photography assignment

• Student Successes
• My Learning

12 Exciting Photography Assignments to Challenge and Inspire

You can also select your interests for free access to our premium training:

Everyone likes a good photo challenge. But photography assignments can also be very discouraging if they’re approached the wrong way. A good photography challenge will strengthen your photo skills and inspire you in multiple ways. A bad one will leave you wondering why you even tried photography in the first place.

12 Exciting Photography Assignments

Here are 12 exciting photography assignments to help you find the right one.

1. Shoot With a Limited Amount of Equipment

2. Take a Photo Every Day for a Year

3. Limit Yourself to X Photos a Day

4. Take Photos With Your Smartphone Camera Only

5. Experiment With a Completely Different Genre

There’s a wide variety of photography genres out there. There’s underwater, glamour , smartphone , landscape , and portrait , to name a few. Trying something new can help you fall in love with photography all over again. So take a temporary break from your main photo genre. If you’re a portrait photographer , take panoramic photos of your neighborhood. If you spend lots of time photographing animals, improve your self-portrait photography skills. When you expose yourself to different genres, you’ll learn many valuable lessons. And they will be useful long after the photography assignments end.

6. Photograph the Same Person or Object Every Day

7. Quit Social Media Temporarily

8. Create a Stop-Motion Video Using Photos

9. Take Creative Self-Portraits With a Friend

10. Crop or Rotate All Your Photos in a Specific Way

11. Include the Same Object in Every Photo

12. Invest in a Photo Book and Complete Every Assignment in It

Conclusion: Exciting Photography Assignments

You don’t need to travel the world or break the bank to improve as a photographer. A single assignment that lasts at least a week can teach you many lessons. And it’ll help you become a better photographer. All you have to do is find photography assignments that work for you. Then, dedicate some time to it, and watch your photo skills strengthen!

Popular Content

10 Photo Assignments to Inspire and Challenge Your Skills

Liz Masoner is a professional photographer and she shares her tips and techniques on photo editing and how to photograph nature, portraits, and events with film and digital cameras. Liz has over 30 years of experience and she is the author of three books on photography.

The best way to learn photography is to practice, though sometimes you can get stuck in a rut and not know what to shoot. That is why photographers love assignments; they give us a purpose and an idea of what to photograph. 

Why Are Assignments Important?

Self-assignments are key to any photographer's growth. Even professionals with decades of experience will work on personal assignments that they may never get paid for. The goal of any self-assignment is to spur creativity, solve problems, learn new techniques, and challenge yourself.

As you start out in photography, you're probably filled with excitement and ready to shoot anything you can. That being said, sometimes a little direction and guidance are necessary.

Below, you will find ten photography assignments. Each covers a new topic, skill, or concept and they were chosen to help you learn how to see as a photographer. They are meant to be a personal challenge that you can complete at your own pace and with no outside judgment, simply as a means to practice and improve your photography. Hopefully, you will learn something new with each assignment and be able to use that in every photograph you take in the future.

Remember when composing your images to keep in mind the basics: the rule of thirds,  shutter speed , aperture,  depth of field , and  exposure .

Assignment #1: Up Close

This assignment encourages you to get close and personal with your subject. It is an exercise in viewing a common object in a new way and examining its finer details.

• Choose an object that you see or interact with every day.
• Focus on a small part of it, get as close as your camera will allow you to focus, and shoot away.
• Try to capture different angles and unusual lighting to add to the mystery of this tiny world.

From the whiskers of your cat to a fragile Christmas ornament, and even common soap bubbles, there is an entire world that we often overlook because we don't get close enough.

Assignment #2: Motion

Photography is a static medium which means that it doesn't move. Conveying a sense of motion is often crucial to capturing a scene or emotion and it is an essential skill for photographers to practice.

The goal of this exercise is to understand how shutter speeds can be used to convey motion.

• Choose a subject or series of subjects that will allow you to convey motion in your images.
• It can be slow motions, like that of a turtle, or fast motion, like a speeding train.
• Blur it, stop it, or simply suggest that there is motion in the photograph.

Challenge yourself to capture the same motion in different ways. For instance, you might go to a race track and stop the movement of the cars completely in one image, then leave the shutter open and allow them to blur out of the frame in the next. 

Assignment #3: Shadows

Shadows are everywhere and they are vital to photography because this is the art of capturing light. With light comes shadows and when you begin to look at shadows as a photographer, your world will open up.

• Take a look around for shadows and record them with your camera.
• You could show the shadow as the total focus of the image. Perhaps the shadow is incidental to the subject.
• Is the shadow natural or created by flash?

Shadows are integral to creating depth in a two-dimensional medium such as photography. Take some time to seriously explore the "dark side" of the light.

Assignment #4: Water

Water is everywhere in photography and it presents many challenges. There are reflections and movements to work with and in this exercise, you will take a deeper look at water.

• Find water anywhere: lakes, streams, puddles, even the glass on your kitchen table.
• Pay attention to reflections and use them to your advantage in the photographs. Use this opportunity to get familiar with a polarizing filter (a very useful tool in your camera kit) so you can accentuate or eliminate reflections.
• Play with the motion of a stream or the crashing waves. Notice the difference between stopping the flow of water and allowing it to blur to create a real sense of movement.

Be sure to make water the subject and not an accent to the image. Water alone is beautiful and mysterious and your challenge is to explore all of its potential as a subject.

Assignment #5: Leading Lines

A classic assignment in photography schools, 'leading lines ' is a popular and fun subject. The goal of this assignment is to learn how to direct the viewer to your subject using lines.

• Choose a subject then look around for lines in the scene that you can use to 'lead' the viewer to the subject. 
• Find an interesting line then determine what the subject of your photograph is.
• Remember that lines can be man-made or natural. For instance, the yellow line down the middle of the road or a tree branch. Even a person's arm can be a leading line of their face.

Use this assignment as an excuse to take an afternoon photo excursion. Walk downtown or in the woods and look around you for interesting lines that lead the eye to a subject. There is an amazing assortment of lines out there in the world and once you begin to see them, you won't be able to stop. 

Assignment #6: Perspective

How do you normally stand when you shoot? If your answer is straight up like a 5-foot-something human being then this assignment is for you. The perspective assignment challenges you to view the world from an entirely new perspective, which in turn gives the viewer a new look at the ordinary.

• Take another afternoon or evening for a photo excursion wherever you like.
• This time, every time you find something to photograph, stop!
• Ask yourself: How would a squirrel see that tree? How would a robin view that birdbath? How would a snake view that log?
• Take your photographs from very high or very low angles. Get on your belly or stand on a chair, whatever you have to (safely) do to get the 'right' angle on your subject.

If you pay attention to professional photographs, many of the images that have the WOW factor are photographed from extreme angles. People enjoy these photos because they've never seen an object from that viewpoint. It is new and unique, and you can train yourself to shoot with this in mind.

Assignment #7: Texture

You may have captured a few textural details in the 'Up Close' assignment, but this assignment takes that to the next level. The goal in this one is to study textures and forget about the object itself: the texture becomes the subject. You will also begin to realize how light affects the appearance of texture.

• Find a few objects that have very detailed textures like trees or rocks, even knit sweaters or woven rugs.
• Photograph them as close as your lens will allow.
• Use different angles and capture the same texture as the light changes. Notice how the different lighting directions and camera angles can change how much texture appears.

Textures are all around us and many of the best photographs in the world play up the textural element. This assignment should teach you how to recognize and accentuate those elements in your photos.

Assignment #8: Color Harmony

Color is important to photography because the world is full of color. This exercise requires a bit of study in color theory, which you will then put into practice in your photographs.

Do you remember art class in elementary school? You may have learned that yellow and blue make green, but color theory goes beyond that. There are cool and warm colors, complementary and contrasting colors, neutral colors, and bold colors.

It can get quite complicated, and photographers should have a basic understanding of color so you can use that when composing photographs. You don't have to study color like a painter would but can use tricks used by interior designers to influence your color decisions.

• Once you have an idea of color theory, take another photo excursion and put what you've learned into practice.
• Capture photographs with the primary or tertiary colors.
• Look for complementary colors then contrasting colors to photograph.
• Try finding a scene to photograph that is filled with neutral colors, then one that uses a bold color to 'pop' from the scene.

This is an advanced lesson, but one that any photographer working with color images will find useful. As you practice working with colors, it will become second nature and you will know how to work with color to change the feel of your images.

Assignment #9: Emotions

Take a photo of a person smiling or scowling, right? Not so. The intent of this assignment is to convey emotion in photographs  without  a face.

• Take photographs that express each of the basic emotions: happy, sad, and mad.
• How would you express the feeling of anger with no person? What about happiness? Sadness?

This is a purely conceptual assignment, but it is important to be able to relay emotion in your photographs and you might not always have a person available to do that with. Challenge yourself to think deeper about this one.

Assignment #10: Don't Look!

Are you ready to put your photography skills to the test? In today's world of digital cameras and the ability to see image captures right there on the LCD screen, photographers are losing some of the skills needed to visualize a photograph.

In this assignment, your challenge is to shoot as if you were using a film camera. That means that you will not look at the photographs you've taken until they are downloaded on your computer. Instead of relying on the camera's screen to see if you 'got the shot' you will rely on your instinct and knowledge, just like photographers did before digital photography. Can you do it?

• Plan a photo excursion to a particular location and permit yourself to photograph only 36 images (a roll of 35mm film).
• Turn off your camera's LCD screen so it does not show you the image after you have taken it.
• If you cannot turn off the camera's screen, cut a piece of thick paper and tape it over the screen. Use masking or painter's tape so you don't leave a residue on the back of your camera.
• Go out and shoot your 36 frames, thinking carefully about each image because you don't have an endless number of shots. Bonus points if you turn your camera to completely manual settings for focus and exposure.
• Don't peek at your photos until you get home and download them.

How did you do? Were you able to get good exposures on your own? How did it feel to be 'blind' and not know how your image turned out right away? 

This is similar to what it is like to shoot with film and it does require you to think harder about every image you take. Next time you shoot, slow down and pay attention, pretend that the screen is not there and rely on your own skills to create a great image. You will be a better photographer in the end.

More from The Spruce Crafts

• Introduction to Photography: 8 Tips for Beginners
• A Brief History of Photography and the Camera
• An Introduction to Photography Exposures
• The Best Online Drawing Classes of 2024
• How to Control Depth of Field With F-Stops in Photography
• What Are Complementary Colors?
• Horizontal vs. Vertical Photographs
• What Are the Autofocus Points on a Camera?
• How to Use Point of View to Improve Your Photos
• Learn How to Draw Flowers in Pen, Ink, and Pastel
• The Basic Elements of a Camera
• All About Telescope Photography
• DSLR vs. Point and Shoot Cameras
• Pros and Cons of Film and Digital Cameras
• What Are the Different Parts of a Camera Body?
• The Parts of a Camera Lens

• Share full article

Advertisement

Supported by

Lesson Plan

Five Photography Assignments That Invite You to Look Closely at the World

Students, try one of these exercises inspired by the visual series The Take. What can you learn about the world by looking at it through a particular lens?

By Natalie Proulx

How often do you look — really look — at the world around you? Below, we offer five photography assignments that challenge students to do just that, all inspired by The New York Times visual series The Take .

In this series, The Times asks photographers to explore different cultural themes through images — for example, to document what they see when they look up, to capture the sounds they hear in New York City or to find dance in everyday movements.

What can you learn about the world by looking at it through a particular lens? Choose one (or more) of the five assignments below to try out. For each, we’ll guide you through a warm-up activity, a reading of the Take article that inspired the exercise and your own photo shoot. When you’re done, you can create your own visual article by putting together a gallery of your images and writing a short commentary on what they mean to you.

These exercises are meant to be accessible to anyone with a camera or smartphone, whether you’re an experienced photographer or you’re just looking for a fun visual challenge. If you’d like to experiment with some composition and editing techniques, see our related photography lesson plan .

And if none of these projects inspires you, look through The Take’s archives for more ideas.

Assignment No. 1

Most of us spend our days looking down: at our phones, computers, homework, meals. What would you see if you looked up instead? For this assignment, we invite you to photograph what you see when you turn your gaze to the sky.

Warm-up: Wherever you are right now, look up. What do you see?

Spend some time studying the images, shapes, patterns, colors, lines, light, shadows, angles or movements above you. What catches your attention? What have you never noticed before? How is this angle different from looking at something straight on, straight down or from the side? Is there anything you see that strikes you as artistic, that might make for an interesting photograph?

How often do you look up? What does this quick exercise tell you about what might happen when you do?

Read “ When 4 Photographers Looked Up, This Is What They Saw .”

For this assignment, The Take simply asked photographers to look up. View the photos they made and their commentary on them. Then choose one that stands out to you. What did the photographer want to capture in it? Was the photo successful in your opinion? What does the image say to you? What does it show us about looking up?

Your turn: Photograph what you see when you look up.

You might approach this assignment in two ways: 1) You can carry your camera around with you for a day or several days and photograph anything interesting you see when you look up, as the photographer Ali Cherkis did venturing around New York City. 2) Or you might start with a specific place and idea in mind that you want to photograph, as Stella Blackmon did when she wanted to capture the “sense of wonder” she felt from seeing children climbing in the trees at her great-aunt’s home in Ozark, Mo.

Assignment No. 2

Capture the Sounds of a Place

Photography might seem like it’s all about sight, but it can evoke other senses, too. The Take challenged four photographers to try to capture the sounds of New York City in images. How can you show what the place you live sounds like?

Warm-up: What sounds can you hear in this photograph?

Study the photograph above closely. What might you hear if you were in the scene? Which elements of the image help convey those sounds? What senses or emotions does the photograph evoke in you? What story does it tell about New York City?

Read “ Sounds of the City .”

For this assignment, The Take sent four photographers to capture New York’s soundscape in images. Spend some time with the photos and the photographers’ commentary on them. Which images most strongly and clearly imply sound to you? Which ones surprise you or perhaps challenge an assumption you have about life in New York City? Choose one of these photos and repeat the exercise you did in the warm-up.

Your turn: Photograph the sounds of a place.

For this assignment, you might travel around your city or town and photograph the sounds you find. Or you might focus on a more contained space, such as your school, the skate park, your neighborhood or any other place where you spend time. You might try to capture many disparate sounds — quiet ones, loud ones, harsh ones, pleasant ones — as Daniel Arnold did in his photos of various corners of New York City. Or you can try to capture a particular type of sound, as Ike Edeani did in his photos of the subway stations’ “mini concerts.”

Assignment No. 3

Find Art Wherever You Go

Four photographers went in search of candid moments and images that struck them — impressionistically, conceptually or naturally — as art. Where can you spot art in the world around you?

Warm-up: What does art look like?

How do you know when you see something that is art? What elements make it so? What does it do to you, the viewer?

Look around the space you are in right now. Is there anything that strikes you as art? Perhaps it’s the way your jacket is draped over a chair, how light is coming in through a window, the interesting pattens created by a shadow on your desk or the shape someone’s face makes when they smile or frown. What about this thing makes it seem artistic to you?

Read “ Art Is Everywhere. Just Look to the Streets. ”

The Take invited four photographers to look for art in the streets of New York. Spend some time looking at all of the photographs and reading the commentary. Then, focus on one photographer’s images. How does this photographer conceptualize art? How does that idea come through in one of his or her photos? What do you think makes this photo artistic — impressionistically, conceptually or naturally?

Your turn: Photograph candid moments and images that look like art to you.

Where can you find art in the world around you? You might take your camera out for a day and start shooting anything that strikes you as art. Or you might shoot with a particular vision in mind, such as Sabrina Santiago who was “interested in what people are saying from the back,” or Trevor Wisecup who looked for “abnormalities in our day-to-day life, glitches in the matrix if you will.” Challenge yourself to capture candid moments, rather than trying to stage images.

Assignment No. 4

Explore the Ways We Move

The Take asked four photographers to find dance in our everyday gestures, whether reaching for a jug of milk, hugging a loved one or scaling a rock wall. How can you find beauty in how we physically navigate the world?

Warm-up: Can you see beauty in the ways that people move, even when there is no music?

Can you find dance in people’s everyday rituals and routines? To answer this question you might go somewhere crowded — your school’s hallway, a park, a basketball game — and spend a few minutes just observing people. Do any gestures look like dance to you? What is it about these movements that resemble those that dancers might make?

Read “ There’s Dance All Over, No Matter Where You Look .”

During the height of the coronavirus pandemic in the United States, The Take asked photographers to show how people were physically navigating a world in which awareness of our bodies — how much space we took up, whether we were six feet from our neighbor — had become the norm. What they found was a kind of dance in these everyday movements.

Spend some time with the images and photographers’ commentary. Then choose one photograph to look at more closely. Why does this image speak to you? How does it represent dance? What emotion, experience or idea do you think the photographer wanted to capture in it?

Your turn: Photograph how people move through the world.

For this assignment, you can take your camera around with you for a day or two and snap a photo anytime you see a movement, posture or gesture that looks like dance to you. Or, you can go to a specific place. For example, the photographer Camilo Fuentealba went to Costco to document “the daily rituals we must partake in just to survive,” while Noah Sahady went to the San Bernardino National Forest to capture “the harmony of rock climbers and nature.” You might play with taking both candid and staged shots, or, like Jillian Freyer, shooting the “fragments in between.”

Assignment No. 5

Show Us What Fun Looks Like

Three artists photographed the many forms fun can take. An end-of-day ice cream ritual. Caring for rescued chickens. A bubble bath for an inanimate friend. What does a good time look like to you?

Warm-up: What do you do for fun?

Brainstorm a big list of everything you’re doing for fun these days. Do you play video games? Hang out with friends? Play sports? Make things? Write down everything you can think of, whether it’s an everyday ritual or a special event.

Then go through your list. Which of these activities feels most compelling or unique to you and your friends? Which might make interesting photographs?

Read “ Making Your Own Fun .”

The Take asked three photographers to document how they were having fun during the lockdown period of the coronavirus pandemic. Spend a few minutes looking at the photos and reading the commentary. Then choose one photographer’s images to focus on. What do you notice about their artistic choices — about their composition, the photographic style, how they were made? What do you wonder? What can we learn about fun from these photos?

Your turn: Photograph your fun.

Return to the list you made in the warm-up and choose one or several things from it to photograph. You might consider how you can get creative with your photographic style and composition, as the photographers in the article did. You can stage photos, as Sheida Soleimani did, or you can try to capture more candid moments.

Going Further

Make a Visual Article

Put together your photos with a written reflection to create your own The Take-inspired piece.

Related Article

Once you have completed one of the exercises above, choose three to six photos from your shoot and create a gallery of images that speaks to the theme of the assignment. Then, write a short commentary reflecting on the assignment and what you learned from it, just as the photographers and Times editors do in The Take.

Here are some questions that can help guide your reflection:

Who or what inspired you? Did you stage your photos or seek out candid moments? What composition and editing techniques did you use, and why?

Is there a thread — some theme, emotion or experience — that connects your images? Was it something you set out to capture? Or something you discovered during the shoot or after seeing your finished photos? Taken together, what do your photos reveal about the subject of the assignment?

What is something new you discovered or learned through this exercise? How, if at all, did it make you look at the world or the people around you differently?

How challenging did you find this assignment? Why?

You can put your images and commentary together using a digital program like Google Slides or Canva . Teachers might invite students to share their work via a gallery walk , whether in the classroom or online.

Find more lesson plans and teaching ideas here.

Natalie Proulx joined The Learning Network as a staff editor in 2017 after working as an English language arts teacher and curriculum writer. More about Natalie Proulx

15 Photography Assignments to Challenge and Inspire

By Tata Rossi 23 days ago, Amateur Photography

Photography assignments allow you to experiment with something you have never tried before and play around with different photographic approaches. With such an assignment, you will challenge yourself and develop your skills.

15 Ways to Make Photography Assignments

This list of photo assignments consists of 15 points, so I am sure that you will find the idea to your liking.

1. Self Portraits

The first task is a no-brainer: just take a self-portrait picture each day. Don’t forget to use a tripod and shutter release aside from regular shooting with your arm extended and holding a camera.

Since you will be the model, feel free to unleash your creativity with all sorts of make-up, outfits, poses until you figure out a proper look. Remember to use props as well. Then share your shots with the world via social networks or the dedicated Flickr and Twitter groups.

2. Color Challenge

Here is one of the greatest color photography assignments for the urban environment photos . Bring the camera with you and take pictures for several hours. Pick a color (or ask a friend to choose it for you to complicate the task) and photograph subjects of the chosen color only.

Once you are done, you will find yourself seeing this color everywhere! Then pick the best shots and merge them into a collage or mosaic in Photoshop .

3. After Dark

Practice with night photography and try taking pictures after dark. In case you are outside the city, you may shoot moonlight or star trails. While being in the city, capture light trails of vehicles or buildings with the light-up windows. Regardless of the location, experiment with light-painting by means of long exposure photography and moving a flashlight across areas of the scene.

4. Crop or Rotate All your Photos a Specific Way

One of the best photography practice assignments is to neglect your comfort zone and try something new for a change. For instance, if you have a tendency to snap the same kinds of photos, you should modify their perspective.

Try an approach to cropping or rotating your next 50-100 shots that differs from your regular one. Play around with square photos, 180° rotation or whatever else you can come up with. Once you get out of the familiar artistic routine, you will be able to perceive the world from another angle and get creative.

5. Quit Social Media Temporarily

Social networks can serve as an excellent source of photography inspiration or lead to a complete lack of it. If you use social networks without critical thinking, you may start comparing yourself to other photographers, which will be a total waste of time and effort.

While it may be one of the hardest photography assignments these days, taking a hiatus from social networks is highly important. Log off your Instagram account for some time or uninstall apps that leave you in a bad mood.

In case your job requires staying online on a daily basis, devote some of your time to non-Internet tasks, like taking pictures or gaining knowledge on photography. I suggest taking some online photography courses .

6. Shoot Every Day for a Month

If you wish to become a better photographer , you shouldn’t stop shooting. By taking pictures constantly, you will receive more feedback and will be interacting more actively with the world.

One of the most widespread photography class assignments is to take one picture each day for a month. Do it with the help of the smartphone, DSLR camera or any device that can photograph. But don’t take meaningless pictures just because you have to. The shots you take should resonate with you in one way or another and be valuable to you.

The Zen masters suggest that you have a “daily practice.” When we repeat something, we become closer to recognizing the “truth”. You may read a great number of photo theory books , but you won’t be able to shoot properly. Only through practice, repetition, feedback and constructive criticism, you can grow as a photographer. Remember that this assignment is about forming a habit, not about taking a perfect picture each day.

7. Experiment with a Completely Different Genre

The array of photography genres is truly vast. Underwater photography , glamour, smartphone, landscape photography , portrait photography – that’s only a beginning. If you feel like you are losing interest in photography, switch to another genre.

Try staying away from your primary photography genre for a while. In case you shoot portraits, go outside and capture the area where you live in. If you are involved in photographing pets , play around with self-portraiture. By getting familiar with various photography genres, you are widening your photography horizons and gaining new knowledge that may come in useful one day.

8. Put Together a Photo Album

We live in a digital world, and even nowadays’ photography comes mostly in a digital form. We constantly find ourselves sharing our photos online. It is a rare thing to print photographs, even touch them, let alone create something physical out of them.

That’s why one of the greatest photography tasks is to compile a photo album. You can buy one at a store or online. Print the desired shots in the small 4×6 size. I suggest collaborating on this task with your friend, child or partner. Think of the main idea, theme or story of the album. Put all the printed shots on a surface and consider how you will lay them out in an album, how you will pair them and in what sequence.

No wonder that our parents and elderly relatives used to create a photo book together. It is a nice way to preserve precious memories in a physical form and bring back the moments that we sometimes tend to forget over time.

9. Take Creative Self-Portraits with a Friend

While you may enjoy your own company while taking self-portraits, you may feel bored or lonely after some time. In this case, you can implement one of the most entertaining photography assignment ideas and take self-portraits with a friend (pets are welcome as well!).

Don’t forget to think through the poses, set up the tripod and find the perfect photography light. As you will be engaged in all these activities, you will be able to get a hang of a photographer’s workflow. Then, when it comes to a real photo shoot with the clients, you will be more skilled at dealing with the camera and lights.

10. Attend a Photography Workshop

Photography workshops is an excellent investment in your education as a photographer and one of the most helpful beginner photography assignments.

Pick a workshop that is dedicated to the topic relevant for you. Thanks to workshops, you will get not only theoretical but also practical information. Also, you will have your questions answered by real professionals.

11. Photograph the Same Person or Object Every Day

In case you aren’t as excited about photography as before, try capturing one and the same person or object each day for a week or month. Similar to the smartphone photography challenge, as a result, you will realize the importance of having the freedom to photograph anything you wish.

While snapping pictures of the same object, you will boost your lighting skills. To make the shots differ from each other, don’t hesitate to play around with various types of lighting and photo editing apps .

12. Go a Month Without Using Social Media

Being the photographer of the 21st century, you may find yourself in the never-ending trap of feeling the need to post photos on social networks each day. It all turns into some sort of addiction – all you crave is likes, comments and new followers. If you don’t receive the online praise you need, your photography stops making sense.

In fact, photography is something you should pursue on your own. What truly matters here is your personal thoughts on your shots, not the opinion of users online. Simply uninstall all the social network applications from the smartphone (you can bring them back once the assignment is over). Posting photos and looking through photos of others is prohibited.

If you manage to stay away from social networks for a month, you will acquire a clearer purpose of your photography work. Besides, you won’t be so obsessed with the imaginary social network competition that everyone seems to be involved in.

13. Shoot with a Limited Amount of Equipment

Regardless of whether you are an experienced, amateur or a beginner photographer , you are likely to be after all sorts of photography gear to enhance your results.

How about photography assignments where you have to use a restricted amount of shooting equipment? You can photograph strictly with one camera body or camera lens . There is no need to do it for an entire month.

For this assignment, I suggest coming up with a plan, and do it, for instance, only once a week. Working with the same gear every day will give you more flexibility in both the creative and physical aspects of the process.

So, in case you deal only with a zoom lens, you will have to experiment whenever you shoot indoors . With a wide-angle lens only, you will need to work on cropping and correcting distortions.

14. Limit Yourself to X Photos a Day

Similar to the previous assignment, limiting yourself to 10, 20, 30 or more shots per day, week or month will help you realize what your true creative needs are. Besides, with a photo limit, you will understand what subjects or scenes you are more inclined to photograph.

Another benefit of a photo limit is that it will bring more patience and creativity into the process. You won’t be able to take numerous pictures of one place, so you will be forced to risk and play around with various perspectives.

15. Take Photos with Your Smartphone Camera Only

Take pictures only with a smartphone camera for a week. For better results, download a top-notch camera app and try to figure out all of its settings. A modern smartphone will help beginning photographers get acquainted with the technical side of the shooting process.

To complicate the task, I suggest recreating some of your portfolio photos with the smartphone camera. With this assignment, you will learn all the intricacies of shooting with a smartphone and may even start taking shots not only with a standard camera but with a smartphone one as well on a regular basis!

Freebies for Photography Assignments

Thank you for download!

Check your email to download freebies. (approx. 1-2 min)

Using these presets for beginners, you will be able to enhance portrait, wedding, newborn, landscape, real estate and e-commerce photography. The presets are compatible with all Lightroom versions. Experiment with adjustments to achieve the ideal result!

• New approach
•   Freebies

• Skip to primary navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar
• Skip to footer

DIGITAL PHOTO MENTOR

Photography tips, tutorials and guides for Beginner and Intermediate Photographers.

10 Creative Photography Assignments to Inspire You Into Action

by Andrew S Gibson | Last Updated: November 8, 2022

Finding interesting things to photograph can be one of the most difficult things for a photographer to do.

You’re surrounded by potentially interesting subjects, but you might not realize it if you’re stuck for inspiration. I have been stuck, so I know what that feels like.

The good news is that the world is full of interesting ideas and subjects. All you have to do is find the good ones and develop them into personal photography projects that work for you.

Of course, wouldn’t be easier if you could find lots of ideas in one place?

That’s why I wrote an ebook called 100 Creative Photography Assignments . It gives you lots of ideas for projects that you can do close to home, without traveling to exotic locations.

The book is structured into 20 broad themes, with five assignments for each theme.

To give you a taste of what’s in the book, and to help you get inspired into action here are 10 of my favorite assignments. (The theme for each is shown in brackets after the assignment number and name)

Assignment 3: Urban trees (trees)

Humans have planted trees in formal gardens for centuries to bring nature into towns and cities. Photographing trees in urban environments gives you something that is different than traditional landscapes.

How can you explore the juxtaposition of man-made and natural items?

In the photo below, the tree, which is obviously well-cared for fits in perfectly with the historic home. The two go together, as intended.

But in other situations, you might find a jarring contrast between the natural and urban environments. That is called juxtaposition and it can make for some really striking images.

Assignment 8: People and the sea (or a lake)

How do people interact with the sea?

The sea has strong links to leisure, sport, and industry, all of which have plenty of potential photographically. Think beyond simple photos of people on summer holidays. How can you explore the relationship between people and water in more depth?

Another approach is to show scale and photograph people in a way that shows the vast size and scope of the ocean. Yet another is to show people battling the weather, perhaps fishermen at sea.

Assignment 20: Framed by color (frames)

Some frames are visual rather than literal. One way to make a visual frame is to look for compositions where the main subject is surrounded by a solid block of color, as in the photo below.

This is another assignment that tests your observational skills. It also has the potential to make an interesting series. What happens when you group a set of photos that use color as a frame together?

Assignment 24: Weathered surfaces (texture)

Old buildings of all descriptions are made of materials with interesting textures. The definition of old is relative, your chosen building might be hundreds of years old or just a few.

The important thing is that it looks old. That means visible signs of weathering, like the metal wall and wooden door frame in the photo below. Some texture surfaces, like rust, also have interesting colors that you can use to your advantage.

Assignment 31: On the outside (buildings)

One approach to photographing buildings is to include as much of the building as possible in the frame. But what happens if you take another approach?

Have you ever stopped to notice the interesting things that people put outside buildings?

In Italy, I found a shrine on the outside of a colorful red building in Venice (below). In the United States window boxes and mailboxes are commonplace. Nearly everywhere you go you’ll see plants in pots outside people’s homes.

All these items make potentially interesting subjects and have the potential to be turned into an interesting series.

This assignment gets more interesting when you do it in different places, and compare the things you find outside buildings in one place with those in another location.

Assignment 39: Urban decay (your local neighborhood)

Some buildings can look good for centuries if they’re well maintained. But others soon fall into decay, especially if they’re not kept up. Look for the beauty in decayed or run-down buildings.

You expect older buildings to be in a state of disrepair, especially if you live in a country that has plenty of ruins. But more modern, urban decay can be just as interesting.

Why do modern buildings fall into disrepair? What stories do they tell about their neighborhoods, towns, and cities?

Another approach to this idea is to photograph urban decay in other countries, and then compare the results with what you capture in your local area.

Assignment 54: Capture the character of a place (b/w)

The absence of color gives you another way of capturing the character of a place. Yes, it’s true that in some areas color is an essential part of the essence of the place. But in others, it’s less important.

Working in black and white gives you a chance to see through the colors and get to the essence of a place. Visually speaking that’s texture, contrast, and tone.

But in another way, black and white images seem to help you see further and deeper. They’re moody, atmospheric, and timeless. Use these characteristics to create a set of photos that capture the character of a place.

It’s also an assignment you can do when you travel. It’s easier because you get to see everything with fresh eyes. But for a real challenge try it in your local neighborhood, where familiarity can prevent you from seeing things that might be obvious to newcomers.

Assignment 62: Embrace hard light (light and shadow)

In this assignment, your brief is to photograph a scene on a sunny day when shadows are falling across the subject in an interesting way.

Look at the way the sun casts shadows across the scene during the day. How do the shadows move as the sun moves across the sky? Do the shadows make interesting shapes?

For example, in the photo below the shadow falling across the building comes from a neighboring house and you can clearly see the chimney.

Assignment 71: Signs (everyday objects)

We’re surrounded by signs – signs that tell us which way to go, what to do, that advertise to us, state the name of a business, or tell us about roadworks.

Signs are designed to be informative, but they can also tell a story. Signs in the American mid-west look different from signs in New York City. Signs here in the UK look different from the ones in rural France. Old signs have character and tell you something about the place.

What interesting photos can you make using signs?

Assignment 94: People in the landscape (landscape)

Some landscapes are empty or void of visitors. But others are closer to large population centers and therefore you’re more likely to see other people there in the scene. The idea of a pristine landscape untouched by man is appealing, but it’s also interesting to see how people interact with the scene.

One way to approach this assignment is to use people for scale. A human figure can anchor a composition and show the width and breadth of the landscape. A small figure in the frame emphasizes the size of the landscape, and the idea of people being small compared to the beauty of nature.

The photo below juxtaposes two elements of human interaction. The stone pillar is part of a Neolithic settlement, and the people on the right are modern visitors who came to see it.

Taking it further – traveling and exploring your archives

You’ll get the most from these assignments if you make new photos for them. They’ll get you thinking about your local neighborhood – and areas a little further afield – in a new way.

The beauty of these assignments is that most of them are repeatable. You can select your favorites and use them as themes to follow when you’re traveling away from home.

You might also find that you can go through your archives and find photos that match a particular assignment. It’s an interesting exercise because you’ll start to see themes and connections that you didn’t realize were there.

For example, I have photos that fit Assignment 39: Urban decay from Alaska, Chile, and my hometown (see above). And I can continue to explore this theme when I travel to new places as well.

These ideas are explored further in Creative Photography Assignments: Themes & Projects, a bonus ebook that comes with 100 Creative Photography Assignments.

100 Creative Photography Assignments

Buy 100 Creative Photography Assignments now for just $14 USD.

Buy it now and get out there taking photos!

Note from Darlene: This is perfect if you want to get out there doing some photography. But maybe due to covid, finances, or other circumstances you can’t currently travel. Look no further than your front door to get started! To really challenge yourself do the 100 assignments one a day for the next 100 days!

About Andrew S Gibson

Andrew S. Gibson is a writer based in England’s southwest. His interest in photography began when his parents bought him a Ricoh KR-10m camera more than 20 years ago. Since then, he’s taken photos in over 60 countries, studied for a degree in photography, and worked as Technical Editor for EOS magazine. Today, he makes a living helping people make better photos through ebooks and photography courses.

Learn Photography Basics

Yes, you can learn to take better photos! It’s my passion to help you learn the photography basics and take better pictures. It’s also the same reason I teach workshops, do photo travel tours, and have online photography courses available.

Enroll in our free photography basics for beginners course, or 12-part portrait photography course , also free.

Recent Photography Articles

• Get Into Gear By Completing 10 Powerful Composition Challenges
• Lifestyle Photography Tips for Realistic Portrait Photos
• Step-by-Step Guide to Making Stunning Portraits With One Light
• How To Discover and Develop Your Unique Photography Style
• Luminar Neo GenExpand: Game-Changer or Just Hype?

Useful Links

• Beginner Photography
• Intermediate Photography
• Photography Challenges
• Photography Tips
• Photo Editing
• Recommended Amazon Products
• Course Login
• Write for Us

7 Skill-Building Photography Exercises That Really Work

Anyone can take a photograph, but taking a great photograph? Difficult. These photography exercises actually work.

Despite how easy it looks, photography is hard, with three learning curves to conquer: the technical aspects of the camera, the theory of light and shadows, and the actual composition of a photo (sometimes called "seeing the shot").

That last part is the hardest thing for beginners to grasp. Composition has an artsy component that can't be easily taught. It must be discovered by the photographer themselves.

Fortunately, there are photography exercises that can help "develop your photographic eye". And with practical experience being the only guaranteed way to understand composition, these are the most effective photography exercises we've found.

1. Crop Someone Else's Photos

Great photography starts with the eye, not the camera. This means it should be possible to develop your photographic eye without ever touching a camera or lens. And it is! For this photography composition exercise, all you'll need is one of the easy-to-use photo editing programs like Paint or GIMP.

First, learn the fundamental rules of photo composition . You don't have to know every single one of them right now, but you should know at least one, as this exercise will force you to put these rules into practice. We recommend starting with the Rule of Thirds .

Next, go to a free photo-hosting site like Flickr or 500px and download a bunch of images to your computer. (The easiest way is to right-click and "Save Image As"). Any kinds of images will work, but this exercise works best with portraits and landscapes.

Now, open one of the images in your photo editing program of choice and start cropping. Try all of the standard aspect ratios, including 1:1, 4:3, 3:2, and 16:9. Try cropping vertical photos as horizontal, or horizontal photos as vertical. Move the subject around. Be creative.

The point is to experiment and see how different crops can change the look and feel of an image, and how certain crops are more aesthetically pleasing than others. This experience is invaluable when you start framing your own shots through the viewfinder.

NB: You can play around with someone else's images, but do NOT upload them or republish them on the internet in any way. That would be a violation of copyright law unless you have express permission from the image's original owner.

2. With One Subject, Shoot 10 Photos

Here's a common mistake made by newbies: always taking photos from the same height and from the same angle. It's natural to stand up straight and take snapshots from eye-level, but that's boring. After all, everyone knows what the world looks like from eye-level.

If you want your photos to be more compelling, change things up. Capture the world from unusual angles and positions: viewpoints that are foreign to most people.

This photography exercise helps train your sense of angles. First, find a subject. Any subject. It could be a stove-top kettle, a pet dog, a fire hydrant, a herb garden, a manhole cover. Anything works.

Then take 10 photos of it. No two photos should be alike. Try looking directly down at it. Then try looking directly up at it. Shift the angles. Look at the front of the subject, then the back, then the sides.

The possibilities are countless, and even the smallest tweaks to the angle can have a large impact on the resulting photo. Do this for hundreds of subjects and you'll start seeing angles everywhere you go without even trying.

Related: Photography Terms All Photographers Should Know

3. With Three Objects, Shoot 10 Photos

In some cases---like landscape, astronomical, and street photography---the idea is to capture scenes in the moment as they are. In other cases---like portrait, food, and product photography---the idea is to construct your own scenes.

As you imagine, this isn't easy. There are many factors to juggle such as lighting and background, but one particular aspect that newbies find difficult is how to position multiple subjects within the frame.

That's what this photo composition exercise is about. Find three random objects, such as action figures, fruit, bowls, candles, plants, or whatever else you have to hand. It doesn't matter if they're related to each other or not, although it will be easier if they're all similar in size.

Now position them however you wish. Think of it as if you're composing the objects for a photo shoot (that is what you're doing, after all). Do this 10 times, rearranging them in different ways each time. Over time, this will stretch your creative muscles and develop your eye.

4. With One Lens, Shoot 1,000 Photos

The focal length of a lens controls more than just the zoom factor of a shot. Yes, all things being equal, an 18mm lens requires you to be closer to the subject than a 50mm lens or an 85mm lens. But different focal lengths can evoke different feelings from a photo, too.

For example, the wide angle of an 18mm lens comes with a lot of distortion, which can produce a comical or whimsical effect. On the other hand, a 200mm lens has a compression effect that makes the photo seem flatter than, say, an 85mm or 50mm lens.

In short, different focal lengths require different approaches when composing shots. That's why we recommend mastering one kind of lens at a time, preferably starting with a 50mm prime. Read up on the common camera lenses and when to use them .

For this exercise, all you have to do is stick with one focal length for your next 1,000 photos. It's easiest with a prime lens, but if you only have a zoom lens, just pick a focal length and leave it there. Switch to another focal length when your 1,000 photos are complete.

By the end, you will have a better understanding of how to use the different focal lengths at your disposal to achieve the shot you're after.

5. Hula-Hoop Photo Walks

Creativity is often seen as something that's infinite, and full of possibilities. And while there's technically nothing wrong with that, the truth is that creativity needs limits and constraints to really flourish.

If you've ever felt like you wanted to take photos but didn't know where to start, where to go, or what to shoot, then you'll know what I'm talking about. Restrictions are good, and that's how this photo exercise is going to unlock your creative potential.

Take a hula hoop and go outside. Toss it up into the air, then let it bounce and roll around until it eventually comes to a stop. Now stand inside the hula hoop, take a look around, and shoot 10, 20, or 50 photos of anything. But try to make them good.

When you're done, toss the hula hoop into the air again and repeat the process. If you don't have a hula hoop, just pick a random direction and walk a random number of steps to find your next spot. Pretty soon your creative juices will start flowing, guaranteed.

6. Weekly Photo Challenges

Weekly photo challenges are popular on the internet, but different photography communities have different names for them: Photo of the Week, 52 Photos Project, Sunday Photo Prompt, etc. The key is to take 52 photos over the course of one year.

Ideally, you'd take part in some kind of community version of the challenge because this gives you a chance to see the photos of other participants, and a chance for others to critique your work. But if you'd rather do a personal challenge instead, that's fine too.

Sometimes each month has a theme, but not always. It's up to you how you want to do it. We recommend setting a regular weekly deadline and sticking to it. Need inspiration? Check out 52 Weeks Photography Challenge , 52 Frames , or 52 Weeks of Photography .

7. Recreate Someone Else's Photos

Once you feel a little more comfortable behind the camera, you may want to try recreating photos that others have shot. Browse Instagram, Flickr, or 500px, pick a few that seem within your skill range, and have at it!

The goal here isn't to make an exact 1-to-1 replica of your source material, so don't be discouraged if you can't get that far. Rather, this photography exercise is meant to get you thinking in ways you haven't considered. To push you outside your comfort zone.

At first, your imitation photos will look like garbage compared to your source photos. That's normal. Keep at it, however, and you'll start to see fast improvements. Along the way, you may even start to discover your own voice and sense of style as a photographer.

Photography Is a Long But Rewarding Journey

Don't expect to unlock your photographer's eye overnight. It's a gradual process that could take weeks, months, or even years before you really start to "see" photographs before taking them. But the journey is well worth taking, so don't give up!

If these photography exercises weren't enough and you need even more ideas, then we highly recommend checking out these free lessons to learn the basics of photography .

52 Week Photography Project

Hello everyone! My name is Penny and i’m a 23 year old photographer from Portugal. This community has helped me grow in my photography ever since I started. The challenges are super interesting and a boost to my creativity and I love seeing everyone’s work.

What is the 52 Week Project?

The 52 Week Project is a photography challenge that encourages photographers to take 1 photograph every week for 52 weeks. Some people work on this project alone, while others collaborate with friends.

At PhotographyCourse.net, we believe in the power of community and motivation . This is why we created a dedicated forum where you can get all the inspiration and knowledge you need to have a successful 52 Week Project experience! Every week, you’ll be introduced to educational resources that will help you grow in different areas of photography. No matter who you are or where you live, you’re welcome to join us at any time.

I find the 52-week course challenging, I get to learn about the different subjects of shooting with some I never tried before. We also get to see other photographers from around the world and photos of where they live and how they saw the challenge. I look forward to being critiqued each week as It has increased my confidence as a photographer. I cannot believe how many weeks have gone by since I started and I am very happy I chose this course to get the creativity going with my camera. Taya, you’re a great inspiration for helping me find myself again in my photography.

Get your 52 Week Photography Project Excellence Certificate

Receive a digital certificate that includes:

This Challenge is Perfect for You If...

You're curious about different photography genres.

Photography is a big, big world that’s full of interesting things to explore. If you want to learn something new and get creative on a weekly basis, this challenge is perfect for you!

You want to make your photography portfolio stand out.

If you feel that something is missing in your portfolio, you might need to develop your skills and try something new. This challenge will encourage you to leave your comfort zone and experiment with different techniques. Every week, you’ll be challenged to think about photography from a different perspective and to use your camera in creative ways. By the end of this challenge, you’ll have a stronger and more eye-catching portfolio.

You can't take photos every day.

For this challenge, you just need to have one photoshoot every week. If you have more time to take photos, great! If not, don’t worry about having to catch up on hundreds of assignments.

How the 52 Week Project Will Help You Succeed

Course overview.

Weekly Photography Themes

Week 1: Introduction

Week 2: nature.

Week 3: Food

Week 4: motion blur, week 5: one colour, week 6: silhouette, week 7: golden hour, week 8: wide aperture, narrow aperture, week 9: moody, week 10: animals, week 11: diptych, week 12: abstract, week 13: double exposure, week 14: book cover, week 15: product photography, week 16: daily routine, week 17: creative smartphone photography, week 18: shadows, week 19: my favourite photographer, week 20: black & white, week 21: nighttime, week 22: close-up, week 23: long exposure, week 24: underwater, week 25: negative space, week 26: bokeh, week 27: out of your comfort zone, week 28; candid, week 29: still life, week 30: panorama, week 31: perspective, week 32: rule of thirds, week 33: architecture, week 34: timelapse, week 35: analogue effect, week 36: cinematic, week 37: cold, week 38: from where i stand, week 39: your worst photo, week 40: fill the frame, week 41: levitation, week 42: before & after, week 43: headshot, access at all times via our mobile application.

Follow the course from anywhere!

This course will be available through our very own app on Android and iOS.

Welcome to our 52 Week Project!

Don't just take our word for it....

Write A Review

Frequently Asked Questions

• About the course

When can I join?

There's no fixed start date. Anyone can join at any time. Our themes are evergreen, no matter when you join.

Do I have to submit a photograph every single week?

You don't have to. However, if you want to make progress and develop your skills, we highly recommend taking photos every week. If life gets in the way and you can't keep up, feel free to take a break. The project will always be waiting for you in our community, so there's no rush.

How many photographs can I submit every week?

You can submit as many photographs as you like for each theme. We encourage you to share your best photos to avoid spamming the feed, though. :)

Will I receive a certificate when I complete this project?

Yes, you’ll receive a digital certificate when you complete this project.

Can I use a smartphone for this project?

You can use any equipment that you like for this project. However, many of our lessons focus on settings that are available in DSLR and mirrorless cameras. This doesn’t mean that you can’t use a smartphone camera to take photos for this project. We believe that it’s possible to improve no matter what kind of camera you have. If you need guidance, let us know and we’ll help you out!

Privacy Overview

The wait is over! 🎉 Our 'Great Big Photography World' podcast has officially relaunched, and you can now listen to our first episode featuring the incredibly talented Sean Critchfield.

Terms of Use

The use of this site is governed by the policies, terms and conditions set forth below. Please read them carefully. Your use of this site and all PhotographyCourse.net sites indicates your acceptance of these terms and conditions. Your placement of an order indicates your acceptance of these terms and conditions. PhotographyCourse.net reserves the right to make changes to this site and these terms and conditions at any time.

Risk of Loss

All items purchased from PhotographyCourse.net sites are made pursuant to a shipment contract. This means that the risk of loss and title for such items pass to you upon our delivery to the carrier. It is the responsibility of consumer to file any claims with the carrier for damaged and/or lost shipments.

Privacy Policy

Third party vendors, including Google, use cookies to serve ads based on your prior visits to our website. Google’s use of the DART cookie enables it and its partners to serve ads to you based on your visit to our site and/or other sites on the Internet. Users may opt out of the use of the DART cookie by visiting the advertising opt-out page. You can also opt out of a third-party vendor’s use of cookies by visiting the Network Advertising Initiative opt-out page.)

Disclaimer and Limitation of Liability as to Products Sold

All of PhotographyCourse.net products are guaranteed against defects for 30 days from the date of the invoice. Except as expressly stated herein, PhotographyCourse.net makes no representations or warranties, either express or implied, of any kind with respect to products sold on the PhotographyCourse.net sites. Except as expressly stated herein, PhotographyCourse.net expressly disclaims all warranties, express or implied, of any kind with respect to products sold on this site, including but not limited to, merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose. You agree that the sole and exclusive maximum liability to PhotographyCourse.net arising from any product sold on the PhotographyCourse.net sites shall be the price of the product ordered. In no event shall PhotographyCourse.net, its directors, officers, employees or other representatives be liable for special, indirect, consequential, or punitive damages related to product sold.

All products are limited to supply on hand. PhotographyCourse.net makes no guarantee of continued availability should an item be unexpectedly out of stock or backordered from our suppliers. If an item is not available your transaction will be refunded.

Disclaimer and Limitation of Liability as to the PhotographyCourse.net Web Sites

The PhotographyCourse.net web sites and the materials therein are provided ‘as is’. PhotographyCourse.net makes no representations or warranties, either express or implied, of any kind with respect to the PhotographyCourse.net sites, their operations, contents, information, or materials. PhotographyCourse.net expressly disclaims all warranties, express or implied, of any kind with respect to the sites or their use, including but not limited to merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose. You agree that PhotographyCourse.net , its directors, officers, employees or other representatives shall not be liable for damages arising from the operation, content or use of the PhotographyCourse.net sites. You agree that this limitation of liability is comprehensive and applies to all damages of any kind, including without limitation direct, indirect, compensatory, special, incidental, punitive, and consequential damages.

Typographical Errors

In the event a product is listed at an incorrect price or with incorrect information due to typographical error or error in pricing, quantities available or product information received from our suppliers, either on a PhotographyCourse.net website, an affiliates website or a partner’s website. shall have the right to refuse or cancel any orders placed for product listed at the incorrect price or out-of-stock. PhotographyCourse.net shall have the right to refuse or cancel any such orders whether or not the order has been confirmed and your credit card charged. If your credit card has already been charged for the purchase and your order is canceled, PhotographyCourse.net shall immediately issue a credit to your credit card account in the amount of the charge.

This site may contain links to other sites on the Internet that are owned and operated by third parties. You acknowledge that PhotographyCourse.net is not responsible for the operation of or content located on or through any such linked to or third party site.

Order Acceptance Policy

Your receipt of an electronic or other form of order confirmation, either from a PhotographyCourse.net website or a third party website on behalf of PhotographyCourse.net , does not signify our acceptance of your order, nor does it constitute confirmation of our offer to sell. PhotographyCourse.netr eserves the right at any time after receipt of your order to accept or decline your order for any reason. PhotographyCourse.net reserves the right at any time after receipt of your order, without prior notice to you, to supply less than the quantity you ordered of any item. All orders placed over $1,000.00 (U.S.) must obtain pre-approval with an acceptable method of payment, as established by our credit and fraud avoidance department. We may require additional verification or information before accepting any order.

Service and Support

All requests for technical service and support should be made directly to the manufacturer in accordance with their terms and conditions.

Jurisdiction and Venue

Any legal action brought against PhotographyCourse.net shall be governed by the laws of the State of California without regard to its conflict of law principles. You agree that Contra Costa County, CA will be the sole jurisdiction and venue for any litigation arising from your use of a PhotographyCourse.net site.

Our website address is: https://wordpress-537336-2203998.cloudwaysapps.com

What personal data we collect and why we collect it?

When visitors leave comments on the site we collect the data shown in the comments form, and also the visitor’s IP address and browser user agent string to help spam detection.

An anonymized string created from your email address (also called a hash) may be provided to the Gravatar service to see if you are using it. The Gravatar service privacy policy is available here: https://automattic.com/privacy/. After approval of your comment, your profile picture is visible to the public in the context of your comment.

If you upload images to the website, you should avoid uploading images with embedded location data (EXIF GPS) included. Visitors to the website can download and extract any location data from images on the website.

If you leave a comment on our site you may opt-in to saving your name, email address and website in cookies. These are for your convenience so that you do not have to fill in your details again when you leave another comment. These cookies will last for one year.

If you have an account and you log in to this site, we will set a temporary cookie to determine if your browser accepts cookies. This cookie contains no personal data and is discarded when you close your browser.

When you log in, we will also set up several cookies to save your login information and your screen display choices. Login cookies last for two days, and screen options cookies last for a year. If you select “Remember Me”, your login will persist for two weeks. If you log out of your account, the login cookies will be removed.

If you edit or publish an article, an additional cookie will be saved in your browser. This cookie includes no personal data and simply indicates the post ID of the article you just edited. It expires after 1 day.

Embedded content from other websites

Articles on this site may include embedded content (e.g. videos, images, articles, etc.). Embedded content from other websites behaves in the exact same way as if the visitor has visited the other website.

These websites may collect data about you, use cookies, embed additional third-party tracking, and monitor your interaction with that embedded content, including tracing your interaction with the embedded content if you have an account and are logged in to that website.

How long we retain your data

If you leave a comment, the comment and its metadata are retained indefinitely. This is so we can recognize and approve any follow-up comments automatically instead of holding them in a moderation queue.

For users that register on our website (if any), we also store the personal information they provide in their user profile. All users can see, edit, or delete their personal information at any time (except they cannot change their username). Website administrators can also see and edit that information.

What rights you have over your data

If you have an account on this site, or have left comments, you can request to receive an exported file of the personal data we hold about you, including any data you have provided to us. You can also request that we erase any personal data we hold about you. This does not include any data we are obliged to keep for administrative, legal, or security purposes.

Where we send your data

Visitor comments may be checked through an automated spam detection service.

Learn Photography in 365 Days?

Whether you’re looking to start a new hobby or pursue a photography career, this course will give you the skills and confidence to take your photography to the next level.

We’re going to  guide you  through the process and  help you develop all kinds of photography skills . Our weekly videos will focus on a specific theme. Some of our themes are specific, like food photography, while others are more abstract, like “introduction”. Regardless of how specific or abstract the themes are, we’ll teach you how to take photos that don’t just look good but also tell a story .

Who Can Join the 52 Week Project?

Typically, photography challenges have specific requirements. Our 52 Week Project is the exception.  Everyone is welcome to join.

You don’t need to worry about:

Your location  – All you need is a strong Internet connection that allows you to watch videos. We care about helping photographers around the world. If you’re passionate about what you do, don’t worry about your geographical location. We don’t discriminate. 🙂

Timing  – Whether you join us when the 52 Week Project is at Week 10 or at Week 52, you don’t need to worry about timing. Our themes are evergreen. They’re always going to stay relevant, no matter when you join us.

Your level of experience  – This project is ideal for photographers who want to get more creative and learn new things. Even if you’re familiar with the things we teach in our videos, you can still join us and share your interpretation of our themes. If you’re a beginner and something doesn’t make sense, you’re more than welcome to let us know. We’re here to help at any time!

Social media presence  – Whether you have thousands of followers or aren’t present on social media at all, we’re here to help you learn and grow! Our community is a great place to get exposure and meet new people. As you make progress in the 52 Week Project, you might make new friends and build an online following of your own.

Equipment  – You don’t need to have the latest camera equipment to participate in this challenge. In our weekly videos, we’ll teach you how to make the most of what you have. You’ll discover practical solutions to seemingly complicated problems, all in one neat space. If you’d like to have the best possible experience while participating in this challenge, you can purchase a basic DSLR camera.

Over the years, Kevin’s photos have won numerous awards, whilst he has branched into documentary filmmaking as well. Since moving to northern Thailand, Kevin has served on the advisory board of TIPS (Thailand International Photography Society). Regardless of his successes, Kevin has never forgotten his first experiences; as a photojournalist who relished (but didn’t always get) mentorship from those more experienced than him. As a result, Kevin now dedicates himself to teaching others the art of creating images that will change the world. To date, Kevin has successfully mentored over 10 000 students.

Give Someone Special the Gift of Photography.

We’d love to know what you think.

We’ve put a whole lot into creating the Course and making it work for you. We’d love to know your thoughts and how your experience with the course is so far. Your genuine reviews will help us continue to improve this course and others we are creating. Without your feedback it’s impossible to know how effective the teaching is and what your experience of it is. We’d also love to know how it is for you to access the lessons and share your thoughts and photos from the challenges. Because we truly value your time and what you have to offer us by way of reviews, we’re providing you with some incentives if you help us out.

Level 1: A Standard Review

For this type of review, simply write down your experience and comments about the Course and how you’re finding it. Tell us about the lesson content, the video quality and your overall impressions.

A Photographycourse.net free t-shirt!

Level 2: A Shared Review

This can be the same as a Standard Review, but we want you to share it with your social media contacts. Simply write a review and post it to Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Instagram and on any other social media where you have an account.

Professional Camera Cleaning Kit for DSLR Cameras

Level 3: A video Review

Write down your thoughts about your experience and then record a video of yourself using your talking points. Video is a great way to be able to really express how you are finding the lessons, what you’re learning and how your overall experience. We’d love so much for you to make us a video review the incentive we’re offering for this is the chance of a half hour video call with the Author.

a half hour video call with Author.

Leave a Review

Thank you! your review have been submitted

Leave your review.

The Creative Photographer

• Latest tutorials
• Composition Tutorials
• Landscape Photography Tutorials
• Black and White Photography Tutorials
• Exposure Tutorials
• Creative Photography Tutorials
• Lens Tutorials
• Street and Travel Photography Tutorials
• Portrait Photography Tutorials
• Composition Photo Tips Cards

Get Inspired With These Creative Photography Assignments

Last year I wrote about what to do when you find yourself in a  photography rut (I’ve reposted the article so it appears near the top of the recent articles list, or you can click the link to read it).

One of the ideas is giving yourself creative photography assignments or briefs. Over the last year I’ve realized just how powerful this idea is as I’ve set myself assignments and briefs to follow.

I believe in this way of working so strongly that I wrote a new assignments ebook, 100 Creative Photography Assignments , with the aim to give you enough ideas and inspiration to give you at least a year’s worth of shooting.

The book is structured into twenty broad themes, with five assignments for each theme. 

Today I’d like to share some of my favorite assignments from the book with you. The theme is listed in brackets after the assignment.

These assignments will boost your creativity. Some of them are easy. None of them are complicated. Most of them are challenging. All of them are designed to help you see the creative potential in everyday subjects.

To give you a taste of what’s in the book here are some of my favorite assignments. Whether you buy the book or not, I hope you’ll find these ideas useful.

Assignment 19: Hands (Frames)

Use somebody’s hands as a frame for something they are holding. It helps if the object is smaller than your model’s hand. Stuck for ideas? Ask somebody to cup their hands and fill them with strawberries. It’s verging on cliche but fun to play with.

I made the photo below on a walk with my son. He picked up the yellow berries and held them out for me to make a photo. His hand frames the berries, and the dark background frames his hand. It’s another variation on the frame within a frame idea.

Assignment 28: Botanical gardens (Flowers)

Botanical gardens are ideal for finding flowers that don’t normally grow in your local area. Big tropical flowers in particular make great subjects. 

The advantage of botanical gardens is that they often have large greenhouses full of interesting plants and flowers you can photograph all year. 

You can move in close to make great close-up photos of unusual flowers. You can also step back and make photos of flowers in their environment. Add interest by including the glass of the greenhouse walls.

Assignment 33: Street art (Buildings)

Street art is a fascinating subject because, in urban environments, there’s so much of it. It’s a theme you can return to as you travel, photographing street art in different parts of the world.

For me, there is a clear difference between graffiti, which is mindless vandalism, and street art like in the photo on this page, which is made by skillful artists. The first is depressing (which could be an interesting theme in itself and is also connected to Assignment 39: Urban decay ). The second is uplifting and celebrates creativity and freedom of expression. 

But of course, you may have a different opinion and you can interpret the brief any way you like.

Assignment 36: In the area (Your local neighborhood)

The hardest thing about photographing your own neighborhood is familiarity. The longer you’ve been living there the more likely it is that you’ve stopped noticing how interesting it might be to somebody seeing it with fresh eyes.

This assignment is your opportunity to put that right and make a series of photos that show the local architecture in your neighborhood. Whether it’s suburban housing, rural life or urban living, there’s something interesting to photograph. 

If it helps, imagine you’re a visitor from another country seeing your neighborhood for the first time. What would they find interesting about it? What makes it different? If your neighborhood is boring, how can you capture that boredom?

Assignment 39: Urban decay (Your local neighborhood)

Some buildings can look good for centuries if they’re well looked after. But others soon fall into decay, especially if they’re not maintained. Look for the beauty in decayed or run-down buildings. 

You expect older buildings to be in a state of disrepair, especially if you live in a country that has plenty of ruins. But more modern urban decay can be just as interesting. Why do modern buildings fall into disrepair? What stories do they tell about their neighborhoods, towns and cities?

Another approach to this idea is to photograph urban decay in other countries, and then compare the results with what you get in your local area.

Assignment 58: Small towns and cities (Urban skyline)

This assignment is similar to the previous one except that this time your brief is to make a photo of the skyline in a smaller town or city. 

The focus is on ordinary buildings. Residential areas are often an interesting subject. As you wander around you’ll see a big difference in architectural styles as you move from one neighborhood to another. 

These are smaller, more intimate urban skylines. It’s another assignment with great potential to turn into a series.

Assignment 65: Shadow as a frame (Light and shadow)

Your brief for this assignment is to photograph a scene with a brightly lit subject framed by shadow. Architecture is a great subject as you can use standard features like arches and doorways. 

As long as you have something interesting lit by the sun to juxtapose against a shady foreground you’ll have enough contrast to get this effect. You can play with the shadows in post-processing to see whether making them darker improves the composition.  

Another approach to this brief is to stand indoors and shoot out through the window. If the scene outside is lit by the sun there’s enough contrast to create a black frame around it.

Assignment 72: Abandoned furniture (Everyday objects)

The other day I walked past an old armchair abandoned in the street, and it reminded me of the photo on this page that I made in Newport, Rhode Island, some time ago. 

It also reminded me of a red couch I saw abandoned in a field in Mexico, some old chairs I saw outside a house in Alaska, and the time I saw a motorcycle gang sitting on an old sofa watching a carnival in New Zealand.

This is a good assignment to keep at the back of your mind. If you see a piece of abandoned furniture somewhere, make a photo of it, even if it’s with your smartphone. As time goes by you’ll build an interesting series of images. 

Assignment 80: Limited color palettes (Composition)

The final composition assignment tests your observational skills by asking you to make photos of scenes with a limited color palette. 

Often this type of scene is dominated by a single vibrant color, like the orange flowers in the photo on the right. Using a limited color palette simplifies the design of the photo by simplifying the colors used in the composition. 

If you’re outside making photos, then this brief is a good test of your composition skills. But you can also think about this assignment if you have more control over the scene. 

If you’re making a portrait of somebody, for example, what happens if you ask them to wear a blue jumper, blue jeans and stand in front of a blue wall? What difference does it make if they wear an orange jumper instead? Exploring the use of color like this can give interesting results.

Assignment 83: Cool colors (Mood)

A few years ago I spent a summer in northern Spain, where there are a lot of cloudy days. But the clouds gave the landscape another mood, fertile rather than arid, cool rather than hot, contemplative rather than vacation-like. 

Cloudy light has a higher color temperature than sunlight, which means it’s naturally blue. You can neutralize that by adjusting White Balance, or you can enhance it instead, adding to the mood and feel of the scene. That’s what I chose to do in the photo on the right. It’s also your brief for this assignment. Look for a scene that works well with cooler, blue colors (like a winter landscape or a cloudy seascape) and make a photo that captures the moodiness of the scene. 

Assignment 91: Road signs (Landscape)

Some photographers equate landscape photography with photographing the wilderness, but there are many parts of the world where the natural landscape coexists with man-made elements. In long-settled countries like Britain the entire landscape has been affected by man in one way or another. 

For this assignment your brief is to incorporate road signs into a landscape photo. How can you juxtapose man-made and natural elements of the landscape in an interesting way?

In the photo on this page, I was struck by the symmetry created by placing the road sign between the distant wind turbines, another man-made element of the landscape.

100 Creative Photography Assignments

These assignments come from my new ebook 100 Creative Photography Assignments

I’m proud of this one and wish I’d had it 20 years ago when I was starting out in photography.  Click here to learn more

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

11 Advanced Photography Exercises for High School Students

Whew! Eleven advanced photo assignments…did you try them all?

As I explored these photography assignments again, I had so much fun taking new photos and applying the techniques right alongside you!

If you didn’t join in on all the fun, you’ll find the complete list of photo prompts we explored below. Click on each link to see the short blurb with related tips and tricks for each prompt.

Also, if you teach photography, here’s a free lesson plan that goes along with this whole series. Click the button below and enter your email! (You can also  click here to purchase the entire unit, including all the worksheets with keys, test with key and review, a complete presentation, and a project outline.)

Alphabet Photography

ABC! Ready, Set Go! Take your alphabet pictures; you may be surprised at how fun and challenging finding photography letters can be!

Extra Credit

Do you need some extra points? Here are some photoshoot ideas that will get you extra points in the grade book and give you a reason to support your school! So go [insert your school’s name here]!

Built-In Camera Flash

You may need to use the flash on your camera when you’re in a pinch! Check the link for tips to make the light look as natural as possible!

External Flash

If you’ve got an external flash, it’s time to learn to use it! It can come in very handy in low-light situations!

Candid Photography

What is candid photography? Well, it’s a bit like being a spy! You’ll need to take pictures on the sly to capture those authentic expressions you’re looking for.

Story Telling in Photography

A picture is worth a thousand words? You bet! Maybe more! Take thoughtful, rich photos that have the ability to strike emotion in your viewers.

Pattern in Photography

Pattern photography is some of the most artistic photography you can take. Finding a good pattern and then capturing the perfect angle to accentuate it is fun!

High Contrast in Photography

I think most the great photographers thrive on high-contrast photography. These photos pop out and say, “LOOK AT ME!”

Low Contrast in Photography

This type of photo is much more subdued than your high-contrast photo, but if done effectively, it can really set the mood!

Color Contrast in Photography

We live in a world of color, so naturally, we  must  learn how to make the colors look good in our photos! So, using the color wheel and some good old-fashioned simplicity, we’ll get some pictures with great color contrast!

Light Painting Idea

What do you get when you mix a camera (with a tripod), a dark room, and some light sticks? Light Painting! This is one of the most fun photography assignments I’ve ever done!

I hope you take the time to try all these out! Also, don’t forget to click the links above to download the worksheets and view the full articles on each.

Thank you SO MUCH for all YOU do for those budding Photographers out there. YOU are truly amazing, too!

Click here to receive the  FREE lesson plan  that goes with this blog series and be added to my email list so that you don’t miss a thing! (If you want to do the thing right, check out this link to get information about the entire unit! )

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

You must be logged in to post a comment.

Want to see a sample lesson?

Enter your email below!

Digital Art Teacher | All rights reserved |

 Privacy Policy |

 Terms of Use |

 Disclaimer |

 Support

Five Self Assignments That Teach You To See

A Post By: Rick Berk

In my 20 years in photography, I’ve seen a lot of different assignments teachers have given their students.  Most I have heard, or been given myself from time to time, have centered around learning to use the camera.  Things like “Use Only One Exposure Mode”, “Use Only One Lens”, or “Use One Aperture Setting”.  The most interesting to me, from a photographic standpoint, involved learning to see.  The reason I say this is that simple camera use can be easily learned. It’s basic math when you boil it down.  But learning to see creatively, learning to compose a shot, takes much more than learning buttons, dials, and controls.  These self assignments force you to look around you, to really see what you’re shooting and try to make interesting images.

1. Pick A Color

Pick up your camera and choose a color for the day. Go out and make images with that color as a dominant element in the image. Find as many different ways as possible to do this.

This image I went in search of things red. 1/320, f/7.1, ISO 1000. EOS 5D Mark II, EF 100mm f/2.8L IS Macro.

2. Pick A Shape

Choose a shape and create images which use that shape in an interesting way. It could be features in architecture, artwork, or juxtaposition of multiple structures. Squares are relatively easy. Start there, and then search out triangles, circles, or combinations of shape.  Again, look for the most interesting composition you can to highlight that shape in your image.

I ventured into Central Park in New York City without a real game plan in mind. I found a sundial and started shooting that, and then went in search of more circles. Found this ironwork and used it to frame a pair of lovers in a rowboat. 1/160. f/2.8, ISO 100. EOS 5D Mark III, EF 24-70 f/2.8L II at 24mm.

3. Shoot Something Different

If you’re like me, you probably have one type of subject you gravitate to more than any other.  But it’s easy to get too comfortable, and miss opportunities to make great images, when you’re only looking for one thing.  Once in a while it’s a good idea to change things up and shoot something different.  If you’re a sports shooter, try shooting a still life.  If you’re a landscape artist, try shooting macro.  These types of exercises forces you out of your comfort zone and helps you learn to see in a new way.

Normally I’m a landscape guy first. But I decided I wanted to try a still life of one of the tools of my trade. I used some black plexi as the table, and black matte board for the background. I used a single speedlite in a softbox above and behind the subject. EOS 5D Mark II with EF 24-70 f/2.8L II. 1/200, f/8, ISO 100.

4. Shoot Reflections

Reflections are a powerful element in photography, but I’m almost embarrassed to admit how long it took me to actually start SEEING them.  I had a “lightbulb moment” one day when shooting with a friend of mine, and since then, I am constantly looking for reflections as an element in my work, whether it be portraits, landscapes, or still lifes.

This is probably the most photographed puddle in New England, but it’s great for producing a reflection of Pemaquid Point Lighthouse. Reflections add interest to images so always be on the lookout. EOS-1D Mark IV, EF 16-35mm f/2.8L II. ISO 100, 1/20, f/16.

5. The 15 Foot Circle

Stand in the center of a room, or wherever you happen to be.  Make photographs only of subjects that happen to be within 15 feet (or 10, or 5) of where you’re standing.  Give yourself a time limit. Exhaust all possibilities. Get as many images as you can using only that area before moving on.  This kind of exercise forces you to really look at things and work to compose interesting images.

I was standing in a dining room at the holidays last year and decided to try the 15 foot circle. This was a line of candles on a fireplace mantle. EOS-1D X with EF 70-200 f/2.8L IS II. ISO 400, 1/250, f/2.8.

For beginners, these assignments are great for learning to see. For more experienced photographers, these are great ways to stay fresh, to restart the creative eye when you’re feeling blocked, or to just do something different.  What other self assignments have you tried to refresh your photographic vision?

Read more from our Tips & Tutorials category

is a photographer based in Freeport, Maine, shooting a variety of subjects including landscapes, sports, weddings, and portraits. Rick leads photo tours for World Wide Photo Tours and his work can be seen at RickBerk.com and you can follow him on his Facebook page and on Instagram at @rickberkphoto.

Some Older Comments

• Guaranteed for 2 full months
• Pay by PayPal or Credit Card
• Instant Digital Download

• All our best articles for the week
• Fun photographic challenges
• Special offers and discounts

52 photography projects: a great technique to try every week of the year

Our pick of the perfect weekend photography projects

• Home photography projects
• Outdoor photography projects
• More outdoor photography projects
• Long-term photography projects

Looking for photography projects to stimulate your creativity? Whether you’re a beginner who’s just learning the ropes or a seasoned snapper in need of inspiration, trying out a new technique can help you grow as a photographer. That’s why the list below features our pick of the best ideas to try with your camera.

From painting with light trails to capturing twilight landscapes, there are countless creative ways to use your camera and its lens. This round-up of our favorite weekend projects features suggestions to suit every skill level – whether you’re shooting with a smartphone or a ‘proper’ camera like a DSLR.

Some you can do from the comfort of you home, while others will have you heading out in search of specific scenes. Whether it’s a novel technique or an inventive suggestion for finding fresh subjects, every idea below has one thing in common: it should challenge you to try something different and find a fresh perspective.

Most of the projects can be attempted using the equipment you already own. Those that do require additional materials should all be achievable with pocket-money purchases – and if there’s any crafting involved, it should be well worth the effort when you see the results.

We’ve shared 52 of our favorite suggestions to do in 2022 below. Try them all and, in a year’s time, there’s a good chance you’ll be a better photographer, with a keener understanding of your camera and what it’s capable of. Plus you’ll be all set to attempt the final project: self-publishing a photo book.

The best home photography projects:

1. water drop art.

The basic idea with this project is to suspend a container of liquid and let drops fall through a small hole, then capture the resulting splash. Timing the shutter as the splash is created is everything. We achieved good results using two flashguns set to their lowest power (1/128th), an aperture of f/22 and water mixed with Xanthan gum to make a more viscous solution. We also used a SplashArt water drop kit from PhotoTrigger , which helped to regulate the size and frequency of the drops.

2. Indoor splash shots

For this project you'll need a flashgun that you can fire remotely, a container with clear sides for your water, a coloured background and a tripod. Set up the container and backdrop, then position the flash over the container. With the camera on a tripod and set to manual focus and exposure - f/8, ISO200 and the fastest shutter speed that will work with your flash - drop the object into the water and fire the shutter as it hits.

Get daily insight, inspiration and deals in your inbox

Get the hottest deals available in your inbox plus news, reviews, opinion, analysis and more from the TechRadar team.

3. Shapes of bokeh

Out-of-focus orbs of light can add magic to any image, but the bokeh effect needn’t be limited to standard circles. From love hearts to stars, a simple cutout filter can transform background sparkles into brilliant shapes. 

Using your lens cap as a guide, draw a circle on a piece of card. Cut out the circle, score a small shape in the centre using scissors or a craft knife, then push the card onto the front of your lens (or attach it with an elastic band). When you next shoot a scene, any unfocused light will take the form of your shape. 

Use a wide aperture to maximize the effect and remember that, as the filter restricts the amount of light entering your lens, you’ll want to set a longer exposure or higher ISO. Try simple shapes such as triangles to get started, before progressing to stars, hearts, crosses and more.

4. Create smoke art

Smoke trails are a firm favourite among still-life photographers. But how about taking it to the next level and using the shapes in a creative Photoshop project. Once you've taken a few good smoke art photos, make a blank document in Photoshop, then copy and paste one of the smoke images into it. Set the blending mode to Screen and use Warp Transform to reshape it. Continue the process to combine a range of smoke shots into a new image.

5. DIY lightbox

Lightboxes are used to illuminate objects evenly against a plain background, often for the purposes of product or food photography. Luckily, you don’t have to have a pro budget to make one at home. All you need is a cardboard box, some white paper and a table lamp. 

Remove the top flaps, stand the box on one end and cut window holes in either side. Line the box with a single, seamless piece of white paper and cover the holes with thin paper or fabric, taped in place. Then it’s as simple as positioning a desk lamp on one or both sides: the paper will diffuse the light, evenly illuminating whatever object you put inside. 

Or for an even simpler setup, use a single piece of paper as the backdrop, with one white wall made from card, and position near a window (as pictured). Experiment with aperture and shutter speed to shoot subjects with totally white backgrounds or some shadow for a sense of perspective. Then mix things up with color backgrounds. If the quality is high enough, you could list your images for sale on a stock photography website to earn some lockdown pocket money.

6. Lubricate your lens

Want to give your housebound portraits added glow? If you have a spare lens filter lying around, try an old Hollywood trick: smear a layer of Vaseline on the glass to give your images a soft, dreamy look, keeping aperture wide to emphasize the ethereal effect with a shallow depth of field. 

Get experimental by leaving the middle of the filter free from Vaseline to create a halo effect, with the centre in clear focus but the outer elements blurry and soft. Don’t want to sacrifice a filter? Stretch cling-film tight across the lens and keep it in place with an elastic band, before using the Vaseline in the same way. If you’re not into portraits, try the effect when shooting a light source for a unique style of diffusion.

7. Make your own filters

It’s no secret that color is a major element of any image, but you don’t need expensive filters or editing software to experiment with saturation. In fact, you don’t even need to leave your home: all manner of household objects can function as color filters to bring new hues to your photography – and to transform mundane moments into brighter snaps. 

Attach tissue paper to your lens with an elastic band for an instant change of scene, or try shooting through thin fabric with a light source placed behind. Too easy? Take a snap through a laundry capsule for a liquid tone adjustment or use a whisky bottle for sepia shades with a hint of distortion. Petals are pretty effective, too, as are translucent sweet wrappers.

8. Try cross-polarization

This fun project exploits the effect that polarised light has on some plastics. You'll need two polarising filters - ideally one of these should be a sheet of polarising film. You can pick up an A4 sheet of Lee 239 polarising film for £50 (try www.robertwhite.co.uk or www.pnta.com ). The sheet of film should be placed on a lightbox or in front of the only light source. An iPad screen and most computer screens have a polarising filter built in, so if you don't have a sheet of polarising film you can always experiment by creating a white document to fill the screen. Simply attach the circular polariser to the camera lens and rotate it to make the colours appear in clear plastic items

9. Food landscapes

Spice up your food photography! All you need is a set of model figures - Hornby 00 gauge figures are perfect, as they're available in a wide range of poses. Preiser has a great range too. The most important aspect is to establish a sense of narrative. Here you can see that there's a conversation between the characters, with the mountaineer on the 'mash face' being helped by his colleagues on the ground.

10. Fine-art food

Try turning your dinner ingredients into photo art using just a lightbox and a very sharp knife. Slice fruit and vegetables as thinly and evenly as possible, then place them on the lightbox. With the camera positioned directly above, use Live View to focus manually on the details. Set an aperture of f/8 to give adequate depth of field, and dial in some exposure compensation of +1 to +3 stops as the bright light can fool the camera's meter into underexposure.

11. Flowers in ice

A relatively inexpensive way of taking 'kitchen sink' close-ups that look great blown up as wall art. Freeze flowers in plastic containers of distilled or de-ionised water (available through your local auto or hardware store). The flowers will float, so try to weigh them down or fasten them in place so that they freeze under the water. Place the block of ice on top of a clear bowl or glass in a white sink or plate, so that the light can bounce through from below. Position a flashgun off to one side, angled down towards it, and shoot from the opposite side.

12. Abstracts in oil

Oil floating on the surface of water is a great way to make striking abstracts. This table-top photo project exploits the refractive quality of oil and bubbles to accentuate and distort colours. All you need to do is place a few drops of cooking oil on the surface of water in a glass dish. Make sure the dish is supported about 25cm about the table top, then place coloured paper under it and use an anglepoise lamp or flashgun to light the paper.

13. Play with fire

It doesn’t take a pyromaniac to see the photographic potential of fire, but it does take patience, skill and plenty of precautionary measures to capture a stunning action shot of a match igniting. If you’d rather not risk singeing your fingertips, try a different type of flame photography.

Shooting by candlelight alone can lead to magical results. As with any single source of light, it allows you to experiment extensively with shadows – especially if you’re capturing a portrait – while the soft, warm tone and flicker of the flame both contribute to an especially ethereal effect.

In a darkened room, try shooting with a medium-high ISO and a relatively slow shutter speed. Start with just a candle and your subject, before introducing additional elements and playing with positioning. A nearby wall, for example, will throw the candlelight back in different ways, while glass will add to the magic with fiery reflections

Tweak shutter speed to affect the strength of shadows or try adding further flames – though you might need to adjust the white balance if things look more yellow than mellow.

14. Repaint the walls with camera obscura

Familiar with pinhole photography? That technique relies on camera obscura – a natural optical effect that occurs when a small hole in an otherwise sealed space (such as a box) projects an inverted image of the world outside onto the opposite wall. You could make a pinhole camera as an at-home project, or you could go even bigger: with the right setup, you can create the camera obscura phenomenon in an entire room. 

First, you’ll need to black out a room – for example, by taping opaque sheets over your windows. Then you’ll need to make an aperture through which light can enter; the smaller the hole, the sharper but dimmer the image. Camera obscura works best in small/medium rooms, with an aperture of around 10-15mm diameter. Allow your eyes to adjust and determine whether you need to brighten the image by making a larger hole, then marvel as an inverted version of the outside world appears on the wall. 

Capture the entirety of this remarkable natural effect using a wide angle, a relatively long exposure and a tripod, or focus on specific elements of your room to emphasis the effect – such as houses appearing to float upside down on your mantelpiece.

15. Camera tossing

Chucking your precious photographic equipment into the air might sound like something designed to void the warranty, but – provided you’re not too clumsy – camera tossing can deliver some truly spectacular results. Try it in a dark room with a single light source. Set a shutter speed of around one second (roughly the length of time it’ll be in the air) and, as the timer hits zero, launch it upwards. Catching it is the important part, but once you’re comfortable with the technique you can experiment with multiple light sources, different colors and even spinning your camera as you release it.

16. Psychedelic soap film

This is a wonderful project that makes for vibrant desktop wallpaper or abstract wall art. You'll need liquid soap mixed with glycerine for long-lasting soap film, plus a wire loop, a black cloth background and a macro lens of at least 100mm. The colours created by soap film only appear when hit by light from a certain angle, so set up near a north-facing window and shoot from around 45 degrees.

17. Refractive art

Light bends when it passes through water, causing the objects behind to change appearance. This is called refraction, and you'll make use of this phenomenon in this arty photo project. All you need is a few glasses, a flashgun, a tripod and a black-and-white pattern print. Simply place the pattern in the background with the glasses in front. Fill them with different levels of water and move the pattern backwards or forwards to fine-tune the effect.

18. Kitchen close-ups

Your kitchen is an ideal location for shooting a macro project. Its reflective surfaces can be used to create interesting backgrounds for your shots, and a shallow depth of field can transform the most mundane of objects you'll find there. Creating a triptych of images can result in a piece of fantastic wall art for your kitchen too, although it's important to think about how they're going to work together before you start shooting. Here, 3 objects - a fork, a bowl of cereal and coffee granules - were all shot from a similar angle, with the impression of height linking the sequence.

19. Invert the world with a crystal ball

Shoot through a crystal ball and, while you won’t see into the future, you will capture an inverted version of the scene behind the orb. Just as light is refracted when it passes through the glass elements of a lens, the same thing happens with a glass sphere. There are dedicated photography balls on the market, but the effect can often be achieved using a clear marble or even a paperweight. Nothing suitable? A water-filled wine glass can also work. 

All sorts of subjects look good through an orb, from sunsets and cityscapes to abstract items and even portraits. Try shooting with a macro lens to fill the frame with the sphere, or with a wider angle to include some of the scene behind. To really play with perspectives, rotate the image with editing software so that the background is inverted but the scene in the orb is the right way up.  You can also incorporate elements that support the ball into the image, such as hands, bowls or miscellaneous objects.

20. Still-life bokeh

Something as simple as a crumpled piece of foil can be the basis for a creative photo project. Position a still-life subject on a sheet of glass with a piece of dark material underneath it. Scrunch up the kitchen foil then smooth it back out and place it in the background. Shine a table lamp or torch on the foil and, with a tripod mounted camera, dial in the lens's widest aperture to create some beautiful ' bokeh '. During the exposure, shine a flashlight onto the subject.

21. Play with shadows

Photography is fundamentally about capturing light, which is exactly why shadows can be so powerful. They can create contrast with lighter parts of a composition or add texture to an otherwise plain subject. They can even be manipulated to tell a story. Incorporating shadows into your images will challenge you to think not just about the objects within a scene, but how things outside of the frame can affect the light that falls within it.

To play with shadows, all you need is a light source and a solid object to block it. This could be something natural, such as the shadow of a tree cast by sunlight. Equally, it could be something man-made, such as the outline of a street sign created by a car’s headlights. Or it could be something you create yourself: try playing puppet-master by shining a torch and dancing your hand in front of it. 

You can also invert this idea by shooting a subject which is predominantly in shadow and experimenting with how splashes of light fall upon it.

22. Still life light trails

Light trails can be used in all kinds of photography, but they're perfect for a creative still life project. You can use a regular Maglite torch, but try removing the end to reveal the bulb and make the light more direct. Use some electrical tape to attach a coloured sweet wrapper, which you can use as a makeshift 'gel'. Set the canera's shutter speed to around 30 secs with an aperture of around f/8, then start moving the torch within the frame before pressing the shutter. Continue the movement throughout the exposure. Here, we suspended the torch from a piece of string and made a gentle circular movement to create a spiral around the bottle.

23. Light spirals

You'll need to attach a torch, suspended by string, to an open area of ceiling. Fit the widest lens you have on your camera, and mount it on a tripod pointing straight up. With the light turned on, autofocus on the tip of the torch and set the lens to manual focus to lock the setting in. With an aperture of f/11 or f/16 dialled in, use Bulb mode and a remote release to keep the shutter open for a minute or so as you send the torch spinning in the dark…

• Best camera flash: dedicated flashguns for Canon and Nikon DSLR
• Best macro lens 2018: close-up lenses for Canon and Nikon DSLRs
• Macro lenses: how to choose one, and how to use it

Current page: Home photography projects

Formerly News Editor at Stuff, Chris has rarely been able to resist the bite of the travel bug – so he now writes about tech from the road, in whichever Wi-Fi-equipped café he can find. Fond of coffee kit, classic cars and sustainable gear, if there’s one thing Chris loves more than scribbling, shooting and sharing his way around the world, it’s alliterative triplets.

This AI 'poetry camera' shoots haikus instead of photos – and that’s way more interesting than megapixels

“We do not view AI-generated images as photographs” – photo contest experts talk AI, and the steps they're taking to spot fake photos

How to enable YouTube picture-in-picture on iPhone

Most Popular

• 2 Dell cracks down on hybrid working again — computing giant is going to start color-coding employees to show who is coming back to the office
• 3 I tested Samsung's glare-free OLED TV vs a conventional OLED TV – here's what I learned
• 4 Microsoft is investing billions into another major US AI data center — and its location is a slap in the face to Apple
• 5 Majority MP3 Player review: one of the best cheap music players to consider
• 2 10 things Apple forgot to tell us about the new iPad Pro and iPad Air
• 3 4 reasons why most free VPNs are scams
• 4 Microsoft is bringing passkeys to all users
• 5 I tested Samsung's glare-free OLED TV vs a conventional OLED TV – here's what I learned

SLR Photography Guide

** APRIL SALE ON NOW – UP TO 75% OFF PHOTOGRAPHY COURSES AND GUIDES **

• 100 Photography Assignment Sheets

Want an easier way to learn photography without reading a lengthy camera manual or sitting down at a computer studying techniques? These assignment sheets are hands down the fastest and most active way to grasp key concepts of photography. Think of them as see and do cards.

Or maybe you’re needing some inspiration to kick start your photography again? With 100 sheets, you are sure to pick up skills you never learned previously.

SIMPLE STEP BY STEP INSTRUCTIONS AND CAMERA SETTINGS THAT ANYONE CAN FOLLOW

Here’s How They Work

These Photography Assignment Sheets discuss specific photographic topics (100 in total), then provide you with suggested camera settings so you can go out and start capturing great images immediately.

Print the Assignment Sheets or download them to your mobile device and take with you when out in the field

WAS $49, TODAY ONLY $34

• Printable / Desktop & Mobile Versions
• Three Bonus Photography Ebooks covering ISO, Aperture and Shutter Speed
• Free Monthly Photography Magazine + past editions (73 issues to date)
• Lifetime Access including future updates
• 100% Satisfaction Guarantee

Designed so you spend more time shooting, and less time reading!

No fussing around. Learn camera settings that will get you into the ball park as fast as possible for capturing great shots.

Here’s a run down on some of the topics covered

• Long Exposures
• Astrophotography
• Macro and Close Up Photography
• Flash and Lighting
• Sports (indoor and outdoor)
• Bird Photography
• Animal and Pet Photography
• Learn how to capture the moon in all phases
• Capture bolder colors in your images
• Composition
• Key camera settings, ISO, Shutter Speed, Aperture
• High Key and Low Key Photography
• Water Drops & Splashes
• Old School Rules that still work today. Sunny 16, f/8 and f/11
• Learn how to handle harsh lighting or high contrast scenes

FREE Bonus: 3 Photography Ebooks

Understanding ISO – Aperture Explained – Mastering Shutter Speed

100 Photography Assignment Sheets + 3 Ebooks + free monthly magazine including past editions (73 editions to date) with lifetime access including future updates.

We are an online Photography Community with over 300,000 members. 

Depositphotos

Get started.

• Photography Tips
• Camera Settings

Quick Links

• Photography Courses
• Member Login

15 Street Photography Assignments to Re-Energize and Re-Inspire You

If you’re like me– you deal with moments of “uninspiration”. There are days that you want to go out and shoot, but there is some sort of “resistance” which holds you back.

What is a good way to become re-inspired?

Well– I think photography assignments are a great way to get back on-track. They are also a good way to build up your confidence as a street photographer, work out your “eye muscles”, and to have some direction to your work.

Here are some suggestions for photography assignments:

1. The “5 Yes, 5 No” Assignment

This is one of the most popular assignments that I give in my introductory workshops to conquer your fear of shooting street photography.

The assignment goes like this: You approach a bunch of strangers on the streets and ask permission to take a portrait of them. You try to get 5 people to say “yes”, and also 5 people to say “no .”

What is the purpose of this assignment?

Essentially I think one of the best ways to overcome your fear of shooting street photography is to start off by asking for permission.

I know a lot of people who are afraid of upsetting other people if they photograph them candidly and without permission.

However if you ask for permission, you give your subject the opportunity to say “no”– therefore if they do say “no”, you haven’t really upset or hurt anybody.

Furthermore, if you do this assignment it re-wires your psychology a bit. How so? Well, I think one of the biggest fears that we have in street photography isn’t getting rejected, but the fear of getting rejected . The fear of rejection is often the biggest barrier. This is what prevents us from starting our own companies, asking that person out on a date, or trying something new and risky (once again, the fear of failure – rather than the fear itself). But like a child, sometimes you need to fall a few times in order to realize that falling itself isn’t that big of a deal.

In addition, this assignment will try to force you to get rejected. What do I mean by that?

Well, let’s say you do this assignment and you get 5 people to say “yes.” Good job! But you’re still failing your assignment– you need 5 people to also say “no.”

Therefore, you start going out looking for the 5 scariest mofo’s out there (or people who look angry, upset, or who you think would say “no”) and ask them for permission.

You will get a lot of “no’s” – but perhaps fewer “no’s” than you expect. In-fact, sometimes the people you expect to say “no” actually end up saying “yes”.

I have done this assignment myself and sometimes the scariest looking people are actually the friendliest. And vice-versa, sometimes the friendliest looking people are actually the biggest assholes.

2. The “10 no” assignment

This assignment is actually an off-shoot of the previous “5 yes, 5 no” assignment– but it really gets into the meat of the concept.

Pretty much you are going to do the same thing: ask people permission to take their portrait and you will try to purposefully get “10 no’s” as quickly as possible .

I actually think this is a better assignment than the “5 yes, 5 no” assignment because you will quickly jump into the deep-end of the pool, trying to get your “no’s” very quickly. And along the way– you will end up getting a bunch of “yes’s”.

Furthermore, when doing this assignment try to reword your phrasing to sound more creepy to purposefully get people to say “no.” Then based on how people react, then you can start changing your phrasing to get people to say “yes.”

3. “Clean background” assignment

One of the biggest mistakes I see a lot of street photographers make in their work is that their backgrounds tend to be too busy and too messy.

In art there is a concept called “figure-to-ground” (a fancy way to say “contrast”) in which you want to have your subject (figure) to be separated and have strong contrast with your background (ground).

So the assignment is this: try to shoot the entire day with having the simplest backgrounds as possible .

What is a “simple background”? Well a simple background can be just a plain-colored background (white, red, blue, etc). A simple background can also be the sky (if you crouch really low, and just photograph people against the sky).

You can achieve having simple backgrounds in your photographs by changing your position (moving to the left, right, crouching, or tippy-toeing) or by identifying a clean background, pre-framing your shot, and allowing your subject to step into your frame.

A big pro-tip: when you’re shooting, focus on the background (not your subject). Just stick your subject in the middle of the frame, and focus on the background and edges of your frame.

We generally tend to see in “tunnel-vision” in which we can only see around 20% of what is in the center of our vision. In-fact, that is how vision works– we can’t actually see the entirety of a scene, our brain just tends to fill in the gaps with our peripheral vision.

Therefore generally when we shoot street photography we do the following: we look for interesting subjects, stick them in the center of the frame, and then totally disregard (or don’t think about) the background. What ends up happening is that we have photographed an interesting subject, but the background is totally distracting (or doesn’t add to the image).

For good inspiration for photographers who have made an entire career of simple backgrounds, check out the work of Richard Avedon.

4. Subtract, subtract, subtract

This assignment is an off-shoot of the prior assignment: you want to create more minimalist photographs, to remove distractions from your frame.

Generally the idea is this: start off with a photographic scene you are interested in, and continue to subtract from the frame, until you (almost) have nothing left.

For example you see a guy drinking a cappuccino in a cafe and you want to take a street photo of him. The general photograph you might take is just a simple landscape (horizontal) shot of him, which might have clutter on the left and right of the frame.

You then subtract from the left and right of the frame by shooting a vertical (portrait) photograph.

Now you have a much simpler image: you have subtracted the clutter on the left and right of the frame.

Now you want to subtract more. But how?

You realize that you don’t need to include his legs in the frame. So you take a step closer, and you frame the scene horizontally. Now you only have a photograph of his waist to the top of his head.

Can you subtract more? You bet your ass you can.

What is really interesting about the scene? Well, the man has great texture in his hands, and the cappuccino has some nice latte-art inside of it, and has a nice shape. So you get even closer, and this time subtract everything else from the scene (except the coffee cup and the man’s hand). If your camera has a “macro” function– this works really well.

The point of the assignment is to try to figure out how much you can subtract from the scene and really capture the essence of the scene .

There is a lot of “noise” in photography (elements which don’t add to a scene). Rather, try to find the “signal” (the elements of the photograph which are truly interesting).

So when you’re shooting a street photograph, what do you really find interesting? Focus on the details.

Focus a close-up of the textures of an old woman’s face, focus on the weathered hands of a carpenter’s old hands, focus on the arm-gesture of a businessman slumped over his desk who looks depressed, focus on the “decisive moment” of a man jumping over a puddle (I know, cliche), or other details.

Generally this assignment involves getting closer to the action and your subjects.

As Robert Capa said, “ If your photos aren’t good enough, you’re not close enough .”

By getting closer, you get more physically and emotionally intimate with your subjects, and you eliminate clutter.

5. Add, add, add

Haha now for this assignment, you will do the exact opposite of the previous assignment “subtract, subtract, subtract.”

So for this assignment when you are shooting a scene, every additional photograph you take, you will try to add another element (person, object, or compositional element ).

This is a more “maximalist” approach in street photography– to create more complex images that have more layers, things going on– images that have more complexity. Generally this assignment should be more for intermediate/advanced street photographers, who have mastered the act of subtraction (assignment #4).

This is how street photographers like Alex Webb, Lee Friedlander, Joel Meyerowitz, and Jason Eskenazi work in their photography. They constantly add to the scene, and push their frames to the limit– to the point where chaos almost takes over, but there is still form and order.

When you’re doing this “add, add, add,” assignment– the key is to try to not have figures overlapping .

For example, if you’re going to photograph a scene, try to add negative-space in-between each subject. If you look at the work of Alex Webb, you can see that he generally doesn’t have people over-lapping in a scene, and there is some white-space in-between his subjects.

Furthermore if you look at the urban landscapes of Lee Friedlander, you can see how many compositional elements, lines, shapes, buildings, shadows, and forms he crams into his frame (without having them overlapping).

So for this assignment let’s say you see a guy smoking a cigarette on a street corner. Take that first photo of the guy smoking the cigarette.

Then wait a second, and see what you can add to the scene. Perhaps in the corner you see a kid playing with a ball, try to also include him in the frame.

What else can you add? Well, in the top-left corner you see a pigeon about to take flight. Wait a second, and maybe it will fly away? Then if you’re lucky, you catch the “decisive moment” of the pigeon flying away.

Now the pigeon is gone, what else can you add? You see some people in the sidewalk in front of you passing you. Try to get someone in the foreground to step into your frame, and try to get them out-of-focus in your frame (but still in your photograph).

You can continue to shoot this type of way until you try to fill-the-frame from corner-to-corner .

See how much you can add to your photograph before it falls apart. Push the limits.

6. “The 1-square block” assignment

A few years ago I was one of the curators (and participants) of the first “YOU ARE HERE” street photography assignment/show in Downtown LA at the ThinkTank Gallery. My buddies Jacob Patterson and Nima came up with a brilliant idea: they chose a square-block in the Fashion District in Downtown LA and you were only allowed to shoot that one square-block (both sides ). For a month you were only allowed to photograph that one square-block, and they exhibited the best 3 photos from each photographer in that one square block.

At first it seemed like an impossible assignment. After all, how could you be creative in just one square block? There were so many other parts of the Fashion District that I wanted to photograph. I felt constrained to only shoot one square block.

But through the month (and perhaps walking around that block hundreds of times) I had a huge epiphany: constraints breed creativity .

By being committed to that one square block, it forced me to be creative. What could I do with the material and the people on the block to make interesting street photographs? It forced me to think “outside the box”– and for me to appreciate what material I had (rather than what I didn’t have).

Furthermore, I started to get to know that one square block really damn well. I got to also know the people who lived and worked on that street really well. Not only that, but the funny thing was this: every time I circled around the block, I discovered one small detail or thing that was new .

At the end of the day, all photographers ended up making 3 strong images each, and the show was a huge success.

So how can you apply this assignment to your own street photography?

Well, identify one square block in your own neighborhood or city (preferably near your home or work-place) and do a project on that one square-block. Do it for a month, and put together an edit of your 3 strongest images.

If you are really ambitious, perhaps you can even do it for a full year, and if you get 3 good photos every month, you can make an edit of 36 images for the entire year (a great size for a book).

This assignment will force you to be creative with the space and area that you have, and for you to get to know the area really really well. I think also as a photographer it is better to get to know one place really well (than constantly traveling and having a superficial understanding of many different places).

Not only that, but this assignment will teach you that the best photographs are in your own backyard, and don’t have to be far from home.

7. The “one camera, one lens” assignment

I don’t think this is so much of an “assignment” – rather it is more of a life (and photography) philosophy.

Once again, I think creativity best comes out through restrictions. Constraints are freedom.

As I have written in a past article about having “paralysis by analysis” in having too many cameras and lenses out there– I am trying to simplify the process.

So for this assignment you are only allowed to shoot with one camera and one lens for an entire year .

If you think that is too hardcore, start off smaller: do it for one week, or one month .

This is a great assignment to help you simplify your life as a photographer.

If you are reading this article, you are a part of the top 1% most affluent people in the world. We have enough disposable income to afford a camera, while millions around the world are dying of thirst, starvation, and lack of housing.

So we have a “first world problem” that we generally have too many cameras and lenses– that we face “choice anxiety.”

What is “choice anxiety”? It is the idea that we have too many options (let’s say cameras to shoot with) and we don’t know which camera is “optimal” to shoot with.

For example let’s say you own a DSLR (5D Mark III), a Fujifilm x100 camera, and a compact camera (Ricoh GR). They are all great for different circumstances: the DSLR is great for commercial work and uber-high ISO, the x100 is a good “all-around” camera, and the Ricoh GR is a great pocket camera.

But let’s say you have an entire weekend to go to the city to shoot. The dilemma arises: what camera do you bring with you?

You tell yourself, the trade-offs of each camera, each lens in your arsenal (in terms of weight, size, focal length), and each purpose each camera holds. You are so overwhelmed by the choices, you end up bringing them all.

And then of course, you have a heavy ass camera bag, end up shooting fewer photos (your shoulders hurt after walking with the heavy bag), and don’t enjoy your experience as much.

Even having 2 cameras with you on a shoot is a pain in the ass. You see an interesting scene, and you wonder (for a split second), what is the “ideal” camera to shoot the scene with? In that split second of thinking, you might end up missing “the decisive moment”.

Let’s also say you only have one camera, but you have 2–3 lenses in your bag. Then once again, you see an interesting street scene, but you hesitate for a half-second which lens to use. Perhaps the person is too far away for your 35mm, so you put on your 50mm. But while you are changing your lens, you lose capturing the scene. Or let’s say you have a 35mm on and suddenly you go into an alleyway which is really crowded, now you put on your 28mm. But you haven’t shot with your 28mm for a while, so you’re not sure how close you have to be to your subject to fill the frame (therefore the edges of your frame are really empty and sloppy).

So what are the ultimate benefits of shooting with “one camera, one lens”?

Well, by having fewer options in terms of what to shoot with– you have less stress . You know exactly what camera to shoot with everyday (because you only have one option).

Therefore if you own several cameras you can either lock them away (out of sight, out of mind), lend them to friends (extended loan), or simply sell them. Too many cameras and lenses are distractions.

Furthermore, by having one camera and one lens, you get to know the camera and focal length really well. Every different camera system has its pros and cons, and there is no “perfect” or “ideal” camera.

How do you know what that “perfect” camera is?

Well, there is no “perfect” camera– but I can guarantee you that there is a camera out there which fits about 80% of your street-photography needs . Ultimately that is a personal preference (what camera that is for you).

Generally for most street photographers, I think the Fujifilm x100T fits about 90%+ of your street photography needs. Small, compact, un-interchangeable 35mm lens, viewfinder, and unobtrusive. The Ricoh GR is also a great camera for about 80%+ of your needs (small, compact, always with you, doesn’t have viewfinder but isn’t really an issue). If you have the cash, also a digital Leica with a 35mm lens is an ideal setup. Or if you want to save money, you can always just shoot on your iPhone (or smartphone).

By choosing a camera which is “good enough” for our needs is called “satisficing”. A camera that fits 80%+ of your needs.

What a lot of us try to do with our cameras is try to find the “perfect” camera (that fits 100% of our needs). But that camera doesn’t exist. This is a “maximizing” approach (which leads to additional stress, frustration, and dissatisfaction).

So for a week, a month, or a year– just try to stick with one camera and one lens. Your compositions and framing will improve (you will get used to that one focal length really well), you will have less stress (you know what camera to shoot with all the time), and you will carry less weight with you.

In terms of a good focal length, I recommend 35mm for 95% of street photographers out there. If you prefer a 28mm or 50mm those are good options too though. But realize with a 28mm, you have to get really close to your subjects, and a 50mm might be too restrictive (especially if you live in a cramped city).

8. The “.7 meter” challenge (also called the “one-arm length” challenge)

I got this assignment from Satoki Nagata, a talented street photographer from Chicago (who in-turn, got it from his photography mentor).

The idea is this: for an entire day, week, month you are only allowed to shoot from .7 meters (minimum focusing distance for a Leica) which is around 1-arm length away .

Well– if you have fear when it comes to shooting street photography, by getting super-close to your subjects, it will force you to build your confidence and become intimate with your subjects.

You might find that it is impossible to shoot from .7 meters without being noticed. So you can start off by asking for permission from your subjects.

What you can also do with this assignment (to ensure you don’t cheat) is pre-focus your lens to .7 meters (which is around 3 feet I believe) and tape your focusing ring there. If you have a lens without distance markings, just stick out your arm and touch a wall, then pre-focus on the wall, then tape your focusing ring shut.

Through this assignment, you will become much more comfortable shooting from a close distance. The problem I see a lot of street photographers have is this: they are afraid to get close to their subjects, and generally shoot too far away from their subjects.

9. The “1,000 photo challenge”

Another problem I see a lot of street photographers make is that when they see an interesting street photography scene, they only take one photograph. The problem is that a lot of us street photographers have this “myth of the decisive moment” stuck in our head– in which we think that the master street photographers (like Cartier-Bresson) only shot 1 photograph of a scene, and somehow “got it.”

But in reality, the best street photographers often take a lot of photos of a single scene.

If you look at the contact sheets of master street photographers, you can see they often “work the scene” when they see an interesting scene. You can see this by picking up “Magnum Contact Sheets”, or also by looking at Robert Frank’s contact sheets from “The Americans” from the book: “The Americans, Looking In”.

If you also get too nervous and hesitate a lot when you’re on the street (for example, you see an interesting scene, you want to shoot it, but you are nervous, and you end up not clicking because you over-analyze it) this assignment is going to be good for you.

So the assignment is this: in a single day you have to take at least 1,000 photos .

Now I’m not saying that as a photographer you always need to take 1,000 photos everyday. But if you find yourself hesitant to shoot in the streets (because you are nervous or too self-critical), if you only take 1–2 photos of a scene, and want to learn how to “work the scene” – this assignment will help you loosen up and grease your “trigger finger”.

10. “Extreme Depth” Challenge

For this assignment you are trying to create “extreme depth” – in the sense that you want to shoot a street photograph with the following: a subject really close to you in the foreground, someone in the middle-ground, and someone far away in the background .

You can do this assignment by doing the following: pre-focus your lens to 5–10 meters, find someone who isn’t moving around much in the middleground and background, and try to add an out-of-focus face in your extreme foreground .

This will help you create more depth in your photographs and more complexity.

11. “Don’t move” assignment

This is similar to the “one square block” challenge– but even more restrictive.

I got this idea from Joel Meyerowitz in which he said that he used to run around the streets all day, looking for “decisive moments” – but discovered that it was kind of a waste of time (and of energy).

So he started to do something different: he would just find interesting and busy street corners (in which people are walking towards him in all 4-directions) and just keep his feet planted and photograph that one street corner.

The benefit of this assignment is that when you are just standing still in one corner, people begin to ignore you. You become invisible. Not only that, but people are walking into your territory– your space. You own that street corner (as a street photographer).

Preferably you want to do this assignment for about 30-minutes to an hour . I also recommend doing this during “golden hour” (either sunrise or sunset when the light is very good and you have nice long shadows). Expose for the highlights (so your shadows are nice and black/dark).

This assignment will also teach you patience – and make you realize that you can let your subjects come to you, rather than always trying to chase down your subjects.

12. The “one roll a day” challenge

This is a good assignment for those of you guys who shoot film.

I think that one of the most difficult things as a photographer is to stay inspired and motivated.

I know some guys (including myself) who will take an entire month to even shoot a roll of film.

So if you want to stay inspired with your film photography, try shooting an entire roll of film (36 images) everyday for an entire month (30 days ). Then at the end of the month, edit those images down to your 5 favorite images .

By having an assignment of having to shoot an entire roll a day, it will force you to go out and shot, and find things that are interesting. Don’t get me wrong– there are days you will definitely feel like not shooting.

This is similar to people who are writers– I don’t feel like writing everyday, but I try to make it a habit and force myself to do so. Today it is raining in Berkeley and I woke up feeling groggy and not in the mood to write. But I am trying to get in the habit of writing everyday, so I drove to the local cafe (Artis), had a double-shot of espresso, and wrote this little mini-book of assignments.

Similar to going to the gym and exercising: it is ideal to set a schedule to go to the gym everyday. Getting into the habit is a pain in the ass and difficult (we are so busy, we are tired, we don’t feel like it), but at the end of each workout, we are glad that we went.

So try to shoot a roll of film a day, and at the end of the month, you will be glad that you did.

If you shoot with a digital camera, perhaps you can also try to shoot 36 photos a day everyday.

13. Photograph gestures

This might be less of an assignment (a general good way to shoot street photography) – it is to capture emotions .

But how can you capture emotions in street photography?

Simple: start off by capturing gestures .

What is a gesture? It can be facial gestures: someone smiling, someone frowning, someone making a funny face.

It can be a hand-gesture (someone slumped over a table with his/her arm covering their face, someone pointing, someone with their hands on their knees, etc).

People often show emotions most through their body language and gestures.

So for an entire day try to only photograph gestures. Don’t photograph people just walking with their hands and stiff and by their sides .

And moving forward in your street photography– continue to try to photograph gestures and emotions. This is one of the key things that makes a great street photograph.

14. Photograph the rainbow

If you are interested in color street photography, this is a simple assignment you can do:

For an entire day, week, month, or a year try to photograph the colors red, orange, yellow, green, blue, purple, and pink . Make an ultimate selection of your 7 favorite photos (1 photograph per single color ).

This is a bit of a simplistic exercise– but also quite fun. It will force you to challenge to purposefully look for colors. And it is like a little treasure hunt– and your eyes will become much more perceptive to colors.

15. Photograph triangles

I think one of my favorite compositional techniques is photographing triangles.

Generally photographs work best with odd-numbers of subjects to create balance and harmony in the frame (1, 3, 5, 7, etc). Having two subjects in a frame can also work as a strong juxtaposition (having a photograph of a fat person next to a skinny person, a young person next to an old person) or two people who look exactly identical.

But with triangles, try to get a person or element in each corner of the frame.

You can start off by having a subject in the bottom-left of a frame, then a subject in the bottom-right of a frame, and then trying to add a subject in the top of the frame.

For great examples of triangular compositions in street photography, see the work of Josef Koudelka (especially in his “Gypsies” project).

More photography assignments

If you are interested in more ideas for photography assignments, you can also read my article: “ 40 Street Photography Resolutions Ideas for 2014 ”.

In addition, I recommend picking up the book: “ The Photographer’s Playbook: 307 Assignments and Ideas ” for more inspiration.

What are some other photography assignments you have learned either from classes, workshops, or from friends which you have found useful? Share your ideas in the comments below!

40 Facts About Elektrostal

Written by Lanette Mayes

Modified & Updated: 10 May 2024

Reviewed by Jessica Corbett

Elektrostal is a vibrant city located in the Moscow Oblast region of Russia. With a rich history, stunning architecture, and a thriving community, Elektrostal is a city that has much to offer. Whether you are a history buff, nature enthusiast, or simply curious about different cultures, Elektrostal is sure to captivate you.

This article will provide you with 40 fascinating facts about Elektrostal, giving you a better understanding of why this city is worth exploring. From its origins as an industrial hub to its modern-day charm, we will delve into the various aspects that make Elektrostal a unique and must-visit destination.

So, join us as we uncover the hidden treasures of Elektrostal and discover what makes this city a true gem in the heart of Russia.

Key Takeaways:

• Elektrostal, known as the “Motor City of Russia,” is a vibrant and growing city with a rich industrial history, offering diverse cultural experiences and a strong commitment to environmental sustainability.
• With its convenient location near Moscow, Elektrostal provides a picturesque landscape, vibrant nightlife, and a range of recreational activities, making it an ideal destination for residents and visitors alike.

Known as the “Motor City of Russia.”

Elektrostal, a city located in the Moscow Oblast region of Russia, earned the nickname “Motor City” due to its significant involvement in the automotive industry.

Home to the Elektrostal Metallurgical Plant.

Elektrostal is renowned for its metallurgical plant, which has been producing high-quality steel and alloys since its establishment in 1916.

Boasts a rich industrial heritage.

Elektrostal has a long history of industrial development, contributing to the growth and progress of the region.

Founded in 1916.

The city of Elektrostal was founded in 1916 as a result of the construction of the Elektrostal Metallurgical Plant.

Located approximately 50 kilometers east of Moscow.

Elektrostal is situated in close proximity to the Russian capital, making it easily accessible for both residents and visitors.

Known for its vibrant cultural scene.

Elektrostal is home to several cultural institutions, including museums, theaters, and art galleries that showcase the city’s rich artistic heritage.

A popular destination for nature lovers.

Surrounded by picturesque landscapes and forests, Elektrostal offers ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and birdwatching.

Hosts the annual Elektrostal City Day celebrations.

Every year, Elektrostal organizes festive events and activities to celebrate its founding, bringing together residents and visitors in a spirit of unity and joy.

Has a population of approximately 160,000 people.

Elektrostal is home to a diverse and vibrant community of around 160,000 residents, contributing to its dynamic atmosphere.

Boasts excellent education facilities.

The city is known for its well-established educational institutions, providing quality education to students of all ages.

A center for scientific research and innovation.

Elektrostal serves as an important hub for scientific research, particularly in the fields of metallurgy, materials science, and engineering.

Surrounded by picturesque lakes.

The city is blessed with numerous beautiful lakes, offering scenic views and recreational opportunities for locals and visitors alike.

Well-connected transportation system.

Elektrostal benefits from an efficient transportation network, including highways, railways, and public transportation options, ensuring convenient travel within and beyond the city.

Famous for its traditional Russian cuisine.

Food enthusiasts can indulge in authentic Russian dishes at numerous restaurants and cafes scattered throughout Elektrostal.

Home to notable architectural landmarks.

Elektrostal boasts impressive architecture, including the Church of the Transfiguration of the Lord and the Elektrostal Palace of Culture.

Offers a wide range of recreational facilities.

Residents and visitors can enjoy various recreational activities, such as sports complexes, swimming pools, and fitness centers, enhancing the overall quality of life.

Provides a high standard of healthcare.

Elektrostal is equipped with modern medical facilities, ensuring residents have access to quality healthcare services.

Home to the Elektrostal History Museum.

The Elektrostal History Museum showcases the city’s fascinating past through exhibitions and displays.

A hub for sports enthusiasts.

Elektrostal is passionate about sports, with numerous stadiums, arenas, and sports clubs offering opportunities for athletes and spectators.

Celebrates diverse cultural festivals.

Throughout the year, Elektrostal hosts a variety of cultural festivals, celebrating different ethnicities, traditions, and art forms.

Electric power played a significant role in its early development.

Elektrostal owes its name and initial growth to the establishment of electric power stations and the utilization of electricity in the industrial sector.

Boasts a thriving economy.

The city’s strong industrial base, coupled with its strategic location near Moscow, has contributed to Elektrostal’s prosperous economic status.

Houses the Elektrostal Drama Theater.

The Elektrostal Drama Theater is a cultural centerpiece, attracting theater enthusiasts from far and wide.

Popular destination for winter sports.

Elektrostal’s proximity to ski resorts and winter sport facilities makes it a favorite destination for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter activities.

Promotes environmental sustainability.

Elektrostal prioritizes environmental protection and sustainability, implementing initiatives to reduce pollution and preserve natural resources.

Home to renowned educational institutions.

Elektrostal is known for its prestigious schools and universities, offering a wide range of academic programs to students.

Committed to cultural preservation.

The city values its cultural heritage and takes active steps to preserve and promote traditional customs, crafts, and arts.

Hosts an annual International Film Festival.

The Elektrostal International Film Festival attracts filmmakers and cinema enthusiasts from around the world, showcasing a diverse range of films.

Encourages entrepreneurship and innovation.

Elektrostal supports aspiring entrepreneurs and fosters a culture of innovation, providing opportunities for startups and business development.

Offers a range of housing options.

Elektrostal provides diverse housing options, including apartments, houses, and residential complexes, catering to different lifestyles and budgets.

Home to notable sports teams.

Elektrostal is proud of its sports legacy, with several successful sports teams competing at regional and national levels.

Boasts a vibrant nightlife scene.

Residents and visitors can enjoy a lively nightlife in Elektrostal, with numerous bars, clubs, and entertainment venues.

Promotes cultural exchange and international relations.

Elektrostal actively engages in international partnerships, cultural exchanges, and diplomatic collaborations to foster global connections.

Surrounded by beautiful nature reserves.

Nearby nature reserves, such as the Barybino Forest and Luchinskoye Lake, offer opportunities for nature enthusiasts to explore and appreciate the region’s biodiversity.

Commemorates historical events.

The city pays tribute to significant historical events through memorials, monuments, and exhibitions, ensuring the preservation of collective memory.

Promotes sports and youth development.

Elektrostal invests in sports infrastructure and programs to encourage youth participation, health, and physical fitness.

Hosts annual cultural and artistic festivals.

Throughout the year, Elektrostal celebrates its cultural diversity through festivals dedicated to music, dance, art, and theater.

Provides a picturesque landscape for photography enthusiasts.

The city’s scenic beauty, architectural landmarks, and natural surroundings make it a paradise for photographers.

Connects to Moscow via a direct train line.

The convenient train connection between Elektrostal and Moscow makes commuting between the two cities effortless.

A city with a bright future.

Elektrostal continues to grow and develop, aiming to become a model city in terms of infrastructure, sustainability, and quality of life for its residents.

In conclusion, Elektrostal is a fascinating city with a rich history and a vibrant present. From its origins as a center of steel production to its modern-day status as a hub for education and industry, Elektrostal has plenty to offer both residents and visitors. With its beautiful parks, cultural attractions, and proximity to Moscow, there is no shortage of things to see and do in this dynamic city. Whether you’re interested in exploring its historical landmarks, enjoying outdoor activities, or immersing yourself in the local culture, Elektrostal has something for everyone. So, next time you find yourself in the Moscow region, don’t miss the opportunity to discover the hidden gems of Elektrostal.

Q: What is the population of Elektrostal?

A: As of the latest data, the population of Elektrostal is approximately XXXX.

Q: How far is Elektrostal from Moscow?

A: Elektrostal is located approximately XX kilometers away from Moscow.

Q: Are there any famous landmarks in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal is home to several notable landmarks, including XXXX and XXXX.

Q: What industries are prominent in Elektrostal?

A: Elektrostal is known for its steel production industry and is also a center for engineering and manufacturing.

Q: Are there any universities or educational institutions in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal is home to XXXX University and several other educational institutions.

Q: What are some popular outdoor activities in Elektrostal?

A: Elektrostal offers several outdoor activities, such as hiking, cycling, and picnicking in its beautiful parks.

Q: Is Elektrostal well-connected in terms of transportation?

A: Yes, Elektrostal has good transportation links, including trains and buses, making it easily accessible from nearby cities.

Q: Are there any annual events or festivals in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal hosts various events and festivals throughout the year, including XXXX and XXXX.

Elektrostal's fascinating history, vibrant culture, and promising future make it a city worth exploring. For more captivating facts about cities around the world, discover the unique characteristics that define each city . Uncover the hidden gems of Moscow Oblast through our in-depth look at Kolomna. Lastly, dive into the rich industrial heritage of Teesside, a thriving industrial center with its own story to tell.

Was this page helpful?

Our commitment to delivering trustworthy and engaging content is at the heart of what we do. Each fact on our site is contributed by real users like you, bringing a wealth of diverse insights and information. To ensure the highest standards of accuracy and reliability, our dedicated editors meticulously review each submission. This process guarantees that the facts we share are not only fascinating but also credible. Trust in our commitment to quality and authenticity as you explore and learn with us.

Share this Fact:

• Yekaterinburg
• Novosibirsk
• Vladivostok

• Tours to Russia
• Practicalities
• Russia in Lists

Rusmania • Deep into Russia

Out of the Centre

Savvino-storozhevsky monastery and museum.

Zvenigorod's most famous sight is the Savvino-Storozhevsky Monastery, which was founded in 1398 by the monk Savva from the Troitse-Sergieva Lavra, at the invitation and with the support of Prince Yury Dmitrievich of Zvenigorod. Savva was later canonised as St Sabbas (Savva) of Storozhev. The monastery late flourished under the reign of Tsar Alexis, who chose the monastery as his family church and often went on pilgrimage there and made lots of donations to it. Most of the monastery’s buildings date from this time. The monastery is heavily fortified with thick walls and six towers, the most impressive of which is the Krasny Tower which also serves as the eastern entrance. The monastery was closed in 1918 and only reopened in 1995. In 1998 Patriarch Alexius II took part in a service to return the relics of St Sabbas to the monastery. Today the monastery has the status of a stauropegic monastery, which is second in status to a lavra. In addition to being a working monastery, it also holds the Zvenigorod Historical, Architectural and Art Museum.

Belfry and Neighbouring Churches

Located near the main entrance is the monastery's belfry which is perhaps the calling card of the monastery due to its uniqueness. It was built in the 1650s and the St Sergius of Radonezh’s Church was opened on the middle tier in the mid-17th century, although it was originally dedicated to the Trinity. The belfry's 35-tonne Great Bladgovestny Bell fell in 1941 and was only restored and returned in 2003. Attached to the belfry is a large refectory and the Transfiguration Church, both of which were built on the orders of Tsar Alexis in the 1650s.  

To the left of the belfry is another, smaller, refectory which is attached to the Trinity Gate-Church, which was also constructed in the 1650s on the orders of Tsar Alexis who made it his own family church. The church is elaborately decorated with colourful trims and underneath the archway is a beautiful 19th century fresco.

Nativity of Virgin Mary Cathedral

The Nativity of Virgin Mary Cathedral is the oldest building in the monastery and among the oldest buildings in the Moscow Region. It was built between 1404 and 1405 during the lifetime of St Sabbas and using the funds of Prince Yury of Zvenigorod. The white-stone cathedral is a standard four-pillar design with a single golden dome. After the death of St Sabbas he was interred in the cathedral and a new altar dedicated to him was added.

Under the reign of Tsar Alexis the cathedral was decorated with frescoes by Stepan Ryazanets, some of which remain today. Tsar Alexis also presented the cathedral with a five-tier iconostasis, the top row of icons have been preserved.

Tsaritsa's Chambers

The Nativity of Virgin Mary Cathedral is located between the Tsaritsa's Chambers of the left and the Palace of Tsar Alexis on the right. The Tsaritsa's Chambers were built in the mid-17th century for the wife of Tsar Alexey - Tsaritsa Maria Ilinichna Miloskavskaya. The design of the building is influenced by the ancient Russian architectural style. Is prettier than the Tsar's chambers opposite, being red in colour with elaborately decorated window frames and entrance.

At present the Tsaritsa's Chambers houses the Zvenigorod Historical, Architectural and Art Museum. Among its displays is an accurate recreation of the interior of a noble lady's chambers including furniture, decorations and a decorated tiled oven, and an exhibition on the history of Zvenigorod and the monastery.

Palace of Tsar Alexis

The Palace of Tsar Alexis was built in the 1650s and is now one of the best surviving examples of non-religious architecture of that era. It was built especially for Tsar Alexis who often visited the monastery on religious pilgrimages. Its most striking feature is its pretty row of nine chimney spouts which resemble towers.

Plan your next trip to Russia

Ready-to-book tours.

Your holiday in Russia starts here. Choose and book your tour to Russia.

REQUEST A CUSTOMISED TRIP

Looking for something unique? Create the trip of your dreams with the help of our experts.