As a photographer, I’m always working to improve both my technical skills and personal approach. I believe that one way to make progress is by sharing your goals, so here’s a look at the areas I want to focus on in my photography journey.

First, let me make one thing clear—I’m not one to wait for January 1st, a new week, or the start of the month to begin working on something. If I want to improve, I get started right away. For me, there’s no point in waiting for a specific date to kick things off. This list is more of a continuous improvement plan than a set of strict resolutions with deadlines. Some of these are more subjective, like refining my soft skills, which are harder to measure.

Connecting More with People in Street Photography

One area I’d like to focus on is engaging more with the people I photograph in street settings. I want to become more comfortable taking photos of people directly, not in an intrusive way, but in a more engaged, personal manner. The idea is to interact with them, talk a bit, and even hand them my business card so they can get a copy of the image. While I don’t intend to emulate photographers like Bruce Gilden, who is known for his intense close-ups, I want to create more authentic connections with my subjects.

Expanding My Photography Network

Another goal is to engage more with other photographers. I’m still part of a photography club in Brussels, but since relocating to Antwerp, it’s become harder to attend meetings regularly. I’d like to have more conversations with fellow photographers, sharing tips, giving advice, and discussing creative visions. Additionally, I’m considering launching a podcast focused on street photography. There aren’t many podcasts in this niche right now, so I think it could be a great way to connect with others in the field and share insights.

Taking Things Slow

Patience has never been my strong suit, especially when it comes to photography. I struggle with using slow shutter speeds and setting up a tripod—it feels like a hassle. However, I think slowing down occasionally could improve my work. I want to challenge myself to take photos at a slower pace, using a tripod and experimenting with longer exposure times. This could push me to think more about the composition and mood of my shots.

Additionally, I want to get back into analog photography. Shooting on film will naturally slow me down, forcing me to be more thoughtful and deliberate with each shot. It’s also a great way to combine creativity with a bit of financial discipline, as film can be expensive.