Whenever I grab my camera, the first question in my mind is “what next?” Are you feeling lost with your camera? I know I’m not the only one who thinks that. James Popsys shares this feeling in his latest video, and it’s honestly quite refreshing to hear someone articulate what many of us experience in silence.
He had just finished his latest photo book and thought he would enjoy that success for a while. Instead, he found himself facing what he calls the “book blues.” That feeling of emptiness after completing a project is real and can make you feel lost with your camera. Even when there’s no major project behind us, that sense of uncertainty can hit from time to time.
You’re Not Broken—You Just Need a Reason
James fixed some straightforward guidelines for himself. With a new baby on the way, he focused on shooting near his home and using a letterbox crop. That was his entire game plan—nothing extra. And you know it worked! If you’re feeling lost with your camera, setting guidelines can help.
I have set my boundaries since I started to do things independently. There’s value in setting your limits. Yes, we love freedom and flexibility, but having too many options can lead to feeling stuck creatively. Narrowing down your choices can improve your focus. Fewer choices = less stress.
Shoot Small, Think Playful
The mind works in unexpected ways. Sometimes, it does nothing, and you can’t force it to be creative 24/7. You can still make your photography feel alive. Not a big issue. Do random things like choose one focus for your next few photo sessions. It could be something like a particular aspect ratio, shooting only shadows, capturing reflections, focusing on yellow objects, or just exploring your neighborhood if you’re feeling lost with your camera. I have understood that sometimes things don’t need meaning. You have to go with the flow to be on the right track.
What I like about James’s method is that he isn’t trying to impress anyone. He doesn’t consider turning his work into a gallery show or selling prints. Instead, it’s about keeping the camera in hand and following his curiosity. He acknowledges he has no idea what these new images will turn into—maybe a book, a calendar, or perhaps nothing.
Your Purpose Doesn’t Need an Audience
External forces don’t work until internal force is strong. You don’t need a client, a deadline, or a specific goal to find direction. Sometimes, it can start with you asking, “What if I try this for a while?” Try taking only 10 photos a day, or sticking to one lens. Try whatever you want to do. It can be effective.
I think many people, myself included, wait for inspiration to come to us. But it may work differently. What if you show up first, even when you’re not feeling inspired? Then inspiration might find you while you play with some fun creative boundaries.
In conclusion, don’t be hard on yourself. Just set one small goal for yourself. This will be your new focus. Not because I’m suggesting it, but because it’s important for you to reconnect with your creativity.
I found James’s video inspirational. It’s a genuine conversation from someone who understands what you’re going through. Who knows, it might spark a unique idea for you to explore!
