A grey wet day! What will I see today as a photographer? I started to write a list of possible images I could create. I knew through this journey I would possibly have a photographer's block. All artists go through this, and often I find it is due to a range of elements that are playing in your life. It can range from stress, work time pressure, too much in the day, and many more. I find the result of this is it stifles my creativity. That's why I see this Rāhui as a chance to develop my creativity. However, even then I know I will suffer a photographers' block.

Too often we travel our local areas blind to possible images as photographers. Photography is art. To let the creative juices flow you need to see and explore. You need the space to let the mind clear. Once this occurs, I start to be creative and see things I never thought of seeing. That is the beauty of photography, your observations become more intense, you tend to see things in a different way. When you get to know your equipment well, you get to understand what lens you may want to best represent your visual art.

I created a few images in the morning that were set up and was not that happy with them. Finally, we got out to walk Molly. I took some nice portraits of Jo, but it was not what I was keen on today. I had considered reflections a day ago and after the rain I often see these puddles inviting me to stop and create images. A little inspired I started to play here. I am super happy with the image of Jo. The other two images complement a set of three so not a bad result from a dull day.

Cover Image: Panasonic, G9, f/5.6, 1/100sec, 25mm = 50mm, ISO-800 Cropped to 16x9

I chose a 50 mm lens for this project. Sometimes an underrated lens is so versatile and challenging to use to make a special image.

Andy`s Photography Tip: 'Observation'

Take time to clear your mind. Sit quietly for at least 5-10 minutes. If you can concentrate on breathing. Listen to sounds, notice smells, view the range of colours and most importantly observe the subtleties of light. Do not pick your camera up during this.

When you do move and pick up your camera move slow, do not rush and surrender yourself to not getting an image. When the time is right you will feel it, and start to see. This is when your photographic observational juice will flow :)

Please put a comment or emoji below. If you have any questions pop them in the comments box below or send me a video with your questions via Facebook - keep taking photos and get out there!

Andy Thompson