Sometimes, creativity comes naturally. Other times, you’ve gotta dig deep to find a new creative angle.  As a Denver commercial photographer, I’ll tell you honestly: it’s the creative-digging that’ll really level up your photos. When you get need creative and unique images, backdrops and location is key! Let me share a few exercises that I use to inspire my creativity through unique backdrops!

Consider Location

Backdrops are SO important, especially in branding and senior photos. That’s because the background gives you, well, background, into the brand’s values, or the seniors likes and dislikes. 

Branding photos are going to feel different if we shoot them in their kitchen versus in their grubby workshop, for example.

Unfortunately, too many photos have bland backgrounds. (How many times can we see the same desk, laptop, and notebook combo??) A background like that is fine, but it’s not creating anything memorable or unique. To start building creative energy, reconsider the location you pick for your shoot. It might be as easy as moving to a different room to find unique backdrops or walking around the corner to a new side of the building you have never seen before. 

Don’t Be Afraid to Think Outside the Box

I can’t tell you how many times I have shot in front of or next to a dumpster. Is it weird? Yes. And a little stinky. But sometimes the most unconventional ideas will create the coolest photos. Step outside of your comfort zone and challenge yourself.

To help you inspire some creativity, restrict yourself from doing what you always do. Think outside the box! If you always pick rough-cut brick, choose some funky glass instead. Can you use a different angle or perspective? Walk around and see if you have missed something you might have overlooked. By walking a different way or looking on the other side of things, you might hit the jackpot!

It can be scary to break away from what you KNOW will create a good background, but you’ll become a better photographer or take better photos for your business as you innovate. 

Look for Lines and Color

Whether you are taking photos for yourself and your brand or if you are a fellow photographer, look for unique backgrounds, avoid places with obviously clashing or distracting patterns. Think: Are there leading lines here that can draw the eye to the subject? Are the colors present going to compliment (or pleasantly contrast) my subject or brand? Does this background match the style of my client or of my brand? 

When you can answer yes, try a couple of shots! Check ‘em, evaluate, and if it’s really not working, move on. 

As you gain practice, you’ll find new creative confidence. I can find a place to shoot in almost any situation! I know you can do it too. Want to grow your skills quickly or want to learn to take your own branding photos? Learn to level up your photography or branding photos joining my Photography 201 class! Or if you want me to use my expert eye for your branding photos, check this out.