The Importance of Self-Reflection in Photography

What is self-reflection?

Self: The essential qualities distinguishing one person from another; individuality.

Reflection: consideration of some subject matter, idea, or purpose

Without thinking, how much do you remember of what you achieved last month? How about last year?

We are discussing the benefits of self-reflection today.

As a photographer, reflecting on your work is an important staple to mastering the art of photography.

As an individual, self-reflection is a responsibility. No one else is going to it for you. If you are seeking to improve in any area of your life, contemplation of the known is all you can really control.

A tool for self-reflection: ask yourself these questions- when and why?

Why did I not get the results I desired?

When did I have time to build? When did I let my foot off the gas?

Self-reflection is a matter of timing, you are more than capable of growth as long as you are conscious about the decisions you make.

Here are some benefits to adding self-reflection into your daily/monthly routine:

1. Personal Growth - As a photographer your job is to grow your perspective. Assess your strengths and weaknesses and actively work with self-awareness as you begin to develop.
   

2. Emotional well-being - Self-reflection can be found in the creation process
   
   Art in general is wrapped in emotion. The best photographers in the world are constantly creating emotionally-driven work. These artists usually have an emotional story that ties to their work.
   
   
   Art is therapeutic, if you are able to look back on past work, there is value in seeing what you overcame during harder times.
   
   

3. Enhanced Decision-Making - Reflect on your past, remember the things that gave you pleasure and pain. Understand the consequences and rewards that your actions created.
   
   Backwards law comes into play:
   
   Do hard things —> Have an easy life
   Do easy things —> Have a hard life

The point is, I’ve found myself stuck many times. I realized there is no one managing my life besides myself.

Take responsibility by looking back on times when you succeeded and the times when you struggled.