Constraint Creatively

When I first started my LEGO photography and later, continued onward with my blog, I have to admit that there were days when I encountered a 'creative block'. Similar to a writer's block, this term (which I just created) illustrated a halt on one's creativity. I simply didn't know what else to shoot or what else to write about.

Some days, I tried my best to stage the most creative scene to photograph and sometimes, it worked. Most of the time though, it ended up becoming something horrid. For instance, this Christmas special that I shot last year:

It's supposed to be the face of a snowman, comprising of mini pictures of hats and snowmen. Initially, I thought it was creative but after a few comments from Cyren, I knew it was not one of my best photos. Additionally, I had a few to match this atrocity to which you can find somewhere in my distant past Instagram.

My point here is that sometimes, when you try to be 'too creative', you end up with something the exact opposite. Maybe there are some points for creativity but the picture would be downright sore for the eyes. When facing these 'creative blocks', we force ourselves to invent or conjure something unique even though we are cognitively suitable for the task for that time being.

The thing about creativity is that it should not be forced upon. It should be inspired and struck one's mind when it is ready. Then, you might unexpectedly create one of the most interesting piece ever. As mentioned above, I had experienced 'creative block' and I tried to force myself to be creative during such moments. These photos usually consist of the least likes on my Instagram and it was for good reason.

The reason behind me forcing myself was because I blindly participated in the #lego365 challenge whereby one has to shoot a LEGO photo per day. It was fun at first but eventually, it became a chore and I ended up hating LEGO photography. Good thing was I realized it soon and I dropped myself from the challenge. After a few weeks, my interest in LEGO photography rekindled.

In short, creativity should be evoked through inspiration and personal pacing. That's what makes it creative in the first place. When it is forced, it becomes stagnant over time and you might lose interest in whatever it is that you are doing. In Psychology, we relate this to intrinsic and extrinsic motivation. The former can be defined as whether you are motivated by personal interest while the latter is defined as motivation through external means like money.

So be intrinsically motivated and build something creative. Don't be constrained by your own bricks.