What inspires my photography?

This is a question that I love to think about and discuss…and it’s something that can change over time…but honestly I’ve found that I’ve been photographed with the same inspirations for much of my life.

So, what inspires us to do anything really? Personal experience or style?

Well, after honing my own photography style, and I can tell you a few things that really do inspire my photography.

Children

I love to capture the wonder and excitement of children…even more when they are exploring the world. Showing their small stature in a big place, or even just how they read a book or play outside. Everything about kids is fun and inspiring to me!!

Lines

It’s funny, but I REALLY love lines!! I get excited when I find them, and love coming up with ways to incorporate them into my photography. Even talking about lines in my photos gets me really excited!! Lines can be used as a place to sit, add interest to a photo, lead you through an image, give energy and movement, or anchor your subject.

Urban Wall Art

There’s just something so exciting about finding art out in the city. We’re lucky to live in a city, Portland Oregon, which often has new art installations going up, and that really celebrates uniqueness and color. I really love to use the color and patterns found in urban wall art as backdrops for portraits, for both personal and client work.

Negative Space

Another favorite backdrop that I really love is negative space. I really love when I can include a large amount of negative space, and a smaller subject….and I often do this with white, or colorful walls, and even backlight.

What inspires your art or photography? I’d love to hear in the comments…and feel free to reach out with any questions about using Lines, Urban Backdrops, and negative space in your photography.

My online course Composition + Color covers these topics in depth and may be a great resource for you!