Yep, you heard me right – 2023 sucked. Well, at least from my perspective as a visual artist. Let me explain. As someone who likes to review my work at the end of each year to assess progress and set goals for improvement, skipping this routine in 2022 left me feeling adrift in 2023. Personal and logistical factors, like moving house after over two decades, consumed my attention and left little room for creative growth.
As I sat down to review my shots from 2023, I noticed a pattern: a stagnation in my work. While there was nothing inherently wrong with my photographs, they lacked innovation and novelty. After over a decade in the field, falling into the trap of repetition dealt a heavy blow to my creativity and left me feeling stuck in a rut.
However, it’s essential to acknowledge that 2023 wasn’t devoid of highlights. I had the opportunity to capture new events for fresh clients, such as Bicycle Network’s Orange Newcrest Orange Challenge and Quad Crown’s The Black Pearl stage race. Plus regular commercial work for OzTent had me shooting lifestyle and studio product images for their new product ranges with occasional videos in the mix. Despite these successes, complacency crept in, reminding me that coasting along without actively seeking growth can lead to stagnation.
Looking ahead to 2024, I’m determined to break free from this rut. Plans for travel photography adventures with my partner on touring bikes, exciting new roles with longstanding clients like Rocky Trail Entertainment, and a plethora of fresh projects signal a revitalization of my creative spirit. While event numbers may be on the decline compared to the hectic pace of 2023, I see this as an opportunity rather than a setback. Having some breathing room in my schedule will allow for deeper exploration, experimentation, and ultimately, more meaningful artistic output.
So here’s to 2024 – a year of renewed creativity, growth, and adventure in the world of visual storytelling. Let’s Go.
