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Take A Pic

It's creative therapy.

By Ace HowellPublished 3 years ago 3 min read
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Scout locating for a short film.

Oftentimes as writers/creatives, we have a tendency to push ourselves to creative and mental burnout. No matter how much rest we seem to get sometimes the fatigue continues to lurk around. Causing that familiar sluggish feeling that we have a hard time shaking but eventually do. Eliminating the word can't from your vocabulary as a human can work magical wonders for you. It's not that you don't have the ability to push through or finish whatever it is you are working on, it's that hump of a feeling that slows you down once you realize you are getting closer to a goal or finishing a project.

Never underestimate an organic moment. The photo I snapped from above of the opened clam came about randomly while doing a little scout locating for a short film project. Navigating the landscape of the beach I came across this clam that was already positioned in a way that would look perfect for a shot. Of course I prefer a black and white filter due to the timelessness and effect it has on every mood.

Chopping it up with family.

The photo above stemmed from a night of eating and drinking with some family members. Something told me to just line up the beer cans along with the nip bottles and snap a few pics of the subject. It felt relieving just to be able to express your creativity without having to make it feel like work and allowing things to flow.

Now here is where we need to take a deep breath and tell yourself when you run into a creative block....it's part of the process.

Yes, we have to always remember to practice self care and realize that we may be unique individuals but we are very much human after all. Take a break and do something else, live life for a moment and enjoy time with loved ones. The main thing most of us forget is that part of what makes us grow and become better artists is to live and appreciate life. Nowadays damn near everyone has a smartphone with a camera or at least access to one so get out, blow the dust off, and snap some pics.

It doesn't matter where you choose to take photos at. May it be within nature near a large body of water or the hustle and bustle of the city. Better yet you can capture those moments when you are within your comfort zone having a meal or even working out. That is the beauty of art, there are no limits!

This photo below came about while I was enjoying a skinny cigar of the Acid brand. A little creative voice in me said "take a picture". The most important thing is to never get so immersed into controlling every tiny aspect that you take away possible room for magic to occur. You will not be able to control everything but you can always feel everything. A motto for life and fro creatives is to not get in your own way. That's how we block our own blessings.

Enjoying a skinny hand-rolled cigar from Nicaragua.

Much as a portion of us refuse to admit it but we all as humans require some form of therapy. Everyone can be the judge of themselves and determine what type of treatment we are in need of the most. Specifically for artists I believe you should make time for at least 1-2 creative days a week.

This is a prescription by the way.

Personally speaking as a writer first it means getting away from the laptop, notebook, and to give your brain a rest. This is where becoming still, grabbing your favorite choice of beverage, and allowing the energy around you to flow into your space. Practice various forms of breathing outdoors and inhale the needed oxygen levels your body and mind deserves. Once everything begins to flow organically and natural, keep your camera handy and ready so that you may capture those simple moments that speak a multitude of volumes.

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About the Creator

Ace Howell

The Pen.

A weapon for defense, a tool for building, or an instrument of destruction.

[email protected]

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