Purpose and personal projects

This month I’ve been working with photographers joining my next Bootcamp mentoring programme, and helping them figure out their purpose, or ‘why’, and then using that information to inform a personal project.

It’s a wonderful way to begin the year (and prepare for the 8 week intensive) and as always I’ve been so fascinated by the different perspective each one has. In spite of all being lifestyle photographers they have completely different ways of seeing the world and care about a diverse range of things.

This means that their personal work suddenly feels like it has more depth and I’m excited to see where it takes them.

In my last Bootcamp group from late last year one of the photographers has already won a substantial award for making a project out of what was supposed to be a road trip to Vegas with a friend.

By thinking about her ‘why’ and photographic approach, and what she cares about, the project grew into something that had an idea, an opinion and a voice. And there are now people interested in developing it further in the motion world.

Imagine being a photographer who inspires people like this. Who creates something which leads to offers of TV shows, book publishing deals, and of course, decent briefs and representation.

I’m not gonna lie- most personal projects don’t go viral or get a publishing or TV deal (though I’ve seen it happen). But if you’re thinking about making a personal project with purpose you’re definitely going to feel more excited about making it, and that’s a damn good start to being the inspiration clients need.

If you want some help with this book in a free call with me. I’ll help you get some clarity and we’ll discuss ways in which you can move forward whilst harnessing all your experience.