Photography Projects

Sometimes I think one of the biggest challenges of learning photography is simply figuring out what to photograph. Of course, learning the fundamentals of photography and mastering a DSLR camera are necessary first steps, but having an interesting subject or purpose, may be just as important.

For this reason, every now and then I lose a little motivation to get out and take pictures. And so I’ve done what seems normal: google, “what to take pictures of.”  You’ve done that too, right?

The results show a lot of interesting photography project ideas. Some focus on a single skill like water droplets, while others require consistency like picture-a-day challenges or a project 365.

The Dogwood 52 Photography Challenge really interests me. Each week there is either a storytelling, composition or inspiration prompt. Tens of thousands of photographers from around the world, of varying skill levels, participate. I plan to in 2020.

While all these ideas appeal to me, for my first photography project I decided to create my own. I’m calling it, The Lake County Forest Preserve Photo Hike Project.

Lake County Forest Preserve Photo Hike Project

One of my favorite things about Lake County, Illinois is the forest preserve system. These large, protected land areas are not only beautifully maintained by lcfpd.org, but are often restored with native plants and trees. Since many of these natural areas are lined with miles of hiking trails and bike paths, they are ideal for enjoying the outdoors, and for me, photography, as well.

My photography project is to create a photo collection of at least twelve nearby forest preserves, spanning the four seasons.

As I hike, bike, and photograph my way through 2019, my goal is to grow as a photographer, create a collection of pictures that others may stumble across and find useful, and of course, enjoy the great outdoors.