Taking a break

[...Mole...]

Thinking of taking a break from the camera for a few months as lately I have had no inspiration or drive for photography. Every time I have been out to take photos this year I just completely blank even if I am standing in front of an amazing landscape. I am hoping that taking a break will motivate me more when I give it a go again.

Anyone one else here done this and did it help at all?

[Simpo Two]

It may be nature's way of telling you to try a new hobby; I wouldn't worry about it.

[4hero]

Struggling also to be honest, went to knockhill on Sunday for the first time in months and came back with zero shots worth keeping. Good day out though, might spend more time actaully watching the action in future, rather than through the viewfinder.

It's good to have a break from things, don't feel bad

[Andy888]

Happened me last year. I think you can get comfortable, then boredom creeps in. So maybe you're just bored and need to think of something different to do.

I decided to make it my mission to get some pics into a magazine and managed it last month. Just a handful of nicely edited pics of a Pistonheads meet actually. But made me feel proud and encouraged and got a few requests for shoots now.

[GetCarter]

I've been doing my proper job for 25 years now, and start most days staring at a blank computer screen... It took me at least 3 years to realise that if being creative didn't come naturally and spontaniously, it's best to stop and do something else. You just can't force these things (well you can but the results are usually crap). Take a break and do it when you feel like it.

[Papoo]

I can't speak for photography, but from other passions of mine, I understand your point very well. My blanks weren't in creative topics, but ones where other factors come into play. I did BASE jumping for some years, and when you lose that all-consuming passion for it, you stop learning. When that happens, your life is very much at risk.

As suggested, another hobby may help. I've found that taking a break really did the trick for me. I knocked BASE on the head for a year. It felt great for a while, then it really started chomping at my innerds. If it's engrained in you, you'll find the motivation creeping up on you throughout the hiatus. At some stage, and you'll know when; it'll be time to snap the lenses back on.

Good luck! A little break never hurt anyone.