifts. When we’re parents, beautiful moments take place along with messy and chaotic ones. Encapsulate the full spectrum of motherhood with photos from quiet moments like snuggling with your child to lively times like cooking together in the kitchen.

With any photography project, it’s important that your images tell a story.

9. Panoramic Pictures

photography projects ideas

A popular technique for landscapes, panoramic photography enlarges the viewpoint beyond the normal size of a camera lens. To ensure there are no gaps in your panoramic shot, overlap your image by 15-30%.

You’ll also want to keep your camera as level as possible to ensure the photo is even throughout. Don’t forget that panos work well for vertical shots, too, like waterfalls and deep canyons.

10. Sunsets Photos

photography projects ideas

Sunsets make for stunning photos—especially when executed well. For maximum beauty, be sure to slightly underexpose the sunset for rich and dramatic colors. Use manual mode and a fast shutter speed for underexposure, or use aperture priority with exposure compensation.

Make your sunset even more magnificent by arranging an object or scene in the foreground of the sunset, like a lake or mountain.

photography projects ideas

Mist and fog are natural elements that can enhance the beauty of your photography. Check the weather to determine when fog might pop up. Oftentimes the best lighting for fog photos occurs in the wee hours of the morning or late in the evening after sunset. The low lighting causes a slower shutter speed, which means a shakier camera.

Keep your camera as still as possible or use a tripod. The best places for foggy photos? Open bodies of water and other sweeping landscapes like fields and low rolling hills.

12. Cityscapes

photography projects ideas

Hovering skyscrapers and diverse skylines are part of what makes cityscapes such attractive photography. For a cityscapes project, try different vantage points across the city to see what works best (think: a popular lookout compared with a more secret locale).

Prepare for an after sunset shoot, allowing the city lights to pop against the dark sky. Remember to use a wide angle lens to cover as much ground as possible.

13. Water (Rain, Ocean)

photography projects ideas

Whether you’re hoping to create scenes of smooth, flowing water or capture dynamic waves crashing against a seawall, it’s critical to have better than average camera equipment. For nearly every water shot, a tripod is also essential to keep the frame still for the length of the exposure (usually two to four seconds).

Pack along a lens-friendly cloth to remove splashes and water marks. Plan to get wet if you’re banking on a stunning water shot.

14. Seasons

photography projects ideas

Each season offers its own charms—from snowy branches to colored leaves. Select a location for your seasons project where you’ll snap photos throughout all four seasons. Once the year is complete, you’ll have a collection of stunning images that tell the story of your special place over the course of a year.

15. Star Trails

photography projects ideas

Spectacular from edge to edge, star trails photography is an adventure to shoot. The first step is to find a clear sky full of stars, but free of pollution and other light interference. Anchoring your camera on a tripod, set your camera to shoot on manual mode. The faster the lens you have, the better.

Once you have your shot prepared, select drive mode for consecutive shots rather than a single frame. With your remote, let your camera take photos for thirty minutes up to a few hours, depending on the length of star trails you’re creating.

photography projects ideas

Capturing still images with a remote-controlled drone opens up the options for angles and perspectives in your photography. Consider sending a drone above a beach, golf course or mountaintop.

Increase the altitude of your drone for a more impressive viewpoint and try GPS mode for a more stable shot.

17. Food Photography

photography projects ideas

As a still life technique, food photography requires a few main ingredients: good lighting, props and style. Place your items near natural lighting or use a flash to give the photo a balanced look. When it comes to the arrangement, consider adding in table setting details like plates and silverware.

Amplify the photo’s texture with decorative pieces like colorful fruits and sprigs of herbs. For a well-rounded food photography project, shoot a variety of foods and dishes.

18. Black and White Month

photography projects ideas

Instead of using the full color spectrum, this project idea prompts you to capture images in black and white only. Two-toned photography provides a different perspective or feel to your work, and gives you a chance to highlight people, places and objects in a novel way.

For instance, a close-up of hands be enticing when displayed in color, but in black and white, the image paints the story that all humankind is united.

19. Everyday Moments

photography projects ideas

Photos that showcase a slice of regular life contain a certain genuine beauty. When preparing for everyday moment shots, make sure subjects are comfortable. People should interact as if you aren’t even present.

The true magic happens when you’re able to capture two people’s true connection.

20. Random Acts of Kindness

photography projects ideas

The random acts of kindness project prompts you to capture someone doing something thoughtful or helpful for another person. By photographing these moments, you’re telling a larger story of humanity.

To be successful in this project, you’ll need to keep a keen eye out for small acts of generosity, like a young man holding the door or a little girl smiling at a stranger.

21. Shoes For a Week

photography projects ideas

Narrow your photography focus for a week by capturing different styles of footwear. From boots to sandals to athletic shoes, diversify your image collection. Be sure to utilize a range of angles to create unique stories for each photo (i.e. a guy lounging with shoes on, two people talking while standing, a woman running).

22. Comfort Zone Challenge

photography projects ideas

Pushing the limits of your creativity often leaves you with impressive and surprising results. With the comfort zone challenge, throw caution to the wind and experiment without expectations.

Maybe that means you’ll shoot a paragliding experience, a fireworks explosion or animals in action. When you’re snapping shots, play around with your shutter speed, aperture, focal length and movement.

23. 30 Strangers

photography projects ideas

Taking a photo of someone whom you’ve only just met can be thrilling. It can also be personally and professionally rewarding. Through the 30 strangers project, you’ll capture 30 portraits of people you’ve never met before. Find people on the street, in a shopping mall or at a park.

Be sure to ask each person’s consent first before posting publicly. The 30 strangers challenge will certainly stretch you outside of your artistic comfort zone.

24. Duotone

photography projects ideas

Duotone photography refers to a multitone production of an image, usually imposed through photo editing techniques. The superimposition of a contrasting color halftone (normally black) over another color halftone enhances the middle tones of an image.

Photographs with one main object, like a flower, seashell or tree, are ideal for creating duotone effects.

25. Perspective

photography projects ideas

Perspective photography can take many forms: those shot from a low angle, ones with strong leading lines and those that look straight up into the sky. Whether your scene is a railroad track or skyscraper, your image should emphasize the angle and the unique perspective you’re hoping to give the viewer.

Train your eye to notice patterns, lines and reflections you can capture from different angles.

photography projects ideas

Not only is coffee delicious and rejuvenating, it’s also a work of art. Collaborate with a barista on a latte design or the type of mug to use. Choose a simple backdrop so the coffee remains the focal point.

A dark backdrop is best if you’re aiming to capture the steam rolling off of a warm drink.

27. Create a Photo Album

elegant wedding anniversary album

Let your memories last forever by creating a photo album for a recent vacation, an adventurous summer or a year filled with fun. Design your photo album with a theme in mind to build cohesion. Vary your layouts from page to page for texture and personality.

28. Traffic Lights

photography projects ideas

When photographing traffic lights and other light trails, the best time is during or after twilight on a night when minimal wind is present. Based on your camera angle and objects, you’ll need to adjust and experiment with your settings.

Often times, shutter priority mode is ideal along with a shutter speed of six seconds. Make stability a non-issue with a tripod, and remember you won’t be using a flash.

29. Happy Days

photography projects ideas

Allow joy to take the center stage of your photos. Whether they’re candid shots of family members interacting or a single subject, make sure the smiles are natural. Enhance the happiness level by highlighting the subject with ample natural lightening.

30. Photo Scavenger Hunt

photography projects ideas

Challenge yourself and your fellow photographers by setting up a photo scavenger hunt . Rather than choosing objects and locations to capture, create a list of photography styles to achieve. For instance, your list might include building a motion blur or catching a clear action shot. At the end of your hunt, you’ll have a collection of impressive photographs.

31. Night Scenes

photography projects ideas

Night scenes, also known as low light photography, allow you to make the most of dark scenes that are hard to capture. When less light is present, it means you’ll also have slower shutter speeds, which equals more camera shake. For this reason, landscapes and long exposures at night time require tripods.

Whether you’re shooting special moments around the campfire or gazing up at the stars, utilize a wide aperture or a low f-number to let in as much light as possible.

32. Polaroids

photography projects ideas

Polaroids offer a timeless feel and give photos a natural frame. When creating a collection of polaroids, be sure to switch up your angles and perspectives. Try a few upclose shots of objects along with macro shots of mountains and lakes.

For polaroids with human subjects, allow for plenty of natural light and aim for candids.

33. Letters/Signs

photography projects ideas

With any inanimate object, the challenge with photography is to bring it to life. With letters and signs, try to enrich the shot with the surrounding scene whether it’s greenery or a neat light fixture. Angle your lens in a way that makes the lettering most striking.

Build a full photography project with at least five to ten different signs.

34. Action Shots

photography projects ideas

To nail a clear action shot—for sports, animals or anything else—the most important aspect is to be prepared. Consider pre-focusing your shot, so when the subject enters the frame, you’re ready.

Because it may take several shots to capture even one solid photo, shoot in short bursts for a few seconds at a time. Keep extra space at either edge of your frame to allow for your subject’s movement.

35. Abstract

photography projects ideas

Fundamental to abstract photography are lines and curves. The shapes you highlight will guide the viewer’s eye to a certain engaging element. To get up close and personal with an object or design, use a macro lens. With the macro, your photo composition will have clearer resolution and sharpness. Complete your project by gathering a collection of abstract photo pieces.

36. New Lens

photography projects ideas

Your camera equipment plays a large role in your work as a photographer. Your tools, like your lenses, can fundamentally change the structure your art.

To sharpen your skills, try using a single lense for an entire month. Ideally, the lense will be new to you—allowing you to master the new tool and broaden your photography skills.

37. Architecture

photography projects ideas

Photographing architecture—whether modern or classic—presents unique challenges. Consider capturing an array of building styles for your portfolio and don’t forget to mix up your angles. Vary your shots by choosing a different weather conditions and times of day.

Through your diversity of shots, you’ll have richer story of the buildings’ relationship with the environment.

38. Thankful

photography projects ideas

To enhance your gratitude and happiness, consider completing a thankful project where you take one photo every day of something you’re grateful for. From flowers to pets to family members, find subjects that have personal meaning to you.

By capturing what you’re thankful for, you connect deeper with the people, places and things that surround you.

39. Sunday Mornings

photography projects ideas

Whether you’re enjoying a cup of coffee or a good book, snap a photo every Sunday morning for one month or a year. Capturing everyday occurrences through photography is a form of artistic journaling, helping you to document life’s big and small moments.

40. Top View

photography projects ideas

The angle of your shot makes all the difference in how appealing and engaging it is. Try a series of photos where your perspective comes from the top. Amp up the creativity by getting higher for your shoot and using a wide angle lens.

A busy environment, like a packed street or active household, can become a striking composition when using a top view perspective because it offers necessary distance from the cluttered setting.

41. Guilty Pleasures

photography projects ideas

We all have foods and activities we love despite feeling that they might not be held in high regard. Perhaps your guilty pleasure is cream-filled donuts or binge watching reruns of your favorite sitcom.

Collecting images of your guilty pleasures will likely bring you humor and levity, knowing that these items are a part of you, but they don’t necessarily define you.

42. Silhouettes

photography projects ideas

Forming a distinct contrast between light and dark, silhouettes highlight one or multiple subjects. Ensure your subject is backlit with the sun behind them. The best times to shoot silhouettes are in the morning or late evening.

Build a stunning image by setting the scene with open space, like in a field or along the beach. Set up your camera angle facing the sun, then ask your subject to stand between the sun and you. Play around with the exact angle until you have a strong contrast.

photography projects ideas

Create a collection of photos shot with prism filters on your lens or by placing a prism in front of your lens. The light that dances off of the prism will add creative effects to your photography by dispersing light before it hits the camera. Secure your camera on a tripod so you can have your hands free to play with the prism and lighting.

Prism photography can include large subjects like nature scenes and architecture or smaller objects like books and candles.

44. Symmetry

photography projects ideas

Finding subjects that offer you symmetry is the foundational step for this photography project idea. Look for symmetry in architecture and nature, but don’t leave out human and animals subjects. Smaller details, like hands or feet, often make for the perfect symmetrical photo.

photography projects ideas

Bokeh photography is denoted by one unique characteristic: a blur produced in the out-of-focus area of an image. The blur, produced by a lens, helps direct the focus of the photo. A fast lens is necessary to achieve this technique, with at least an f/2.8 aperture.

With a wide open lens, you can create bokeh with subjects like butterflies, humans and fencing around a baseball field. These photos are perfect for framing around your home .

46. Action Figures

photography projects ideas

Due to their size, action figures are easy to rearrange and shoot from multiple angles. Bring the scene to life by having the figures interact with each other. If you’re looking for an extra challenge, tell a story through your action figures, like one you would find in a comic book. Include action shots against a simple backdrop.

47. Steel Wool

photography projects ideas

Although it may seem like steel wool photography would require expensive equipment, it is a surprisingly inexpensive technique. For this project, you’ll need the following: a camera, lens, tripod, shutter cable, steel wool, string, stainless steel whisk, lighter and protective gloves. In a dark location—away from combustible items and other people—burn steel wool that’s loosely packed in a whisk.

As the steel wool burns, spin the whisk either vertically or horizontally to create the desired effect. The burning will only last about ten seconds, so you’ll want to set up for at least five seconds of exposure time. Steel wool photography creates wild and interesting images, but be sure to follow safety precautions to avoid hazards.

photography projects ideas

To enhance your skills and test out a nifty shooting technique, try macro photography on tiny subjects like insects, match-heads and flowers. Keeping your budget in mind, choose a magnification lens that lets you make super small items appear larger than life. For your macro project, vary your subjects.

Consider nature’s smallest members, miniature household items and up close shots of human elements for your portfolio.

49. Double Exposure

photography projects ideas

Double exposure, also known as multiple exposure, is a technique that combines two images in a single image. By using double exposure, you can create a distinct effect like a mirror image or ghost-like presence. The layering technique can be done with or without photoshop, depending on your equipment and skill set.

50. Escapism

photography projects ideas

Photography, like any type of art, can be a form of escapism. Through the camera, we can create images that help us step out of reality and into our daydreams. Prepare for your escapism photography project by thinking of your ‘happy places’ or locations you go to get away.

After brainstorming, head to one of those locations and shoot scenes that offer a mystical aura—whether it’s birds fluttering in the forest or the clouds lifting off of the mountains.

51. Shadow Art

photography projects ideas

Just as light is a critical element to photography, so is darkness. With shadow art, the focus is placed on the subject as it blocks light from reaching a surface, like a sidewalk or table. Experiment with the angle, distance and size of your light source to alter the intensity and scale of your shadows.

Consider humans as your subjects, but inanimate objects, too, like musical instruments, buildings and action figures.

52. Texture

photography projects ideas

From brick walls to tiled roofs to wooden fences, textures are all around us. Complete a photo challenge where you take one shot of a textured surface every day. Turn on your auto focus to ensure the object is in perfect focus. Adjust your distance from the subject based on how much detail you want in your image. This idea is perfect if you’re also looking for creative Instagram photo ideas .

Aim for a ninety degree angle when you shoot the image so your texture is lined up straight with the camera.

53. 365 Wardrobe

photography projects ideas

On each day of the year, snap photos of your clothes before you begin the day. Arrange them differently—sometimes orderly, sometimes more carelessly—to gain a sense of how your mood changed from day to day. Remember to include accessories like purses, shoes, belts and headbands.

54. Suspend Time

photography projects ideas

Photography is a powerful art medium: it can even pause time. Whether you’re suspending an item with a fishing line or taking a shot of someone jumping, you can create the look of time being stopped. Start this photography project by choosing three items or people you’d like to suspend.

55. Balloons

photography projects ideas

Bursting with color or more neutral tones, balloons make for versatile props. Let helium balloons off into the sky and capture photos as they float up. Surround the birthday girl with balloons in an otherwise empty room. Or tie a balloon to a child’s wrist and photograph them as they wander through a park.

56. Hotel Carpet

photography projects ideas

If you travel frequently, the hotel carpet project may be the right kind of fun for you. Next time you’re walking through a hotel lobby, glance down at the carpet beneath your feet. All sorts of patterns and colors are used in hotel carpets across the world. Take a snapshot (ideally at a 90-degree angle) of each carpet for a collection that will help you remember all of the places you’ve been.

photography projects ideas

Across neighborhoods and cities, doors provide insight to each home’s character. For this photography project, set out on an adventure to collect as many styles and sizes of doors as possible. Choose a macro approach, where the whole door makes the shot, or go micro by narrowing the frame to door handles and styles of wood.

58. Juxtaposition

photography projects ideas

To build juxtaposition in your photographs, place two opposite subjects next to one another. Like a blue ocean and a green forest, the contrast between the two is noticeable yet stunning. Types of juxtaposition might include a person and their shadow or a thin item next to a thicker item. For this photography project, try several contrasting subjects or locations.

photography projects ideas

Photos full of irony can be humorous or thought-provoking. Maybe you snap an image of a tow truck hauling another tow truck or you notice a descriptive sign in a place that doesn’t quite seem to fit. When it comes to ironic photos, a keen eye is needed along with a quick wit.

60. Fairy Lights

photography projects ideas

Fairy lights make for beautiful focal points. You can wrap the lights around a tree, weave them between human subjects or fill mason jars with them. Build a larger scene by ensuring no backdrop distractions are present or capture the fairy lights up close.

Regardless of what subjects and scenes you decide to shoot, proper exposure is crucial.

photography projects ideas

For this photography project, choose smoke as your primary accent. Incense sticks are easy to use and allow you to play with various colors. Your setup should ensure ample ventilation for the smoke to escape the room. Some photographers merge two photographs (one of the smoke and one of the object) to design a special scene, like one of a toy train blowing smoke or a tea kettle steaming.

62. Vintage Cars

photography projects ideas

From sporty models to classic town cars, vintage vehicles never go out of style. Look for vintage makes at car rallies and exhibitions, although sometimes you’ll come across them in your everyday happenings. The golden hours, right after sunrise or right before sunset, are ideal for shooting cars. Highlight specific parts, like bumpers, trunks and hoods for diverse perspectives.

63. Faces In Things

photography projects ideas

You’ve probably seen images that double as a face and another object. In this photography project, you’ll create a similar effect. Take a close look at nature, food and furniture to locate hidden human faces. Compile as many faces as you can, and see if your friends can guess what’s in the images.

photography projects ideas

Alter your perspective by shooting your subject through a picture frame. The frame technique works best outdoors where you can place ample distance between your lens and your subject. Consider creating scenes with a woman standing on the beach, a tree in an open field or a tall building at the end of a street.

65. Reflections

photography projects ideas

Any body of water—like a lake, river, pond or swimming pool—can act as your reflective tool for this photography project. You’ll want to avoid direct light on the water to eliminate glare. Practice using reflections on waterfront cityscapes or mountains overlooking a lake.

66. Take My Hand

photography projects ideas

When you can represent human connection in photography, the emotion of the image is strengthened. Head out on a hike or stroll through a garden to practice photographing two hands linked together.

67. Picception

photography projects ideas

A relatively new technique, picception images incorporate another camera or photo into the shot. It can be a picture-in-a-picture style or something more subtle like a photograph of someone taking a photograph. While often informal, picception shots can be formal if intentionally designed.

photography projects ideas

Often eye-catching, neon photos provide a stunning mix of light, shape and color. Whether you’re on the Vegas strip or exploring your hometown at night, take photos of neon signs with your camera’s evaluative meter exposure setting. Choose a low ISO of 200 or 100 to avoid noise. Be sure to place your camera on a tripod for stability.

No matter which photography projects you decide to complete, remember to enjoy the process and save copies of your photos. Design a themed calendar or metal print to showcase your results.

Explore Categories

graduation invitation

Graduation Invitations

custom photo blankets

Custom Photo Blankets

save the date

Save the Dates

wall calendar

Wall Calendars

Avatar for Shutterfly Community

Written by Shutterfly Community | View all posts

★ Lifestyle Expert

Shutterfly Community is here to help capture and share life's most important moments. Discover thoughtful gifts, creative ideas and endless inspiration to create meaningful memories with family and friends.

Visit their Website . You can follow on Instagram and Pinterest .

52 photography projects: a great technique to try every week of the year

Our pick of the perfect weekend photography projects

ICM

  • Home photography projects
  • Outdoor photography projects
  • More outdoor photography projects
  • Long-term photography projects

Looking for photography projects to stimulate your creativity? Whether you’re a beginner who’s just learning the ropes or a seasoned snapper in need of inspiration, trying out a new technique can help you grow as a photographer. That’s why the list below features our pick of the best ideas to try with your camera.

From painting with light trails to capturing twilight landscapes, there are countless creative ways to use your camera and its lens. This round-up of our favorite weekend projects features suggestions to suit every skill level – whether you’re shooting with a smartphone or a ‘proper’ camera like a DSLR.

Some you can do from the comfort of you home, while others will have you heading out in search of specific scenes. Whether it’s a novel technique or an inventive suggestion for finding fresh subjects, every idea below has one thing in common: it should challenge you to try something different and find a fresh perspective.

Most of the projects can be attempted using the equipment you already own. Those that do require additional materials should all be achievable with pocket-money purchases – and if there’s any crafting involved, it should be well worth the effort when you see the results.

We’ve shared 52 of our favorite suggestions to do in 2022 below. Try them all and, in a year’s time, there’s a good chance you’ll be a better photographer, with a keener understanding of your camera and what it’s capable of. Plus you’ll be all set to attempt the final project: self-publishing a photo book.

The best home photography projects:

1. water drop art.

The basic idea with this project is to suspend a container of liquid and let drops fall through a small hole, then capture the resulting splash. Timing the shutter as the splash is created is everything. We achieved good results using two flashguns set to their lowest power (1/128th), an aperture of f/22 and water mixed with Xanthan gum to make a more viscous solution. We also used a SplashArt water drop kit from PhotoTrigger , which helped to regulate the size and frequency of the drops.

2. Indoor splash shots

For this project you'll need a flashgun that you can fire remotely, a container with clear sides for your water, a coloured background and a tripod. Set up the container and backdrop, then position the flash over the container. With the camera on a tripod and set to manual focus and exposure - f/8, ISO200 and the fastest shutter speed that will work with your flash - drop the object into the water and fire the shutter as it hits.

3. Shapes of bokeh

Out-of-focus orbs of light can add magic to any image, but the bokeh effect needn’t be limited to standard circles. From love hearts to stars, a simple cutout filter can transform background sparkles into brilliant shapes. 

Using your lens cap as a guide, draw a circle on a piece of card. Cut out the circle, score a small shape in the centre using scissors or a craft knife, then push the card onto the front of your lens (or attach it with an elastic band). When you next shoot a scene, any unfocused light will take the form of your shape. 

Use a wide aperture to maximize the effect and remember that, as the filter restricts the amount of light entering your lens, you’ll want to set a longer exposure or higher ISO. Try simple shapes such as triangles to get started, before progressing to stars, hearts, crosses and more.

4. Create smoke art

Smoke trails are a firm favourite among still-life photographers. But how about taking it to the next level and using the shapes in a creative Photoshop project. Once you've taken a few good smoke art photos, make a blank document in Photoshop, then copy and paste one of the smoke images into it. Set the blending mode to Screen and use Warp Transform to reshape it. Continue the process to combine a range of smoke shots into a new image.

5. DIY lightbox

Lightboxes are used to illuminate objects evenly against a plain background, often for the purposes of product or food photography. Luckily, you don’t have to have a pro budget to make one at home. All you need is a cardboard box, some white paper and a table lamp. 

Remove the top flaps, stand the box on one end and cut window holes in either side. Line the box with a single, seamless piece of white paper and cover the holes with thin paper or fabric, taped in place. Then it’s as simple as positioning a desk lamp on one or both sides: the paper will diffuse the light, evenly illuminating whatever object you put inside. 

Or for an even simpler setup, use a single piece of paper as the backdrop, with one white wall made from card, and position near a window (as pictured). Experiment with aperture and shutter speed to shoot subjects with totally white backgrounds or some shadow for a sense of perspective. Then mix things up with color backgrounds. If the quality is high enough, you could list your images for sale on a stock photography website to earn some lockdown pocket money.

6. Lubricate your lens

Want to give your housebound portraits added glow? If you have a spare lens filter lying around, try an old Hollywood trick: smear a layer of Vaseline on the glass to give your images a soft, dreamy look, keeping aperture wide to emphasize the ethereal effect with a shallow depth of field. 

Get experimental by leaving the middle of the filter free from Vaseline to create a halo effect, with the centre in clear focus but the outer elements blurry and soft. Don’t want to sacrifice a filter? Stretch cling-film tight across the lens and keep it in place with an elastic band, before using the Vaseline in the same way. If you’re not into portraits, try the effect when shooting a light source for a unique style of diffusion.

7. Make your own filters

It’s no secret that color is a major element of any image, but you don’t need expensive filters or editing software to experiment with saturation. In fact, you don’t even need to leave your home: all manner of household objects can function as color filters to bring new hues to your photography – and to transform mundane moments into brighter snaps. 

Attach tissue paper to your lens with an elastic band for an instant change of scene, or try shooting through thin fabric with a light source placed behind. Too easy? Take a snap through a laundry capsule for a liquid tone adjustment or use a whisky bottle for sepia shades with a hint of distortion. Petals are pretty effective, too, as are translucent sweet wrappers.

8. Try cross-polarization

This fun project exploits the effect that polarised light has on some plastics. You'll need two polarising filters - ideally one of these should be a sheet of polarising film. You can pick up an A4 sheet of Lee 239 polarising film for £50 (try www.robertwhite.co.uk or www.pnta.com ). The sheet of film should be placed on a lightbox or in front of the only light source. An iPad screen and most computer screens have a polarising filter built in, so if you don't have a sheet of polarising film you can always experiment by creating a white document to fill the screen. Simply attach the circular polariser to the camera lens and rotate it to make the colours appear in clear plastic items

9. Food landscapes

Spice up your food photography! All you need is a set of model figures - Hornby 00 gauge figures are perfect, as they're available in a wide range of poses. Preiser has a great range too. The most important aspect is to establish a sense of narrative. Here you can see that there's a conversation between the characters, with the mountaineer on the 'mash face' being helped by his colleagues on the ground.

10. Fine-art food

Try turning your dinner ingredients into photo art using just a lightbox and a very sharp knife. Slice fruit and vegetables as thinly and evenly as possible, then place them on the lightbox. With the camera positioned directly above, use Live View to focus manually on the details. Set an aperture of f/8 to give adequate depth of field, and dial in some exposure compensation of +1 to +3 stops as the bright light can fool the camera's meter into underexposure.

11. Flowers in ice

A relatively inexpensive way of taking 'kitchen sink' close-ups that look great blown up as wall art. Freeze flowers in plastic containers of distilled or de-ionised water (available through your local auto or hardware store). The flowers will float, so try to weigh them down or fasten them in place so that they freeze under the water. Place the block of ice on top of a clear bowl or glass in a white sink or plate, so that the light can bounce through from below. Position a flashgun off to one side, angled down towards it, and shoot from the opposite side.

12. Abstracts in oil

Oil floating on the surface of water is a great way to make striking abstracts. This table-top photo project exploits the refractive quality of oil and bubbles to accentuate and distort colours. All you need to do is place a few drops of cooking oil on the surface of water in a glass dish. Make sure the dish is supported about 25cm about the table top, then place coloured paper under it and use an anglepoise lamp or flashgun to light the paper.

13. Play with fire

It doesn’t take a pyromaniac to see the photographic potential of fire, but it does take patience, skill and plenty of precautionary measures to capture a stunning action shot of a match igniting. If you’d rather not risk singeing your fingertips, try a different type of flame photography.

Shooting by candlelight alone can lead to magical results. As with any single source of light, it allows you to experiment extensively with shadows – especially if you’re capturing a portrait – while the soft, warm tone and flicker of the flame both contribute to an especially ethereal effect.

In a darkened room, try shooting with a medium-high ISO and a relatively slow shutter speed. Start with just a candle and your subject, before introducing additional elements and playing with positioning. A nearby wall, for example, will throw the candlelight back in different ways, while glass will add to the magic with fiery reflections

Tweak shutter speed to affect the strength of shadows or try adding further flames – though you might need to adjust the white balance if things look more yellow than mellow.

14. Repaint the walls with camera obscura

Familiar with pinhole photography? That technique relies on camera obscura – a natural optical effect that occurs when a small hole in an otherwise sealed space (such as a box) projects an inverted image of the world outside onto the opposite wall. You could make a pinhole camera as an at-home project, or you could go even bigger: with the right setup, you can create the camera obscura phenomenon in an entire room. 

First, you’ll need to black out a room – for example, by taping opaque sheets over your windows. Then you’ll need to make an aperture through which light can enter; the smaller the hole, the sharper but dimmer the image. Camera obscura works best in small/medium rooms, with an aperture of around 10-15mm diameter. Allow your eyes to adjust and determine whether you need to brighten the image by making a larger hole, then marvel as an inverted version of the outside world appears on the wall. 

Capture the entirety of this remarkable natural effect using a wide angle, a relatively long exposure and a tripod, or focus on specific elements of your room to emphasis the effect – such as houses appearing to float upside down on your mantelpiece.

15. Camera tossing

Chucking your precious photographic equipment into the air might sound like something designed to void the warranty, but – provided you’re not too clumsy – camera tossing can deliver some truly spectacular results. Try it in a dark room with a single light source. Set a shutter speed of around one second (roughly the length of time it’ll be in the air) and, as the timer hits zero, launch it upwards. Catching it is the important part, but once you’re comfortable with the technique you can experiment with multiple light sources, different colors and even spinning your camera as you release it.

16. Psychedelic soap film

This is a wonderful project that makes for vibrant desktop wallpaper or abstract wall art. You'll need liquid soap mixed with glycerine for long-lasting soap film, plus a wire loop, a black cloth background and a macro lens of at least 100mm. The colours created by soap film only appear when hit by light from a certain angle, so set up near a north-facing window and shoot from around 45 degrees.

17. Refractive art

Light bends when it passes through water, causing the objects behind to change appearance. This is called refraction, and you'll make use of this phenomenon in this arty photo project. All you need is a few glasses, a flashgun, a tripod and a black-and-white pattern print. Simply place the pattern in the background with the glasses in front. Fill them with different levels of water and move the pattern backwards or forwards to fine-tune the effect.

18. Kitchen close-ups

Your kitchen is an ideal location for shooting a macro project. Its reflective surfaces can be used to create interesting backgrounds for your shots, and a shallow depth of field can transform the most mundane of objects you'll find there. Creating a triptych of images can result in a piece of fantastic wall art for your kitchen too, although it's important to think about how they're going to work together before you start shooting. Here, 3 objects - a fork, a bowl of cereal and coffee granules - were all shot from a similar angle, with the impression of height linking the sequence.

19. Invert the world with a crystal ball

Shoot through a crystal ball and, while you won’t see into the future, you will capture an inverted version of the scene behind the orb. Just as light is refracted when it passes through the glass elements of a lens, the same thing happens with a glass sphere. There are dedicated photography balls on the market, but the effect can often be achieved using a clear marble or even a paperweight. Nothing suitable? A water-filled wine glass can also work. 

All sorts of subjects look good through an orb, from sunsets and cityscapes to abstract items and even portraits. Try shooting with a macro lens to fill the frame with the sphere, or with a wider angle to include some of the scene behind. To really play with perspectives, rotate the image with editing software so that the background is inverted but the scene in the orb is the right way up.  You can also incorporate elements that support the ball into the image, such as hands, bowls or miscellaneous objects.

20. Still-life bokeh

Something as simple as a crumpled piece of foil can be the basis for a creative photo project. Position a still-life subject on a sheet of glass with a piece of dark material underneath it. Scrunch up the kitchen foil then smooth it back out and place it in the background. Shine a table lamp or torch on the foil and, with a tripod mounted camera, dial in the lens's widest aperture to create some beautiful ' bokeh '. During the exposure, shine a flashlight onto the subject.

21. Play with shadows

Photography is fundamentally about capturing light, which is exactly why shadows can be so powerful. They can create contrast with lighter parts of a composition or add texture to an otherwise plain subject. They can even be manipulated to tell a story. Incorporating shadows into your images will challenge you to think not just about the objects within a scene, but how things outside of the frame can affect the light that falls within it.

To play with shadows, all you need is a light source and a solid object to block it. This could be something natural, such as the shadow of a tree cast by sunlight. Equally, it could be something man-made, such as the outline of a street sign created by a car’s headlights. Or it could be something you create yourself: try playing puppet-master by shining a torch and dancing your hand in front of it. 

You can also invert this idea by shooting a subject which is predominantly in shadow and experimenting with how splashes of light fall upon it.

22. Still life light trails

Light trails can be used in all kinds of photography, but they're perfect for a creative still life project. You can use a regular Maglite torch, but try removing the end to reveal the bulb and make the light more direct. Use some electrical tape to attach a coloured sweet wrapper, which you can use as a makeshift 'gel'. Set the canera's shutter speed to around 30 secs with an aperture of around f/8, then start moving the torch within the frame before pressing the shutter. Continue the movement throughout the exposure. Here, we suspended the torch from a piece of string and made a gentle circular movement to create a spiral around the bottle.

23. Light spirals

You'll need to attach a torch, suspended by string, to an open area of ceiling. Fit the widest lens you have on your camera, and mount it on a tripod pointing straight up. With the light turned on, autofocus on the tip of the torch and set the lens to manual focus to lock the setting in. With an aperture of f/11 or f/16 dialled in, use Bulb mode and a remote release to keep the shutter open for a minute or so as you send the torch spinning in the dark…

  • Best camera flash: dedicated flashguns for Canon and Nikon DSLR
  • Best macro lens 2018: close-up lenses for Canon and Nikon DSLRs
  • Macro lenses: how to choose one, and how to use it

Current page: Home photography projects

Get daily insight, inspiration and deals in your inbox

Get the hottest deals available in your inbox plus news, reviews, opinion, analysis and more from the TechRadar team.

Chris Rowlands

Formerly News Editor at Stuff, Chris has rarely been able to resist the bite of the travel bug – so he now writes about tech from the road, in whichever Wi-Fi-equipped café he can find. Fond of coffee kit, classic cars and sustainable gear, if there’s one thing Chris loves more than scribbling, shooting and sharing his way around the world, it’s alliterative triplets.

This luxury smart telescope will have you in awe of stars, solar systems, galaxies and nebulae in minutes

I played a photography simulator demo and it can't hold a candle to the real thing, but the Apple Vision Pro could change that

Five reasons to upgrade to the Samsung Galaxy S24

Most Popular

By Adam Marshall February 14, 2024

By Aatif Sulleyman February 14, 2024

By Allisa James February 14, 2024

By Muskaan Saxena February 13, 2024

By Jake Green February 12, 2024

By Ruth Jones February 12, 2024

By Andy Murray February 11, 2024

By Amelia Schwanke February 11, 2024

By Aatif Sulleyman February 11, 2024

By Adam Marshall February 11, 2024

  • 2 Phison quietly revealed an updated X2 SSD platform at CES, with up to 128TB capacity
  • 3 New Rakuten Drive cloud service offers unlimited file transfers
  • 4 Months before launch, Palworld’s community manager thought that anything above 50,000 players ‘seemed unobtainable’
  • 5 LAVIE Tab T14 features a 14.5-inch screen with a 3000x1876 resolution
  • 2 Some of the world's biggest cloud computing firms want to make millions of servers last longer — doing so will save them billions of dollars every year
  • 3 More 128TB SSDs are coming as almost no one noticed this launch — another SSD controller that can support up to 128TB appeared paving the way for HDD-beating capacities
  • 4 I took this Nikon super-telephoto lens on a dream safari trip – and learned a big lesson about pro primes
  • 5 Amazon is filled with cheap projectors – are they worth it?

24 creative photography projects for 2024

4 seasons of creative challenges and inspiration to enjoy over the next 12 months

Creative photography projects for 2024

Creative photography projects for winter 2024

Creative photography projects for spring 2024, creative photography projects for summer 2024, creative photography projects for fall 2024.

It’s time to bid farewell to 2023 and say hello to 2024! The new year is always a great time to start afresh and to reassess your ambitions and aims for the year. As well as thinking of the personal changes you want to make, you can also think about what you want to achieve from your photography – and we are here to help you do just that. 

To get you started, we’ve curated 24 fabulous photo projects for you to try throughout the year. The aim is to tackle one project every fortnight so you can explore different genres and use different skills that will help you grow as a photographer.

To make it easier to follow, we‘ve themed the projects into seasonal categories, starting with winter, but mix and match as you see fit. You can also adapt our suggestions to suit your own shooting and editing style – feel free to put your own creative stamp on them!

Creative photography projects for 2024

Project 1: Fabulous flora

You may think that spring and summer are the best times of year to take stunning garden shots, and while this is true, the winter garden also has plenty of photographic opportunities. Look for structural and skeletal plants such as dead thistles or cow parsley to shoot as your main subject. Remember to get down low to compose your shots. Bring along a bag or old cushion to save your knees from getting dirty and wet on the ground.

  • Convert your images to black and white. This style of photography lends itself to the monochromatic medium as your winter garden shots should all be about the form and structure of the plant. 
  • Isolate your subject. Think about your background and how to make your subject stand out. A wide aperture setting will help you do this. 
  • Consider how you are going to present your image. A double or triptych can work well.

Creative photography projects for 2024

Project 2: Bleak landscapes

Instead of waiting for the perfect golden hour, embrace the dull weather by shooting bleak and minimal landscapes this winter. Misty conditions are ideal and use negative space to aid your composition. This type of project can be shot in both rural and urban locations, so wherever you live, you can achieve great results. Trees work particularly well as a main subject, but so do man-made structures such as water towers and industrial power plants. Have a look at the works of Hilla and Bernd Becher and Josef Koudelka for some inspiration.

  • When converting your image to black and white, it’s easy to over-boost the contrast and make the blacks too dark and the whites too light. Pulling it back a little will let the image speak for itself.
  • A wide-angle lens is useful for this style of photography.  
  • When it comes to composing your image, as well as using the rule of thirds, you can also think more symmetrically.

Creative photography projects for 2024

Project 3: Light the way

Winter months are the perfect time to shoot light trails. Head out into the urban environment or look for a busy and interesting piece of road for your location. Essential kit includes a tripod, high-vis (if you stand near a road) and a wide-angle lens. Experiment using different shutter speed settings (starting at 30 seconds) to see how they add to the final effect. The speed of the traffic and the number of vehicles will also affect the result.

Creative photography projects for 2024

Project 4: Serene still-life

On those days when it’s freezing cold or the rain is hammering down and you can’t face the outdoors, find some household objects to create a simple still-life setup. In our example, we used some candles as our main subject and draped a household plant around to add some interest to the shot. Your background choice is also important as this sets the feel and tone of the image.

Creative photography projects for 2024

Project 5: Creative portraits

This project is easy to do at home but it will require some planning, milk (around six liters), a model and flowers, although these are optional. We shot our image using flash and elevated our position above the model using a step ladder. Make sure you have your camera strapped and secured to your body to avoid any accidents. To create the milky effect, fill your bath about halfway with warm water and then add the milk. If you don’t want to use fresh milk, you can also use milk powder.

  • Bounce the flash to achieve a clean look. You want to avoid heavy or distracting shadows. 
  • If you’re going to add floating flowers to the milk, add these after your model is in position; otherwise, they will go underneath the water as your model gets into the bath.  
  • Once you’ve added the milk, the water cools down reasonably quickly – be ready to shoot so that your model doesn’t get cold!

Creative photography projects for 2024

Project 6: Festive bokeh

Bokeh comes from the Japanese word boke, which means blur or haze. In photography, you can achieve an easy bokeh effect using a lens that can be opened to a wide aperture setting – the wider the better, so prime lenses are ideal. You will also need some lights in the background, and small lights work best, so Christmas trees are perfect for this type of effect.

Creative photography projects for 2024

Project 7: Bring spring indoors

When the first signs of spring start to emerge, we all seem to breathe a sigh of relief… However, we are also aware that April showers can go on way beyond April, so on those rainy days, bring the spring indoors. A flat lay is a great way to do this and can be achieved in a few easy steps.

Creative photography projects for 2024

Set up the background

Lay down a piece of coloured card on a table and place it next to a large window. As you want to make your image bright and vibrant, colored card will work best.

Creative photography projects for 2024

Bounce the light

To reduce the shadows, place a reflector on the opposite side to your main light source. This lifts the image and removes the stronger shadows for a more even result.

Creative photography projects for 2024

Set up your camera

Put your camera into Aperture Priority mode and set the aperture to f/4 and the ISO around 200. You can either shoot this handheld or on a tripod if your shutter speed is too slow.

Creative photography projects for 2024

Project 8: Animal portraits

Many animals are born in the spring, so take advantage of this to create some characterful animal portraits. For a winning shot, keep the focus on the eye or the face of the animal to create a connection between the subject and the viewer. Animals can be tricky to work with (especially those that aren’t domesticated) so be patient and keep shooting to ensure you get a winning shot.

Creative photography projects for 2024

Project 9: The Bartocha technique

Sandra Bartocha was one of the first to invent this popular technique where you layer images on top of each other (often nature images) to create a beautiful effect. To achieve this, shoot multiple images of your subject at different focus points and then build your image using an editing software program like Photoshop , where you can blend multiple layers together.

Creative photography projects for 2024

Project 10: Garden lifestyle

The spring garden is the perfect setting for a lifestyle project. Although this shot looks as though it has been taken candidly from behind the flowers, it has in fact been carefully composed and thought through to sell the dream. Placing items such as a blanket and a magazine on the table adds that lifestyle element to the scene and enables the viewer to picture themselves in that setting.

Creative photography projects for 2024

Project 11: Beautiful butterflies

By late spring, many different varieties of butterfly are starting to hatch. To shoot our spring butterflies, we grew them ourselves. We ordered some caterpillars from Insect Lore (insectlore.co.uk) and watched them grow from caterpillars into Painted Lady butterflies – this is also a particularly interesting project to do if you have children. When we released the butterflies into our garden, they were completely docile, meaning we could spend time getting them into a good position.

  • Head to your back garden or the local park and look for flowers (such as the daisies in our example) or for interesting backdrops where the butterflies can rest.
  • Use a long lens such as a macro 100mm prime for best results.
  • When shooting at a close proximity, your aperture setting is affected. For example, our images were shot at f/8, which on a wide-angle image would be sharp from front to back. For our butterfly images, f/8 was the perfect setting as it softened the background while keeping some of the butterfly sharp, which was the effect we were after.

Creative photography projects for 2024

Project 12: Wide and shallow

As spring leaps into action, you’ll find fields of flowers starting to bloom. Our instinct and habit when we shoot a wide-angle shot is to set the aperture to a narrow setting to keep the scene sharp from front to back. On this occasion, however, you should do the exact opposite. Open your aperture to a wide setting and blur the background and foreground. This works best in-camera if you have a lens that can go as wide as f/2.8. However, if you don’t have an f/2.8 optic, shoot as wide as you can and then exaggerate the blur effect at the editing stage.

  • Look for a colorful setting. Fields of tulips or lines of flowers are the perfect arrangement for this technique (lavender fields also work in the summer months).
  • Think about where you want your focus to sit in the image. About a third of the way up often creates a pleasing result.
  • Plan your shoot to coincide with good weather. Avoid the brightest part of the day and opt to shoot in softer light at the beginning or the end of the day.

Creative photography projects for 2024

Project 13: Splash and shoot

Jumping into the sea or a large body of water is great fun to do and you can get some eye-catching photographic results at the same time. To make sure your shots are sharp, set your camera to fire in the fastest burst mode you have and ensure your AF setting is set to the tracking feature, so you can follow your subject. You may need to get your model to do a few jumps to get the perfect shot.

  • It’s all about communication. Speak to your model first to tell them where they need to jump so you can be ready to get the action shot.
  • Shoot a sequence of images and either pick the best of the bunch or present them as a sequence. 
  • Sea salt and cameras do not mix! Protect your camera with a waterproof cover and keep it clear of any big splashes. A long lens will help you get close to your subjects.

Creative photography projects for 2024

Project 14: Divine drinks

Cold drinks on a hot summer’s day make the perfect combination for a winning photograph. Not only is it better to shoot into the light here, but you also want to make sure your drinks are ice-cold so that they bubble with condensation, which adds to the overall effect.

  • Think about your setting and how that adds to the overall look. In the summer, an outdoor setting such as a garden is the best way to go.
  • Open your aperture to a wide setting to blur the background and isolate your subject.
  • Bring in additional props to add interest to the corner or side of the frame, but make sure they don’t become the main focus. Here, we used a pair of sunglasses as a prop.

Creative photography projects for 2024

Project 15: Summer scenes

The first or last light of the summer day are the best times to shoot spectacular summer scenes. Blackpool Sands in Devon, pictured here, were shining as the sun set behind the fields. Shoot in raw format and bring those warm tones back into your image at the editing stage to make the most out of it.

  • Calm and still days are the ideal settings to shoot scenes like the one below. Have a recce beforehand to work out the best spot from which to compose your shot.
  • Use a wide-angle lens to frame the full scene and look for curves and shapes in the landscape to help you with your composition.
  • At the editing stage, bring some detail back into the shadows. You may also need to warm the shadows up as the light is much cooler there compared with the rest of the scene.

Creative photography projects for 2024

Project 16: Perfect portraits

The long summer days are blissful and at the start and end of the day, the light begins to soften meaning you can achieve excellent results with your portraits. Coordinate your sitter’s clothing to match the scenery. In our example, the girl’s blue flowery dress matches the flowers on the ground perfectly. We’ve also added a creative filter and toned the image to make every element in the scene work together.

  • Have fun and engage with your subject as you are shooting. Although it might be tricky to think about camera settings while directing a model, you should make sure they are comfortable.
  • If working with children, you need to be quick as they won’t stand still for long. To hold their attention, do your research first – find out their interests so you can engage with them for longer.
  • Keep the focus fixed on the face, but if shooting closer up, focus on the eyes.

Creative photography projects for 2024

Project 17: Capture fun at a festival

If you like people-watching and listening to loud music, there’s nothing better than photographing a music festival. These images were taken for the Dart Music Festival last summer and are the perfect example of how to get great results…

Creative photography projects for 2024

Look for light

Photography is all about finding the best light and this is also the case at a festival or an event. Natural or ambient lighting can be used to your advantage so look for opportune moments with your subject in the setting.

Creative photography projects for 2024

As well as photographing the musicians at a music festival, there are lots of images to be captured in the crowd. Look for fun moments, especially when people are unaware of your presence for a more candid and natural result.

Creative photography projects for 2024

Capture the moment

It’s all about being ready to capture the perfect moment. A shake of the head or someone jumping in the air are always winners. Keep your ISO above 800 to ensure your shutter speed is fast enough to freeze the action.

Creative photography projects for 2024

Project 18: Shoot big group photos

Shooting a large group of people is never easy so think of fun ways you can get them to engage with each other. People feel a lot less awkward if they have something to do or are given good direction. These colorful bridesmaids naturally formed around their bride, creating the perfect lineup for a group picture. Luckily, it was a hot day so it didn’t take much encouragement to get them to paddle in the water! Make sure you keep your aperture setting around f/8 so everyone in the frame stays sharp.

Creative photography projects for 2024

Project 19: Fall close-up

As well as offering plenty of opportunities for wide-angle shots in the fall, the small details of the season are also a joy to photograph. Look for slithers of light to frame your subject and when it comes to editing your images, follow our steps for atmospheric results. We think Lightroom is one of the best image-editing software programs for toning and styling your images, so we opted to use this.

Creative photography projects for 2024

Open Lightroom

Import your images and then go to the Develop Module. Start by adjusting the controls in the basic tab. Correct the Exposure and White Balance, boost the Contrast and use the Whites, Blacks, Shadows and Highlights sliders to tone your image. Also, play around with the Tone Curve setting below for further effects.

Creative photography projects for 2024

Profiles and presets

Profiles and presets are easy ways of toning and styling your image and are a great starting point. You can create your own or import them. There are plenty of profiles and presets for sale on the internet. We added a touch of a profile called Soft Fade as the base for our image. You can adjust the amount applied by any profile or preset using the Amount slider – sometimes a hint is all you need.

Creative photography projects for 2024

Color grading

Now take it a step further and go to the Color Grading feature. This enables you to color-tone the mid-tones, highlights and shadows separately. Start by picking your color, for example, warmer mid-tones and highlights and cooler shadows; you can then adjust the amount added by clicking further out on the circle. Again, less is more, so have a play around for subtle results like ours.

Creative photography projects for 2024

Project 20: Location portraits

Although landscape photographers search for that perfect autumnal light, portrait photographers also do the same when out on location. This image taken of a girl at an outdoor adventure club is the perfect example of what a setting sun in autumn can bring to an image.

  • Keep your camera in Aperture Priority mode and knock the exposure meter down a stop to ensure your highlights aren’t overexposing.
  • Shoot into the light, keeping the focus on your subject.
  • Color is important for a shot like this so think about what you want your subject to wear. In our example, the red jumper is perfectly matched to the light conditions.

Creative photography projects for 2024

Project 21: Shoot abstract architecture

Sometimes less is more, such as in this example of an image of a beach sauna. The contrast of the patterned orange tiles placed against a clear blue sky is what makes it such an effective result. You don’t need to go far to find this type of image, so have a search around your local area to see what you can find.

Creative photography projects for 2024

Project 22: Still-life around the home

If you need a day at home, you can still take great photographs. The home has plenty of areas you can style, from living room areas to a shelf and dresser in the bedroom. If you have busy surfaces, remove the clutter and style your shots using a few books, plants, candles, blankets, cushions or whatever you have lying around… it’s also a good excuse to have a clean and sort out household items at the same time.

  • Use a tripod as you want to keep your ISO down low to ensure your shots aren’t grainy. Using a tripod indoors enables you to keep your ISO low, at 100, as you will need to use a longer shutter speed. 
  • Unless you have a library of beautiful old books that all match in color and style when shooting books, turn them around so you can’t see the spine to create a neutral look. 
  • For scenes where you have a big difference between the highlights and shadows of the image, try bracketing exposures and merge the shots at the editing stage.

Creative photography projects for 2024

Project 23: Fire and food

Smoky and fiery conditions are perfect for food photography in action. Look for flames created by dripping meat to capture effective results. When it comes to selecting the right camera settings, don’t be afraid to push the ISO up if you are shooting in low light. Here, we set ours to 1600 and the aperture at f/2.8 to get a shutter speed of 1/400 sec. This meant the action of the flame and the hand stayed sharp.

Creative photography projects for 2024

Project 24: Present your photos

On those rainy days later in the year, take time to reflect on your photography, go through and organise your photos and edit them accordingly. Try printing out some of your images, thinking of different ways to present them, and if you need to share images with a client or a friend then find a pleasing presentation method, such as the wooden box in our example, or frame your favorite photos of the year and hang them on a wall.

Thank you for reading 5 articles this month* Join now for unlimited access

Enjoy your first month for just £1 / $1 / €1

*Read 5 free articles per month without a subscription

Join now for unlimited access

Try first month for just £1 / $1 / €1

Get the Digital Camera World Newsletter

The best camera deals, reviews, product advice, and unmissable photography news, direct to your inbox!

Claire Gillo

Claire is a professional photographer and writer, and lives by the the sea with her two young children, husband and cat in the southwest of the UK.

After graduating from The Bournemouth Arts Institute with a first-class degree in photography, Claire worked for a number of years in the publishing industry, including as Technique Editor for Digital Camera magazine.

She loves anything and everything to do with photography, from creating magazine articles to photographing ballerinas on the beach and newborn babies (but not at the same time). She mainly shoots with digital DSLRs, but does dust off her beloved Hasselblad medium-format film camera once in a while…

Related articles

The Canon EOS 6D Mark II – my favorite DSLR – has finally been discontinued 

12 Creative Photography Project Ideas to Get You Motivated

A Post By: Simon Bond

12 creative project ideas to get you motivated

Looking for some fun, creative photography project ideas to get you inspired and excited about taking photos?

It’s always good to be involved in a photography project, and in this article, I’m going to share 12 of my favorite project ideas, including 52-week projects, 365-day projects, and more.

So if you’re ready to find the right project for your needs, then let’s get started!

zoom blur technique

Before you start your creative photography project

As with anything in life, once you have a project idea, it’s important to think it over and make a clear plan of action. This is a big step toward being successful. So if you have a project in mind, before you actually start snapping photos, consider the following points:

  • Give yourself time. Keep in mind the amount of free time you have. Is it realistic for you to complete the project? There are some projects that take a real time commitment; make sure you have a good plan in place if this is the type of project you decide to tackle. And ask yourself: Are there any important events over the next few weeks, months, or year, such as a wedding or a house move, that might make it difficult to finish?
  • Plan out all the details. If your project is long term, perhaps lasting a whole year, then make a plan for how you’ll achieve it. A 365 project is especially demanding, as you need to take a photograph every day. If you can, plan out every day of the project – and make your plan prior to getting started.
  • Allow for the unexpected. There will be times when you get sick, come home late, or your drive or motivation isn’t quite there. The plan you make for your project should include some easy days. Think of it as cooking ahead and having some frozen food in the fridge ready to reheat. In photography, there are always a number of photos that are very easy to take but still look striking. Keep some easier photos held back for times that you need a break.

12 creative photography projects to energize your work

As a year is 12 months long, I’ve included 12 project ideas (though some of them will take all year, whereas others might only take a weekend). Pick your favorite, or – if you’re ambitious! – choose more than one!

1. The 52-week project

This is a year-long project where you take one photograph per week. Tackling such a lengthy project is demanding, but if you can plan out some (or all) of your shots before the project starts, you’ll be a lot more successful.

Note that you can always customize the project to keep things more interesting and/or cohesive:

  • You can have a monthly theme . This might be a month of portraits , a month of landscapes , a month of spring, and so on.
  • You can have a weekly theme . The first week can be shadows, followed by camera rotation , with digital blending after that, etc.

If you want to do regular photography but you’re not quite ready for a daily project, the 52-week project is a great one to pick.

digital blending creative idea

2. The 365-day project

This is an intimidating project to take on, which is why many people go for the 52-week version listed above. However, like a relationship that requires a major time commitment, the reward for this project is often worth it.

Now, the original 365 project required daily self-portraits, which made it even tougher to complete. But a lot of people simply look to take one good photograph per day, be it a landscape, portrait, or macro shot. If you’re not sure how to get started, here are a few ideas:

  • The self-portrait 365 project . Take a selfie every day for a year.
  • What’s on your plate? Photograph your meal every day.
  • Life at sea . Show the different aspects of sea life. This is a diverse project that can include seascapes, macro photos, fishermen, and underwater photography (if you have the gear).

food photography idea

3. Follow one consistent theme

Want to really focus your mind (and hone a specific set of photography skills)? Choose a theme, and only take photos aligned with that theme.

This creative photography project can easily work as a 365-day or 52-week project. Here are just a few ideas to get you started:

  • Concentrate on a single technique . Take photos with a crystal ball , using an infrared camera, etc.
  • Have a topic for inspiration . Look at everyday objects and occurrences, then pick a topic that interests you. You might photograph only Chinese food, for example. Or you could do a clothes-related project – you could photograph only denim, or if you’re in Korea, you could photograph hanbok.
  • Photograph at the same time every day. Pick a time of the day and photograph only at this time. For instance, you might shoot every day at 6 PM, which will offer plenty of interesting light (plus, it will change throughout the year).

women dancing in the street

4. Limit yourself to 24 photos

Photographers who photograph film know all about restraint – they will attest to the importance of really considering every photograph. So why not put yourself in their shoes and limit yourself to a certain number of shots per outing, day, or week?

The specific limit is a personal choice, but make sure the number isn’t too large (you want the project to involve some actual work, after all!). Personally, I like the idea of 24 shots – this hearkens back to the days of film – though you can also do 36, 20, or even 10.

To really emulate the feeling of shooting film, try only capturing 24 photographs for one week (no deleting)! With this project, every time you hit the shutter, you need to know you’re photographing from the best possible angle and with the best composition. Learning to successfully shoot with restraint will improve your work in leaps and bounds.

5. Use the title of a song or album

Delving into other mediums can be a great way to come up with a cool creative photography project. A lot of people take a photo, then make a title to go with it – but a better approach for creativity is to know the title of your photograph before you hit the shutter button.

In other words: You determine your photography concept in advance based on your shot title. Then you problem-solve to get the result you need.

You can get your titles anywhere, but I recommend looking to your favorite music album or song. Here are a few additional ideas:

  • The project could use an artist’s album titles
  • You could choose song titles, then turn them into photo titles
  • You can use the lyrics in a song to inspire photos

man sitting on the subway with a phone

6. Use only one (prime) lens

Most photographers own quite a few lenses, not to mention zooms with huge focal length ranges. And while this isn’t necessarily a bad thing, you may find yourself becoming lazy over time – using your zoom lenses, staying in the exact same place, not making a significant effort to really work a scene.

That’s where this photography project idea comes in handy. Simply shoot with a single lens for a day, a week, or a month, and you’ll quickly appreciate the value of careful composition , zooming with your feet, and more.

A really good lens to get started with is the nifty 50 (i.e., a 50mm f/1.8 or f/1.4). The fixed focal length will force you to consider composition more carefully, and you’ll get a perspective similar to the human eye.

Of course, you have plenty of options, and any lens you could choose will have its merits. If you want to get really creative, try using a fisheye, tilt-shift, or macro lens.

three Canon lenses

7. Only use a smartphone

Who says your creative photography project should be high-tech? There’s a lot to be said for stripping your photography gear down to the basics, and your smartphone is perfect for this.

There are plenty of camera apps that can give your smartphone DSLR-like functionality (and you can buy clip-on lenses if you’re looking for added flexibility).

That said, the purest smartphone project will only use your phone’s basic camera app. So don’t be afraid to pack away your fancy cameras and use your smartphone’s native camera app for a week. Focus on what you can do with composition, light, and a perfectly timed moment of capture.

creative photography project ideas photographing with a smartphone

8. Find a story

No matter where you live, you can find a story to tell , though it will likely differ depending on whether you’re in a city, the country, a hot climate, or a cold one. Is your local area famous for any type of food? Are there any famous landmarks such as castles or temples nearby? How about an annual festival?

Once you’ve settled on your story, approach it in the way you’d photograph on assignment for a magazine. Try to tell the entire story. Use a variety of techniques and shoot a variety of subjects.

At the end of the project, you should spend some time picking a final set of photos – not necessarily the best individual shots, but the images that best tell a story. If you get a good result, you might even consider pitching it to a magazine!

magazine spread with woman on a rock in a stream

9. Learn a totally new technique

Once you know how to use your camera, it’s easy to get complacent – to shoot with the exact same techniques, the same settings, the same rhythm. So why not try focusing your project on a new technique?

Learning a new technique can be both exciting and intimidating. It may also require a significant time commitment. There are not many creative photography projects more energizing than learning something brand new, though. Here are some fun techniques to consider:

  • Digital blending . This technique will improve both your landscape photography and your Photoshop skills. There are aspects of blending that are tough to master, but it will absolutely be worth it.
  • Crystal balls . Using a glass ball as a type of external lens is a lot of fun, and it’s a great way to create some unusual photos.
  • Light painting . This is a hot topic in photography. Will you learn to take zoom bursts? How about making light orbs ? Will you use a Pixelstick ?
  • Drone photography . This is another photographic genre that’s becoming increasingly popular. Invest in a drone, shoot with it regularly, and you’ll be on the cutting edge of photography.
  • Hyperlapse . Take a series of photos and turn them into a video. Some of the most creative photography projects out there use this technique!
  • Off-camera flash . Many photographers struggle to master flash; take the time to learn it, and you’ll go a long way.

photography flash strobe

10. Have a potluck photography party

Everyone’s been to a potluck party – they’re the ones where everyone brings along their own food. And the collaborative nature of potluck parties makes them perfect for getting together with other photographers as part of a creative photography project.

How do you organize a potluck photography party ? Each person should bring along the following:

  • A camera body and one camera lens
  • One prop or piece of camera equipment

While everyone will use their own camera to take photos, the idea is that the prop or piece of equipment can be shared – so you might end up with one tripod, or one umbrella, for the entire group. And at every event, the available equipment will be different, offering different image opportunities.

You can come up with a theme for the potluck that everyone must follow, or you can have a theme for your own shots. This one’s a very open-ended project idea, so have fun with it!

photographer on the beach with light all around

11. Follow an A-Z photography list

This type of project can be extremely fun. All you do is photograph the alphabet!

You might start by writing out a list of topics you want to photograph (one for each letter). Or you can take a more spontaneous approach and photograph each letter as you encounter it.

This is a fun game that can be used for group photowalks, or you can play it on your own – when traveling, or simply when out with your camera.

people swimming in rooftop pool

12. A day in the life

A day in the life is a good, short project to work on – because it only lasts one day! Simply find someone whose life you want to photograph and ask them if you can tag along for a day.

Of course, you don’t have to stop there. You can always do a series covering different people. And the project doesn’t have to be about people; life is everywhere, so you could follow your pet or even photograph a natural area.

That said, the best projects do tend to be about people and their lives (a day in the life that looks at different people’s professions is a great choice).

maid putting sheets on a bed

Get started with your creative photography project!

Well, there you have it:

12 photography project ideas to get you motivated! Hopefully, you found at least one or two of these ideas compelling – so pick your favorite, make a plan, and then dive in!

Now over to you:

Have you tried a photography project before? Do you have any favorite projects you’d like to share? Also, which project from this list do you plan to do? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

12 Creative Photography Project Ideas to Get You Motivated

Read more from our Tips & Tutorials category

Simon Bond

is a specialist in creative photography techniques and is well known for his work with a crystal ball. His work has featured magazines including National Geographic Traveler. With over 8 years of experience in lensball photography, Simon is an expert in this field. Get some great tips by downloading his free e-book! Do you want to learn about crystal ball photography? He has a course just for you! Get 20% off: DPS20.

Digital Photography School

  • Guaranteed for 2 full months
  • Pay by PayPal or Credit Card
  • Instant Digital Download

camera.jpg

  • All our best articles for the week
  • Fun photographic challenges
  • Special offers and discounts

camera.jgg

shotkitlogo

The leading authority in photography and camera gear.

Become a better photographer.

12.9 Million

Annual Readers

Newsletter Subscribers

Featured Photographers

Photography Guides & Gear Reviews

The New York Times

Creative Photography Picture Ideas For Your Inspiration

These 20 photography ideas are all the inspiration you need for your next photoshoot or project in 2024. Get creative, have fun and be inspired!

Learn | By Polina Raynova

If you’re looking for the restart button and you’re ready for some out-of-the-box photography ideas, you’ve arrived at the right destination.

Mastering all the technical aspects and camera settings can take a lot of practice, so sometimes it’s really nice to take a breather from all the rules.

No matter if you’re keen on still life photography, landscape photography, macro or portraits, you’ll be able to find a little something for you among the following photography ideas.

So set yourself a challenge, pick a photography technique that you haven’t heard of before from the list below, make note of some new photoshoot ideas and start your next photography project!

(After reading this, be sure to check our popular guide on photography hacks for more inspiration.)

Table of Contents

20 Photography Ideas for Your Inspiration in 2024

1. use fog and mist to capture a mystical atmosphere.

smoke art landscape photography ideas for your next photography project

This is a photo I took while we were camping in a national park. In the early morning hours mist always forms around this spot.

If you’re in the mood for creating inspiring mystical images – check out the weather forecast. Certain weather conditions such as fog or mist can really transform the setting around you and give it a totally different vibe.

You have the option to go for a more fairy-tale look or to envision a sinister type of scenario with smoke art – it’s all up to you and your current mood.

While shooting in the fog, try emphasizing shapes and composition – playing with colour is not always a possibility since the fog often makes the scene look rather monochromatic.

To further challenge your creativity , try out long exposure. You’ll see that the movement of the fog can result in a silky smooth surface which wraps around everything in your photo creating a captivating visual effect!

It’s a great photography idea to test for your next photo project.

See also: how to get the best shots in foggy weather

2. Translate your favourite painting into a photograph

creative photography ideas using art for your photo project (still life photography ideas)

On the left you see Ophelia by the British painter Sir John Everett Millais and on the right an interpretation of his painting by Gregory Crewdson.

We all have favourite works of art which genuinely impress us and stay in our minds long after we’ve seen them for the first time.

If you ever find yourself stuck in rut or without any decent photography ideas to explore, try drawing inspiration from the Great Masters .

How to do it? Here’s a key tip: instead of trying to copy their style outright, make an attempt to translate it into your own language.

Whether it’s a three-dimensional work of art or a classical painting, the possibilities of expressing yourself through interpretation are pretty much endless.

If you can’t really imagine how this would work exactly, try drawing some ideas from our article about 8 photographers whose work was inspired by legendary paintings .

Or you could do it the other way around, and try converting your latest photo into a watercolour or oil painting with one of these apps .

3. Go out for night photography after the rain

photography ideas using light and water for creative photography projects

The reflected city lights can really help you form a perfect composition.

Going out in the pouring rain may not be the best idea for your gear – even if your camera is properly weather sealed.

Going out at night after the rain has passed, on the other hand, is a win-win for both you and for your photography equipment!

What do you gain from such a scenario? The biggest advantage is that wet surfaces create awesome reflections which can be great for experimenting with – especially if you’re in a particularly creative mood.

You can also pay attention to the puddles which you’ll find everywhere around you. Look at what is reflected in them and also try to change your angle to see how what’s reflected changes.

There might be a great shot hidden just one squat away!

See also: Perfectly timed photos

4. Experiment with the Photzy Action Cards

Posing subjects in images using Photzy is one way to start creative photography projects

One of the Photzy Action Cards in action!

Photography can sometimes be a solitary venture. For people who like to be more socially active, that can make it a less-than-inspiring activity.

Involving other people in order to share the experience with them can be a total game-changer. But how to do that?

One of the great options you have to combine learning with playing and competing with other like-minded people is the Photzy Action Cards collection .

These cards are designed to tickle your adventurous spirit and they can do a pretty good job at that!

To play the game, you can choose from the Genre action cards set or the Composition set. They both contain great topics to stir your imagination: Minimalist Photography, Colour Contrast, Secrets of Patterns are just a few.

(Check out my Photzy Action Cards review here , for more ideas on how I like to use them.)

You can use the cards to set up photo challenges with your friends and to compare (why not to develop together?) the creative photography ideas later.

If you want to give it a shot, you can pick up a set of the cards here .

5. Get creative with prisms (the rainbow effect)

Still life photography ideas using prisms for photography projects - still life photography ideas

Prisms can enhance your creative photography projects with unique light effects.

Using prisms in photography is one of the best creative ideas you can explore. It can add a really unique mood to the image and, as such, it’s something that is definitely worth trying out.

This method is also quite simple and naturally easy to put into practice. All you need to do is hold the prism in front of your lens and slowly move it to see how the effect on the object changes.

When you change the position of the prism you’ll see how different reflections appear – choose the one that fits best to your current photo idea and mood.

Something important to note here is that in this situation you’d want to operate the focus manually .

Auto-focus won’t be really able to locate the focus point since the prism itself will be too close to the camera lenses. The result would be blurry photos with lost sharpness which will ruin the nice effect from the prism. (Related: Apps to fix blurry photos )

Use manual focus and you’ll be able to create some stunning and unique images.

Once you’ve played around with prisms, go and check out our guide to using the LensBall .

6. Try out double exposure photography

photography tips using double exposure for creative photography ideas

Double exposure can work well for creative self portraits.

Another really great option to produce creative content as a photographer is the technique of double exposure.

Double exposure photography combines two different images into one visual. This is a technique which can easily create a surreal mood and it’s also able to convey more complex photography ideas.

You can make double exposure images in a few ways – with a traditional analogue camera, with a digital camera, or you can also create the effect in post-production.

The third option gives you more control over all the little details in your photo.

The pool of photo shooting ideas here is literally endless – try combining two objects that are seemingly totally disconnected to see how the viewer’s mind can create a link.

This link would be different for everyone and that’s the beautiful part.

7. Explore patterns and repeating elements

photography tips repeat subjects for still life photography ideas for food photography

The original element is only one here, but I copied it multiple times in post to create this pattern.

Repeating elements and patterns not only create fantastic compositions but they also make a strong visual statement.

Patterns exist all around us – both in nature and in man-made structures. Look for colours, lines and shapes that are repeating and arrange them into your frame. You can either emphasize the pattern itself or find a way to break it and build visual tension.

Take a walk outside and set yourself a goal to spot as many repeating elements as you can for 30 minutes. Once you start seeing them, you’ll find it hard not to notice them anymore!

8. Put flowers in ice cubes

macro photography and food photography ideas using flowers and water for creative photography ideas

A few of the blue flowers from my vegetable garden last summer.

If you’re looking for more still life photography ideas, his little DIY project can be a lot of fun not only during the shooting process, but also before and after that (if you make sure you choose edible plants).

All you need is an ice tray and plants with attractive foliage or flower heads.

Since it’s very important to keep the ice as transparent as possible, I recommend using distilled water – when the water is purified you’re bound to achieve a more beautiful overall effect .

Once you have the ice cubes ready, try building a pattern type of composition. Do think about how you’ll arrange it in advance – the cubes will be melting quite fast!

You can also use this trick as a nice original accent if you’re doing food photography or taking pictures of fancy drinks.

Here are my suggestions for edible plants to put in the ice: daisies, lavender, roses, violets, pansies and borage.

Last year I tried this idea with borage – amazing blue flowers with great colour and with the perfect shape to fit in the ice cube!

To make your flower shots even more compelling, note the notion of radial balance in photography .

9. Try the tilt-shift photography effect

tilt shift depth of field for the landscape photographer looking for creative photography ideas

Tilt-shift is one way to give your photos a unique effect.

The tilt-shift photography effect is also called “miniature faking” and that explains the whole concept pretty accurately. It’s a real mini world you’ll be able to create with this photography technique .

Usually when you take pictures the plane of focus and the image plane are aligned. This means that you get an even depth of field in the picture no matter on which part exactly you decide to focus on.

When you tilt the lens those two planes are no longer perfectly aligned. So what happens here is that you get a new focus plane in a rather peculiar position (literally tilted) and that’s how this effect is created.

To explore the creative power behind tilt-shift photography, give it a try with some type of massive scene that contains lots of people. The tilted plane will be more obvious and will create the ultimate impact on the viewer.

10. Submerge things in coloured liquid

photography tips using coloured liquid for abstract photography or creative portrait photography ideas

If you’re after creative photo shoot ideas, try adding some coloured liquid into the mix.

You’ve probably seen variations of this technique in some maternity photo shoots . Most of the time the liquid used for those has a white tint which is associated with milk and purity – see our guide to milk bath photography here .

But you can easily ditch this traditional approach and try with colours which make a bolder statement. Bath bombs work magic and are great for colouring the water in your bath.

They’re also completely safe for your subject, which is important if you’re using a human model, unlike food dye, for example, which stains the skin.

(You can check out our Model Mayhem Guide to learn some tips on how to find yourself a human subject to practice your photography on.)

As for the creative part here – you have unlimited options to play with form and colour.

The cool thing about this technique is that you get to re-invent shapes and forms .

As the chosen subject emerges from or submerges in the colourful liquid their form changes significantly – take advantage of this transformation through your lens!

11. Create a “floating” photography effect

one photo shoots idea for abstract photography or still life photography images

This is a product shot that I took for a Swedish brand. The strings holding the bracelet in the air were removed in post.

This is beyond a doubt one of my absolute favourite still life photography techniques.

Basically, you make your subject gracefully float in the air – which not only looks very cool but also adds a pinch of magic to the shot.

I mainly use this technique for product photography , but it’s also applicable when it comes to food photography and can produce a stunning effect. You can also try it with a DIY lightbox .

There’s no reason for you not to attempt this technique with people as well, but just bear in mind that the process will for sure be a little bit more complicated simply because of the weight of your subject.

It’s easy to hang a product on some sort of a string and it’s even easier to delete the visible part of the string in post.

When you try the same things with models, you won’t be able to hang them on a string (in case you insist on them remaining alive!) What you can do here is to use a seating stool and position your model in such a way that the head is lower than the feet – this adds an additional layer of enchantment and makes it looks as if the person’s really floating.

Also, pay attention to the background behind the seating stool you’re using, make sure it’s something not too busy and complicated. In other words, try to use a backdrop that will be easy for you to erase or color in Photoshop afterwards.

12. Experiment with slow shutter speeds to create motion blur

still life photography ideas or slow shutter speed and motion blur can be used for light painting and creative photography ideas

Recording dance movements can always give you stunning results!

Photography is not always about taking the perfect shot and freezing your subject in the midst of an exciting action scene. It’s sometimes about capturing the essence of movement, or in other words, tracking this movement with your camera.

To achieve this effect you will need to experiment with slow shutter speeds to record motion and its trajectory.

Keep in mind that your camera should be steady, so use a tripod and take advantage of the timer settings (to eliminate the possibility of shaking the camera while pressing the shutter button).

If you’ve never tried this technique before, it’s a good idea to start experimenting at night. Shooting during the day will involve some extra problems.

Slower shutter speed leads to long exposure and long exposure means a lot of light on your image. If it’s a bright sunny day, it’s impossible to pull this off without using a neutral density filter to reduce the amount of light that gets in.

13. Find a photography partner in crime

whether still life photography or macro photography working together is a way to improve your images

Enlist a friend or creative partner to help you generate and execute your photography ideas.

Reading articles about new out-of-the-box photography techniques and ideas can be quite inspiring, that’s for sure. But there are few things more thrilling than a quality conversation with a like-minded person.

If you’re feeling a bit under the weather and not in the mood for experimenting and exploring, maybe you just need a creative kick from a friend.

Try organizing a short photo trip with another photographer (or it could be more than one) and see how the same subject can be perceived in numerous different ways and viewed from so many different angles.

Witnessing how other people with the same job/hobby as yours have decisively non-identical approaches when it comes to taking photos of the same scene is very eye-opening. You’ll also have a chance to make some new best friends at the same time.

14. Scout for new interesting photography locations

interesting locations like outdoors or underwater photography take your images to the next level

Use different locations to step outside of your comfort zone.

If you’re keen on taking portraits, you’re certainly aware of some of the cool places in your area. But how many do you know in total and are they enough?

It’s easy to gravitate towards your comfort zone, but there’s a slim chance that the great shots you’ve been dreaming about lately await you there.

That’s why it’s necessary to challenge yourself. Grab your equipment and explore the city where you live – and at the same time try to perceive it as someone who has never set foot in this location.

What are the things that you start to notice first?

15. Put cellophane in front of your camera lens

Portrait or still life photography ideas using cellophane and light for creative images

In this case, the cellophane piece is red, but you can go for any colour that you like.

Household items can be a lot of fun when it comes to do-it-yourself lens filters . One of the most interesting options you have here is creating a filter for your lens from cellophane.

All you need to do is cut off a small piece of cellophane and put it in front of your lens. For better attachment, you can use a simple rubber band – which all of us have floating around somewhere in the house/apartment! :D

If the cellophane you’ve chosen is coloured, you will end up with an effect similar to the one that coloured gels produce. Just bear in mind that having this additional layer in front of your lens will reduce the overall sharpness, which is not such a bad idea if you’re going for a hazy/dreamy atmosphere.

You can also play around with the position of this DYI filter. It’s not necessary to put it in front of the entire lens surface; you could cover only a small portion of it and have the effect applied to only one area (as opposed to the whole image).

16. Go for the herbarium effect

photography ideas for creative images using glass

This one was shot behind a large glass piece – the breath of the model creates this cool blurry effect.

Photographing subjects pressed against transparent surfaces such as glass can give you truly mesmerizing visual results. It could work well with all kinds of subjects like plants, flowers, fruits, vegetables – not to mention that it’s also great for live models.

When part of the skin is pressed against the glass it creates a feeling of unease and it also conveys an idea of being trapped in a certain space.

This can give you food for thought for many different concepts related to our everyday life on a global and on a local level.

17. Try creating images with complementary colours

photography ideas using complimentary colours as a focal point of your images

Here you can see one of the classical pairs of complementary colours displayed: orange & blue.

Complementary colours appear opposite each other on the colour wheel . In order to construct complementary harmony, you need to pick a colour from the wheel and then find the colour that lies directly on the opposite side.

Such colour combinations are also known as classical and nowadays they’re used in all kinds of visual communication.

A few examples of complementary colour combinations are: red & green, orange & blue, yellow & purple . Look around you wherever you are in the moment and try to discover such colour combos on your own.

Once you have a few combinations in your mind, grab your camera and challenge yourself to create an image with a pair of complementary colours.

In case you want to dive deeper in this topic, you can have a look at our article about colour theory for photographers .

18. Use mixed media – combine photography with graphic design

still life photography ideas using graphics

This is one was experimentally created to play with colour accents in monochromatic images.

Using mixed media and employing more than one form of visual art is honestly a lot of fun. It also feels quite liberating not to follow well established rules and to create new ones instead.

Two things that make a perfect match are photography and graphic design. The freedom you have to experiment with these is practically endless.

My recommendation is to start with something simple and obvious and to take it further step by step.

Adding typography to your photography can improve significantly not only the visual product itself, but also the overall message which your work conveys.

If you don’t own a copy of Photoshop, you can try ON1 Photo RAW which includes a text tool, perfect for experimenting with typography on photos – check out our ON1 Photo RAW review for a deeper dive into this popular photo editor.

You can further develop your own idea or even throw the viewer into a completely different train of thought by creating a contrast between the visual part and the added text.

19. Experiment with projecting an image onto your model

projections and fast shutter speed for interesting portraits and still life photography ideas

Projections can completely change the look of your portraits.

Something else you might consider doing to add variety to your work is to project an image onto your model. And the possibilities are literally countless.

Depending on what you want your final product to be, you can go from projecting custom graphics like stripes, dots or more complex shapes, to a combination of colours or gradients, to actual images from your favourite painters, movies or photographers.

Since, it would be really hard to combine lighting with a projector, it’s wise to consider lighting up your subject with just the projector.

Therefore, you must look for an appropriate image or video that has plenty of white in it , so you have enough light intensity. Just note that you will have to be prepared for some weird colour balancing.

Using a projector in your work will help you create a surrealistic environment and will surely step up your creative photography game!

20. Use neon light on the street for portrait photography

with the right shutter speed neon or fairy lights can create unique portratis

It’s a great idea to bring a pair of glasses for the photoshoot – the reflections from the neon signs can look truly stunning sometimes!

Wandering the streets at night in search of the perfect neon sign to light your model’s face is a brilliant way to spend your Friday evening.

Electric colours can create a unique atmosphere for a portrait and are also great for experimenting with different colour combinations.

For me, going out and looking for a sign to grab my attention is part of the fun, but if you prefer testing this kind of lighting technique at home you can also do it that way.

The easiest way to try out neon portraits from the convenience of your home is to find an image of a solid electric colour, open it on your screen or in your browser and get the screen itself closer to the face of your model.

You can effortlessly change the colour and see which version fits best with your vision for the shot.

Final words

So there you have it – 20 creative photography ideas to inspire you on your next project.

I hope these have given you some food for thought and sparked your innermost creativity.

Be sure to step outside your comfort zone a little and try something new – you never know what you might learn and what interesting and unique results you could get!

Disclaimer: All recommendations are impartial and based on user experience, with no bias to the products or the brand. The products in this post may contain affiliate links.

You'll Also Like These:

what memory card for a camera

Hi there! I’m Polina, a freelance photographer, always on the look out for creating simple images with powerful impact.

I loved it! Amazing ideas. Definitely will try out the next time. Great website!

In “11. Create a “floating” photography effect”, instead of “try[ing] to use a backdrop that will be easy for you to erase or color in Photoshop afterwards”, you could take two pictures instead of just one: one with the subject and stool/wires/etc and another without (subject and stool/wires/etc) and overlay them on Photoshop with the latter as top layer so you can just delete the unwanted content, instead of having to reproduce the backdrop.

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

WELCOME TO SHOTKIT

Enter your email to be sent today's Welcome Gift: 19 Photography Tools

Thanks for subscribing! Please check your email for further instructions.

A black and white advertisement with a couple of black and white objects.

🔥 Popular NOW:

ipa-cover

Unlock the EXACT blueprint to capture breathtaking iPhone photos!

Shotkit may earn a commission on affiliate links. Learn more.

Pixels and Wanderlust

51 Creative Photography Project Ideas

Top view of a photographer selecting best photos from several photo shoot. Female photographer working in studio looking at the prints lying on desk.

Pursuing photography means that you’ll constantly be on the hunt for photo inspiration and fresh ideas for shoots.

One fantastic (and fun!) way to add interest to your photography efforts is to start a defined project.

There are plenty of interesting projects to embark on, so finding an option to fit your commitment level and amount of time to dedicate to photography should be a breeze. 

In this post, I enlisted a thorough collection of photography project ideas and inspiration.

These projects are meant to serve both beginners and pro photographers.

Photography Projects Over Time

These types of projects have become some of the most popular photography projects developed recently.

They involve taking photos for a specific time period, be that per day or week for an entire year.

In the end, the projects provide you with a recap of your year in photographs – an impressive achievement.

These photography projects can include any photography, making them a versatile option.

You can try it for a type of photography that you’ve never done before.

There are very few rules, and you can make these projects entirely your own to reflect your voice as a photographer.

1. Project 365

This project involves taking one photo per day or week for an entire year.

In the end, the project provides you with a recap of your year in photographs. 

This extensive photography project is a major commitment to take on and comes with a weighty workload.

But, it’s also incredibly rewarding when you reach the finish line. It can be modified to a 52-week version if you want the same general idea with a lower time commitment. 

When project 365 first began, it focused primarily on portrait photography.

Now, when people complete this project, they take one high-quality image each day, no matter what type of photography. 

This project is straightforward and immensely popular.

It’s a fantastic way to develop your photographic skills because it makes you pick up the camera and practice every day. 

Throughout this project, you’ll find a way to take a daily photo that works for you.

For instance, you may pack up your camera bag and bring it with you whenever you leave the house.

Or, you may set aside a specific chunk of time every day to get out and take pictures. 

The 365 project takes persistence, creativity, and willpower.

But, sticking with it is wonderfully fulfilling, and the reward is well worth the work.

Check out the “Themes” section coming up in this article to help you along the way in this project.

2. “A Day in the Life”

If you need a quick photography project for inspiration, go for “A Day in the Life”. 

This project lasts just 24 hours, so the time commitment is very minimal, but you’ll capture plenty of material to work with. 

To complete this project, pick a date – on that day, take photographs of one person’s typical day. 

The person that you photograph could be anyone, whether it be a significant other, friend, or family member.

It could be someone that you don’t know personally, but who you hold in high regard. Or, it could be a total stranger. 

You may also choose to have your “Day in the Life” project to explore a specific profession.

If you’ve ever wondered how a particular career path looks on a day-to-day basis, use it as the focus of your project.

The chances are that others will be interested in learning more about that career, too. 

You can draw from members of your community as inspiration for this project.

Local farmers, mailmen, small business owners, and even the local celebrities can make for engaging “Day in the Life” projects.

Even the most basic tasks and activities throughout the day can be visually enrapturing when photographed well. 

When doing this project, it’s essential to get permission from your subject well in advance of the shooting day.

Make sure that the person you choose understands and agrees to have their entire day photographed, even the quiet, personal moments.

Organize a length of time for which you will photograph your subjects.

When the day rolls around, you’ll shadow and photograph your subjects for the agreed-upon time.

3. 30 Thankful Days

photography projects ideas

In this project, you’ll be taking photos of one thing that you’re thankful for every day for 30 days. 

It’s especially fitting to complete it in the season of Thanksgiving, but you can do it anytime. 

Taking a photograph of one thing that you’re grateful for each day will boost your skills as a photographer.

But, it will also make you more mindful of the many things that you have to be thankful for.

We could all benefit from more reflection on the people, places, and things that make us happy.

By taking photos of them, you’ll end up with a special collection of images.

4. 10 on 10 Project

For the “10 on 10” photography, you’ll take ten photographs on the 10th of each month. 

This project is a different approach to the “Day in the Life” project because it limits the number of images that you take. 

I find the “10 on 10” project to be especially fulfilling because it requires you to be picky in the images you select for each day.

When you capture only the best of the best for each day, you’ll have a stellar collection of pictures.

This project is also a great choice because it’s consistent and gives you plenty of time to plan for the 10th of each month.

You can organize your day ahead of time to make sure that each set of 10 images is wholly unique. 

5. ABC Project

photography projects ideas

The ABC project is a blast to complete because it feels like a scavenger hunt – you need to track down eye-catching subjects that correspond with each letter of the alphabet. 

You can take images of subjects that start with each letter.

Or you can take pictures that relate to each letter in some way.

For example, take photos of objects that end in a specific letter or take a photo of objects that start with a vowel. The possibilities are endless. 

The ABC project can be completed over 26 days, 26 weeks, or 26 months.

This flexibility in the length of the project makes it appropriate for photographers of all levels of skill and commitment.

6. Pick Just One Lens For a Set Time Period

Focusing on a single lens in your photography for a certain amount of time is a fantastic way to grow your skills.

The lens that you use could be brand new, or it may be one that’s been sitting in your camera bag for months.

Either way, honing in on a single lens will give you new insights and experiences in photography. 

One excellent lens to start with for this project is the “Nifty 50”.

It features a fixed focal length that requires photographers to give extra thought and consideration to composition. 

A versatile lens option, the 50mm prime lens can be used for a diverse range of subjects.

If you need a high quality 50mm lens check out the table below for my recommendations. 

From portraits to landscapes and everything in between, this lens provides exceptional optical quality.

It’s zoom will likely be the best that you’ll ever work with as a photographer. 

With that said, there are many great lenses that you can select for this project.

Each one has specific benefits; fisheye, macro, and tilt-shift lenses may provide an emphasized and eye-catching effect.

You can always come back to this project and try out a new lens each time.

The images that you’ll end up with will be varied and uncommon. 

Enlisting the help of a theme to develop a photography project is a useful tool.

Themes foster creativity and bring cohesion to the final result.

Plus, you can couple a theme with a 365-day or 52-week project for an extensive photography venture.

7.  Shadows

One example of an excellent theme to use in your photography project is shadows.

We see shadows constantly throughout the day, but they take on a new life when thoughtfully used in photography. 

Shadows are compelling photographic subjects.

They impact texture and form, add depth to a subject, and create a poignant mood.

When shadows are harnessed and embraced as the theme of an image, the result is unique and thought-provoking.

Shadows are everywhere, so you have a lot to choose from as a photographer.

You could take photos of your own shadow, or go out and find shadows in the world.

Subjects in nature and human-made objects both create visually pleasing shadows to photographs.

8.  Abstracts in Oil

For an abstract photography project that you can easily do at home, all you need is oil and water.

When oil floats on water’s surface, it creates a compelling visual.

You can interpret it in many different ways in photography, making for various creative possibilities.

The great aspect of this photography project is its practicality.

You can do it on a table or your kitchen counter – just put a few drops of cooking oil onto the surface water in a glass dish. 

Before shooting, place colored paper underneath the dish, then use an anglepoise lamp or flashgun to light up the paper. 

This abstract photography project is so effective because it takes advantage of the refractive quality that both oil and bubbles have.

This visual effect emphasizes and distorts the vividness of the colors in an image for a fascinating final result. 

When shooting abstracts with oil, you will need a macro lens for the best results.

A macro lens will give you the ability to focus on the oil from very close distances.

If you don’t have a macro lens, check out the table below for some of the best macro lenses for different cameras.

9. Psychedelic Soap Film

This photography project creates conceptual images that are ideal for wall art or computer desktop wallpapers.

When shooting decide if you want to shoot soap film or bubbles.

Each produces intriguing and appealing photos but in my experience shooting soap film is much easier.

With soap film, you won’t have to account for the movement or popping of the bubbles.

To complete this project, you’ll need:

Liquid soap

A background (Ideally black cloth) 

Light source

A macro lens (at least 100mm)

Mix the soap and the glycerine to create an enduring soap film.

Once you have your solution using the wire create a fully encased frame to capture the soap solution. 

Once you have created the frame using your wire, dip your frame into the soap solution. This works best if you slowly dip your frame into the frame in a parallel motion into the solution.

Slowly remove it from the water and the result should be a soap film covering the frame. 

If you are shooting soap film, this process is much easier if you use something to hold your soap frame in place.

I find that a clamp stand works well and it is relatively easy to find one under $20.

Start by setting your camera to a 45-degree angle. I find at 45 degrees it is easiest to capture the colors in the film. 

Use an external light source and experiment with the effects that different angle of light have on your images.

You can also change the angle of your camera or the wireframe to capture different images. 

This is another abstract photography project that you can easily set up at home.

So, it’s ideal for an easy weekend project or a quick inspiration-starter if you’re low on ideas for images. 

10. Errands and Chores

photography projects ideas

Most everyday tasks can make for excellent photography subjects.

Consider chores as practical photography projects:

Grocery Stores

Grocery stores may seem like the most basic place to photograph, but the result can be surprisingly effective. 

Markets and grocers are excellent image subjects because they provide plenty of visual interest. 

P eople are inherently interesting, and produce is eye-catching colorful. 

In addition to the people at the grocery store, consider purchasing visually appealing goods.

Vivid colors play out well in any image, so fruits and vegetables are likely your best bet. 

While you could opt for everyday produce like apples and bananas, it will likely be more fun to seek out exotic options, like rambutan, dragonfruit, and lychees.

Starfruit, lantern fruit, kumquats, and passionfruit are a few other great examples.

Exotic produce is undoubtedly colorful but also features irregular textures and shapes.

These enable you to take risks with lighting and composition for stunning photographs. 

Spices and herbs can be a fantastic subject matter, too.

In a grocery store, they’re usually organized neatly in aesthetically pleasing patterns that are practically begging to be photographed.

I find that these displays often make highly successful still-life photographs. 

The owner of your local grocery store should permit you to photograph their products before you get started.

This is almost always an easy process – a simple verbal go-ahead is all you need.

Establishing permission before you pick up your camera in a store will help you avoid any conflict that could arise. 

To photograph attractive displays of produce and spices, I like to use a telephoto lens.

It allows you to zoom in on the subject for maximum detail and visual impact. 

Also, I use the foreshortening effect, which creates the illusion of subject elements being closer together, further enhancing the photo’s appearance.

You can also consider using a macro lens to fill out the frame with small-scale subjects.

I use macro lenses to capture images with an abstract appearance. 

You may view food simply as fuel to get you through the day. But, it can make for gorgeous culinary art!

Especially if cooking is one of your passions, or even just a hobby for you, photographing the dishes that you make can be fun and rewarding. 

Hard-cooked meals deserve to be documented and admired by others.

S o, build your photography experience the next time you cook a great meal. 

Culinary efforts have artistic value and visual interest all their own, so all it will take is some arranging on your part.

This photography task is relatively simple to complete because you can stay at home, and the dish is stationary, so you can experiment with lighting and positioning easily. 

Other Everyday Chores

If you look closely enough, there are countless subject possibilities that you come across in your everyday routine.

Some more examples of elements of your routine that may be used as the foundation for a photography project are:

Your mailbox (or your neighbors’ mailboxes, if you have their permission to photograph them)

Your garden or nature around your home

Walking your dog

Family dinners

11. Your Home

We all have days when we’re cooped up at home, whether it be due to weather or merely an empty schedule.

On those days, you can still be productive by starting a photography project based around your home.

Make a game out of finding visually exciting subjects around the house.

You can start this off simply by picking up your camera and shooting anything that comes to mind.

If you have chores to get done, you can multitask and take pictures of those housekeeping tasks. 

Keep in mind that your home is full of items that you see every day. As a result, you don’t see them in the same light as you would walking into the house for the first time. 

So, it’s important to open your mind and see the home from a fresh perspective.

There’s an abundance of potential subjects among your belongings; you just have to be able to recognize them. 

If you find yourself struggling to find sources of inspiration,  set more specific boundaries for the project. This will hone your subject options and lead to focused images. 

Consider collections you’ve built up or other unique items around the house.

Perhaps you have an extensive coin collection, souvenirs from international travel, or even vintage clothes.

These out-of-the-ordinary items can become wonderful photography subject matter. 

To make it more fun, experiment with your composition and photograph mundane items in an innovative way.

For example, you could take a child’s toy, with its bright colors and geometric shapes, to create a striking abstract image.

Your home is the place that you know the best, and it can hold enormous potential for great photography.

You only need to look closely to see the special aspects of regular items that will make a photograph pop.

Walls are almost always around us.

They keep us sheltered and protected from the outside world. They keep out intruders and prying eyes. Walls act as our shield, providing comfort and safety from the chaos happening outside. 

What photographers may not realize is that walls have infinite variations. Walls can be vast and high or short and limiting.

They may be thick and protective or thin and precarious. Walls may be any texture, from rough, rugged brick to smooth, painted drywall.

There are interior and exterior walls. Walls can be made from stone, glass, concrete, metal, wood – the list goes on. 

From a photographer’s standpoint, walls are jumping board to creative opportunities.

Travel photographers will find that walls in new areas can pique your artistic interest, leading to fascinating photographs.

When I travel, I love to wander and focus on the walls around me.

This may seem like a strange activity, but walls speak volumes to the culture, climate, environment, and people of a community. 

As a bonus, walls are exceptionally appealing to a viewer.

They’re filled with color, texture, and pattern. If you’re skeptical of this, take a walk in an area with public murals, wall art, and graffiti.

Walls are a canvas for visual art, and their value to photography is immeasurable. 

When you go to photograph a wall, consider the impact of distance on the image.

Shooting from further back will provide an all-encompassing view, while an up-close image will reveal detail and texture.

The closer you shoot from, the more abstract the photograph will be.

This proves the versatility of walls as a subject, given that they may span multiple photography types.

13. Reflections

Reflections are often a small part of an image. So, switch things up and try making one your main subject. 

The ebbing tide on beaches is some of my favorite subjects to photograph for reflections.

Dawn and dusk are fabulous times to photograph these, given that the natural light will form remarkable color contrast in the image. 

Cities also give you limitless options for reflections to photograph.

You can find reflection in the glass and sleek surfaces of modern architecture.

Puddles on sidewalks reflect pedestrians walking swiftly by, along with store window displays and the surface of cars.

Reflection images don’t always require color.

Black and white reflection photos can be immensely successful, as the lack of color enables the viewer to fully focus on the shape that the reflection has taken on. 

When photographing reflections, consider these logistics:

  • Instead of focusing on the reflective surface, focus on the reflection itself. Focusing on the surface instead of the actual reflection will make you lose clarity in the resulting image. 
  • The angle of your composition can have an enormous impact on reflections. The image from a camera positioned above a reflection will be entirely different from that of one positioned to the side of a reflection. Before settling in to take your photographs, experiment with a variety of angles.
  • Clear, sharp images of reflections in water require calm weather. Wind and breeze usually come once the sun has fully risen, so shooting early in the morning is a reliable choice. If you can make it to your location before the sunrise, the result is often fantastic. 

While you’re photographing reflections, let go of the real world.

These images won’t be accurate representations of the real world; rather, they’ll have a dreamy, mystical quality. 

photography projects ideas

Given that they’re both artistic pursuits, music and photography can go hand in hand.

Turning to your favorite song or album can create several photographic opportunities and the chance to be creative.

Plus, it’s an enjoyable project that doesn’t require traveling or a large amount of time. 

Perhaps you want to start by selecting a title for your image before you even pick up the camera.

This presents you with the challenge of developing a photographic concept that fits within the boundaries of that title.

Consider these music-related ideas to get started:

Use a list of an artist’s album titles. 

Select song titles that are interesting to you and use them as image titles. 

Read through song lyrics to discover photographic concepts.

Song lyrics are like poetry and can provide endless artistic inspiration. 

Lines are a useful tool in capturing the eye of a viewer and carrying it through an image.

They direct the audience’s focus and keep them engaged.

Lines may be abstract or literal, physical, or suggested.

Photos with lines are pleasing to the eye and create a sense of movement.

We use wood to build our homes, furniture, tools, musical instruments, entertainment – and those are just a few examples.

Wood is a staple in our society, and it can be an intriguing photographic subject.

Just think: the earliest tools were constructed from stones and sticks; wood has been used since the very inception of the human race.

As such, it’s an impactful focus for photographers to take on.

Glass is everywhere. It may be transparent, opaque, smooth, or textured.

We’re surrounded by glass all day long, from windows and walls to counters and drinking glasses. 

As a material, glass opens up a new window to look through.

The glass of a microscope reveals details that the naked eye can’t see.

Telescopes give us a view into the galactic world beyond our own.

Windows are our portal to the outside world from the safety of the indoors.

In mirrors, we can look at our reflection and consider the appearance we’re putting out into the world. 

Glass is a material that inspires thought, creativity, and reflection.

When you add the element of a camera, the possibilities are endless.

Doors are a simple and accepted part of our daily lives.

They’re the boundary separating one place from the next, and we go through them all the time without stopping to think about it.

Photography gives you a chance to reflect on the appearance of doors, the details that make them unique, and the metaphor of passing through something in life.

In your photography, reflect upon the theme of leaving one place to enter another.

What feelings does this inspire? It may be fear, worry, curiosity, excitement – all of these sensations can be channeled into your images.

Words make up our language and form the medium through which we communicate.

They are all around us, from street signs to advertisements to street art.

How do words impact an image? What statement can you make by incorporating words into your photography?

More Ideas to Get You Started:

Torn posters

Door knockers

Back to Basics

“Back to Basics” projects are designed for you to improve your photography skills and expand your knowledge.

In completing these projects, you’ll gain experience and master photography fundamentals. 

Master Shutter Speed

Shutter speed projects are intended to provide a visual example of the many ways in which shutter speed can alter an image.

Adjusting shutter speed is an excellent tool for adding dynamics to a photo.

You can freeze or blur action, creating eye-catching visual effects. 

Some examples of projects that can help you master shutter speed are motion blur, panning, and water photography.

20. Motion Blur

You can choose to leave the shutter open for longer than you usually would.

This enables the camera to register the movement of your subject through the frame.

The result will be a trail of color across the frame and an abstract effect. 

Motion blur projects tend to work out great when you photograph a busy street.

With the assortment of colors and shapes passing the camera at varying speeds, you’ll capture plenty of exciting images. 

Generally, you shouldn’t use excessively slow shutter speeds in these scenarios.

You may want to start with exposures from 1/10 of a second to ½ of a second in length. 

Another way to incorporate movement into your shot is to maintain a stable background, then photograph people moving by at slow shutter speed.

A tripod will most likely be necessary for this type of shot, meaning that you’ll draw attention in the street.

But, the resulting images are generally well worth the discomfort of standing out in public.

For this project, try a shutter speed of about 1/20 of a second.

I recommend you go with a small and lightweight travel tripod such as the Benro Slim . 

This is an ultra lightweight tripod that still offers stability you need to use slow shutter speeds. 

21. Panning

Panning can create the appearance of motion in an image.

This technique works because you can keep the subject of the photo in focus but make the background move.

The background doesn’t actually move. Instead, the camera moves, giving the impression of movement. 

For a panning project, you’ll need a moving subject, such as a runner or a cyclist.

You’ll follow their movement with your camera, blurring the background as a result.

The subject should remain clear and defined in the shot. 

To complete this project successfully, you’ll need to adjust the shutter speed skillfully.

The speed that you settle on will depend on the speed at which the subject is moving.

Panning photography generally works the best with a shutter speed of 1/20 of a second.

22. Water in Motion

Photographing moving water, (perhaps a waterfall or a stream), with a slow shutter speed leads to an image with movement.

This is an excellent project for nature photographers looking to try something new. 

A fantastic starting point for this project is a coastline.

The ocean waves have ever-changing movement and are a fascinating subject for an image.

When you get to the coast, study the timing of the waves reaching their crest.

Aim to take a picture as just before the waves crash, then try shooting them when they recede. 

With each shift in timing as you photograph waves, you’ll want to make adjustments to the shutter speed. 

When photographing waves, you’ll need to make adjustments to the shutter speed.

Finding the shutter speed that works best will take experimentation.

When I worked on this project, I learned that when photographing freezing waves, I prefer a shutter speed of ¼ of a second. 

You may also try to achieve the reverse of this: freezing your subjects in place.

This photographic strategy is fascinating because it records visuals that the naked eye can’t see.

W aves and other types of moving water are one of the best subjects to practice this with. 

If you find that the ambient light is too bright as you’re working on this project, an ISO adjustment could do the trick.

T ry reducing it as much as you can, perhaps to ISO 50 or ISO 100. If that doesn’t fix the problem, see if raising your aperture does.

Start by doubling the shutter speed to 1/15, then repeat: double to 1/30, then 1/60, 1/125, 1/250, and so on. 

Mastering DOF will give you a clear understanding of your aperture settings.

Here are some examples you can use to help you with this project. 

23. Selective focus 

This leaves a single element of a scene in focus while blurring the rest of the scene.

It’s a photographic technique in which a photographer hones in on just one element, giving no definition or clarity to anything else. 

For selective focus, you can use a shallow depth of field to bring the key subject into focus.

T hat element will be defined, while the remainder of the image will be blurred into the foreground and background. 

Selective focus sets the main subject apart from every other aspect of the scene.

This enables the photographer to purposefully and directly draw the viewer’s eye to the subject that they’ve chosen.

Additionally, the visual effect of a clear, distinguished subject against a soft, blurry background is compelling and introspective.

24. Maximum depth of field 

A high DOF can be used to bring everything in an image into focus.

P hotographers use maximum DOF when they want to emphasize an entire scene, not just an individual element. 

Examples of scenes to use maximum DOF are a field of flowers, a busy crowd in a public place, or a landscape. 

25. Focus Stacking

In macro and close-up photography, the depth of field is exceptionally narrow.

This is still true when the lens is put at the lowest aperture setting.

Additionally, as you focus more and more closely, the depth of field will become narrower and narrower.

Optically, there’s no solution for this phenomenon. But, you can use focus stacking to boost the visual depth of field. 

Focus stacking includes a process of taking multiple shots in succession at focus points that vary slightly.

Then, the shots are combined using the focused section of each photo. The photos are “stacked”, creating the appearance of a greater depth of field.

F ocus stacking is a generally achievable technique for photographers and provides a practical solution to a limited depth of field. 

Master Color

photography projects ideas

Build your awareness of one of the most important aspects of photography by working on a color-focused photography project

In this project, think of the color itself as being your key subject,  rather than a place, object, or person.

This means that you’ll need to let other aspects of your image such as form and texture a lesser priority. 

Although finding shots for this type of projects may sound like a straightforward task, but it’s a challenging exercise.

That said, once you’ve developed an eye for it, you’ll unlock new potential for stunning images that pop. 

Each color also has an impact on the mood and tone of an image.

For example, green is calm and soothing; red denotes passion, energy, and intensity of emotion.

Blue has been defined as a cool color and can suggest serenity or peace. 

We can all innately recognize these color associations because they’re present in nature.

Just think: green trees and grass create a soothing landscape, while the red tones of a flame are heated and intense.

Soft white snow falling to the ground is quiet and placid.

Study the color in your photographs and consider how they impact the tone of an image.

If you’re looking to experiment, see how your photo editing software can alter the photo’s colors. 

You may dull them down, boost their saturation, increase certain undertones, and more.

When the colors are artificially changed, how does the entire tone of the image change? 

Here are some examples of color focused projects you can try:

26. One At A Time

To give yourself a true edge in color photography, you can experiment with using just one color in sets of images. It can be a color entirely of your choosing.

This is a great day-long project because it only requires you to focus on one subject. 

So, take a walk out with your camera, a few choices of lenses, and your chosen color in mind.

Try to block out distractions and focus solely on the color.

It may take time at first to hunt down that color, but the process will accelerate, and you get used to finding the color in various applications. 

Given the variety that a city has to offer, urban landscapes are typically the best choice of location for this project.

Between traffic, storefronts, street signs, building sites, street art, and more, you’re sure to find several subjects in your color of choice.  

27. Primary and Secondary Colors

In this project, the subject will have a single dominant color.

You’ll need to find six separate compositions, one for each of the primary and secondary colors.

There are three primary colors (red, yellow, and blue) and three secondary colors (orange, green, and violet). 

The challenging aspect of this project is that you must refrain from including the other colors in the shot.

But, you should keep shadows and texture visible so that the viewer can easily recognize the subject. 

28. Juxtaposition

Color juxtaposition can add complexity and interest to your images.

Take two complementary colors, such as red and green or blue and yellow, and position them together in the picture.

When juxtaposed, these colors will bring out each others’ tones for an eye-catching color profile. 

29. Color Harmony

Certain colors have a harmonious effect when placed together.

There are many types of color harmonies such as complementary, analogous, and triadic.

Finding harmonious tones may take time and practice, but it will become easier as your awareness of color develops. 

30. Color Accents

Using the rule of thirds, identify the golden sectors of an image.

These sectors are the place of intersection of the lines created by the rule of thirds.

Then, position colorful elements on these points in the frame, ideally at least two.

Color accents are another strategy for drawing your viewers’ eyes to a certain aspect of the image. 

31. Neutral Colors

Black, white, and gray are colors that have no hue.

They’re also recognized as neutral colors, which have a distinct place in photography. 

As far as value goes, the three neutral colors stack up as follows:

  • Black: low value
  • Gray: intermediate value
  • White: high value

A complete understanding of color requires full awareness of the three neutral colors.

For a neutral color photography project, find as high a number of subjects as possible for each of the three no-hue colors.

You can include other colors in the subject, but the neutral tone must be the dominant one.

Include sections of gray to bring out the brightness of while, as well as to create a smooth visual transition into black.

Resource: A Landscape Photographer’s Guide to Color Theory

Master Composition

32. in isolation.

For images that are straightforward but make a powerful statement, isolate one element in the shot.

This is a common technique used in portrait photography since a single subject is typically a key focus.

Isolation can be used to direct the viewer’s eye in all types of photography, not just portraiture.

33. Panoramic

Practicing panoramic shots will bring a new perspective to your photographic eye.

Capturing a panoramic requires skills beyond basic composition techniques such as the rule of thirds, so be prepared to learn the complexities of this new skill. 

Further, with panoramics framing options are limited – you can’t merely get rid of one element by using a tighter frame.

This can get tricky, but careful consideration of your framing often leads to exceptional photographs.

34. Negative Space

Negative space is the background of an image and takes up the space that the main subject doesn’t occupy.

It is often used in graphic design, and it can be valuable in photography, too. 

For instance, the effective use of negative space in your image can greatly contribute to tone.

Think about an endless stretch of blank sky, which can be interpreted as a symbol of yearning or loss. 

You can also use negative space to emphasize the visual details of your main subject.

For instance, you can place your subject in front of a blank background to help elevate its visual impact. 

To work on your use of negative space, consider how it can carry weight in your image. 

Use negative space as the main aspect of a shot or a complementary addition for the main subject. 

35. Create a Symmetrical Image

Another way you can master composition is by exploring perfectly symmetrical compositions. 

Your subjects should be impeccably mirrored so that they exactly mimic each other.

Instead of positioning your subjects, you could find a naturally symmetrical location, creating a tone of peace and balance.

For this project, you should select your subject first, then figure out how to make it symmetrical.

Symmetry is visually pleasing because it’s organized and in balance.

This gives us a sense of control and harmony that our minds are constantly seeking. 

In an image, symmetry gives the viewer a feeling of stability, structure, and confidence.

Plus, the organized nature of symmetry creates a framework through which the viewer can look over the image in an orderly manner. 

The risk with symmetry is that it can become too organized and too composed. This may cause your audience’s interest to wane quickly.

To counteract this, use an unusual subject, vibrant colors, or a surprising pose. This will make the difference between a passive symmetrical image and a graphic one. 

You can also try using one-point perspective in your symmetrical image.

One-point perspective makes use of a single vanishing point, at which all lines in the shot coincide.

This forms vivid diagonal lines in a shot that create accents and points of interest.

T his is ideal for symmetrical photos that need more complexity to engage the viewer

36. Prime Lens

Counter to what you may naturally think, cutting down on the gear that you allow yourself to use can expand your creativity. Instead of using an assortment of gear to switch up an image, limited gear will force you to think outside the box to achieve the perfect shot. 

For instance, you may need to get closer to a subject, or further away to achieve the composition you need, instead of making a lens change.

It may seem primitive, but limiting your use of gear in this way is an excellent exercise.

It requires more hard work, but it will expand your perspective and boost your eye for innovative shots.

Resource: 23 Composition Techniques for Travel Photography

Master Light

37. take photos of the same subject at different times of day.

There are three distinct light temperature shifts in throughout the day, peaking at sunrise, midday, and sunset.

The changes in light cause a shift in color from red to orange to blue, then from blue to red to orange as the time passes. 

 This photography project requires you to find an outdoor setting that you can access three times in a single day (if not more).

The setting should also provide an easily repeatable composition. 

At this location, find a stationary subject.

That is, you should be able to shoot it at any time of day without it having moved.

Additionally, plenty of natural light should reach this subject throughout the day. 

Taking just three photographs, one at each peak time of day, is sufficient for this project.

But, if you’re already committing to traveling to your location, you might as well take full advantage of the photographic opportunity. 

Great locations will have several potential main subjects – consider photographing multiple other scenes once you’ve finished with your first choice. 

For this project, finding your location ahead of time is critical.

Set aside time before your shooting day or arrive early, so you have plenty of time to explore your location beforehand. Return again soon, take the same shot and repeat the process at sunset.

38. Exposure Mastery

You can couple project #37 with an exploration of exposure.

In this project, you will shoot your subjects using your camera’s exposure tools such as auto modes , exposure compensation, and histogram. 

Then, on the following day, go back to your location with the exposure mode on manual. 

Keeping your eye away from the image previews or histogram, shoot your subject.

Experiment with the process of setting the exposure manually and taking an image without using your cameras extra tools.

Resource: How to Use Your Camera: Understanding Exposure

39. Start a Photo Blog

photography projects ideas

With a growing passion for photography, as well as a quickly expanding collection of images, you may find yourself hitting a wall. 

You can always share your photos with family and friends, but they won’t likely have the same fascination with it as you.

If you’re craving an outlet for sharing your work, consider a photography blog. 

Starting a blog is becoming more and more popular with passing years.

Having one will give you a platform to upload your images where others will be able to them and comment if they want. 

40. Recreate Famous Photographs

For this photography project, you can either select a photographer or other type of artist that you hold in high regard or choose one who has an entirely different approach than you. 

Spend time studying their work and considering their approach.

Think about what draws you to that work and what makes it meaningful to you.

Then, create a composition using what you learned, aiming to emulate the strengths of your chosen artist. 

For reference, you can start with books, magazines and the internet. You can also go to museums or galleries. 

When creating images for this project, try to inject your voice.

This project is meant to challenge you to be inspired by a specific person’s work, not to create an exact copy of an existing image.

Thus, your passion for photography should be equally apparent in the image as the artist of your choice. 

Putting your spin on an iconic image can help you define your artistic style.

By studying the work of other artists, you’ll have focused, informed influences to enhance your photography. 

41. Photograph change over time

An image can speak volumes to the trends and cultures of an era.

Right now, you may not realize the long-lasting impact of a photo each time you pick up the camera.

But, your photos will outlive you and serve as a window into your world for future generations. 

In that vein, consider taking on a photography project that reflects upon the changes that happen to something. 

There’s no limit to the potential subjects for this project.

For instance, you can photograph your home city or home town. Return to that spot and take photos once a month. 

Doing this will enable you to document the changes in that area over time.

At first, these shifts will be subtle. But, with time, they’ll be striking and apparent. 

Alternately, you may photograph a loved one over time.

Their development as a person will make for a moving and beautiful photographic record. 

Time and transformation are concepts that drive this project.

Make each one visible in your work, and use them as inspiration for the underlying theme of the images. 

Push yourself to find a deeper meaning.

Think about the meaning of transformation to you, about the changes that you’ve experienced in life, and how both may translate into photography. 

This project gives you permission to explore every day and give complete focus to the ordinary.

With time, work, and purpose, those seemingly regular subjects will become enthralling.

Tell a Story in Photos

Meaningful images tell great stories that evoke feelings.

As such, storytelling projects are some of the best ways you can fundamentally elevate your photography.

These types of projects don’t need to have a clear start and finish.

The story of an image may be open-ended, prompting the audience to fill in the blanks. 

A photo’s narrative may be rooted in reality or entirely fantastical. 

42. Multiple Photos

Use a collection of photos to tell the story of a culture, community, ethnic group, social class, age group, club, or individual.

The story may be one of the urban renewals, of personal growth, of aging, or of reinvention. There are endless possibilities. 

Remember, successful documentary photography requires a deep connection to the subject matter.

If you’re photographing people, you’ll need to grow a connection with them through interviews and frank conversations.

You’ll need to learn about their motivations, concerns, goals, and relationships to reach beyond the surface level.

Not all subjects will be warm and forthcoming, but you should always attempt to conduct interviews. 

Further, remember that the individual shots aren’t nearly as crucial to this project as the overarching narrative.

The images should be taken with thought to their relation to each other.

You’ll develop a flow, and build a natural collection. 

Lastly, be aware that extended photo documentaries can’t always have a set end date.

It could take anywhere from a day to several years.

43. Portraits Obscured Body Parts

When most of us think of a portrait, we think of someone’s face within the frame.

The subject we imagine is likely posed and has their eyes locked on the camera lens. 

But, if you take away the visual of their face, what kind of portrait are you left with?

This concept allows you to explore angles beyond your subject’s face while still aiming to capture their spirit. 

The challenge in conveying the essence of a person without their face is formidable but has exceptional potential as an artistic project. 

44. People-Centric Stories:

In just one image, you can reflect a person’s past, convey a powerful emotion, or introduce a complex relationship.

A simple expression on the face of your subject can speak volumes to a viewer. 

Some examples of subjects for people-centric stories: 

  • A subject who’s older than you.

Age develops the body, mind, and spirit. What story has led this person to where they are today?

  • A subject who’s younger than you.

Youth and innocence; naivety and potential. Youth is a powerful storyteller.

  • A self-portrait.

With creativity, you can capture yourself in the frame and tell a deeply personal story.

You can use a mirror, find your reflection on a smooth surface or set up a tripod and a timer.

  • A photo without a person in the shot. 

The absence of a person can tell a story of humanity and change.

Footsteps in sand or snow; what’s left behind from a party or gathering; or even inanimate objects in the shape of a person can portray an engaging narrative. 

  • A photo taken while observing people. 

People are everywhere. Head to a hectic street corner, a bustling cafe, or a popular park.

Spend at least half an hour observing before you even pick up the camera.

Then, tell the story of the place through your photography.

Buy an Old Camera

45. single camera stereo.

Stereo photography is one of the earliest photographic methods. The first stereoscopic cameras produced two photos on one plate with two lenses placed in close proximity to each other.

The intention was to mimic human sight. 

In stereo photography, there’s little space between the two lenses, meaning that the horizontal deviation between the photos is low.

This often makes for an enhanced level of depth in the images.

To see this, you can close one eye, then move your head to the left and right.

Be sure not to move your head up and down. Your brain will only recognize object moving in relation to one another, and as you move your head more, your recognition of your view increases.

This is how stereo photography works, too. 

46. Polaroid

Polaroid images are a one-of-a-kind form of photography. It takes luck, science, and chemistry to make polaroids work. But the result can be outstanding when done well. 

There are many polaroid cameras to choose from when jumping into this project. If you are not looking to make a big investment you can find a brand new polaroid camera for under $30. On the other hand, if you want to invest in a high-quality polaroid you can purchase one between $150 and $250. 

Polaroid Recommendations: 

Low Budget: Fujifilm instax SQUARE SQ6 / Fujifilm instax mini 9

Mid Budget: Polaroid Originals OneStep+ / Fujifilm instax mini 90 NEO CLASSIC

High Budget: Leica Sofort

Polaroid film reacts well with vibrant colors and bright light, so use the flash and seek out stellar lighting.

Polaroids taken in front of a vivid, dynamic background are ideal. 

One of the great things about polaroid images is that they are instant.

You will see the finished product within minutes of taking it.

A polaroid captures the world as it is, there is no photo editing which means it will truly test your photography skills. 

Polaroid projects are fun because they’re completely variable.

You never know how they’ll turn out, which is part of the mystery behind a polaroid camera.

Enjoy this unpredictability and accept that not every polaroid will be a success. 

47. Pinhole

By embarking on this project you transport yourself in time by using a pinhole camera, technology dating back to 400BC. 

 In my opinion, one of the best ways to do this project is to build your own pinhole camera from scratch.

It is not a hard task to do and there are plenty of guides online to help you complete the project.

There is a satisfying feeling when you produce an image with a camera you built with your hands. 

If you prefer to purchase a pinhole camera my recommendation is Zero Image. Zero images produce teak and a brass pinhole camera in Hong Kong.

Considered the Leica of the pinhole realm, Zero Image has a collection of cameras from 35mm to 5 x 4 inches. 

The smallest camera offered by this maker is the Zero 135.

It produces 23 x 35mm and 23 x 45mm panoramic images on 35mm film.

The Zero 2000 in my collection creates 12 6 x 6cm images on 120 roll film.

Similarly, the Zero 6 x 9 Multi-Format camera takes 120 film, but you get to choose between four different image formats: 6 x 4.5cm, 6 x 6cm, 6 x 7cm and 6 x 9cm. 

If you enjoy creating pinhole panorama shots, try out the Zero 6 12.

It shoots 6 x 12cm images on 120 film and can produce a great result.

Additionally, I frequently use a Zero 45 camera; it’s a modular 5 x 4 inch model that’s able to accept cut film holders, Fuji Quickload, Kodak Readyload, and Polaroid 545i backs.

These back are all secured with rubber bands.

Go to www.zeroimage.com for more information. For great examples of pinhole photography, visit the following links: 

  • http://www.pinholeday.org
  • http://www.pinhole.com/
  • http://www.pinholeresource.com

Further Examples for Story Inspiration:

Use the concepts to stir your imagination when you’re struggling to find a story to tell:

  • Abandonment 
  • Birth and Rebirth 
  • Individuality 
  • Loneliness 
  • Perseverance

48. Collaborate With Another Artist

When you bring in another artist to work with, you gain an entirely new source of insight, experience, and inspiration. 

Whether it be a costume designer, dancer, or musician, working with other artists can push you past your personal limits to reach new heights that you never thought possible.

One reason for this is that other artists often look at subjects from a perspective that you may have unlikely considered.

Collaborating with them can help you to look beyond your routine and strive for something new.

Plus, by reaching out to fellow artists, you’re fostering relationships that could be loved by audiences well into the future. 

These artists may help create mood, subject matter, background material, post-processing effects, and more.

Their work will bring immense value to your photographic process. 

Consider collaborating with these types of artists to breathe new life into your images:

Graphic artists

Set designers

Furniture makers

Clothing designers

Hairstylists

Makeup artists

Visual effects artists or retouchers

49. Immortalize Your Hero

We all have that one person who makes an immeasurable impact in our lives.

One who exposes us to new ideas and who help shape us into the people we want to be. These people are our heroes.

Your heroes can be anyone from your parents, community members, friends, teachers, or mentors. 

Photography is a fantastic medium through which to celebrate our heroes.

It provides a way to thank your heroes and to capture their essence in a tangible form. 

It allows you to commemorate them in a way that you can look back on later with fondness.

Images that you take of your heroes are incredibly meaningful and make for some of the best photography projects.

50. Show Your Subject Several Times in One Frame

photography projects ideas

In photography, you have the unique opportunity to create the appearance of the impossible. 

One way that you can do this is to have your subject appear multiple times in one frame.

You can do this to tell a story, make for an amusing visual effect, or leave the viewer in wonder. 

For this project, settle on a subject first.

You may choose to create a portrait, your pet,  fine art image, or fashion shot, among other options. 

It depends on the message you’re seeking the convey.

To create multiples of your subject in the frame, you can use mirrors, reflections, glass, and more. 

51. Three of a Kind

Photographs are often viewed as individual pieces that stand apart from other work.

But, in reality, galleries display images side by side, and photograph collections are often highly revered.

The power of multiple images together may succeed the impact of just one. 

So, consider making a triptych. This consists of three photographs placed together for display, or one image that’s been split into three. 

Triptych comes from the Greek work triptychos, which translates to “three-fold”.

This concept has been utilized by artists throughout history, namely in Christian art for the creation of altar paintings.

Modern photographers create triptych projects, too, with the concept becoming common in canvases, prints, and art posters. 

Bonus: Create a Photo Book

You may make use of the several photo book services available today to compile your work. 

Normally, all you have to do is download design software, then insert your images in the order that you choose.

Templates are included to make layout easy, then you can simply print and bind the pages. 

The quality and creative freedom allowed with photo book services vary, so it’s important to shop around.

Higher-end services will produce a professional caliber hard-backed book, but the cost will be high.

Generally speaking, the profit margin of photo books created from services isn’t ideal, so it likely isn’t the best choice if you’re looking to start a photography business. 

Photobook services do work well, however, if you want to create meaningful gifts for loved ones.

These books are great for coffee tables and can even be made with a theme in mind.

For example, the included images may document a wedding, a birth, or the life of one family member. 

Consider this lift of popular photo book publishers:

  • Snapfish – www.snapfish.co.uk
  • Album Factory – www.albumfactory.co.uk
  • Blurb – www.blurb.com
  • Canva – www.canva.com

We all need a spark of enthusiasm sometimes, and a photography project is a fabulous way to gain just that.

Whether clear and defined or completely open-ended, the projects listed above will build skills, experience, and artistic vision.

They may not always produce successful results, but you’ll always gain valuable insights and learn important lessons.

You have to start somewhere, so select the project that speaks to you most and gets you going!

You may be surprised at the path that a project can lead you down the road. 

photography projects ideas

thank you for your inspiring words. It helped me to stay focused on take photographs day by day 🙂

Kind Regards, Ronny

photography projects ideas

I’m glad the article was able to help you stay focused. If you’re interested in learning how to keep you’re motivation high in photography then check out this article. .

Best Wishes,

photography projects ideas

Your article was really inspiring, i am an upcoming photographer and i could visualize your words,….many thanks for sharing,

Samantha Martha

Hi Samatha,

I am glad that you found the article helpful. If you are looking for more tips on learning photography check out my 30 Day Workbook and let me know what you think.

photography projects ideas

I am glad to be one of the visitors on this great web site (:, regards for posting.

Leave a Reply Cancel Reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Join my Newsletter

Get first dibs on exclusive travel, photography and post-processing tips.

You can opt-out anytime. Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy .

© 2024 Pixels and Wanderlust.

  • Photography Tips
  • Photo Editing
  • Travel Tips
  • Product Reviews
  • What’s In My Camera Bag?
  • Hyperfocal Distance Calculator
  • Personalized Handheld Shutter Speed Chart
  • Free Trainings

photography projects ideas

Home » Lifestyle » 14 Creative Photography Projects Ideas You Need to Try

Tackling a photography project is not only a great way to improve your photography skills but it can keep you from feeling like you take the same photo everyday. However trying to come up with photography project ideas can be a challenge. Below are a list of photography ideas.

Creative Photography Project Ideas

1. project 365 or project 52.

You know I love a Project 365 and have lots of tips on completing one . Whether you take a photo a day in a Project 365 or choose to do one photo a week in a Project 52 this is a great way to focus on your photography skills.

2. 30 Day Project

Take on a shorter commitment by doing a project that lasts on 30 days. There are many different ways you can do this. In my ebook, The Unexpected Everyday, I give you a 30 day photography ideas challenge to learn a new skill and give you a prompt for each day. You can’t help but improve your photography all while taking timeless photos of your children.

Read more: 30 day photo challenge (become an EVEN BETTER Photographer)

3. Pick a theme

Deciding on one particular thing to focus on can help you improve a skill. Theme ideas:

  • Light – backlighting , low light , natural light , indoor light
  • Composition – framing , leading lines , golden spiral
  • Street photography
  • Macro – even if you don’t have a macro lens you can use macro filters
  • Candid Photos

4. Choose a subject

If you have children you may notice they are in 95% of your photos. Focus on a new subject to try new compositions and break out of your normal photography routine.

Subject ideas: – Shoes – Flags – Windows – A color – Lines – Doors – Chairs

5. ABC project

There are two ways you can tackle this project. You can either choose a letter to photograph something that starts with that letter. Another photography idea is to photograph something that looks like the letter. This option is fun if you want to create a collage of photos to spell out your last name or “welcome”.

6. Work through a book

There are many books out there that will teach you different skills. You can tackle a new chapter each week or month. Book ideas include:

  • The Photographer’s Mind: Creative Thinking for Better Digital Photos
  • The Photographer’s Eye: Composition and Design for Better Digital Photos
  • People Pictures: 30 Exercises for Creating Authentic Photographs

7. Grateful photography project idea

Choose to photograph things, people or places you are grateful for. Not only will you never run out of ideas of things to photograph but it helps you focus on what is really important and how blessed you are.

8. Focus on one lens

If you have multiple lenses choose one your don’t normally use. Stick that one on your camera for a week, a month or a whole year. This will help push your creativity. I remember doing a photo walk with a photographer who took street photos with a macro. Don’t assume a certain lens is only for one time of photos.

Not sure which lens to use? Check out our photography resource page.

9. Go outside your comfort zone

Maybe you rock at portraits, try your hand at food photography . Try a different type of photography you are used to. Not only will you learn some new skills but it is fun to try something you aren’t strong at.

food photography with lemon squeezed onto cabbage for a photography project idea

Read more: How to Shoot Still Life Photography to Push Your Creativity

10. Photograph birthday month/week

Whether it is your birthday month, or one of your kids or loved one. Photograph them everyday for the week or month of their birthday. It is a fun way to document them that year as well as capture what they are like at that age.

11. A Day in the Life of

I do this once a year, but you could really do this once a month or more. Photograph your day all day . You can either take photos through out the day or just on the hour. Either way it is a fun way to capture the everyday moments and routines that we often forget to capture.

12. 10 on 10

A lot of photographers will capture 10 photos on the 10th. This is similar to the “Day in the Life of” project. But this may help you to remember to do this project each month on the 10th.

13. Letters to Our Children

This is something I do with a few other photographers. Write a letter each month to your children or just focus on one child. Then take photos of them to include with the letter. I write advice to all my girls. This helps me to get at least one photo of all three of them together each month. This can be quite the challenge but I enjoy it. Some girls in the group choose one child to write a letter to and do a mini photo shoot each month with that child. Do what works best for you.

14. Self portraits photography project idea

Photographers are not in enough photos. Choose either to do a self portrait , daily, weekly, or monthly. What is important is that you are getting in the photo. When I did my first Project 365 I did a “Monday Me” where each Monday I took a self portrait. It’s a good idea to have a specific day in mind. If you are going to do it monthly, choose the date of your birthday and each month take a photo on that date.

photography project ideas for creatives

Which ever one of these photography project ideas you decide to tackle it’s important to do something. The key to growing and improving as a photography is taking these photography ideas and implementing them into your day to day life.

Which one of these photography ideas will you start today?

Download this FREE manual mode cheat sheet!

Learn it all, step-by-step, with me, the force behind Click it Up a Notch, a Huffington Post Top 5 Blogs for momtographers.

A former teacher who got into photography to capture my beautiful family, I am eager to share what I’ve learned over the past 5 years & open the door to photography for other moms.

  • 365 Photography Project Tips Read More >
  • 6 Ways to Stay Motivated with a Photography Project Read More >
  • Photography Project – One subject, 30 days Read More >

' src=

This will certainly challenge me. I am just an amateur and love taking pictures. But want to learn more and be more creative. Put those books on my Amazon Wish List to get sometime soon.

' src=

Awesome! Aren’t we all wanting to learn more and be more creative :)

' src=

I did a 365 a few years back. Every day I took a shot out my window and made a time laps out of it. Pretty cool as the snow got deeper and then melted…Also as the leaves changed

Other than that,,,,meh!

That is a great idea to focus on one window!

' src=

Big salute to you. I am trying to edit photo black and white effect as you did; sadly my edited photos were not like you. How should I make black and white style( the black and white effect you did) . Plz show mercy with me. :D waiting for you

DANNY THE KACHIN

I start with the Casablanca preset from Clickin’ Moms Cinema collection and adjust it to achieve the look I want. Make sure you start with a properly exposed and correct white balance image :) http://store.clickinmoms.com/cinema-presets-for-lightroom/

Thanks you for your kindness. I am working on it. God bless you. :)

' src=

Love your site. I find this app useful for projects learnphoto.ca/apps

' src=

Thanks for these ideas. I’m a beginning photographer and always want to find ways to improve. I will tackle one of these for 2014!!

Thanks! Good luck with your project!

' src=

thanks for your tips.. I’m thinking of doing a project featuring my sister..I’ll take picture of her everyday for 23 days before her 23rd birthday and that would be my gift for her. .

' src=

Yep, I decided to do a 10 on the 10th project this year. My plan is to create a book at the end of the year. I cheated this month though. I forgot to do it on the 10th so I did it on the 13th instead which turned out great because my daughters school Valentine party was that day.

' src=

Hi, I stumbled upon your website by accident a few weeks ago and I am so in love with it. I have been taking picturs for years now with 2 young kids but have recently lost my mojo and motivation. Your blog has given me new inspirations and ideas. Thank you so much.

I love hearing that. Thank you! Welcome!

' src=

Great tips. I need to start taking more self portraits.

' src=

Hi Courtney,

Thanks for the ideas, I am sharing this with the Board of our community’s camera club, for ideas on our summer projects, we take the summers off because we live in Florida and a few members are snowbirds, great IDEAS, thank you….

Thanks so much for sharing!

' src=

Hi! Love some of these ideas! I’m an amateur, who prefers nature macro. Do you know the name of the person you did the street tour with, that did it all with macro? This would be fun perspective for me. Thanks!

Hey Amy, I believe it was Stacey Vukelj – https://www.facebook.com/staceyvukeljnycphotography :)

' src=

How do you recommend taking self portraits?

Are you wondering about what lens to use?

' src=

I haven’t started yet but I’ve been considering a rainbow challenge. Take a day/week and take all red pictures, then yellow, orange and so on. It’s something you can vary the difficulty of since some colors are going to be easier to find depending on the season but if you want a real challenge you can mix that up.

' src=

Thank you so much. This is exactly what I needed to read right now. These are great!!

' src=

Do you have any specific blog sites you would recommend using for a new amateur photographer?

Yes –> http://clickitupanotch.com/how-to-start-a-photography-blog/

' src=

How do you Link up to Others 365 i tried Clicking on the Links but it just goes Back to The top of the page. Thanks :-)

I’m confused by what you mean you click on the link and it takes you back to the top. Which page does it take you to the top of?

Hi, I just click on the names of the sites and it doesn’t take me anywhere, sorry I don’t have a blog just google+1, I completed your 30 day challenge what you did in June, and decided to carry on, but wanted to see everyone else who was doing it. Thanks for getting back to me :)

Some of the people may no longer being doing the project. We started that list last November :) I think it’s great you are going to keep going! Yay!

' src=

This has been such an inspiration! I am looking forward to starting a challenge. Even though I am in college I think this will be a cool way to remember all that I have done!

Thanks for the time you put together for this post :)

I love that! I wish I had some kind of photography challenge when I was in college. What a fun way to remember your time!

' src=

Thank you so very much. This is a wonderful article and you have given me and lot of awesome ideas for future photo shoots and a lot of fun for my family as well.

' src=

I happened upon your blog late last night. I’m a new photographer, eager to find a direction. I think doing one of your 30 day projects is the ticket to getting my ball rolling. Thank you. I’ll be back. (website to come in the future)

Welcome! And thank you for your sweet words :) Excited to be a part of your photography journey.

' src=

I am a mom of a 13 year-old & a 20 year-old daughter, who has a 2 month-old daughter. I have always dreamed off taking up photography as a serious hobby. Now is my time since I am staying home full-time caring for granddaughter. I am absolutely clueless about what camera to purchase. I hear talk of DSLR. I am committed to investing in a high quality camera & expect to make a financial investment. But, what camera is for me? Would love to get involved in your project, but need to purchase quality equipment. Some advice please? Thanks so much for any input.

' src=

I love all these photography projects. I have no idea which one I want to try first! Great post!

' src=

Thank you for this great ideas…!!! I just finish My 365 project and I really want to start an Other project…!!!

' src=

I started a 30 day project after reading your book Courtney, and enjoyed doing that so much that I continued on and finished my 365 project at the end of April this year Great timely post to give me some other ideas for my next project. I had sort of continued with the 365 with half thoughts of turning it into a 52 project, but might incorporate some of the other ones as well. Thanks for being part of my learning journey Courtney it is really inspiring to read about your journey and others on your blog:)

' src=

I’m a 13-year-old photographer and I’ve been wanting more things to take pictures of so I decided to do a photo project. This article gave me so many ideas for my project so thank you!

' src=

Wonderful! Enjoy, Alex :)

' src=

These are all great ideas! Thank you for the inspiration!

' src=

I love your site. I plan to read more of your posts tonight! Yay!

' src=

Wow! This list was so great, and for my senior project, I think I’ll do the Grateful Project. Thank you so much for the idea!

' src=

Hey, thanks for sharing. Just in the middle of planning a new project, but I find it’s quite challenging with a little one running around. Although, my boy is a great model, I quite like exploring – what I call Organic Sculptures- and then photographing them.

During my last project I grew mold and here are some shots that came out of it https://digitalphoto.blog/2016/11/29/first-blog-post/ but obviously it’s not the best idea cultivating mold now with a young toddler…

Will get there though, I hope…

' src=

Wow! This project ideas list is so awe-inspiring. Can’t wait to see more of your articles. Thanks for sharing!

' src=

NOW I GOT A FIRE IN MY BELLY!!!

' src=

Thank you you have given me ways to keep myself busy in 2022.

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Join us! Over 45,026 photographers have.

photography projects ideas

No products in the cart.

photography projects ideas

Personal Photography Projects: 13 of the Best Ideas

Last updated:

  • February 14, 2024
  • See comments

capturing shadows as an idea for photography projects

Personal photography projects are one of the best ways to help you improve your photography . Being focused on a particular topic you will develop more than if you photograph random subjects. Learning as you regularly take photos for your project will accelerate your progress even more.

We all like to get better at the things we enjoy doing. How we approach our photography has a direct effect on whether we will improve much over time. Taking photos now and then with no real direction will not help you develop your technical or creative skills. 

When you work on personal photography projects you will become a better photographer. You’ll be able to compare your photos over the period of time you are working on your project and see your development.

Using your camera each day, and combining this will some study, will help you build your skill more than if you don’t incorporate any study. Learning a little each day and putting it into practice is the best way to grow as a photographer.

365 Photography

Take photos of one subject, day in the life (day in my life), see everything in black and white, use only one (prime) lens, practice composition one rule at a time, photograph your other hobby, make a personal photography project of your community, volunteer as a photographer, illustrate songs you love, emulate a master, create a photography project book, become a self portrait artist, choosing personal photography projects, how to come up with personal photography project ideas.

Some photographers struggle to come up with project ideas for their personal photography . The best encouragement I can offer you is to make a photography project on something you enjoy a lot. The more you take photos of what you love,  the more exceptional your images will be.

Combine photographing what you love with on-going education. This will build your photography skills more than anything else. Learning a little and putting it into practice often will help you keep your ideas alive and more easily come up with new ones.

coming up with different project ideas.

Make a point of pushing your photography abilities beyond what you are comfortable with. The main risk in photographing something you really enjoy is that you become complacent and capture images that are all very similar. This is why learning step by step as you work on your photography project will help your progress and growth as a photographer.

Ideas for photo projects are important. What’s also necessary is that you are committed to the continuation of your project. If your motivation wanes and you become disinterested, your personal photography project idea will be no fun. This article will help you come up with some good ideas.

Sometimes known as project 365, this idea for a personal project has a long history. I remember reading about the concept of taking a photo a day when I got my first camera. That’s nearly 40 years ago. 365 Photography has remained popular throughout the world because it’s effective.

Taking photos each day for a year will make you a better photographer. Combine this with learning a little about photography each day. You will see a progressive quality increase in your pictures.

photography projects ideas

Doing a search online and you’ll find lists of ideas of what to photograph for the 365 photo challenge . These lists may not be so helpful, depending on what you like to photograph and where in the world you live. I think a personal photography project is more effective and fun when you come up with ideas of what to photograph yourself. These lists can be helpful used as guides for inspiration, but I don’t think they work so well if you stick to them rigidly.

Kevin Landwer-Johan - Project Instructor

Being self-motivated leads to success when doing a 365 photo challenge. Having a well planned and mapped-out study guide helps keep you energized throughout the 365 projects. Having a photo challenge associated with the 365 lessons means you put into practice what you are learning, as you are learning it. 

If you take your focus off having to come up with ideas of what to photograph every day, then you’ll be less anxious. Focus on learning and the ideas of what to photograph will come to you naturally. You could also combine this with some of the following photography project ideas I have listed below.

Concentrating your photography on a single subject eliminates the need to come up with other ideas of what to take pictures of. Find a subject that intrigues you and challenge yourself to take interesting photos of it. 

You might like to photograph your kids or your pets. Maybe you love being in your garden or walking in your local park. The more you can easily incorporate your idea so it’s a regular part of your routine, the more likely you are to succeed. 

You don’t need to photograph lots of different things. Sometimes photographing one subject will improve your photography even more.

photography project on bikes on the street.

This is another well-seasoned photo project idea. Taking photos from dawn until dusk. Following a routine and so that you compile a series of photos that tell a story.

You could make it about any topic that changes during the day. Your own life could be the most convenient. 

Start taking photos in the morning and throughout the day. Keep in mind who your audience might be. It could be friends who know you or people on social media who may not know you. Think about what you are photographing and how people will relate to the images you are presenting to them.

photo of Akha tea pickers.

We see everything in color. Choosing a topic of black and white for a personal project you’ll have to develop a habit of seeing in black and white. This is one of the best photography tips I can give you that will help produce stronger monochrome images.

It’s easy to convert digital images to black and white . Taking photos purposely to display them as monochrome images requires you to think differently. This is a great photo project challenge that can be used in conjunction with any other photography project idea.

The key maker project.

Restrict yourself to photographing everything with one lens. Especially if it’s a new one. Limiting yourself like this, and using only a prime lens, will heighten your awareness. Looking at what to photograph using a single focal length will reshape the way you think about composition.

If you’ve recently bought a new lens, attach it to your camera and leave it there. For a zoom lens, leave it set to one focal length. Try to make as many interesting compositions without changing focal lengths.

photographing caves.

The compositional rules are taught for a reason. Using them often makes your images stronger and they help build your sense of how to arrange elements within your frame. 

Many photographers don’t practice their craft as a musician practices with their instrument. Study the rules of composition. Choose one and work it until you know it inside out and backward.

Look to make your chosen rule the format of your composition for a week, or a month, or longer. Aim to become proficient in knowing when and how to apply it. Then move on and practice another composition rule in the same manner.

woman taking photos with a smart phone.

Photograph things you enjoy. Your images will have more feeling because of the connection you make. Choose one of your other hobbies and create a photo project around it. Maybe you like gardening. Photograph your garden. You might enjoy cycling. Photograph bicycles. Whatever you enjoy doing, think about how you can make an interesting series of images for your project.

photograph of a vintage bike.

Where you live and interact every day. Take photos of the people you meet along the way. Have a story to tell them about what you are doing and don’t be shy to ask. People make a community. Aim to build a collective portrait of the people who inhabit your locale.

Take pictures of the trees, architecture, and transportation. Think about what makes your community unique and make a collection of photos to illustrate this.

Monks working on a project idea.

Put yourself forward and offer to take photos for a non-profit organization. It might be your place of worship, your kid’s school, an animal shelter, a social group, etc. Choose something that will interest you.

This can be quite a challenging personal project because you will have to take photos that meet others’ requirements. This to me is the main difference between an amateur and a professional. Professionals have to take photos to please someone else. They must provide photographs that their clients or editors want.

Being a volunteer will provide you with a wonderful opportunity to grow as a photographer and to bless others with the photos you take.

girl reading a book.

Think about music and how you can illustrate the lyrics of feel of your favorite songs. Engaging with this type of photography project will push you to think abstractly. How can you show an image of what you hear in the music?

Stretch your mind and be as creative as you like. There is no right or wrong way. Be flexible in your intent and the expression of what you enjoy most in the songs you love to listen to.

You could choose to restrict your style to a particular genre that you like to shoot. Maybe you like street photography or macro photography . Use any style you like to be the basis of how you illustrate and have fun doing it!

photograph of a red rooster.

My two on-going personal photography projects are both inspired by famous photographers.

I make photomontages . I first started producing them after seeing a documentary about British artist David Hockney. He was making what he called a photo joiner. This got me hooked. Working with multiple photographs and putting them together to create cubist like artwork is great fun. 

I also produce these as videos. Mainly working with photographs. Sometimes including video clips. I combine them on a timeline and add movement.

Irving Penn inspired my other main photography project ideas. Penn was a master of natural light and had a portable outdoor studio. After reading about it I adapted the idea and made my own outdoor studio. I take it with me when I visit mountain villages here in Thailand and make portraits of the ethnic minorities.

Find a photographer whose work you love and emulate it. This will push you to become a better photographer as you seek to see the hidden style in their photographs and begin to create your own.

portrait of a woman for an outdoor portrait project.

It could be a fiction or a non-fiction book. Think about the story you want to tell and then go about illustrating it with the pictures you take. Plan your book and map out the photos you think you’ll need. 

Set yourself a deadline so your project does not become endless. Think about how many pages you want and how you will publish it. This could be something you plan to give as a gift or use to present as a portfolio of your photography to others.

Many people struggle to come up with ideas for personal projects. Choosing to take self portraits is a great way to overcome this problem. With self-portrait projects, you always have your subject on hand. Your portraits can be made at home or anywhere you feel comfortable.

I’m not talking about selfies you’d take with your mobile photo, but well-composed, lit, and styled portraits of yourself in various situations. Think about how you can include props to make more interesting portraits.

man taking a personal portrait photograph.

This might seem challenging at first for some people. Think about it and how it will help your understanding as a photographer. Particularly if you are someone who likes to photograph other people. Taking self-portraits will give you a better understanding of what it’s like to be in front of the camera. Give it a shot! You may love it.

Whatever type of personal photography project ideas you think of, your commitment to is key. Photographers are often not focused on personal projects or practicing in some way or another. They rely on picking up photography tips here and there and have a random approach to improving their craft.

Tackling the 365 Days of Photography or 52 Week Challenge will make you a better photographer. Being committed to a plan and having a focused purpose you will start to see your photography develop in ways you may never have been able to imagine.

See more in

Share with friends

photography projects ideas

  • Daniel Wright
  • February 9, 2024

photography projects ideas

  • Perrin Adams
  • January 30, 2024

photography projects ideas

  • Jonathan Jacoby
  • January 24, 2024

Seeking 'Great Big Photography World podcast 's' new host!

There was a problem reporting this post.

Please confirm you want to block this member.

You will no longer be able to:

  • See blocked member's posts
  • Mention this member in posts
  • Invite this member to groups
  • Message this member
  • Add this member as a connection

Please note: This action will also remove this member from your connections and send a report to the site admin. Please allow a few minutes for this process to complete.

Photo Karma 2024 - Free Trend Report

Creative Photography Ideas - Techniques To Get You Inspired - StudioBinder

  • Cinematography

Creative Photography Ideas & Techniques To Get You Inspired

E very artist, photographer or otherwise, comes to a point in their creative process where they must look elsewhere for inspiration. As such, we felt it would be a great idea to compile a list of creative photography ideas. We’re going to touch on some creative and technical strategies that might stimulate your photographic eye – so without further ado, here’s our list of creative photography ideas to get inspired by.

Cool Photo Ideas Using Lenses

Adjust focal length and positioning.

Self-Portrait Photography Ideas - Portraits by Dan Vojtech

Self-Portrait Photography Ideas  •  Portraits by Dan Vojtech

As photographers, we often say “this picture would look best with this lens.” And although that’s a valid strategy, sometimes it begs the question: what if we took a picture with what we consider the wrong lens?

For example, why not experiment with taking portraits with a wide-angle lens ? It will look distorted – but if realism isn’t the main intention, there’s nothing wrong with adjusting the focal length .

Cool Photography Ideas

Play with light and shadow.

Creative Photography in Film - The Chiaroscuro Effect in Citizen Kane

Creative Photography in Film  •  The Chiaroscuro Effect in Citizen Kane

Chiaroscuro is the technique of using light and shadow in a visual image, often by way of stark contrast. We’ve seen chiaroscuro used expertly in wood carvings, Caravaggio paintings, and Orson Welles’ best movie , Citizen Kane . In photography, chiaroscuro often works best when there’s clear contrast between a lighted element and a shadowed element.

Cool Photography Project Ideas

Make a shadow play.

Creative Photography Ideas - Shadow Play by Javier Téllez

Creative Photography Ideas  •  Shadow Play by Javier Téllez

The shadow play is one of the oldest types of visual storytelling – and it makes an enticing picture idea for struggling creatives. We often obsess over the appearance of visual depth. As such, it can be refreshing to go back and start with silhouettes. But whatever you do, make the shadow play your own.

Creative Picture Ideas

Try double exposure.

Creative Photography in Television - Double Exposure in True Detective

Creative Photography in Television  •  Double Exposure in True Detective

Double exposure is actually a rather old photographing technique but it’s only become prevalent in recent years due to how easy it is to achieve with digital cameras . It’s so popular in fact that it’s become a cliche in movie/tv opening credits . Some cameras have a built-in double exposure setting. If your camera doesn’t have a double exposure preset, you can always achieve the effect in Photoshop or most other editing programs.

Good Photo Ideas

Experiment with false color.

Creative Photography Ideas - False Color Techniques

Creative Photography Ideas  •  False Color Techniques

False color programs may be most frequently used on film sets to achieve perfect exposure , but they’re also incredibly useful for taking photographs. False color is essentially the process of seeing degrees of exposure represented by different colors.

Photography Project Ideas

Master the art of overexposure.

Creative Picture Ideas - Artful Overexposure in Sunshine

Creative Picture Ideas  •  Artful Overexposure in Sunshine

We’re taught that overexposure – or when an image appears brighter than usual – is a bad thing. And it is… most of the time. There are times when overexposure can be used for an artistic purpose – like it is in the image above from Danny Boyle’s Sunshine . Play around with ISO , aperture , and shutter speed to get a similar effect. Just be mindful that it likely won’t come out like Boyle’s image did on your first try.

Creative Photography Ideas

Capture your pet in a new light.

Creative Photography Ideas - Photo by Anne Geier

Creative Photography Ideas  •  Photo by Anne Geier

Amateur photographers and professional photographers alike love taking photos of animals. Why? Because everybody loves pets. Well, mostly everybody. But the more important question is: how can we get creative with pet photography? One way is by using different lenses.

By using different camera lenses , we can capture animal subjects at different angles in different depths of field .

Still Life Photography Ideas

Change your orientation.

Creative Picture Ideas - Landscape Picture by Brian Matiash

Creative Picture Ideas  •  Landscape Picture by Brian Matiash

One way you can change the visual composition of an image is by changing its orientation. Landscape orientation is when an image is wider than it is taller. Portrait orientation is when an image is taller than it is wider.

Portrait Photography Ideas - Photo by Christopher Rosario

Portrait Photography Ideas  •  Photo by Christopher Rosario

By changing the orientation of an image, we can alter its visual composition. Consider stuffing a landscape photograph with vertical lines like the first photograph – or stuffing a portrait photograph with horizontal lines like the second photograph. These strategies create a satisfying geometrical contrast.

Cool Photo Ideas With Color

Combine color with framing.

Creative Photography Inspiration - Color Still From Birdman

Creative Photography Inspiration  •  Color Still From Birdman

This still from Alejandro Iñárritu’s Birdman is often cited as one of the most “perfect” shots from contemporary cinema. Why? Two reasons: color and framing. The color of the pepper-lights make the image pop; and they frame our primary subject at the center of the frame.

Kudos to the great cinematographer Emmanuel Lubezki for his work on the film. Consider framing a picture of your own with Christmas lights and a central subject to get a similar effect.

Photography Theme Ideas

Take to the skies.

Creative Photography Ideas - Drone Photo by Dirk Dallas

Creative Photography Ideas  •  Drone Photo by Dirk Dallas

Aerial photography offers a perspective we rarely see in our everyday lives. As such, aerial photography serves as the perfect basis for picture ideas that we can take from new vantages. Drones like the DJI Mavic Air aren’t cheap though – so if you’re anything like me, you might need to save up before taking your camera to the skies.

Photography Ideas for Beginners

Get away from light pollution.

Good Photo Ideas for Nature - Photo by Adam Schmid

Good Photo Ideas for Nature  •  Photo by Adam Schmid

Production lighting is great for on-set shoots but sometimes it’s nice to get away from artificial luminescence in favor of something more natural. You won’t find many more stunning photographs than those of a night’s sky with little or no light pollution; added bonus: you’ll get to reconnect with nature!

Go crazy with hydro dipping

Creative Photography Ideas - Hydro Dip Art by Artist Unknown

Hydro dipping is a catch-all term for abstract color art. The technique has been popularized in recent years by artists who hydro dip clothing items into a chemical mixture to get a psychedelic effect. Hydro dipping also works with canvas and can be a great subject for trippy photographs.

Take advantage of the holiday season

Cool Photography Ideas - Photo by Steven Gerner

Cool Photography Ideas  •  Photo by Steven Gerner

Let’s face it: holidays and seasonal events often make for great photographs. And some holidays make for better photoshoots than others.

Creative Photography Ideas for Halloween - Photo Via Boston.com

Creative Photography Ideas for Halloween  •  Photo Via Boston.com

Go out into the world during Halloween or Holi to capture visually compelling photographs without having to stage a scene of your own. And follow our tips for portrait photography to capture subjects in purposeful detail.

Easy Photography Ideas

Hone your skills with sports photography.

Creative Photography Inspiration - Sports Photography by Matt Nielsen

Creative Photography Inspiration  •  Sports Photography by Matt Nielsen

Whether you like sports or not, you should consider practicing your photography skills at sporting events. But before you venture out onto the local pitch, field, and or court, make sure you have a good lens. Check out our article on telephoto lenses to see the best tools for shooting sports photography.

Give us a long shot

Creative Photography Ideas - The Long Shot in Rear Window

Creative Photography Ideas  •  The Long Shot in Rear Window

The long shot is a bit different from the extreme long shot ; whereas the former usually captures a full-subject in zoom , the latter captures a setting or subject from an extremely wide angle.

Here’s a long shot:

Photography Project Ideas - Long Shot Example in Moonrise Kingdom

Photography Project Ideas  •  Long Shot Example in Moonrise Kingdom

And here’s an extreme long shot:

Creative Photography Ideas - Long Shot Example in Inglourious Basterds

Photography Project Ideas  •  Long Shot Example in Inglourious Basterds

Easy picture ideas, give us a close-up.

Creative Picture Ideas - Medium Close Up in Sunset Boulevard

Creative Picture Ideas  •  Medium Close Up in Sunset Boulevard

You don’t have to be Gloria Swanson to be ready for a close-up. Check out our articles on medium close-ups , close-ups , and extreme close-ups to see how to capture subjects in intimate detail.

Force a perspective

Creative Photography Ideas - Photo by RM Nunes

Creative Photography Ideas  •  Photo by RM Nunes

Forced perspective photography is a type of photography that relies on illusion to make subjects appear larger (or smaller) than life. You’ve probably seen forced perspective photos taken in front of world monuments like the Statue of Liberty, the Eiffel Tower, and the Leaning Tower of Pisa.

Fun Picture Ideas

Recreate a museum classic.

Photography Photo Ideas - Ivan the Terrible and His Son Ivan via Reddit

Photography Photo Ideas  •  Ivan the Terrible and His Son Ivan via Reddit

In 2020, the world famous Getty Museum tasked aspiring creatives with recreating famous pieces of art by way of photographs taken from home. The results were… surprisingly excellent. Take the image above for example: the similarities are uncanny (sans the pink and blue socks). Recreate a classic with a comedic flair for an attempt at photographic satire .

Photography ideas at home

How to Develop Photography Ideas at Home - Photo by Jordi Koalitic

How to Develop Photography Ideas at Home  •  Photo by Jordi Koalitic

Sometimes you can find a great photograph hidden in the confines of your home. Photographer Jordi Koalitic has taken some great photos from a home setting (like the image above).

Just be mindful that many of his photos have heavy-editing flair. Consider framing your photos from home with different film lighting techniques .

Good Photography Ideas for Beginners

Capture light during golden hour.

Photography Photo Ideas - Photo by Haruki

Photography Photo Ideas  •  Photo by Haruki

Golden hour is the last hour of light before sunset – and it’s often when we capture the most effusively-glowing outdoors photography. During golden hour, consider using a wide aperture and underexposure to capture the warm glow of the fading sun.

Reflective Picture Ideas

Reflect on something unique.

Cool Photography Ideas - Photo by kwe

It’s hard to shoot reflection photographs without the impression of them coming across as contrived. To mix it up, consider shooting a reflection  at a different angle than you usually see or focus on the reflected subject rather than the primary subject.

Bokeh photography examples

If you’re looking for more creative picture ideas, check out our article on bokeh photography where we break down what bokeh is with bokeh examples from around the world. By the end, you’ll know how to use shallow depth of field to achieve a bokeh effect!

Up Next: What is Bokeh? →

Showcase your vision with elegant shot lists and storyboards..

Create robust and customizable shot lists. Upload images to make storyboards and slideshows.

Learn More ➜

These are so nice. I love how the photos were given new meaning by just adding a creative twist.

Leave a comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

  • Pricing & Plans
  • Product Updates
  • Featured On
  • StudioBinder Partners
  • The Ultimate Guide to Call Sheets (with FREE Call Sheet Template)
  • How to Break Down a Script (with FREE Script Breakdown Sheet)
  • The Only Shot List Template You Need — with Free Download
  • Managing Your Film Budget Cashflow & PO Log (Free Template)
  • A Better Film Crew List Template Booking Sheet
  • Best Storyboard Softwares (with free Storyboard Templates)
  • Movie Magic Scheduling
  • Gorilla Software
  • Storyboard That

A visual medium requires visual methods. Master the art of visual storytelling with our FREE video series on directing and filmmaking techniques.

We’re in a golden age of TV writing and development. More and more people are flocking to the small screen to find daily entertainment. So how can you break put from the pack and get your idea onto the small screen? We’re here to help.

  • Making It: From Pre-Production to Screen
  • What is a Film Festival — Everything You Need to Know
  • What is an Origin Story — How Characters Truly Begin
  • What is a Story Arc — How Narratives Are Shaped and Built
  • What are Screenlife Movies — Inside Cinema’s Modern Genre
  • What is an Alter Ego — The Duality of a Character
  • 45 Facebook
  • 2.5K Pinterest
  • 40 LinkedIn

  • Photography Articles
  • Camera Buying Guide
  • Lens Buying Guide
  • How to Learn Photography
  • Time Lapse Photography
  • Learn & Explore Photography
  • How to Articles
  • Holiday Gift Guides
  • Photography Blog
  • Color Management
  • Travel Guides
  • Astrophotography
  • Free Photography eBooks
  • Real Estate Photography
  • Bird & Wildlife Photography
  • Tip of the Week
  • Photography Quotes
  • Best Canvas Print Company
  • Best Workshops & Tours 2020/2021
  • Photography Glossary
  • Photography Lighting
  • Drone Photography
  • Portrait Photography Tips
  • Beginner Photography Tips
  • Best Large Print Companies
  • Gallery Home
  • Latest Uploaded
  • View by Categories
  • Inspirational Photos
  • Upload Your Photos
  • Photography Forum Home
  • Latest Posts
  • Search Photography Forum
  • General Discussion
  • Taking The Photo & Editing
  • Photo Galleries & Critiques
  • General Manufacturers
  • Equipment Research
  • Recommended Vendor
  • Camera Bags
  • Camera Straps
  • Maternity Gear
  • Community Badges
  • Get Metal Prints
  • PT Scholarship
  • Member Interviews
  • 30 Day Creative Eye Challenge
  • Bird Photography Mastery Course
  • Business Builder Mastery Course
  • Landscape Photography Mastery Course
  • Travel Photography Mastery Course
  • Portrait Photography Mastery Course

Remember me

  • Forgot Username?
  • Forgot Password?

Get in touch with us

Beginner Photography Projects

Beginner Photography Projects image

 photo by shopformoose via iStock 

While you’re stuck at home self-isolating, it may be the perfect time to start some beginner photography projects.

There are a ton of benefits to photography projects, like learning how to develop your artistic eye or figuring out how to use your photography equipment. 

Plus, being forced to complete simple photography projects at home will teach you how to get especially creative with limited space and resources. 

Here are some of our favorite beginner photography projects for you while you’re stuck indoors.  

Photograph a Rubik’s Cube

photography projects 1 image

This may seem like an odd project to start this list out with but here us out.  

Rubik’s Cubes are cheap. They’re probably readily available to you and they will help you to learn how to use leading lines in your photos.

Leading lines are a wonderful compositional tool that help direct the viewer’s eye deeper into the shot. They’re often used in landscape photography, but can be used to bring attention to any kind of subject.

Recommended Photography Reading

  • National Geographic Photo Basics: The Ultimate Beginner's Guide to Great Photography
  • Photography: The Definitive Visual History
  • Read This if You Want to Take Great Photographs

Master a Still Life 

You should definitely include learning how to shoot a still life in your beginner photography projects checklist. 

You can create a classic still life with fruit and wine, or get more creative with random objects lying around your house. 

Still lifes will help you learn how to compose your images, allow you to work on lighting, and hone your other photography skills too. 

Get some great tips on how to shoot still life photos in the video above by Karl Taylor . 

Take a Self-Portrait

photography projects 2 image

 photo by SolStock via iStock 

Not everyone is comfortable in front of the camera, but taking on a self-portrait project can be hugely beneficial for your photography.

Not only does taking a good self-portrait require you to think about posing, lighting, camera settings, and so forth, but you also have to think about styling, colors, the background , and any props you might want to use. 

Self-portraits are also a great way for you to understand what it’s like being in front of a camera, which will help you as you grow your skills and start to take portraits of other people.

Force Your Kids to Sit for a Session

photography projects for beginners 4 image

Photo by  Caroline Hernandez  on Unsplash 

Okay, you don’t have to force them to sit. In fact, my kids love most of my beginner photography projects because I’ll have them pull out all of their toys and have them go crazy for 15 minutes while I take their photos. 

Letting kids be kids in front of the camera can get you some truly authentic and heartwarming environmental portraits. Besides, everyone likes a good candid portrait now and then too, right? 

Plus, if your little one is like mine and loves to mimic you, then you can pick up this adorable camera for toddlers and let them take photos of you too. 

Photograph Your Pets

photography projects for beginners 5 image

Photo by  T.R Photography  on Unsplash 

Most photography projects for beginners include photographing things you already love and simply trying to find a new way to look at those things. So, why not photograph your adorable pets?

You already post about them on social media enough, so you may as well have some excellent photos of them for your next post.

If you need some help getting your pet to stand still, you can purchase this gadget that attaches a ball to your phone . My dog has never sat more calmly before. 

Again, when you’re trying to learn the fundamentals of portraiture, your pets are a great subject. Cats, in particular, will often sit or lay there as you work your portrait magic!

Get some awesome pet photography tips in the video above by Westcott Lighting .  

Learn More:

  • 4 Photography Mistakes You Need to Quit Making
  • How to Carry A Lot of Camera Gear  

Find Cobwebs

simple photography projects 6 image

Photo by  Jill Dimond  on Unsplash 

Whenever I recommend beginner photography projects to people, I try and make them as practical as possible (especially now). 

Which is why many of my photography project ideas for beginners include the chance to clean up their space.  

Go in search of some cobwebs in your house. You can photograph them and play with lighting before cleaning them up.  

Here’s some cobweb photography ideas to get you started:

  • Photograph through the web toward the rising or setting sun so the light filters through the web
  • Head out to your yard in the early morning to photograph the web covered in dew
  • Use a flashlight to illuminate a cobweb at night for a shot with a bright, white cobweb and a dark background

Shoot the Sunrise From Your Window

simple photography projects 7 image

Photo by  Tarik Haiga  on Unsplash 

There is no better time for finding natural lighting in your home than at sunrise and sunset. 

To shoot romantic photos from inside your home, try and capture the sunrise or sunset from your window. 

You can focus on the scene outside your window and how the morning or evening light interacts with it. 

You can also put a subject - your spouse, a child, your pet - in front of the window to take a beautiful natural light portrait . There might even be opportunities for creating a silhouette.

Just be sure you clean the window beforehand. Nothing ruins an otherwise beautiful indoor photo like nose smudges on the glass!

Look for Reflections

simple photography projects 8 image

Photo by  Maddy Baker  on Unsplash 

Most of these beginner photography projects are all about training your eye for photography, which essentially means seeing your surroundings in a new light.

Go search your house for reflections you can find. This may be in your morning coffee, or it may be your windows. You might find something interesting reflected in the hallway mirror. Chances are there is beauty hiding right around the corner. You just need to find it! 

Practice Sun Stars

photography project ideas 9 image

 photo by Suntammy via iStock 

I’m sure you’ve seen sun star photos before… 

You can create sun stars pretty easily, believe it or not. Don’t believe me? Check out my video tutorial below!

As with many of these photography project ideas for beginners, you’ll find it’s easiest to capture starbursts when you’re using a tripod with your camera (even a cheap one for your iPhone will work). 

Begin a Year-Long Project

photography project ideas 10 image

Photo by  Dan Smedley  on Unsplash 

For those of you who have been participating in beginner photography projects for a while, you’ve probably heard of Project 52. 

It’s when you take a photo every single week for a whole year. Usually, all of these photos will pertain to a specific theme you love.  

If you need some inspiration for your Project 52, the 52 Week Photography Challenge is filled with ideas. 

Try New Angles

photography project ideas 11 image

Photo by  Shitota Yuri  on Unsplash 

Whether you’re shooting from the comfort of your home or are working with a client for the first time, you’ll want to know how to explore different angles. Why not try it now?

Get a step ladder and shoot objects around your house from above. Then, crawl around on the ground to figure out what those objects look like from below.

Doing so will help you appreciate how different perspectives can totally change how a subject looks. 

Explore Negative Space

photography project ideas for beginners 12 image

Photo by  Fabrice Villard  on Unsplash 

Negative space is one of the most intriguing concepts to explore in photography and it is especially difficult to explore in your home, which makes it one of my favorite beginner photography projects.

Negative space is simply blank space around your subject. It helps make the subject stronger in the frame, and is often used to create minimalist compositions.

Get some practical tips for using negative space in photography in the video above by Peter Forsgård .

Capture One Thing, 10 Ways

photography project ideas for beginners 13 image

Photo by  Koen Emmers  on Unsplash 

If some of these beginner photography projects are too easy for you, I promise this one won’t be.

Find one object in your home. Then, try and photograph it in 10 different ways. You’ll definitely want to clear your schedule for this one and have YouTube at the ready! 

Master Silhouettes

photography project ideas for beginners 14 image

If you’re one of the lucky ones that have a yard you can escape to during these times, you can practice capturing silhouettes of your kids, your pets, or strangers on the street.  

If you aren’t one of the lucky ones, you can still work on capturing silhouettes, you’ll just need to do it with your windows or artificial light. 

Happy shooting!  

  • How to Carry A Lot of Camera Gear

Not sure what to photograph next?

Go through our 30-Day Creative Eye Challenge and discover the long last secrets to finding awesome shots, anywhere, anytime (with any camera).

We Recommend

The Benefits of Investing in a Quality ... image

  • Maternity Photography
  • Portrait Photography Master Course

121clicks.com

Top 15 Creative Photography Project Ideas for Beginners

Creative Photography Project Ideas for Beginners

An image without a story is like a blank sheet of paper that doesn’t have any value.

Designing compositions with narratives can be challenging for beginner photographers who are just getting started on this career path. However, working on themed photography projects can help them improve their skills. Such projects can teach them to design consistent compositions with engaging storylines.

This article provides the top 15 creative ideas for photography projects for beginners. You will also get some basic knowledge of essential photography gear and photography tips that will help you with your photography project.

Keep reading to learn!

Creative Photography Project Ideas for Beginners

What Are Photography Projects?

Photography projects are groups of photographs arranged while maintaining a particular category, style, subject, theme, technique, or equipment. The projects can be anything the photographer can imagine working on as long as they convey a story.

For instance, the theme can be street, vintage, or landscape photography; the subject can be children, fruits, flowers, pets, or vehicles; the equipment can be a telephoto, zoom, or film camera; or the style can be lifestyle, portrait, or fashion photography.

However, a photography project doesn’t need to meet only one specific criterion. A photographer is free to incorporate multiple criteria into their project, such as street photography of pets or vintage photos of vehicles.

Working on these projects can be a great way to create a unique collection of photographs that reflect the photographers’ interests, passions, and creativity. Therefore, regardless of the type of project, the photographer’s goal is to establish consistency within the series.

Creative Photography Project Ideas for Beginners

What Are the Benefits of Photography Projects?

Photography projects assist photographers in determining their niche and developing their individual photographic approach. If you are a beginner photographer, you can challenge yourself with photography projects. You can try out one week or one-month-long projects to learn photography basics. However, you can try out the 52 weeks photography project for in-depth learning.

How else can a photography project help you besides teaching you the basics of photography? Let’s learn what other benefits photography projects offer.

Asset for the portfolio

A portfolio is very important for a photographer to establish a photography career. It is the source for showing potential customers their best work. Besides, working on photography projects allows photographers to add more value to their portfolio while giving viewers an idea of their area of expertise.

Improves skills and creativity

Working on photography projects requires creativity to make the project theme or subject unique and eye-catching because hundreds and thousands of other photographers may be there working on similar projects.

However, along with creativity, the photographer needs to have certain skills, such as editing, sequencing and designing, to include their own visual style in their projects. Hence, in the process of creating something extraordinary, photographers’ skills and imagination get polished and result in producing stunning images.

Explore diverse niches

Photography projects are a great source for experimenting with different types and styles of photography. Besides, it helps beginner photographers explore diversified niches and test their abilities and strengths.

The numerous difficulties that come with photography projects also encourage photographers to step outside of their comfort zones and create extraordinary work they may have never imagined they could create one day.

Participate in competitions

Photography competitions are a hotspot for budding and professional photographers. Photographers worldwide participate in different photography contests to showcase their work, establish their names, and build connections.

Photographers can use their photography projects to participate in contests and get their work validated by experts and other photographers. This will help the photographers’ work be recognized and boost their confidence. Moreover, photographers can get funding for their future projects too.

Each contest will have a different theme and to add to the significance and uniqueness of the contest, the organizers will also customize different medals or prizes, or at least famous specific contests and dates. If they win a medal in a photography competition through their work, this will effectively increase their visibility and position in the industry. It will help them in no small way in the future.

Publish a photo book or participate in an exhibition

Photography projects can be used for commercial purposes too. Many photographers put together their photography projects to publish photo books. Since people enjoy watching stories unfold through images, these photo books are popular among photography enthusiasts.

Furthermore, photographers can use images from their projects to participate in exhibitions. They can put their work on display for viewers, and if the image manages to grab their attention, it might end up being purchased.

Top 15 Beginner Photography Project Ideas

Following are the top 15 photography project ideas for beginners that you can try for your upcoming photography projects.

1. Self-portrait photography

Creative Photography Project Ideas for Beginners

Finding subjects can be difficult at times, so why not use yourself as a subject and take self-portraits for your project?

Self-portraits can be a good theme to create your personal story . You can take pictures of yourself from various angles. For instance, mount your camera on a tripod, set a timer, and give your desired poses. Also, you can use reflective surfaces, mirrors, or still water to capture your reflection.

However, self-portraits are not limited to capturing your face and body. You can create artistic self-portrait compositions by photographing specific body parts, such as the eyes, half-face, hands, legs, or other gestures, expressions, or emotions.

2. Your furry friends (Pet) photography

Creative Photography Project Ideas for Beginners

Pets like cats, dogs, hamsters, ferrets, or birds all have their own charm. People love to see pet photographs as they are mostly candid and genuine. So, shooting pets can be a fun photography project for beginners.

Similar to humans, pets’ eyes are a gateway to their souls. Their eyes express their playful nature and emotions the most. Hence, when shooting pets, keep the focus on their eyes. Make sure to ensure their comfort as well. Use their favorite snacks or toys as a treat to keep them calm and happy.

Moreover, it would be best if you photographed them in natural light. To capture their natural activities, try to maintain silence and take pictures from a distance.

3. Panoramic photos

Creative Photography Project Ideas for Beginners

If you are interested in photographing landscapes, consider using the panoramic photography technique for your project. Although telephoto or wide-angle lenses can capture distant landscapes or wide-angle images, they cannot provide the same field of view as panorama photos. Hence, working on panoramic photography projects can give your project a unique perspective.

The shooting process for panoramas is different from other photography types. You have to position your camera vertically for the best results and maintain the level of the camera. For that, you must use a sturdy tripod.

Besides, panoramic images require the merging of multiple images. Therefore, you have to shoot each scene in such a way that one-third or 15–30% of the scenes overlap with the adjacent scenes to ensure there are no gaps in your images. Also, moving the panning direction from left to right makes merging easier for photo stitching software.

4. Sunrise & Sunset photos

Creative Photography Project Ideas for Beginners

Sunrise and sunset photography can create a fantastic project theme for landscape photography enthusiasts. The location’s position, the cloud’s structure, the foreground elements—everything together- make every sunset and sunrise photograph unique.

When shooting sunset or sunrise, select a location from which you will get an unobstructed view of the horizon. It’s best to shoot from the top of a hill or mountain because you can use the mountain, trees, or ocean as your foreground element to make the image aesthetic.

Want to add some drama to your sunset or sunrise photographs?

  • Use manual camera settings, such as manual focus, high aperture for greater depth of field, fast shutter speed, medium ISO, etc.
  • Make the foreground elements or clouds underexposed.
  • Shoot in bizarre weather like a sky filled with storm clouds.
  • Design the composition according to the rule of thirds.

5. Cityscapes

Creative Photography Project Ideas for Beginners

If you have a wide-angle lens, telephoto lens, or drone, you can try shooting cityscapes for your photo project. The diverse skylines, streets, lakes, rivers, hovering skyscrapers, bridges, and expressways are all part of the cityscapes that give a different aesthetic to the photographs.

You can experiment with different vantage points to make the location unique. For instance, you can shoot from street level, the top of a building, or along the waterfront. Especially at night, when the entire city is lit up, the city lights stand out against the dark sky, and the reflection of the city along the waterfront appears the best.

Moreover, cityscapes look their best in all types of photography, whether it be abstract, during the golden hour, in bad weather, at night, or during the day. All you need to do is ensure that the image is clear of all distractions to shoot breathtaking cityscapes.

6. Water photography (Rain, River, Ocean, etc.)

Creative Photography Project Ideas for Beginners

Despite having no shape or color, water can captivate people with its various forms of beauty. The movement or flow of water, its interaction with light, and its location make all the difference.

You can use rainfall, ocean waves, spring flow, or reflections of sunlight on the water to design different themes and create amazing stories. For example, shooting raindrops can be a great macro photography project for beginners.

Some creative ideas for water photography are-

  • Water droplets on a glass
  • Dropping objects on still water to create a splash effect
  • Waves crashing against a seawall or on the shore
  • Hair flipping in a pool, river, or beach
  • Spring water flowing down hills
  • Reflection of sky or landscape in still water bodies

Note: Use a waterproof shield or plastic bag to protect the camera from getting damaged. In case the lens gets wet, keep a microfiber cloth nearby to wipe it off.

7. Food photography

Creative Photography Project Ideas for Beginners

If you can’t decide on the subject or theme for your project, go for food photography. This can be an excellent photography idea at home, as you neither have to travel long distances like landscape photographers nor stay awake for the whole night to shoot the sunrise.

Natural lighting is best for photographing food. But if you have a strobe light, you can use that too. Just make sure to keep the background simple. To give the food items a pop of color, you can use their key ingredients as props.

You can also try the following to make the images more tempting:

  • Flat lay shots
  • Low angle shots
  • Macro or close-up shots
  • Food in the air
  • Dripping or melting
  • Center framing
  • Rule of thirds
  • Rule of odds
  • Golden triangle

However, if you don’t want to deal with the hassle of cooking or spend money on fancy tableware, you can photograph food items at restaurants.

8. Black & white photography

Creative Photography Project Ideas for Beginners

If you want to hit the emotions of your viewers with your project, black-and-white photography can be a great initiative. This vintage-style monochrome photography technique makes the viewers nostalgic and gives them the feeling of traveling to the past.

Moreover, the different shades of gray help to bring the viewers’ focus to the subject, shapes, texture, etc.—without causing any distraction. You can shoot in the camera’s black-and-white mode or convert your images to black-and-white with the help of photo editing software.

9. Abstract photography

Creative Photography Project Ideas for Beginners

If you’re looking for unusual photography ideas for your project, try abstract photography. People love to see mysteries. And mystery is a key component of abstract images. However, it can be challenging because maintaining visual balance, proportion, appropriate lighting, angle of view, and other elements is essential, along with using a lot of creativity.

You can try capturing motion, experimenting with everyday objects or places, or shooting through objects such as glass, water, or objects with different shapes. Abstract photography ideas can come anytime and anywhere. Since it is not possible to always carry a camera, you can try phone photography.

10. Photograph house plants & flowers

Creative Photography Project Ideas for Beginners

Do you need ideas for indoor photography projects for beginners? Try out photographing house plants. You can document the growth of your house plants, like the first time you planted them, how they sprout, bear flowers, and so on.

You can also search around your neighborhood, the gardens of your friends and family, or flower fields to look for different types of flowers. Photograph them during the golden hour or take macro shots with water droplets on the petals or leaves to give them a unique perspective.

11. Extreme weather conditions

Creative Photography Project Ideas for Beginners

Unexpected dramatic events result from extreme weather conditions, such as thunderstorms, wildfires, tornadoes, snowstorms, sandstorms, etc. Photographing such weather conditions is highly recommended if you want to add thrill to your photography project.

Usually, these visuals are rare for ordinary viewers. That’s why it’s an effective source for making people stun with dramatic, jaw-dropping natural calamities.

12. The sky is the limit

Creative Photography Project Ideas for Beginners

Photographing the sky can be considered an easy photography project for beginners. Every day, different patterns of clouds form. Depending on the lighting, the beauty of these clouds appears differently. You can combine sky photography with cityscapes, landscapes, weather, and other types of photography.

The golden hour is the ideal time to capture dramatic sky photography. During this period of the day, the sun remains closer to the horizon, giving the sky a yellow, orange, and red look, which multiplies the beauty of the sky tenfold.

13. Shadows or silhouette photography

Creative Photography Project Ideas for Beginners

Shadow photography can be combined with other photographic styles, such as self-portraits, abstracts, or black-and-white photography. You can create an entire series of shadow images for your projects, be it by photographing your own shadow on the wall or using patterns created using grids, fabric, or fences.

You can add mystery to your self-portraits by casting shadows on your face or creating silhouettes, which will only make the shape of your body visible. This photography style is also suitable for architectural photography. The change in the position of the sun creates different shapes and patterns. You can use them to give the images a unique perspective.

14. Find Cobwebs

Creative Photography Project Ideas for Beginners

One of the most intriguing forms of natural architecture is spider webs. These webs can be a good subject for both macro and mobile photography ideas for beginners.

These fascinating webs can be found in different sizes and patterns. However, only the web could look flat and dull. So, to give the webs an intriguing abstract effect, keep an eye out for webs that have trapped insects or other elements like dew, sunlight, etc.

15. Everyday moments

Creative Photography Project Ideas for Beginners

Lifestyle photography or photographing everyday moments can add a slice of life to your photography project. You can capture genuine moments with family members, friends, pets, or fun times with siblings.

Photographing daily moments can work as an excellent photography project to do at home for beginners. It can keep you motivated to shoot regularly and improve your photography skills. Besides, you can preserve these precious memories for the future.

If you prefer visual learning, here is a video with tips. You can watch it here:

Essential Pieces Of Gear Every Beginner Photographer Needs

Creative Photography Project Ideas for Beginners

Photography can be a lengthy process at times. Hence, carrying some essential photography equipment can help prevent casualties in emergency situations.

Let’s check out what equipment do you need as a beginner photographer.

The all-rounder 50 mm lens

The best lens for a beginner to use when starting with photography is the 50mm lens. The focal length of this lens falls somewhere between a wide-angle and a telephoto lens.

It is appropriate for almost all types of photography, including candid, landscape, street, panorama, and portrait shots. Therefore, you won’t need to swap lenses between shoots if you have a 50mm lens.

Memory card

It takes several attempts to capture the perfect image. Besides, high-resolution images take up a lot of space. Therefore, carrying an extra memory card is essential because you wouldn’t want to go through all of your photos and delete some of them to free up space.

Flash or manual flash

Images may not turn out exactly as you had hoped due to a lack of light. That’s why it’s a good idea to bring a portable strobe or manual flash along with your photography gear to meet your lighting needs. The benefit of using a manual flash is that you can control the light intensity despite your camera settings.

Card Reader

A card reader helps move pictures from the camera to your hard drive or computer faster than a USB cable. Besides, you don’t have to worry about your camera’s battery running out or not using the camera during the image-transferring process.

Flash Drive or hard disk

Carrying a flash drive or hard disk is important for photographers whose projects require extensive travel over a long period of time. You can keep a backup of your photographs in case your memory card gets damaged or pictures get deleted accidentally.

Creative Photography Project Ideas for Beginners

Essential photography tips for beginners

The following are some helpful photography tips for beginners photographers that will help them with their photography projects.

Use an existing camera or phone

The success of photography depends on a photographer’s ability to design effective compositions. Therefore, as a beginner, you should practice taking photos with whatever camera or smartphone you own rather than investing in a high-tech camera.

No matter how advanced your camera or lens is, keep in mind that your photos won’t turn out well until you have mastered the fundamentals of photography.

Experiment with and without flash

Flash is a great way to add more light if the composition’s frame is too dark. However, the improper use of flash can sometimes cause a washed-out effect on the images. Also, if the flash directly hits your subject’s eyes, it can cause a red-eye effect. So, take photos with and without flash to see which one looks best.

Try something innovative

Usual or straightforward photographs are boring. They lack elements that can stimulate the viewer’s attention or emotion. So it’s important to think differently and try photographing from a different perspective. You can experiment with various vantage points, angles, and compositional rules, which viewers usually don’t get to see on their own.

Try to use an ultra-wide, macro, mid, or long-range lens

You can experiment with different categories of lenses, such as taking close-up shots with a macro lens, landscape shots with a wide-angle or telephoto lens, and so on. As a beginner photographer, you should start sharpening your lens with techniques while experimenting with different lenses.

Try to use natural light

Whether your photography project is based indoors or outdoors, natural light is always the best light source. Although you have complete control over the position and intensity of artificial lights, there is no substitute for the realistic feel that comes from natural light. Hence, make an effort to use natural light whenever you can.

Spend time with other photographers

Every photographer has some knowledge to offer. Meet with other photographers and spend time with them to learn about their photography techniques. You can collaborate with them to explore the various photography techniques they have expertise in and practice with their gear. This will strengthen your networking while also assisting you in developing your skills.

Creative Photography Project Ideas for Beginners

Final Verdict

Every type of photography requires certain equipment, location availability, the photographer’s level of expertise, and so on. Considering all these aspects, we have stated the above photography project ideas.

Hopefully, this article has helped you generate ideas for your photography project. Remember, whatever theme you choose, complete it in a fun-loving way.

Author: Lisa Rose

Related Articles:

  • How to Increase Blur To Sharpen Better: An Unique Photoshop Trick!
  • 7 Tips For Posing Male Models: Video Tutorial
  • 8 Unbelievable Photography Hacks That Anyone Can Do!
  • 8 Creative Ideas Of Shrunk Subject Photography: Video Tutorial
  • 8 DIY Lighting Tricks For Creative Photography: Video Tutorial
  • Learning & Tutorials
  • photography beginners
  • Photography Tips
  • Photography Tutorials

Related Posts

Study Habits Of Successful Students

Top 5 Study Habits Of Successful Students

You Must Ask Your Wedding Photographer

10 Things You Must Ask Your Wedding Photographer

Epic Landscape Photos Tips

This Photographer Shows 5 Steps To Take Absolutely Epic Landscape Photos

10 Photography Project Ideas To Boost Your Creativity

10 Photography Project Ideas To Boost Your Creativity

Are you stuck in a creative rut? Want to get your artistic mojo back? Sometimes the solution is as easy as shooting something different. Whether you’re a beginner photographer or an expert just looking to get your creative juices flowing, a photography project can help you achieve that and more. It allows you to brush up on your photography skills, focus on your craft, innovate fresh solutions, and create something unique against your typical photography work. The results can be beautiful and memorable. Let’s jump right into different types of photography projects, photography project ideas, and how to prepare for them.

Table of Contents

What is a Photography Project?

photography projects ideas

A photography project is a series of images sequenced to tell a specific story. The theme or subject of the photography project can vary depending on the photographer’s passions and goals. The project can range in the number of images and span any amount of time.

Types of Photography Projects 

There are many different types of photography projects you can choose from. Let’s take a look at a few you may want to consider as you start thinking about your project.

365-Day or 52-Week Projects

30-day projects, pick a theme.

photography projects ideas

Pick a Subject

A musical song or album, book inspiration, movie inspiration, a-z project, use one lens, a day in the life, how to prepare for a photography project.

photography projects ideas

Depending on the type of photography project you wish to pursue, prepare as much as you can and make a general plan to set you up for success. Keep these tips in mind as you begin to plan for your photography project.

Give Yourself Time

Organize details, allow time for the unexpected to happen, allow for spontaneous moments, photography project ideas  .

A creative photography project can come in all shapes, sizes, and formats. Whether you’re looking for photography ideas at home or looking for photography project ideas for college, we’ve curated some of the best photography project ideas you can try out yourself.

Water Drop Art

photography projects ideas

Make Your Own Filters

photography projects ideas

Flowers in Ice

photography projects ideas

Puddle Reflection

photography projects ideas

Fragment Art

photography projects ideas

Street Sign Art

photography projects ideas

Zoom Burst Art

photography projects ideas

How To Edit Your Photos With Picsart 

Ready to edit your photography project photos? Follow these easy instructions to get started.

photography projects ideas

2) Upload a photo and crop to fit, then select an editing tool to enhance your image, such as Light Effects .

photography projects ideas

Editing with your mobile device? Follow this step-by-step guide instead.

1) Open the Picsart app and tap on the plus sign at the bottom of your screen.

2) Upload the image you’d like to edit and tap fx .

3) Choose your desired effect and long press to adjust the levels to your satisfaction.

photography projects ideas

4) Add Stickers , Shapes , and any other extras you need.

5) Scroll through the other editing options and select any Masks, Brushes, Lens Flare, or other finishing touches you need.

6) Done editing your photo? Click Apply at the top right to save or post your edit.

photography projects ideas

Create at the Speed of Culture

Picsart is a full ecosystem of free-to-use content, powerful tools, and creator inspiration. With a billion downloads and more than 150 million monthly active creators, Picsart is the world’s largest creative platform. Picsart has collaborated with major artists and brands like BLACKPINK, Taylor Swift, the Jonas Brothers, Lizzo, Ariana Grande, Jennifer Lopez, One Direction, Sanrio: Hello Kitty, Warner Bros. Entertainment, iHeartMedia, Condé Nast, and more. Download the app or start editing on web today to enhance your photos and videos with thousands of quick and easy editing tools, trendy filters, fun stickers, and brilliant backgrounds. Unleash your creativity and upgrade to Gold for premium perks!

Katia Nazari

Create a Swirled Planet Wallpaper from Your Own Photo

Create a Swirled Planet Wallpaper from Your Own Photo

Trendy Fonts: 10 Amazing Fonts For 2022 and How To Work With Them

Trendy Fonts: 10 Amazing Fonts For 2022 and How To Work With Them

Browse Related Articles

How to Use Our AI Video Generator

How to Use Our AI Video Generator

The Ultimate Toolkit for Solopreneurs

The Ultimate Toolkit for Solopreneurs

How to Edit Youtube Videos for Beginners - Youtube Series

How to Edit Youtube Videos for Beginners - Youtube Series

Upgrading Your Online Ads with Picsart's AI Tools

Upgrading Your Online Ads with Picsart's AI Tools

Picsart's New AI Font Selection for Valentine's Day

Picsart's New AI Font Selection for Valentine's Day

How to use ai gif generator.

  • Accessories
  • Camera Reviews
  • Become a Photographer
  • Photo Editing
  • Photography 101
  • Photography Tips
  • Astrophotography
  • Travel Photography
  • Livestreaming & YouTube
  • Video Cameras
  • Video Lenses
  • Video Monitors
  • Video Lighting
  • Streaming Accessories
  • Videography
  • Audio for Video
  • Microphones
  • Desktop & Laptop
  • Console Gaming
  • iPads & Tablets
  • Televisions
  • Camera News
  • Adorama Business
  • Adorama Rentals
  • 800.223.2500

8 Photography Project Ideas to Try in 2024

photography projects ideas

The holidays may be in full swing, but for many creatives, this season is just as much about dreaming and planning as it is cookies and jolly movies. The New Year symbolizes a fresh slate, with myriad creative photo and video pursuits to enjoy. Goals and business mapping are essential for  creative businesses  to thrive. Equally important is experimentation with your own personal photography projects.

We scoured the Internet and social media to find creators’ most interesting and out-of-the-box personal New Year’s projects. From daily sketches to photographing strangers, here are eight creative project ideas to try in 2024 .

Photograph Every Sunrise 

In January 2019, Michigan-based photographer  Bugsy Sailor  set an intention: watch every sunrise for one year. It started as a 365-day commitment, but evolved into a streak of 1,718 sunrises with near-daily photos from every morning. Yet imagery was only part of the equation:

“It has never been about the photos….It has been about the wind on my face, the sand between my toes, and feeling the sunrise while being present in nature.” Sailor says on his website,  Year of the Sunrise

To experience this meditative creative practice, find an easily reachable sunrise perch— or sunset if you’re more of a night owl—and set your alarms (and charge your gear) accordingly. 

photography projects ideas

Take a Daily Self-Portrait 

From Jan. 11, 2000 to Jan. 11, 2020, photographer  Noah Kalina  took daily  self-portraits  then stitched two decades’ worth of imagery together via an eight-minute video. The final video garnered over 12 million views on  YouTube ; publications like  CNN  and  Business Insider  featured the work of art, too. Kalina released periodic videos over the course of the project, which he started at age 19 and finished at 39.  He eventually launched the  Everyday project website  to house the historic imagery in one place.

While starting a 20-year project can feel daunting, you can dabble into the craft in baby steps. Try documenting life with a self-portrait every day, or every week, in 2024. Add your own personal spin to it, such as a small text box to describe your mood or emotion of the day. By Dec. 31, 2024, your regular portraits could become a journal of your year. 

Join the 100 Strangers Project

Meeting new people is both intimidating and enriching. To make it easier in 2024, try the 100 Strangers project. Like  Humans of New York , the brainchild of photographer Brandon Stanton, the  100 Strangers project  challenges photographers to get out in their community, take portraits of strangers, then share the imagery and stories via the project’s  Flickr group .

The project isn’t about snapping 100 photos as quickly as possible. It’s about meeting these strangers, learning their stories, and, of course, getting their permission to photograph them. Once you do, you can share your project updates via the Flickr group, which has over 15,000 members and 47,500 photos. The group is centered on improving social and technical photography skills, particularly for those interested in  portrait photography .

photography projects ideas

Sketch Daily Memories

Your camera is great for pausing moments, but it’s not the only tool with time-freezing capabilities. This is something writer, photographer, and illustrator  Candace Rose Rardon  learned through her project 40 Days of Moments. For Easter season’s Lent in 2017, Rardon decided to give up her camera for 40 days—relying instead on her sketchbook. She sketched one moment from every day for nearly two months. The project taught Rardon to slow down and view her surroundings differently:

“I love how sketching makes time stand still, and how it can help us live more fully and deeply in each moment.” Rardon  says in a post about the project .

If you can’t give up your camera entirely, try swapping your camera for a sketchbook even one day a week—say, Sunday—for 2024. Find a scene, or recall one from the week via your camera, then sketch it in a cozy, quiet spot. Spend the next week searching for a sketch scene, then repeat. Rardon used hand sketching, but you can also try a  drawing tablet .

Collect 100 Rejections

So often, creative business goals center on nailing the big wins—landing a brand deal, securing a new client, or nailing a fresh partnership. Yet author and podcast host  Valorie Clark  suggests a different approach: collect rejections. Try to receive 100 rejections within the year. This can normalize rejection and may reward you when putting yourself out there for big, lofty projects. Follow Clark’s  Collected Rejections newsletter , including the 100-rejection-challenge check-ins, for accountability and community. 

While Clark’s newsletter centers on writing, the concept of gathering rejections applies to virtually all crafts. To use it in your own business, create a pitch spreadsheet to log your outreach. Include a column for projects that are accepted, and one for projects that are rejected. Tally up the rejections and review it every month, then ask important questions: Are you pushing yourself enough? What have you learned along the way? For extra inspiration, watch  Jia Jiang’s TEDX Talk  on lessons from his own 100 days of rejection pursuit.

photography projects ideas

Try 365 Days of Art

Inspired by the book “ 365 Days of Art: A Creative Exercise for Every Day of the Year ,” YouTuber  The Cassie Projects spent 2023 sharing daily art projects—from sketching sounds to drawing simple shapes using the wrong hand. The challenge was designed to help creatives dabble into new art forms. It’s even better if you share the process on social media to engage followers and grow your community.

Grab your copy of the book and the book’s listed supplies, then set the intention to follow through with roughly ten minutes of art per day. Follow  The Cassie Projects’ experience  to see what your year of art will unfold. 

photography projects ideas

Photograph with Monthly Color Themes

Try a twist on  the one-photo-a-day concept —often known as the  365 project —with a unique, colorful challenge. Find a specific hue to photograph every day, week, or month, and do so consistently. Searching for these  themed colors pushes you to examine the world through a different lens. Photographer  Courtney Slazinik  of  Click It Up A Notch learned all about this through her “building a rainbow” project in 2017. She snapped a photo with a specific hue every day, following ROYGBIV order and repeating for the month. The result was a rainbow-hued collection of photographs that go beyond your everyday snaps.

You can mimic Slazinik’s experience for the first month of the year, or make it a full-year project with monthly color themes. Both options will challenge you to seek unexpected subjects to photograph—such as a yellow sunrise, yellow bananas, and a friend in a yellow shirt one month, then purple grapes, a purply-pink night sky, and violet flowers the next. Curate your photos via the  365 Project website . By the end of the year, you’ll have a visually stunning collection to enjoy. 

Create a Timelapse Compilation

In 2015, artist and filmmaker  Panagiotis Filippou  used his  Nikon kit  to create a viral night-sky timelapse consolidating one year of nightscapes into a five-minute video—all dedicated to his father, who lost the battle with cancer. The film, Greek Skies, won multiple awards for its astronomical awe and heartfelt backstory.

You can  replicate the 365-day timelapse  in the New Year, too. Find a subject that interests you, such as night skies like Filippou or landscape photos in your nearby park. Then, take one photo of the exact same scene every day to show how the landscape changes through the seasons. Or, snap a compilation of scenes—such as different spots in your neighborhood park each day—then stitch the film together when the year ends. 

Stephanie Vermillion

Stephanie Vermillion

You might also like.

photography projects ideas

Best Multipurpose 8K Cameras

photography projects ideas

How to Fix Halos in Photoshop

photography projects ideas

Biggest U.S. Photography Conventions in 2024

photography projects ideas

Wedding Photography Etiquette: What You Should (And Shouldn’t) Do 

18 Creative Photography Ideas for Beginners to Improve Their Skills

Coming up with photography ideas can be tough for beginners. These 18 creative ideas will help you find a photography subject in no time!

You've got new photography gear. You might have even taken some lessons in basic photography. But it can be difficult to get cool beginner photography ideas, whether you're at home, college, or work. It seems like such a simple thing to do, but figuring out where to point your camera or smartphone can be surprisingly difficult.

These photography ideas for beginners will have you snapping away in no time. From toys to animals to the night sky, cool photography ideas abound. All you need to do is start snapping!

1. A Rubik's Cube

Start with something simple. Many of us have a Rubik's cube lying around. If not, they're cheap!

Art lessons often begin with renderings of cubes or spheres with one or two sources of light casting shadows to immortalize. A Rubik's cube gives photographers a similar challenge, albeit also showing off your camera's ability to capture startling colors.

Its crisp lines will also introduce you to the concept of leading lines !

2. Still Life

Still life glass canisters

Once you've mastered one object, it's time to throw more into a composition. We're once more taking inspiration from art courses.

A still life is simply a collection of items, typically against a plain backdrop. Fruit is a reliable example, but you could use books, old electronic hardware, or busts.

Experiment with different lighting. Adjust the proximity of a lamp and ask, how do the shadows change? Which objects are highlighted, and which are hidden? How would the piece look with the lamp as part of the still life?

The items you've chosen say a lot about you. Paul Cézanne's interest in skulls spoke of his fascination with mortality. Steve McCurry's broken sculptures speak of lost societies. Vincent van Gogh's obsession with sunflowers summed up a tortured attitude to life.

Skulls are too morbid, but what do your still life shots tell the viewers about you?

3. Self-Portrait

Self-portrait with coffee

All art is a reflections: of creators, of consumers, of civilizations. That extends to self-portraits. So we'll take a moment here to tackle one of the most common (and controversial) photography subjects of modern life. We're talking, of course, about the selfie.

You may consider there to be very little skill in portraying yourself. Yet a vast wealth of talented folk have used self-portraits to uncover a hidden side of themselves. What expression are you making? What's in the background? What's the focus of your piece?

This will also help you get to grips with your camera's timer or selfie mode.

Related: Photography Terms All Photographers Should Know

4. Your Own Children

You've taken a self-portrait. How do you apply those skills to other people?

Your own kids are perfect subjects. If you haven't got children, ask a relative if they'd mind you taking some photos of their kids. Children differ drastically---not just in age, but in temperament and energy too.

You'll naturally want to capture your kids having fun. But what about those more intimate moments when they're worried, reading, or listening to music? These are perfect times to practice some of your creative photography at home.

Get their consent first though.

Crowd in arena

You've mastered taking a portrait of one or two people. Now try a crowd.

People are unruly. Even in a straight line, we stop and start at strange intervals. We suddenly change direction, begin conversations or break off from them, and deviate from directions.

You'll find an infinite supply of photography ideas in any crowd. Capture the movement of the crowd itself. Look for interesting shots of individuals. How do people behave? What makes some stand out? How does a large mass of humanity differ from a single person?

You're capturing people in their natural habitat: together.

6. Moving Vehicles

Moving vehicles

Vehicles offer a wide color palette, interesting lines, reflections, textures, and many other facets that photographers love.

But moving cars are another challenge entirely.

What's the main point of interest? Does an entirely blurred composition demonstrate what you're trying to achieve? Or does having one aspect in focus make the rest of the image "speed up"? Capturing moving objects will also make you experiment with shutter speeds.

Related:  How to Find Photos to Study by Lens, Aperture, Shutter Speed, and Genre

7. Carnivals

man at a carnival ride

Fun fairs are always better on gloomy evenings. They're more challenging for beginners and professional photographers too. You have to think about shutter speeds and composition, and add ISO into the mix.

ISO is the sensor's sensitivity to light. The higher the ISO, the better your camera will be at shooting in the dark. But higher ISO results in more "noise," grains that pockmark an image.

With lots going on all around you, you'll want to be ambitious. Restrain yourself. Remember: there's beauty in simplicity.

You've mastered people. Now try animals.

If you're looking for fun photography ideas, you can't go wrong with photographing pets. Candid shots are ideal. Trying to direct your animals to obtain a particular composition is equally challenging.

Get onto the same level as your pet. Aim to capture eyes. They're great focal points.

The best results come from extremes. Get up close or stand back: the former gives unusually intimate insight into the animal world; the latter gives context and shows playfulness.

Spider web with dew

This is one of the most difficult photography assignments you'll attempt. Why? Because you're trying to capture a virtually intangible object.

We often can't see cobwebs with the naked eye, so how can your camera do it?

The obvious answer is moisture in the air. That means early mornings or late evenings when a mist is settling on the land. Don't spray water onto them: let nature take its course.

Factor in light. Where should its source be to illuminate your subject?

10. Sunrise and Sunset

If you're trying to shoot cobwebs in the mornings and nights, there's a perfect subject in the sky: the sun.

It's dazzling. What's more, it leaves gorgeous colors streaking across the roof of the world, especially as it rises and sets. In fact, if you're ever struggling for motivation, look up. That's your challenge.

Don't look at or point your camera directly at the sun when it's high in the sky.

Have patience. A "second sunset" occurs 20–30 minutes after the sun goes below the horizon, and will produce great results.

Don't be afraid to take lots of images. You may only be happy with one in 50, but that's one of the great things about digital and mobile photography.

11. Reflections

Playing with reflections in pictures offers an opportunity for presenting unique perspectives.

Combine reflection photography experiments with the sunrise or sunset and you can create numerous points of interest and end up with a bright, rich final product. Use mirrors for every situation on this list and you might carve out an interesting niche.

12. Fountains

beautiful stone fountain sculpture

When it comes to creative photography ideas, it's hard to beat water. It contains infinite changing lines. It reflects light in interesting ways. It's found in so many contexts.

Fountains are a good place to start. If you miss one freeze-frame, you'll get the chance again imminently. This allows you time to prepare yourself. Start with a shutter speed of 1/500 of a second and a lower ISO: you'll capture enough detail without detracting from the overall effect.

A lower aperture typically gives you a deeper depth of field---great in natural light, but less so under artificial illumination.

campfire crackle embers

Let's turn our attentions to another unpredictable element: fire.

Take safety precautions. Make sure you're in a well-ventilated area and can put out the flames easily. Don't mess around. Better yet, simply take pictures of a candle or your home's fireplace.

Begin with a shutter speed of at least 1/250 for capturing individual flames or smoke. A slower speed will help if you want to show the full glow. What happens when fire is the sole light source?

14. Weather Extremes

Snow-covered cityscape

All extremes are great to photograph: the light and the dark, anger and happiness, construction and destruction. Few things are as extreme as the weather.

You don't have to live in hurricane territory to show the ferocity of nature. There are loads of photography ideas in more mundane weather. A deluge of rainfall is as interesting as a monsoon. So too signs of drought. Photography is about documenting the world around us,; if there's one thing that unites us, it's the weather.

Most conditions don't last long and come without much warning, so be ready! Snow may stick around for days, but its fall can come and go intermittently in minutes.

15. Graffiti

This is divisive. For some, it's art. For others, it's vandalism. Either way, it's a perfect photography assignment for beginners.

No matter your view, you can get a point across. Should you crop close? Do you give wider context? What's in the background or foreground? This is about storytelling.

If you intend to profit from your photos, however, research copyright laws. Some graffiti artists attempt to trademark their work.

16. Cityscapes

Night harbor cityscape

Skylines are compelling, evocative, and nostalgic. If you've got time, stay in a position for much of the day. See how the light changes the composition and think about which you want to retain on film.

Get low to portray incredible scale or intimidation. Overlook an intersection to show how busy or empty something is. Search for leading lines or patterns to draw the eye.

17. Woodland

Woods are microcosms of life!

There's the grand scope of trunks, the rough bark, branches twisting up, and leafy veins. Daylight or twilight are excellent times to shoot, but using an artificial source of light at night might give you unusual pics.

18. Astronomical Events

Night sky with trees

At night, look up. Isn't it amazing? Capturing the infinite wonder of space? Now, there's a challenge. How do you photograph stars and natural satellites?

Start with a tripod. You'll need different ISO and aperture settings depending on what you're trying to photograph.

Start with our moon. Set your DSLR to its base ISO---likely either 100 or 200. If it's the former, you'll require a shutter speed of 1/125. For the latter, 1/250. Accompany both with an aperture of f/11.

There's too much to go into here, but as long as you're inspired, you're doing it right. But if you want to delve deeper, check out our article on tips for better night sky photographs .

Discover Your Own Photography Ideas

Mix things up by combining a few of these ideas together. Experimental is the key.

And if you've experimented with all these situations, you're not a beginner anymore. You're an experienced photographer.

  • Student Successes
  • My Learning

32 Best Portrait Photography Ideas in 2024 (Themes & Tips)

photography projects ideas

You can also select your interests for free access to our premium training:

We’ve curated a whole heap of creative portrait photography ideas to ignite your imagination. Portrait photography is one of the most rewarding types of photography. It’s a rich discipline that allows you to tell stories, explore personalities, and create characters.

But even portrait photographers suffer from a lack of inspiration from time to time. When the spark has gone, your camera can sit idle for weeks, months, or even years. That’s a sorry state of affairs and not one we like to encourage.

But that’s exactly why we’ve listed these fantastic portrait photography ideas. They’re a great way for beginners to find their feet with portraiture to develop skills and open their minds. These portrait ideas will help any photographer suffering from a creative block.

Portrait of man in a blue beret holding a Minolta camera

32 Best Portrait Photography Ideas

These 32 portrait photography ideas are aimed at invigorating your creativity. Whether you’re stuck in a ruck or want to take your portraiture in a new direction, these ideas are the perfect starting point.

You can try one or two or even try all 32. The main thing is that you pick up your camera and enjoy the art of portrait photography.

1. Use a Shallow Depth of Field to Emphasize a Subject

A photo’s depth of field determines how much of your scene is in focus. If you have a deep depth of field, everything from the foreground to the background is in focus.

Only the subject is in focus when you have a shallow depth of field. The background and foreground will be out of focus. This blurred background effect is often called “bokeh” or the bokeh effect.

Using a shallow depth of field is a great way to highlight your subject within the image. A perfectly focused subject stands out from a blurred bokeh background. It softens the outer areas of the image, removing distractions. And it provides a contrast to the sharply focused subject.

The best way to achieve a shallow depth of field is to use a wide aperture. Just how wide you can stretch your aperture depends on the lens you’re using. But even apertures like f/4 give you the desired bokeh background.

Read more about what depth of field is in our article . And you can also read our guide to creating the bokeh effect in your photographs .

Portrait of young blond girl using shallow depth of field

2. Indulge in Self-Portrait Photography for Self-Exploration

Finding willing models is one of the biggest challenges when taking portraits. But that challenge is completely removed if you are your model and take self-portraits.

The “selfie” has come to dominate social media. Many now think self-portraits are only used to make yourself look good online.

But the self-portrait can be so much more than just a selfie. While you are the model, the “original you” doesn’t have to be the subject. You can wear costumes to create characters and alter-egos.

You can also design sets and scenes to make them more interesting, transforming your bedroom or lounge into a self-portrait studio.

You can see our full article about self-portrait ideas . And you check out all the best professional self-portrait photographers for more inspiration . They set new limits on what’s possible in self-portrait photography.

Two self-portraits on young woman using different poses

3. Hone Skills With Classic Headshots

The classic headshot is a staple of portrait photography. They might seem dull and uninteresting to many. But headshots are a great place to start if you’re new to portrait photography. A headshot portrait looks simple. But getting them right is far from easy.

You have to make someone look their best within the standard portrait format. You can’t play with composition. And you can’t rely on elaborate costumes or scenery to make them interesting. You have to rely on your basic portrait photography skills.

Shooting headshots is the perfect way to master the basics if you’re new to portrait photography. But even seasoned portrait artists can learn more by shooting headshots. The limitations force you to keep things simple.

Headshot photography can also be one of the most lucrative types of portrait photography. Budding actors or models always need professional headshots for portfolios and casting applications. They’ll be willing to pay if the headshots are good.

You can see a classic three-light headshot below. We have a whole list of headshot poses to experiment with. You can shoot personal headshots . And there’s a full how-to guide on professional headshot photography .

Three-light headshot of middle-aged man in black and white

4. Perfect Profile Pictures for Social Media

Social media has become one of the most popular places for socializing. But social media isn’t just for keeping up with friends. People use it to find work and create a public profile.

That’s why a profile picture is so important. It needs to show you in your best light so you’re giving people the best side of yourself.

You might want different profile pictures for different social media platforms. You might want something fun and light for Instagram and something more serious for Linkedin. Master the art of profile pictures with our full article .

Portrait of woman in heart sunglasses in front of a tree with yellow flowers

5. Shoot in Black and White for a New Challenge

Black-and-white photography poses a new challenge if you’re used to shooting in color. You don’t have vibrant hues and tones to help you attract attention.

Shooting in black and white makes you highlight other aspects to make your photos interesting. That’s true for all types of photography, but especially portraiture.

Shooting portraits in black and white allows you to experiment with contrast. You can use deep, rich blacks against harsh whites. Or you can look for more subtle tones within the grey scale. It’s also best to look for texture within your images to add interest.

Black-and-white portraits also have a timeless quality that adds intrigue and romance. Unless there’s a giveaway in the image, it can be hard to tell if the picture was taken in 2024 or 1974.

If this is something you want to explore, check out our full guide on how to shoot black-and-white portraits .

Black and white portrait of young woman with braided hair

6. Don’t Be Scared to Shoot Outdoor Portraits

You might be accustomed to shooting portraits at home or in a studio. It’s nice to have controllable conditions. But shooting portraits outdoors can be incredibly rewarding. And the natural light and interesting locations bring new life to your portrait images.

Shooting on location opens a new world of possibilities. There’s more to consider, but you can use that to your advantage.

You can shoot at different times of day for different types of light. You can shoot in open spaces or urban environments. And you can make the most of the four seasons with their various color schemes and textures.

We have creative tips for shooting portrait photography outdoors . We go even more niche with our urban portraits article . You can even make the most of the coldest season with our guide on shooting snowy portraits in winter .

Portrait of man in big coat leaning on some big rocks

7. Snap Portraits of People in Their Environments

Environment portraits are shots of people in their environment. The people are the focus, as with most portraits, but the surrounding imagery also tells us something about that person.

For example, you might have a portrait of a market vendor at their stall. A good environmental portrait will show us the stall and the vendor, thus giving us a better understanding of who this person is.

You can show religious people in places of worship. Or you can depict athletes on the track or in the locker room. Learn more about environmental portraits .

Market vendor with red headband sharpening a knife

8. Embrace the Dark and Shoot Night Portraits

Of course, shooting in the daytime is the easiest way to shoot portraits outdoors. But night portraits are also an option. The results can be breathtaking when done right.

You might have to use higher ISO settings. And tripods can help you keep the ISO lower by letting you shoot with slower shutter speeds. But the real key is getting the lighting right.

You can use flashguns and LED panels. But it’s best to also look for lights in the night environment. Are there bright lights from storefronts or gas stations? The neon lights give you moody and atmospheric night portraits.

Illuminate your knowledge further by reading our full article about night portrait photography . We also have another article on neon light photography , which makes for perfect supplementary reading.

Night portrait of man with blond beard in a cap lit by a red neon light

9. Go Retro With Film Photography Portraits

Digital cameras are out, and analog cameras are back in as film photography has grown in popularity. There was a time when only die-hard film fans continued with the analog medium. But now, more and more photographers are returning to film photography.

Using film for portraits is a great way to spice things up, giving you more creative avenues to explore. You can use the grainy look to add a retro feel to your portraits.

You can also shoot with color or black-and-white film. And the wide variety of film stocks lets you play with different ISOs and brands.

Start by getting yourself one of the best 35mm film cameras . Then, stock up with as many rolls of film as you can afford. You can see our recommendations for the best color film and black-and-white ones .

You can also see our black-and-white film photography guide for more tips. And we recommend you read our article on the most influential film photographers working today.

Portrait of young woman with sunglasses outside

10. Explore the World of Film Noir Photography

A homage to the crime movies of the 1940s and 50s, film noir photography is fun and creative. Study the imagery of black-and-white crime thrillers. Use them to explore different types of composition and techniques for moody portraits.

Film noir is a niche within the black-and-white photography category. You want high-contrast images with faces partially obscured and faces emerging from the darkness.

Film noir portraits work well when shot with black-and-white film. The grainy texture adds to the noir aesthetic, making the image look older and more gritty. Or you can add film simulation filters in editing software like Lightroom or Luminar Neo .

See our full article on film noir photography tips .

Noir-style, very dark portrait of a man in a hat

11. Get Close for Intimate Close-up Portraits

Portraiture is one of the most intimate forms of photography. The model and photographer are intimate because they often work together alone. But there’s also an intimacy between the model and the viewer. It’s the photographer’s job to heighten that personal connection.

One great way to do that is to shoot close-up portraits. Focus on one area of the face to highlight their individuality. The eyes are usually the main point of attention, and zooming in on those works well for this portrait style.

But you don’t have to concentrate on the eyes. You can go close to their lips or nose. It can be any interesting feature that expresses your model’s personality. We have even more tips for close-up portrait photography .

Close-up portrait of a woman's light brown eyes.

12. Create Mystery With Abstract Portraits

Take your portraits in a completely different direction by using abstract composition. By removing the intimacy from your portraits, you’re adding a sense of mystery and uncertainty.

The face is often obscured or not visible in abstract portraits. We might find this disconcerting at first. But it can also draw the viewer into the image.

You can use this to explore narratives or the idea of identity. The principles of abstract photography might seem simple, but they can give your images an unnerving power. For more information, go to our abstract portrait photography article .

Abstract portrait of girl with long hair facing into the corner of two walls

13. Keep It Simple With Minimalist Portraits

For minimalist portraits, it’s all about keeping it simple. You’re taking a less-is-more approach, so you don’t want many other features apart from your subject.

Use a plane backdrop like a white wall, and remove any distracting elements. Have the model wear simple clothes. And you can even go for minimalist makeup on the subject.

You don’t have to stick to white. But it’s best to have a monotone color scheme. Muted colors work best for minimalist portraits, and you don’t want too many different tones.

Negative space is another important element in minimalist photography. Negative space is an area of your image that has nothing in it. This emphasizes your subject even more, allowing them to draw all the attention in their direction.

We have even more tips for minimalist portrait photography .

Minimalist portrait of woman with black hair against a white background

14. Showcase the Unnatural for Surreal Portraits

Surreal portraits can be haunting and other-worldly, making you unsure who or what the subject is. It’s powerful portraiture that’s a great way to push your creativity to the next level.

You can create surreal portraits using costumes and props. An unusual or irregular composition helps to bring a sense of uneasiness to the image. And you can use classic camera techniques to bring the surreal image to life.

One such camera technique is using a slow shutter speed to blur motion. Set your shutter speed to 1/60 s or something similar (you might need a tripod). Then, have your subject move their head quickly. Their face will be blurred and unrecognizable.

Learn more about creating surreal portraits in our tips article .

Surreal portrait of man with blurred face and head

15. Tune-up Skills With Band Photography

Band photography is a great way to test and improve your skills as a portrait photographer. Within this genre, you can practice several different types of portrait photography.

You can shoot staged band portraits in a studio or on location. You have the option of shooting group portraits, or you can snap each member individually.

Candid images are another option if you can follow them in rehearsals or backstage. Music fans love these more intimate shots.

But you also have concerts for high-energy portraits. These can be the most demanding in terms of camera skills. But you’ll know exactly how to get the best live portraits after just a few gigs.

Band portrait photography is another good earner. Bands always want promotional materials and are often willing to pay for them. You can build a big music photography portfolio even if you’re following a local band with no money.

See all our best tips on shooting promotional band photography . Or, if you prefer the energy of a live gig, read our tutorial on shooting concert photography .

Black and white image of man playing the melodeon on stage

16. Celebrate a Birthday With Portraits

Birthdays are always a great opportunity to get the camera out. But you can take things to a level above the general birthday snap by taking proper portraits.

They don’t have to be too serious. You can still have plenty of fun. But you can celebrate that individual with some commemorative portraits.

You can exploit plenty of moments within a birthday celebration to create fun birthday images. Of course, you have a birthday party. But you can also take pictures during the preparations.

And there are specific moments within the party that are always worth snapping. These include the birthday cake entrance and present giving and unwrapping. See all our birthday photoshoot ideas in the full article .

Portrait of young girl holding two two-shaped balloons.

17. Capture a Candid Portrait for Natural Results

Candid means there’s no posing or direction from the photographer. Formality has been removed, and the photographer’s job is to capture their subject acting naturally.

The candid style of portrait photography produces intimate and expressive images. You capture people when they feel most at ease, although this is difficult when a camera is pointed at them. The key is making them feel relaxed and at ease.

If you want to learn more about the art of candid portrait photography, see our full list of tips for candid photography .

Candid portrait or a man in shirt and tie sitting at a desk

18. Broaden Horizons with Cinematic Portraits

A cinematic shooting style is a great way to create unique and powerful portraits. People are drawn in and want to know more when you have an image that looks like a still from a movie.

You can use this style of portraiture as a gateway to visual storytelling. Unlike a real movie, you won’t have dialogue or a soundtrack. You have to tell the story through the visuals alone. It’s a great way to test yourself creatively.

Read more about cinematic portrait photography ideas in our full article .

Cinematic portrait of woman in a field in front of cows

19. Be Inspired By the Classics With Hollywood Glamor Photography

Replicating the classic, glamorous portraits from Hollywood’s golden era is a great way to spice up your portrait work.

Studying and learning from the classics teaches you much about composition and lighting. And dressing up in extravagant outfits is great fun for your model.

Check out our full article about Hollywood glamor photography .

Classic images of Joan Crawford in a massive fur coat

20. Use Costumes and Props to Create Magical Fairytale Portraits

Costumes and props help you create characters and tell stories. When done with creativity and imagination, you create unique fairytales with portrait photography. Use traditional imagery and tropes to help set the scene for the viewer.

You can show princesses and damsels in distress with old-fashioned dresses and blouses. The same goes for male models using medieval-type clothing. With just a few garments and props, you have your dashing young prince.

You can learn more about cosplay photography if that’s what you’re into. But we also have a full article on fairytale photography , which contains many stunning examples of fairytale portrait photography ideas.

Jovana Rikalo, one of our incredible collaborators, created the image below. Together, we created the incredible Fairytale Portraits eBook , where she spills all her top secrets and tips. It’s the best resource if you want to make wonderful fairytale portraits like she does.

Fairytale portrait on a woman in a big pink dress on a bed outside

21. Tell Stories With Narrative Portraits

Creating characters with costumes is a great way to build a world within your photography. But you can take that even further with narrative photography. This is where you use still images to tell a story.

You can use a series of images to tell your visual story. But you can also use one image to tell a story. It’s all about using visual clues and symbols to help the viewer work out the narrative in their heads.

Develop your storytelling skills with our narrative portrait and creative storytelling photography posts .

The amazing image below is by Anya Anti. We were lucky to work with her in developing her Creative Portrait Concepts ebook . It’s packed with educational material and tutorials, giving you the inside scoop on how she creates such magical portraits.

Portrait of a woman in a white dress dragging the moon behind her

22. Use Flowers as Props for Earthy Portraits

Flowers are a basic photography prop that everyone can use. They are easily accessible to most people. And they add color, texture, and meaning to your portraits.

Specific flowers can be used as visual symbols. The red rose, for example, is often associated with romantic love. And white lilies are a symbol of death.

Flowers can also be used to create an earthy or mother-nature-style aesthetic. Sometimes, you can use flowers for a simple pop of color. We have a full article about using flowers in portraits .

Woman with curly hair in front of a large flowery shrub

23. Celebrate Movement With Dance Photography

Dancers make fantastic portrait models. They’re never short on poses and rarely camera-shy. Capturing movement is a great way to test your portrait skills. You’ll use your camera differently, using different settings than a headshot photoshoot.

Dance studios are great places to take pictures. They are usually well-lit, and the mirrored wall is a great device for photography. But you don’t need a dance studio. You can take pictures anywhere the dancer has space to dance.

You can explore different types of dance through your photography. Ballet dancers give you elegant shapes and smooth lines. Flamenco dancers give you movement and energy. And street-style or break dancers give you dynamic poses.

Learn more about dance photography portraits .

Black and white dance portrait of a woman doing a ballet leap outside

24. Go Rinkside With Ice Skating Photography

Figure skaters make excellent portrait subjects. You can capture dynamic images filled with energy and interesting shapes like dance photography.

We don’t recommend taking pictures on the ice. That’s too dangerous unless you’re a very competent skater.

You’ll have to set up a spot at the side of the ice rink. That creates limitations you don’t have with dance photography. But you’ll learn to get past them to produce fun ice skating images.

If you’re a fan of the ice, read all our tips on figure skating photography .

Figure skater on ice standing on one leg with the other raised vertically

25. Take the Stage With Theatre Portrait Photography

The theatre is another excellent environment to practice portrait photography. Actors make great subjects, whether in character or out. They are not camera-shy and are happy to take a bit of direction from the photographer.

You can take pictures of live performances, capturing the actors in full flow. You can shoot rehearsal or backstage images. Or you can take pictures of the other crew members.

You might be able to earn money promoting local shows. Theatres always need promotional material for newspapers and social media advertising. And once you’re in with the theatre crowd, they might invite you back again for the next production.

If you are passionate about the stage, read our theatre photography tips in our full article .

Two actors performing on stage

26. Show Flexibility With Yoga Photography

Yoga photography offers a great opportunity to create unique, interesting portraits. Yoga practitioners are always happy to have high-quality pictures taken. And it gives you a chance to create some eye-catching images.

Yogis can contort their bodies into some incredible positions. This makes interesting shapes, shapes you don’t find in other types of portrait photography. You can use these shapes to contrast or echo the environment to make interesting compositions.

We have more tips and tricks, including camera settings and location scouting, in our yoga photography tutorial .

Woman doing a complex yoga pose under white arches

27. Unveil Love With Romantic Couple Portraits

Couples in love make the perfect subject for romantic portraits. They are two people who are comfortable in each other’s company. And they are often more than happy to celebrate their love with a romantic photo op. Sometimes, they’re even willing to pay.

Having a good list of couples poses helps you keep things fresh. And it’s best to always build a good rapport with the couple to help them feel comfortable. Never make them do anything they are not comfortable with.

 We have a romantic couple portrait tutorial . And we have a bucket-load of Valentine’s Day photoshoot ideas to help you capture the romance.

Portrait of a young couple embracing in a field

28. Master Fine Art Portraits

Fine art portraiture straddles other types of portrait photography. But one common element within fine art photography is precision. The detail has to be carefully considered and executed exactly as the photographer intended.

You can use props and costumes for your model. You can use abstract or minimalist arrangements and compositions. Or you can elevate standard portrait techniques to stunning fine art images.

Learn more about fine art portraits in our full article .

Portrait of a woman with lots of pink flowers

29. Reveal More Details With HDR Portraits

High Dynamic Range (HDR) photography is where you take several exposures of the same scene to create one image. Each exposure has different settings, so when you put them in the composite, the image has maximum detail.

It’s an interesting technique and one that works very well with portraits. Learn how to create impressive HDR portraits in our full tutorial .

HDR portrait of a woman in front of a brick wall

30. Double up With Diptych Portraits

A diptych is where you have two portraits side by side. But they shouldn’t be two random portraits. They need to be images that complement each other or have a visual connection.

By using two images together, you can expand your visual voice. You can say more than you would in a single portrait. And they allow for even more creativity. Our complete article is packed with fantastic diptych portrait ideas you can try .

Diptych portrait with two double exposure images of a woman and yellow flowers

31. Improve Your Editorial Portrait Photography

When it comes to editorial photography, you have to say a lot with very few images. You must succinctly present a clear picture of a subject for editorial portraits. You must be precise in your visual storytelling.

Doing a profile of a public figure is a great way to get your portraits published. But even if you get a full editorial spread, they might only publish two or three portraits. That’s why you need to understand subjects well and how you want to present them.

That isn’t easy, but we can help you with our article on tips for editorial portrait photography .

Woman sitting on a red sofa in a woodland clearing

32. Explore Dream Worlds with Ethereal Portraits

Creating dreamlike ethereal portraits can be very rewarding. This is especially true if you like narrative photography. You can keep them simple or use elaborate costumes.

The main focus is to achieve a dreamlike atmosphere where the viewer doesn’t know in which reality they are. We have a full post about creating dreamy, ethereal portraits . Check it out if you want to learn more.

Ethereal portrait of red-headed woman in a field holding red flowers

Conclusion: Portrait Photography Ideas

With so many new portrait photography ideas, you won’t be able to put your camera down. You have new creative avenues to explore. You can do everything from shooting professional headshots to creating fairytale stories. Nothing is standing in your way!

Experimenting with different portrait photography ideas is one of the best ways to improve your skills. You’ll master your camera with complete control over your settings. And you develop new visual languages that help you build a robust portrait portfolio.

Nothing is stopping you from becoming a brilliant portrait photographer. Check out our Creative Portrait Concepts eBook for various portrait photography ideas!

Popular Content

Fairy Tale Photography

Image retouching service

50 Creative Photography Ideas at Home You Should Try in 2024

By Tata Rossi 7 days ago, Professional photography

photography projects ideas

Can’t leave your home during the lockdown? Use it as an opportunity to try out some creative photography ideas at home. There’s no need to look for professional models, expensive props, or unusual locations, as you can create impressive photos of what surrounds you indoors.

Top 50 Home Photography Ideas

Here’s a list of great ideas and projects you can work on while staying indoors. They are simple, can be easily modified according to what equipment you have or what result you are trying to achieve.

1. Frozen Flowers

Capture the fragile and passing beauty of flowers by freezing them. Use distilled water and cube trays that are freezer-friendly. Make sure the flowers don’t float (and they’ll want to do that) by weighing them down. Take them out of the container and let the whole thing melt away while capturing it.

Cups of coffee can actually be used as DIY photography props . There tons of concepts you can come up with: from imitating a clock to a game of tic-tac-toe.

Throw in sugar cubes to create dynamic coffee splashes. Use a fast shutter speed of 1/1000 or faster to be able to freeze the splash

Beautiful and weird trails created by smoke are a great way of adding a dramatic and mysterious mood to your shot. Set your aperture around f/8-f/11 to make sure that all of the smoke remains in full focus.

4. Water Splash

Splashes in motion look great, especially if you throw in a couple of objects together with them. Set the place where you’re going to shoot by finding a black backdrop screen , a clear container, and a tripod made by an efficient tripod brand .

Start dropping the objects into the water and click the shutter just as they hit its surface. Try using bulb or burst mode on your camera to activate continuous shooting.

5. Water Drops

Water droplet photography is the most popular subgenre of high speed photography .

You’ll also need to use fast shutter speed, like 1/1000+ second shutter speed to freeze a water droplet in the air. I strongly recommend protecting your gear from any water damage with a cellophane wrap.

6. Refraction

Interesting distortions of patterns can appear when you place them behind any clear container with water. So, next time you need some fun home photography ideas, just grab a glass of water and a few patterned backgrounds, set your camera onto a tripod, and start experimenting.

Feel free to adjust the distance between the background and the glass to try and catch the exact effect you want.

7. Soap Bubbles

You’ll need some liquid soap and glycerin, a wire loop, a piece of black cloth as a background, and at least a 100mm macro lens . Try blowing lightly on the soap film to achieve swirling patterns.

You’ll also need a large light source for this. If you don’t have anything you can create a DIY softbox .

8. Ink Drops in a Glass

A mesmerizing and magical effect is created by a drop of ink slowly dissolving into the water. This is one of the creative photography ideas at home that is not difficult to realize at all.

Put a glass onto a clear reflective surface against a white background to be able to clearly see the ink. Use a dropper to add ink to the glass, experiment with colors and the amount.

Love treasure hunts? This photography challenge is almost like that but with a twist. The challenge is to find an object having a shape similar to any letter in the alphabet without leaving your house (e.g. S- for stairs). You’ll get a great series of 26 photos to practice your photography skills.

10. Light Trails

Still life photography can become more creative if you use a multi-color flashlight . Incorporate the principles of long exposure photography , and the camera shutter speed to 1/8 seconds and the aperture to about f/8. Before you press the shutter, move the torchlight within the frame, and continue doing it throughout the exposure.

11. Oil on Water

Oil and water don’t mix, so use this phenomenon to bring to life interesting abstract photography ideas . The secret to emphasizing the droplets is to add a washing-up liquid before the oil. Remember, that a bright background will drastically improve your photos.

12. Freelensing

One of the top photography ideas to do at home is freelensing. To try it, just detach the lens from your camera and hold it backwards against your camera body.

Mind that the autofocus will not work, so you’ll have to focus your lens manually. You’ll get the look that is normally achieved with tilt shift lenses .

13. Yummy Dishes

If you enjoy cooking, try to realize a couple of food photography ideas . You can cook a humble meal and then, using some food photography props turn into a true masterpiece. The props can include ceramic dishes , utensils, napkins, ingredients, and flowers.

14. Shatter Glass

For a more complex idea, try capturing the shattering glass mid-air. Since you get only one chance to break something, you need to make sure that the photo comes out perfect.

To ensure that there is no blur, use a camera remote . The duration of the camera flash should be set to 1/10,000 of a second to freeze the shattering process.

Rugs and carpets provide an abundance of patterns and colors for your home photography. I recommend using artificial lighting, as it’s essential if you want to bring out the vibrant colors of a rug. Try to light the entire area as evenly as possible.

16. Food Landscape

Another very fun idea is using food as a landscape for model figurines . You’ll have to come up with creative associations for the product, and try to create a miniature world with your models and food photography .

Look at the photo example above. A boy is mowing a kiwi, another guy is raking it, and one more figure is probably thinking about planting his garden. Such images can be humorous or touch upon important social issues.

Your pets can be amazing and cute little models for your next fun photoshoot. If they are willing to cooperate, try staging some scenes, and realize creative pet photography ideas .

Make sure to get lots of treats ready to reward and encourage them. If they are not in the mood to collaborate, simply take paparazzi-style dog photography of whatever they are doing during the day.

18. Time-Lapse

Time-lapse videos belong to effortless home photography ideas, as they don’t require much skill or preparation on your part. Simply place your time lapse camera facing the street, set the interval at which you want to snap photos in settings.

At the end of the day, just merge the photos together into a video with the help of free time lapse software , or time lapse apps . It will look especially great if you live on a busy street or in the city.

19. Flatlay

Tabletop photography isn’t just for Instagram beauty and fashion gurus. They can be used to tell any story you want with the objects you already have at your home. No special setup or camera gear is needed either, just make sure you get enough natural light from your window.

First, choose the theme of your flatlay, and then decide on the main props. Finally, find a background that complements your theme the most, you can even purchase a collection of backdrops for tabletop images .

20. Try Motion Blur

Instead of trying to freeze the motion, introduce some blur into your images. To do this, use a slow shutter speed, like 1/30 or slower. A trick you can try is to use Shutter Priority camera modes . It will automatically adjust all the other settings to account for your slow shutter speed.

21. Physical Photos

Create a real-life collage of your physical photographs and capture them all at once. You can hold the shots in front of a multi-colored wall or photograph flatlays.

With the help of a crumpled piece of foil and fairy lights, you can create awesome bokeh photography . Just place your subject in the foreground. Then lay out the fairy lights, and crumpled foil in the background. You’ll need to use a bokeh lens , like Canon EF 50mm f/1.2 to be able to shoot at the widest aperture, like f/1.2, or f/1.8.

23. Black and White

Black and white photography opens new horizons for your professional improvement. Usually, when people look at color photos, they get distracted by the color scheme, but b&w images eliminate this issue. To visualize how a scene will look in black and white, pay attention to patterns, shapes, forms, and textures.

24. Shadows

Ordinary household items can create beautiful shadow photography . You can incorporate shadows from windows, flowers, lace, or even body parts, to add depth and enhance the composition of your photo.

You can use the sun as a natural source of light, artificial sources of light, or learn how to add a drop shadow in Photoshop .

25. Rubik’s Cube

Rubik’s cube is a colorful prop, that is commonly used in levitation photography ideas . Throw it up and try to capture it mid-air. You can also partially desaturate the image, to make the Rubik’s cube stand out.

26. Minimalistic Interior

Try capturing interior photography , but instead of including everything in one frame, try to remove unnecessary elements from the scene and create a minimalistic scene.

27. Collections

If you collect stamps, cassettes, vinyl records, coins, or mini cars, you can take catchy photos of your collection. Repetition in photography helps create an eye-catching composition by introducing symmetry.

28. Explore the House with a Macro Lens

Use macro lenses and cameras for macro photography to take a fresh look at home photography. This photo genre heavily relies on lighting, that’s why I recommend investing into a professional ring flash, like Neewer LED ring light.

The best place to realize macro photography ideas is the kitchen. Food, liquids, appliances, utensils, and plants – can all become the subjects of your photos.

29. Clothes

One of the easiest photography ideas at home is clothing photography . You can arrange the clothes differently: put the apparel in order or scatter it around. Do not forget about different accessories like caps, belts, bags, and shoes.

Shoes are easily accessible in any household, which makes them perfect props for photography ideas at home. This will give you a chance to diversify your portfolio with product photography .

You can use any style of shoes, sandals, boots or sneaks. When it comes to shoe photography , remember not to clutter the image, and keep it free from all the unneeded elements.

31. Jewelry

Don’t forget that you can improve your jewelry photography skills while staying at home. Just take your, or borrow from a friend, find a suitable jewelry background https://fixthephoto.com/jewelry-background.html (Creative Jewelry Background), read tips on how to photograph jewelry and you’re good to go!

Don’t forget to turn your flash off if you’re shooting something shiny, otherwise, you’ll have to deal with reflections. If you’re striving for professional shots, look into light boxes for jewelry photography , a model like Foldio 3 will provide consistent lighting across all shots.

32. Bookworm

If you have a book library at home put them to use by creatively arranging them. Position them in stacks, create different shapes, or try color coordinating them.

The more books you have the more elaborate compositions you can create. It’s a great idea for self portrait photography at home.

33. View from the Window

Are you lucky to have a great view from your window? Include that into your home photography. Capture someone admiring the view. It may be tricky to expose both the background and the foreground, so my piece of advice would be to try the compositing technique with the help of the compositing software .

34. Prism Rainbow

If you are looking for creative photography ideas at home, you should give prism photography a go. An ordinary prism can provide impressive results by creating rainbow effects. Just place it really close to the lens for portraits in the area of the frame where you want the effect to be.

35. Double Exposure

One of the most creative photography ideas at home is double exposure photography . This is a technique that involves combining two images to create a single photo. It’s better to place your subject against the white background and take a photo. It looks best with a landscape or a landscape texture on top.

The technique can be achieved with a film camera or you can create double exposure in Photoshop . You can also address photo manipulation service to achieve attractive results at an affordable price.

36. Use Mirrors

There are tons of ways a simple mirror can be incorporated into your portraits, but one of the most creative photography ideas at home is to use several mirrors to create an infinity mirror illusion. The mirrors must be parallel, with a camera between them. You may want to use free apps to remove unwanted objects from photo to get rid of the camera in your image.

37. Self Portraits

Home is a perfect place to capture self-portraits. One of the trendiest self portrait ideas is posing with a disco ball . Choose a self-timer mode on your camera to capture the photos without having to be near the camera.

38. Morning Routine

This is one of the sweetest photography ideas at home. Shooting in the morning when you are having a cup of coffee or reading a newspaper brings a special atmosphere to the picture. You can also turn it into a photography series , by shooting every morning, or capturing every Saturday morning.

39. Fairy Lights

Fairy lights are irreplaceable Christmas photo props , but they can also elevate any portrait. You can wrap the LED lights around people or put them in jars.

You can also cover part of your lens with them for a beautiful foreground. Create stunning bokeh by using a wide aperture, like f1/2-1.8.

40. Crystal Ball

A crystal ball will definitely spice up your photography. Crystal ball photography creates an effect as if you have used an external lens. The refraction turns the image upside down, creating captivating photos. It is recommended to use a macro lens to get closer to the ball.

41. Window Reflection

Capturing reflections in windows can help create real-life double exposure photos. The overlap of subjects inside and outside helps create an interesting and complex composition.

Avoid taking such photos at midday, because you will end up with lens glare. Instead, create blue and golden hour photography .

42. Mundane Activities

The main purpose of home photography is to present everyday objects or scenes in a captivating manner. Capture mundane activities, but improve them by using creative photography composition techniques , like the rule of thirds, or the leading lines.

43. Feathers

Throw feathers up in the air for dreamy portraits. Feathers are excellent props for at-home children and couple photography .

44. Silhouettes

Silhouette photography belongs to creative photography ideas at home. It creates a mysterious feel in the image. This allows viewers to fill gaps and come up with their own story from a picture.

To create backlit portraits , you need to place a light source behind the subject. You can also try to underexpose the shot a little, as it results in an even darker silhouette.

45. Balloons

No matter what color are balloons , they are universal and cheap photography props for every kind of photoshoot. Fill the room with balloons of the same color to create monochromatic images. Match the color with your outfit to complete the look.

46. Glitter

Glitter portraits are fun, although they can be a mess to clean up after. To improve your chances of capturing glitter quickly, use the continuous shooting mode.

47. Neon Paint

This is one of the creative indoor photography ideas . Simply grab a low light camera , neon paint and a UV flashlight .

Apply neon paint to your skin, and it will give off a pleasant glow if you shine a UV flashlight on it. You can also go one step further by creating neon patterns in the background too.

48. Butterflies

Use butterfly stickers to turn an ordinary portrait into a work of art.

49. Flower Mask

Take a regular face mask and attach flowers and greenery to it. This idea is very relevant given the current events.

50. Newborn

A home is a perfect place to create newborn photography . You will need newborn photography props like cushions and posing pillows , blankets and wraps, a few accessories, and a ton of patience.

Try to capture babies during the first two weeks, because at this age, they are easier to pose, and you’ll be able to try more newborn photography poses .

Bonus Tools

Want to make your home photography look like it’s been taken by a professional in a studio? These ready-made Lr presets will help you achieve attractive color correction and consistent look across all photos.

  • Top photo ideas at home
  • Bonus tools

Homemade Photography Studio Tutorial: Product & Portrait

  • Video Editing Services
  • Virtual Staging Services
  • Outsource Photo Editing
  • Retouching Tips
  • Photo Editing Freebies
  • Free Raw Images for Retouching
  • Free Photoshop Actions
  • Free Lightroom Presets
  • Affiliate Program
  • Privacy Policy
  • Cookie Policy

SAVE UP TO 60% OFF

30 Modern Living Room Ideas That'll Upgrade Your Home

From statement lighting to curved couches.

san francisco townhouse designed by studio plow

We may all prefer different design styles , but most of us can agree that every living room needs certain essentials: multiple places to sit, tables to rest drinks and books on, a few throw blankets here and there, and a television. That last item can sometimes be a bit controversial—there's a reason why designers love creative solutions to hide TVs —but the majority of people agree a TV is a necessity. How you check off those creature comforts is totally up to you.

To create a space that feels modern and personal, consider creative seating solutions like a curved sofa or a pair of fun accent chairs . You might hang a statement pendant instead of a floor lamp. Whatever you're picturing as your ideal, you'll find inspiration here. Read on to see the best modern living room ideas from designers.

beachside home in southern california designed by brian paquette interiors

Nothing says "modern" like Scandinavian design . Designer Brian Paquette created this warm, sunken living area in a Southern California home by using jewel tone colors and keeping the furnishings relatively close together. It goes to show that even if your living room is smaller, it doesn't have to feel cramped. Just be intentional about the pieces you pick and how you arrange them.

Embrace Midcentury Modern

ashley maddox's home in waco\, texas designed by hilary walker and ashley maddox

The midcentury modern living room in Ashley Maddox's Waco, Texas, home is one to emulate if you're trying to lean into the aesthetic. It captures the 1950s charm with streamlined furniture, sculptural light fixtures, and geometric accessories.

Add a Mirror Wall

melinda and john thomas james pied terre in houstons museum district interior designer m james design group

Make your living space feel bigger by adding in a wall of mirrors . This gorgeous space in a Houston pied-à-terre by M. James Design Group utilizes classic picture molding as frames for the mirrors, opening up the living room and bouncing light around.

Aim for Timelessness

1990s ranch house in texas hill country designed by marie flanigan interiors

In this Texas lake house by Marie Flanigan Interiors , neutral tones, natural textures and materials, and minimal decorations harmonize to create a calm, elevated living room. With the right simple pieces, your modern home can feel timeless.

Expand a Gallery Wall

melinda and john thomas james pied terre in houstons museum district interior designer m james design group

There are many ways to hang a gallery wall, but we favor one that's anything but basic . Take a page from the M. James Design Group's book and cover any bare section of wall you can. It'll draw the eye upward is a great way to avoid painting your living room walls. Just cover them up with artwork, objects, and photos you love.

Add Fun Accent Chairs

lifestyle influencer zakia blain's home in suburban philadelphia interior designer gray space interiors

Don't stick to solids—bring in playful furniture if you're looking for a way to add more intrigue and depth to your living room. Gray Space Interiors completed this blue hangout zone in influencer Zakia Blain's Pennsylvania home with two wild armchairs.

Go Monochrome

kansas city home designed by mark d sikes

As much as house flippers push the all-white, blank-canvas look, we promise you can choose a monochromatic color scheme that's more interesting. This beautiful blue den in a Kansas City home by Mark D. Sikes shows how you can use tonal colors to create depth.

Match Your Furniture to the Woodwork

coombsville, napa valley, california home of designers justin hafen and john hurley interior designer hurleyhafen

Follow in designers Justin Hafen and John Hurley's footsteps by adding deeply hued furnishings to a bright space. The matching bookshelf and couch give the living room of their contemporary home in Napa Valley an elegant vibe, creating a space that looks very intentionally put together and cozy.

Hide the TV

boston pied terre designed by lisa tharp

It's no secret that interior designers love to find ways to keep televisions out of sight, so you might as well take a suggestion from the pros and do the same. The blue lacquered cabinet Lisa Tharp used in the living room of this Boston apartment is a perfectly chic option for hiding that big black rectangle from visitors.

Choose a Sculptural Light Fixture

seattle, washington home designed by hoedemaker pfeiffer

It takes time to find art you love. Until you happen upon the perfect piece for the mantel, pull eyes toward the ceiling with a sculptural pendant light like the one in this Seattle home by Hoedemaker Pfeiffer. It's not just functional but extremely stylish.

Let It Double as a Playroom

san francisco townhouse designed by studio plow

This kid-friendly space in a San Francisco townhouse by Studio Plow proves a stylish living room can also be a play zone. Just keep a basket handy to stash the colorful toys you don't want on display.

Hang an Oversize Mirror

san francisco townhouse designed by studio plow

A big enough mirror can seemingly create a tunnel to another world. The gorgeously cut example in this living room by Studio Plow looks almost like an arched doorway into another room, creating the illusion of more space.

Combine Vintage and Modern

1899 brownstone in fort greene, brooklyn designed by brownstone boys

The Brownstone Boys are known for their historic renovations, and they're the ones to look at if you're searching for inspiration on how to make your older home look good with your modern furniture. The light fixture and curved couch are obviously not from the same era as the ornate crown molding and the fireplace, but they contrast in an elegant way. The effect is almost museum-like.

Float Unique Pendants

mansion in the west village designed by cortney and robert novogratz

If you're lucky enough to have extremely high ceilings, like the ones in this living room designed by Cortney and Robert Novogratz , take advantage of all that empty space and hang up interesting art pieces, like these fluffy pendants.

Take It Outside

outdoor retreat by ashley gilbreath interior design

Maybe your living room is actually outside. If you live in a climate that lets you enjoy the outdoors all year, invest in comfortable and chic patio furniture . This covered outdoor space by Ashley Gilbreath has multiple conversational zones for your family to occupy so you can enjoy being here even when it's raining.

Make It a Cinema Room

screening area a massive 136 lg home cinema takes up a whole wall and even works in full sun the acoustics are enhanced by a snakeskinpattern wall to wall carpet from fibreworks

For true cinephiles, the media room is the living room. So take a cue from Kimberly + Cameron Interiors and make it feel like an escape—even when the television isn't on—by finishing it with patterned wall coverings, plants, and warm-toned furniture.

Keep It Neutral

teen suite by leanne ford interiors

For an intriguing space that skips color altogether, use a mix of textures in your living room. Leanne Ford Interiors used many different patterns and shapes in this neutral living room to ensure it would still be something beautiful to look at and live in. Neutral spaces can easily feel cold, but the layers in here radiate warmth.

Bring in Bold Plants

oceanfront home in rosemary beach, florida designed by ashley gilbreath interior design

Put your green thumb to work and bring fresh plants into your living room, displaying them in ways you may not normally do. In this breezy communal area of Ashley Gilbreath's beach house , a medium-sized palm plant on the coffee table continues the paint color of the walls into the seating area.

Choose Lighter Woods

stouffville, ontario home designed by interior designer ashley montgomery

Ashley Montgomery enhanced this cozy yet modern, farmhouse living room with light-colored wood throughout. From the side table to the coffee table to the floors, the wood choices make the space look more open and brighter.

Install a Wet Bar

calistoga, california contemporary barn by jennifer robin interiors and kroeger janev architects

If your space allows for one, upgrade from your bar cart to a built-in wet bar off your living room. Jennifer Robin Interiors and Kroeger Janev Architects made this California barn the perfect place for a party by incorporating a bar complete with a long counter and barstools. Hey, if you have the room, why not?

preview for Home Tours

Design Styles

a living room with a fireplace

These Are the Top Flooring Trends for 2024

house beautiful whole home 2023 1906 hinsdale\, illinois house

The Ultimate Guide to Grandmillennial Style

a living room with a couch and a coffee table

Has 'Resale Value' Ruined Interior Design?

a kitchen with white cabinets

What Is California Coastal Design Style?

a living room with a couch and a table

Designers Are Ditching These Trends in 2024

a bathroom with a tile floor

The 2024 Bathroom Tile Trends You Need to Know

a living room with a couch and chairs

16 Perfectly Over-the-Top Maximalist Decor Ideas

a room with a shelf of books

What Is the 'Bookshelf Wealth' Aesthetic?

Front Exterior of Craftsman Style Home

What Exactly Is a Craftsman Style House?

vestibule

Is Crafting With Gold Leaf Worth It?

2023 copy nickolas sargent

Our Complete Guide to Tray Ceilings

IMAGES

  1. 65+ Photography Project Ideas You Can Start Today

    photography projects ideas

  2. 14 Creative Photography Project Ideas You Need to Try

    photography projects ideas

  3. 14 Creative Photography Project Ideas You Need to Try

    photography projects ideas

  4. 7 Photography Projects to Jumpstart Your Creativity

    photography projects ideas

  5. Beginner Photography Projects

    photography projects ideas

  6. 65+ Photography Project Ideas You Can Start Today

    photography projects ideas

VIDEO

  1. Best photography idea

  2. Best photography idea

  3. PHOTOGRAPHY IDEAS FOR YOU #photography #youtubeshorts #viral #youtube #photo

  4. best photography idea

  5. best👍💯 photography idea#amazingphotography #photographyideas

  6. Creative photography ideas with Tree 🎄🎄#photography

COMMENTS

  1. 65+ Photography Project Ideas You Can Start Today

    65+ Photography Project Ideas You Can Start Today Written by Shutterfly Community Last Updated: Dec 8, 2020 Do you want to sharpen your skills, learn fresh techniques or just have fun with your camera? Photography projects help you accomplish all three. Shop Trending Categories Wedding Invitation Photo Books Graduation Announcements Canvas Prints

  2. 52 photography projects: a great technique to try every ...

    1. Water drop art The basic idea with this project is to suspend a container of liquid and let drops fall through a small hole, then capture the resulting splash. Timing the shutter as the splash...

  3. 24 creative photography projects for 2024

    Project 1: Fabulous flora You may think that spring and summer are the best times of year to take stunning garden shots, and while this is true, the winter garden also has plenty of photographic opportunities. Look for structural and skeletal plants such as dead thistles or cow parsley to shoot as your main subject.

  4. 12 Creative Photography Project Ideas to Get You Motivated

    ... Looking for some fun, creative photography project ideas to get you inspired and excited about taking photos? It's always good to be involved in a photography project, and in this article, I'm going to share 12 of my favorite project ideas, including 52-week projects, 365-day projects, and more.

  5. 13 Photography Project Ideas for Photographers of Any Level

    1. Humans of New York by Brandon Stanton 2. My Breast Choice by Aniela McGuinness 3. Afraid to Go to School by Sodiq Adelakun Adekola. 4. One Year Performance 1908-1981 (Time Clock Piece) by Tehching Hsieh. 5. Subway Love by Araki. 6. Untitled Film Stills by Cindy Sherman. How to Come Up With the Photography Project That's Best for You

  6. 30 Creative Photography Ideas (Have Fun with Our Challenge)

    Day 1. Spiral Light Photography For our first creative project, grab a torch. We're making spirals of light! Spiral light photography is a type of light painting. Leave the shutter open and paint swirls, twirls, and circles. You can create the image by spinning a light in front of your camera.

  7. 20 Creative Photography Ideas

    1. Use fog and mist to capture a mystical atmosphere 2. Translate your favourite painting into a photograph 3. Go out for night photography after the rain 4. Experiment with the Photzy Action Cards 5. Get creative with prisms (the rainbow effect) 6. Try out double exposure photography 7. Explore patterns and repeating elements 8.

  8. 12 Photography Project Ideas to Stretch Your Photography Skills

    Here are 12 photography project ideas to keep you busy every month, for an entire year. Robert Couse-Baker. It's common to play with shadows in photography, but stretch yourself further by focusing on silhouettes only. To do this, you can either cast shadows directly on your subjects or employ shadows as the focal point of the composition.

  9. 51 Creative Photography Project Ideas • Pixels and Wanderlust

    1. Project 365 This project involves taking one photo per day or week for an entire year. In the end, the project provides you with a recap of your year in photographs. This extensive photography project is a major commitment to take on and comes with a weighty workload. But, it's also incredibly rewarding when you reach the finish line.

  10. 14 Creative Photography Project Ideas You Need to Try

    Creative Photography Project Ideas 1. Project 365 or Project 52 You know I love a Project 365 and have lots of tips on completing one. Whether you take a photo a day in a Project 365 or choose to do one photo a week in a Project 52 this is a great way to focus on your photography skills. 2. 30 Day Project

  11. 21 Cool Projects for Photography Ideas at Home

    A+ Are you looking for some fresh and creative photography ideas at home? We've gathered a list of ideas you can try! These ideas are great if you're new to photography and want to push your creativity to the next level. Or, if you're a seasoned enthusiast in a creative rut, this list will reignite your imagination. You don't have to try them all.

  12. Personal Photography Projects: 13 of the Best Ideas

    May 21, 2022 See comments Shares Personal photography projects are one of the best ways to help you improve your photography. Being focused on a particular topic you will develop more than if you photograph random subjects. Learning as you regularly take photos for your project will accelerate your progress even more.

  13. How to Take Creative Photos (100+ Creative Ideas)

    A+ Creative photography is about putting ideas into practice and seeing awesome results from unexpected setups. We have collected our top articles to guide you in your creative photography adventures! The Creative Photography Cookbook Transform your creative photography skills with this project-based ebook and cheat sheets!

  14. Creative Photography Ideas & Techniques To Get You Inspired

    Creative Photography Ideas • False Color Techniques. False color programs may be most frequently used on film sets to achieve perfect exposure, but they're also incredibly useful for taking photographs. False color is essentially the process of seeing degrees of exposure represented by different colors.

  15. 101 Best Photography Projects to Start Right Now

    101 Best Photography Projects to Start Right Now. Need some ideas for creative and unique photography projects? Whether it's a rainy day or you're stuck

  16. 24 Top Photography Ideas for 2024

    1. Try Out a Different Genre One of the easiest things you can do if you're looking for some excitement is to try an entirely new genre of photography. If you're a landscape photographer, try shooting portraits. If you're a wedding photographer, find some architectural scenes to capture.

  17. Beginner Photography Projects

    Most of these beginner photography projects are all about training your eye for photography, which essentially means seeing your surroundings in a new light. Go search your house for reflections you can find. This may be in your morning coffee, or it may be your windows. You might find something interesting reflected in the hallway mirror.

  18. Top 15 Creative Photography Project Ideas for Beginners

    This article provides the top 15 creative ideas for photography projects for beginners. You will also get some basic knowledge of essential photography gear and photography tips that will help you with your photography project. Keep reading to learn! What Are Photography Projects?

  19. 10 Photography Project Ideas To Boost Your Creativity

    1) Open the Picsart Editing Tools and click on New Project to get started. 2) Upload a photo and crop to fit, then select an editing tool to enhance your image, such as Light Effects. 3) Add as many filters and effects as you wish. 4) Click on the Text tool to add copy, adjusting font, size, appearance, and more.

  20. Photography Projects

    Photography projects come in many shapes and sizes, but most are wishy-washy and drawn from the latest '50 best photography project ideas' doing the rounds on the net. If want your photography project to be published and exhibited, it must be unique.

  21. 8 Photography Project Ideas to Try in 2024

    From daily sketches to photographing strangers, here are eight creative project ideas to try in 2024. Photograph Every Sunrise In January 2019, Michigan-based photographer Bugsy Sailor set an intention: watch every sunrise for one year.

  22. 18 Creative Photography Ideas for Beginners to Improve Their Skills

    Creative 18 Creative Photography Ideas for Beginners to Improve Their Skills By Philip Bates Updated Sep 28, 2020 Coming up with photography ideas can be tough for beginners. These 18 creative ideas will help you find a photography subject in no time! Readers like you help support MUO.

  23. 32 Best Portrait Photography Ideas in 2024 (Themes & Tips)

    32 Best Portrait Photography Ideas. These 32 portrait photography ideas are aimed at invigorating your creativity. Whether you're stuck in a ruck or want to take your portraiture in a new direction, these ideas are the perfect starting point. You can try one or two or even try all 32.

  24. 50 Creative Photography Ideas at Home You Should Try

    34. Prism Rainbow. If you are looking for creative photography ideas at home, you should give prism photography a go. An ordinary prism can provide impressive results by creating rainbow effects. Just place it really close to the lens for portraits in the area of the frame where you want the effect to be. 35.

  25. 30 Modern Living Room Ideas for a Stylish and Comfortable Home

    The midcentury modern living room in Ashley Maddox's Waco, Texas, home is one to emulate if you're trying to lean into the aesthetic. It captures the 1950s charm with streamlined furniture ...

  26. ASI forum Strong Ideas for a New Time • President of Russia

    Over 5,000 ideas have been supported over that time. The project idea leaders have raised over two billion rubles to implement their projects; 1,000 projects were supported by all regions this year. Today, we look forward to learning more about several exciting projects and solutions from a variety of fields. Mr President, you have the floor.