Slow Down and Observe to Nourish Your Creativity

Starting out, as a photographer and a writer, I had too many plans, and I was always in a rush. I would hammer out my draft, or take a few quick photos then move on — because I knew what I was looking for.

There are certain tasks, like researching or editing, that benefit from absolute focus. However, I find that slowing down and paying attention helps the creative mind. The difference between enjoying a moment and observing it is taking the time to see and absorb what’s happening around you without letting your expectations get in the way.

People are endlessly fascinating. Whether it’s a snippet of conversation, an act of kindness, or a pratfall, you can find meaning and inspiration all around you. Taking notes or photos rather than just moving on helps you build a library of real moments to draw-on later in your work.

“A writer, I think, is someone who pays attention to the world.”

Susan Sontag

Susan Sontag wrote a series of essays called On Photography. She warned that our increasing access to photos and videos might eventually eclipse our experiences. As a creator, you should get out of your comfort zone once in a while. For workaholics like me, consider it research if you have to.

Take notes on both tender moments between a mother and child and the rowdy rider that hassles the bus driver. Both are valuable to your understanding of the world. Go out with a camera, and get in there. Ask people if you can photograph them on the street. The average person is flattered rather than annoyed.

Though Sontag warned us not to let photographs replace our experiences, she actually advocated for photography as a way to let go while still feeling productive if leisure makes you uncomfortable.

This week’s challenge:

• Observe your surrounding while you’re on your commute, and write down a moment that broke you out of your routine.
• Take your camera out and photograph at least one stranger. Don’t settle for the first person you see. Instead, observe until you see an outfit, an expression, or a moment that speaks to you on some level.