A Self-Assignment gives you freedom, creativity, and endless imagination. In order to see something differently, we need to look at it in a different way. What interests you? Is there a technique or shooting style you want to learn?

“Never think it can’t be done. There are so many things out there, it just takes some imagination.” — Dave Black

During “The Art of Digital Photography” presentation at Photoshop World Las Vegas 2011, photographers including Julieanne Kost, Dave Black, and Jeremy Cowart inspired us as they shared their own personal work: self-assignments that weren’t job related. These were photos they wanted to shoot, things they were interested in themselves.

Imagine. No restrictions. No worries. You set the rules…if you want rules!

I thought about this as my sister, Michelle, and I took a walk down The Las Vegas Strip after the convention. We found ourselves among the glamorous shops and beautiful sights inside the Bellagio. As I walked, I began to notice something. A pattern. The fonts of the brand names were all very similar, many written in  caps. Some were gold, on glass, or lit from behind. But each was unique. Recognizable. Even when the name was obscured and not entirely readable.

I pulled out my camera (50mm lens attached), and began shooting. I found it a fun challenge, using shallow depth of field to express what I was seeing.

Now this assignment was very small and lasted just a short time. You may choose to shoot a particular subject over a longer period of time, in various lighting situations and perspectives. You may choose to shoot a different subject each week. Whatever you decide, just make sure you decide! Get out there and shoot. Open your mind. Start seeing things in a different way, with a different eye.

So, I end with a challenge. A challenge to act. Decide what you want to photograph, then go for it! Leave a comment below letting us know what you’ve decided to shoot. Let’s make the comment section blow up with ideas and become a resource for those needing a spark. Ready, set…go!