“The reality is that it’s easier to be inspired than it is to create an original idea and we are hardwired to take the path of least resistance. It’s easier to jump onto a design inspiration gallery site than it is to sit down with a blank sheet of paper and a pencil. It’s easier to follow a pattern than it is to test-drive new options. It’s easier to copy a style or idea that works than try something that might miss the mark or outright fail. Above all, it’s cheaper mentally for us to rally around what’s already been done and emulate it…”
The above excerpt is from a brilliant post by Owen over at Viget.com. Well worth the read. Do it.
Personally, I couldn’t agree more. How much time is the right amount to stroll thru galleries, troll creative sites, and watch online videos?
And what about you?
Are you too busy getting inspired by the work of others to create your own?
Do you read about the failures of others, so you don’t have to try?
Is the convenience of information actually reducing your willingness to struggle to make something worthwhile?
Great post! Remind me that I need to get up off my a$$ and get creating! Thanks!
I think this supports the idea of ‘get out there and just shoot’ that much more. The more often you are shooting the more times you are perfecting your craft. Which means you are trying and learning. Developing your own skills and style. You just don’t know unless you try. Stop drooling over everyone elses work and create your own. I’m not saying stop being inspired. Certainly draw ideas from what you see and experience but when you get out there so much more comes out of your work than you could eve imagine sitting online pouri g over other’ galleries. Thanks Chase!
Well…that was the MOST uninspiring post of yours I’ve EVER READ!
😀
Guilty as charged….
[right hand hand in the air] I promise to get off my duff and shoot more, live more and create more than I ever have. [/right hand in the air]
My only ‘inspiration’, I think, are few books of “The Masters” I’ve.
I tried to recreate their images and learned a lot in the process.
Sure, I got few ideas from different galleries, exhibitions, fellow bloggers, but that is almost like passing by a street ad. If it’s good, it will catch my and I might learn something from it. Or chuckle.
But to say that it waste my time? Not sure.
The world has been photographed many times over. I live to create. The thought of exploring and toying with new ideas drives me. Some people get stuck in life and have to get inspired by other people. Chase Jarvis inspired me a while back with the work he has created and the work ethic he has. I live in the Pacific Northwest. It’s my inspiration and the beauty, my home, is my muse. I’m putting in my two weeks at my job today, I have decided to make this move to advance my career, personal goals, and creative aspirations… I’m a photographer and I love to create!