BEND DOWN AND TOUCH THE SOIL: THE PRACTICE OF PHOTOGRAPHY
As Zen master Thich Nhat Hanh says, "If you want to garden, you have to bend down and touch the soil. Gardening is a practice. Not an idea." This quote holds a profound truth for photographers, especially those who dream of creating more compelling and dynamic images. Photography, like gardening, is a practice—not just a concept or an occasional activity. Yet, many photographers I work with during workshops fall into a common trap: they only photograph during vacations or special trips.
I often tell them, "You can’t not play basketball all year long and then expect to play during your two vacations and perform well. You have to practice!"
A stunning view from the Summit of Haleakala, Maui, Hawaii.
The Myth of "Inspiration"
One of the biggest misconceptions in photography is that compelling images arise solely from moments of inspiration or exciting locations. The truth is, great photography is rooted in consistent practice—regularly engaging with your craft, regardless of how uninspiring your surroundings may feel. Waiting for the perfect trip, the perfect location, or the perfect moment is a recipe for stagnation.
This is why I emphasize the importance of photographing regularly, even when you don’t feel inspired. Personally, I live in Maui, a place many consider paradise. Yet, even here, photographing regularly can feel mundane because it’s what I see every day. I don’t shoot here because I’m always inspired; I shoot here to stay sharp, to stay ready. When I travel, I want to "get in the game" and play well—and that requires preparation.
The same principle applies no matter where you live. Whether it’s a photographer in Paris, New Zealand, or a small Midwestern town, your backyard is often the most difficult place to photograph because of its familiarity. The "everyday" feels ordinary, but that’s the exact reason it’s so valuable to your growth.
Clouds dancing at Haleakala’s Summit
The "Backyard Dilemma"
Photographers often tell me, "But I live in [insert seemingly uninspiring location], so I don’t shoot more." That’s just an excuse. Beauty and compelling images aren’t reserved for exotic locations. They’re found through the practice of seeing, of engaging with your environment, and of pushing yourself to create despite the mundane.
If you want to make better, more compelling photographs, you need to photograph more. You need to practice. You need to bend down and touch the soil.
Why Practice Matters
Creating compelling and dynamic photographs isn’t about waiting for the perfect location or moment. It’s about engaging with your craft consistently, even when the surroundings feel mundane.
By "bending down and touching the soil," you’re not just practicing photography—you’re cultivating your ability to see, connect, and create.
So, what’s stopping you from photographing today, right where you are?
Practical Advice for "Getting Your Hands Dirty"
Find Your Subject: Look for compositions or subjects that resonate with you and return to them repeatedly. This "long-form study" allows you to form a relationship with your subject, uncovering deeper insights and new ways of seeing it over time. This process not only refines your practice but often results in stronger, more meaningful images.
👉 For a deeper dive into composition, download my free eBook, Finding the Frame: 7 Ways to Find Your Composition.
Impose Limitations: Self-imposed constraints can be a powerful tool for creativity. Use only one lens, photograph in black and white, or challenge yourself to shoot at the same time of day for a week. Limitations focus your attention and encourage you to think differently.
Commit to Consistency: Schedule time to photograph regularly, whether it’s once a week or every few days. Treat it like an appointment you can’t miss. Regular practice hones your skills and ensures you’re ready to perform when inspiration or travel strikes.
