How to Get Your Enthusiasm and Passion Back

How far will enthusiasm and passion take you? Think about it. How many times have we seen athletes who had all sorts of talent but lacked motivation so they struggle? Then there are the Rudy’s of Notre Dame football or Michael Jordon of the Bulls who were willing to do whatever it takes to just have a chance at their dream and become the superstars of tomorrow or legends for that one moment in time. 

“I had a boyfriend who told me I’d never succeed, never be nominated for a Grammy, never have a hit song, and that he hoped I’d fail. I said to him, ‘Someday when we’re not together, you won’t be able to order a cup of coffee at the *&^%$ deli without hearing or seeing me.” ― 

Lady Gaga

“I had a boyfriend who told me I’d never succeed, never be nominated for a Grammy, never have a hit song, and that he hoped I’d fail. I said to him, ‘Someday when we’re not together, you won’t be able to order a cup of coffee at the *&^%$ deli without hearing or seeing me.” ― Lady Gaga

Regardless if it’s football, cooking, or photography, enthusiasm and passion are critical elements for success. You combine that with knowledge and you have a very powerful individual. 

I recently attended a car show with a long-time fellow photographer friend to take some photos for fun. Sometimes you meet the most amazing people at these events. I was not prepared to meet a young new photographer who introduced himself as Max who epitomizes what it means to be full of enthusiasm and passion for photography.

Max had 2 different film cameras around his neck and one in a camera bag containing a well-used medium format Bronica. It was complete with a pistol grip attached to the bottom, and he was just full of energy (in a good way). 

Max started out the conversation by asking me what I was shooting and I returned the favor. I wish I could properly describe the absolute love he had for those cameras. He explained he only shoots film and that nothing else compares to that look with digital. 

He was cradling the Bronica in his bag as if it were a newborn baby. He said he just got it 2 weeks ago and was blown away at the quality difference over his 35 mm images. He shared how expensive film is but it was worth it to him. 

I shared a little of my experience with film cameras over the years and teased him that he was born about 40 years too late to have experienced film and film cameras. All through our conversation, his hands were holding that camera in a way that reminded me of the joy I felt with the first really good camera I ever bought. I photographed his hands on that camera as we spoke.

That enthusiasm and passion will work in Max’s favor and it will for you as well. I truly believe that enthusiasm and passion can translate into everything we do. From photography to marketing, a new piece of equipment enables you to rejuvenate. In some cases, it can even change your personality to make you more confident. More outgoing. It makes you better in every way.

If you find that you need a spark to get you going or keep you going, consider:

1. A new piece of equipment.
2. Get more involved in your state organization.
3. Have coffee with a trusted photographer friend and challenge each other to create something for the fine art fun of it.  
4. Get a new creative piece of software.
5. Learn a new Photoshop technique.
6. Get a few photographers together and get a model who would dress up in some cool costume for all of you to take turns photographing.
7. Travel to a new location and photograph some street scenes.
8. Create some abstract photography.
9. Work on an image in your file that would be ideal for print competition.
10. Try macro photography.

There are tons of ways to get that passion and enthusiasm going stronger than ever. It’s important to take time to do this, as it’s contagious in everything you do. Your business will run better and you’ll be a happier photographer. 

Enjoy!