Finding Inspiration in Unusual Places

Since wedding season is coming to an end, I’ve been finding inspiration in unusual places and I wanted to share some of them with you.  I have had some time to read more books, listen to new podcasts, watch music videos and documentaries, attend social and cultural events, host events, and listen to new music too!

So far what I’ve found is that in order for me to stay interested in the photography work I’m doing, I need to be okay with switching it up a bit. Don’t get me wrong, I love photography, but making myself open to new ideas outside of photography has a way of giving me a more well rounded view of my work and my purpose for doing the work — which is really the most important part for me. So here are some of the most inspirational things I’ve come across lately.

A Seat at the Table by Solange

I really love this album. I can listen to the whole album because every song and all the interludes are beautiful with a very powerful message. I’m particularly loving Cranes in the Sky, Don’t touch my hair, and Don’t tell me why. I’ve also watched the videos released so far and I find the whole thing is truly a work of art.

The Friend Zone Podcast

I really love podcasts, especially since I often spend a chunk of my day in traffic. I have a long list of ones I love, but The Friend Zone is a new I’ve come across. There are 3 hosts who speak on different issues on their weekly episodes. It’s so funny and although I don’t agree with all the of their points of view on the issues, I appreciate their willingness to tackle a bunch of interesting topics. The point of the show is to discuss all thing mental health and wellness in order to avoid having a “musty brain”- nobody wants that, obviously.

13th

If you have Netflix, then you have to watch this one. This documentary is one about the racial injustice that exists in the US. I enjoyed relearning about the criminalization of race and I especially love the way the documentary was filmed from an artistic perspective. It’s really well done and an eye opener for people who are unaware of the unequal treatment of black people.

Start with Why by Simon Sinek

I have carried this book around with me for the past 2 weeks and have been reading it every chance I get. It’s a good one about leadership and the way they should lead. Sinek is pretty much changing the way I envision leadership and that’s a really good thing.

Hosting events and mentoring

I’ve taught 3 workshops so far this year and I have 2 more to go! I’m also providing one-on-one mentoring for photographers and students in law school and university. Most of what I enjoy about it is sharing what I know with others. Meeting people in person and showing them that they can do what I’ve done is a form of giving back and serving. I’m enjoying every moment of being available to help others.

But I’m curious, what do you do to stay inspired? If you have something I didn’t mention that you think will help me out, let me know! I’m always open to try something new.

Photos taken using Canon 5D Mark III with a 50 mm f/1.2 lens.