How Personal Projects Spark Creativity for High School and College Students’ Final Photography Projects

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As a teenager I often wondered why bands collaborated on side projects with musicians outside their own band, outside their genre and sometimes even as a solo project. I didn’t understand why these songs were not outright dropped as normal releases, as some tracks would even surpass the mainline tracks in both quality and creativity. Not to mention how difficult it was to find these EP’s as they were often not officially released. It would take several years for me to understand why bands would and continue to do this mid and late into their careers.

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What Is a Personal Project?

Like spin off projects for musicians who venture beyond the confines of their primary work and explore uncharted territories collaborating with different musicians to create something for themselves, photographers too should embark on personal projects that transcend their usual portfolios for creative expression.

It's important to note however, that personal projects are not measured solely by external recognition or monetary success. The true reward in a personal project lies in personal fulfillment and creative self-expression. A reminder of the love you have for photography, reigniting the creative fire that may have dimmed from the demand of professional work.

To put it simply, a personal project be it photography or any other creative field for that matter, is a creative endeavor that springs from the depths of your individuality. An opportunity to embark on a creative journey that requires only your unique perspective, devoid of dependencies on external factors or individuals, letting your creative instincts guide you. As my photography instructor at ELAC emphasized, a personal project is exactly that: personal.

In other words:

A personal project thrives on self-reliance, liberating you from the constraints of relying on others or external resources to create said project.
While a collaboration with others can enhance your personal project, it is often best to embrace the solitude of working on it alone, allowing your vision to take center stage.
A personal project grants you the ability to seize the camera gear at hand and create at a moment's notice, fostering a sense of spontaneity and freedom.
Personal projects do not require a specific theme or even need to convey a rational meaning to others. It can tell a captivating overarching story or exist purely as an expression of your creative spirit; a collection of photos or just a single photo is enough.
A personal project should not demand a significant financial investment. Instead, it should encourage you to utilize the resources and camera gear you already have, harnessing your creativity and ingenuity.
Contrary to the work showcased in your portfolio, personal projects do not need to align with your established body of work. In fact, it is highly encouraged to explore uncharted territories, allowing your personal project to break away from the norm.

Moreover, the decision to share your personal project with the world remains entirely up to you; it is not a prerequisite. The act of creating a personal project stems from your passion of photography rather than seeking approval from others on social media. And while the subject matter of personal projects will vary greatly, the key is to embrace the process of creation, whether it entails venturing out into the world or immersing yourself within the confines of your home.

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Why Personal Projects Matter

In the words of Jonathan Canlas, author of "Film Is Not Dead," personal projects are a nourishment for the creative soul. Because unlike paid work, personal projects are driven by the basic desire to create, free from the constraints of schedules, social media clout, or the need to please others.

Personal projects serve as a reminder of the passion that ignited your artistic journey in the first place. Even reigniting the spark that may have dimmed due to burnout or the pressures of meeting clients' expectations. In fact, personal projects often act as a source of self-creative inspiration, infusing your photography with newfound vigor and purpose. Especially if you’re in the stage of molding your own photography style.

As they say, your photography style is simply consistent self-plagiarizing.

Furthermore, personal projects can have the potential to make a positive impact on others, whether through charity work, community engagement, or raising awareness about issues close to your heart. And from a practical standpoint, personal projects can provide invaluable learning experiences and serve as a testing ground for new techniques, equipment, or artistic approaches.

Allowing you to experiment, refine your skills, and gain confidence before incorporating these elements into client or paid work. By pushing the boundaries within the safe haven of a personal project, you will expand your creative repertoire and challenge yourself to evolve as a photographer.

Personal projects even have the remarkable ability to spark unexpected collaborations, foster connections, and propel your creative career in unforeseen directions. However, and I hate to sound like a broken record, but it’s crucial to approach personal projects with a genuine desire to create and express yourself, rather than with the intention of clout or financial gain.

Keep Personal Projects Simple

Keep your camera setup and equipment minimal, prioritizing practicality over extravagance. Remember, the goal is to create, unburdened by concerns about the latest gear. However, while practicality should guide your choices, don't hesitate to treat yourself to a new camera, lens or accessory that sparks joy and could enhance your creative process. After all, if a camera or lens combination doesn’t feel good in the hands, or simply doesn’t look cool to you, then what’s the point?

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Practical Benefits of Personal Projects for Students

Whether you’re a photography high school student or taking intro or advance photography courses at community college, engaging in a personal project can be a game-changer when it comes to presenting a final project at the end of the year or semester. The significance of working on a personal project alongside academic assignments cannot be overstated, as it offers a multitude of benefits and can often be a lifesaver in the face of mounting expectations and deadlines.

One of the primary advantages of pursuing a personal project is that it saves you from the stress of frantically searching online or seeking inspiration from others at the last minute. By dedicating time outside of regular coursework to work on a personal project, you cultivate your own wellspring of creative ideas. You’ll have the freedom to explore and experiment with different techniques and dig into subjects that resonate with you and only you.

It's important to note that some instructors may require both a final portfolio and a personal project to be presented at the end of the term. However, regardless of specific requirements, you should always embrace the concept of personal projects as a means of personal and academic growth regardless of the creative path you have chosen. Because personal projects foster independent thinking, self-expression, unique perspectives, self-discipline time management and creative problem-solving as well as learning to trust your instincts. Attributes that will contribute to your success in the classroom, future creative ventures and professional life down the road.

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A Lifesaver for Final Photography Assignments and Presentations

When the time comes to work and present a final photography project, those who have invested in a personal project off the clock will be armed with a wealth of inspiration and a profound connection to their work. Their passion will shine through in every aspect of the presentation, leaving a lasting impression on both instructors and classmates. By demonstrating dedication, self-motivation, and personal investment in this project, you are more likely to receive a higher grade and recognition for your efforts.

Furthermore, the ability to accompany a creative piece with a well-written statement explaining the rationale behind the chosen body of work will add an additional layer of depth and sophistication to the presentation. When a personal project emerges from left field, departing from the more conventional work you have been engaged in, it will show willingness to step outside your comfort zone and explore uncharted territories. This unexpected twist often captivates the attention of instructors and usually sets these students apart from their fellow classmates.

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16 Creative Photography Ideas for Personal or Final Projects

While these projects offer more complexity, require advanced technical skills, they will encourage creative thinking and experimentation. Opportunities to push boundaries, explore different genres, and showcase personal artistic vision:

Conceptual Photo Series — Create a series of photographs that convey abstract concepts or explore deep themes, using symbolism, metaphors, and visual storytelling.
Levitation Photography — Experiment with levitation techniques to create the illusion of floating subjects, combining precise timing, composition, and post-processing skills.
Multiple Exposures Collage — Merge multiple exposures into a single image to create a visually captivating collage, blending different subjects or scenes in imaginative ways.
Cinemagraphs — Bring still images to life by incorporating subtle motion or looping elements, creating mesmerizing hybrid visuals between photography and video.
Long-Term Documentary — Engage in a long-term documentary project that explores a social issue, cultural phenomenon, or a personal journey, capturing compelling stories over an extended period. Showcasing a local small business is a good start.
Creative Light Painting — Use long exposure techniques and various light sources to paint or sculpt with light, crafting ethereal and dynamic images in dark environments.
Fine Art Composite — Combine multiple images and elements to create surreal and fantastical scenes, pushing the boundaries of imagination and digital manipulation.
Experimental Film Photography — Dive into the world of film photography, experimenting with different film stocks, formats, and techniques like double exposures, cross-processing, or alternative development methods.
Underwater Photography — Take your photography beneath the surface, capturing the beauty and mystery of underwater worlds, whether in swimming pools, oceans, or aquariums.
Environmental Activism — Use photography as a tool for raising awareness and advocating for environmental causes, documenting the impact of human activity on the natural world or showcasing conservation efforts.
Composite Self-Portraits — Create elaborate self-portraits by blending multiple images, incorporating props, costumes, or digital manipulation to express different facets of your identity.
Experimental Camera Techniques — Explore unconventional camera techniques like pinhole photography, infrared photography, or DIY lens modifications to produce unique and visually striking results.
Architectural Abstracts — Seek out intriguing architectural details, patterns, or structures, capturing abstract compositions that challenge viewers' perceptions of familiar environments.
Night Sky Photography — Master the art of astrophotography, capturing stunning images of stars, planets, and celestial phenomena, combining technical skills, patience, and a sense of wonder.
Photography with Alternative Processes — Experiment with alternative printing processes like cyanotype, platinum/palladium, or gum bichromate, creating tactile and unique photographic prints.
Caffenol Film Development — Hand develop black & white film with coffee and vitamin C as an eco-friendly alternative for vintage-inspired results with a distinct and artistic flair.

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Semiotic Nights: A Seventeen Year Personal Project of Los Angeles at Night

Personal projects can span an extensive period, evolving and unfolding over time. As my own experience which began unexpectedly in 2006 thanks to the inspiration from Blaqk Audio's debut album "CexCells," I decided to capture star trail photos outside my house simply out of boredom. These initial forays into night photography eventually culminated in the creation of my personal project, "Semiotic Nights." The very photos you now see on this post.

However, it wouldn’t be until the fall of 2018 as I wrapped up the photography program at ELAC that Semiotic Nights would take center stage. After abandoning the project for several years, it was given new life thanks to my instructor asking for a personal project alongside my final portfolio assignment. This time however, I challenged myself by using 35mm black and white film to capture the lonely streets of Los Angles at night.

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Vincent Price Art Museum and Personal Projects Paying Dividends

Every year, as the fall semester unfolds, the highly anticipated student art exhibit takes center stage at the Vincent Price Art Museum, nestled within the ELAC campus. Providing students with a unique platform to showcase their creative talents. And it was during this occasion in the fall of 2018 as I finished the photography program at ELAC that Semiotic Nights found its place among the curated artworks on display at VPAM’s New Voices: The 2018 Student Art Exhibition.

Now, I’m not saying every personal project will lead to something grand, milage will of course vary and making money or getting famous off your personal project should never be the intention. Because you should create personal work for yourself and only for yourself. But if you create something that means something to you, you never know, you might unknowingly inspire someone else to create something of their own as well. But yes, personal projects can have the potential to yield unexpected dividends. Jonathan Canlas, in his book "Film Is Not Dead," shares an anecdote about how a single photograph of a serene lake led to a commercial opportunity in Park City, UT, and eventually paved the way for a major commercial campaign in the breathtaking landscapes of Kauai.

Lastly, in 2012 after many cover to cover reads of Canlas' book, I felt compelled to dust off my Nikon F3 and capture the neighborhoods I grew up in. And although these photographs never lead to any commercial success, many of them would find a home on Instagram a couple years later, with very opinionated captions. Eventually leading me to start another personal project, this very blog, "This Summer Imperfect." Which has surprisingly over the years has opened doors to connections and opportunities my wedding portfolio has not.

A Journey of Self-Expression and Creative Growth

While personal projects may not always lead to grand opportunities or financial rewards, their true value lies in personal growth, self-expression, and the sheer joy of creation. They allow you to search unexplored realms, push creative boundaries, and forge an intimate connection with photography. So long as you engage with a genuine desire to create something meaningful to you. As they say, the journey is as just important as the destination. So, embrace the freedom, dig into the depths of your creativity, and let your personal projects serve as a testament of your passion and artistry for photography.