Meet Shawn Keim

We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Shawn Keim a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Shawn, thank you so much for taking the time to share your lessons learned with us and we’re sure your wisdom will help many. So, one question that comes up often and that we’re hoping you can shed some light on is keeping creativity alive over long stretches – how do you keep your creativity alive?

Being creative in photography involves exploring unique perspectives, experimenting with different techniques, and developing your artistic vision. Here’s a detailed guide to foster creativity in photography:

Study and Learn: Understand the basics of photography – exposure, composition, lighting, etc. Study the work of famous photographers to get inspiration and learn different styles.

Experiment with Techniques: Try various photography techniques such as long exposure, macro photography, HDR (High Dynamic Range), etc. Experimentation often leads to unexpected and creative results.

Explore Different Subjects: Don’t limit yourself to one type of subject. Explore landscapes, portraits, street photography, architecture, abstracts, etc. Each subject offers unique opportunities for creativity.

Change Perspectives: Move around your subject and try shooting from different angles – high, low, close-up, bird’s eye view, etc. Changing perspectives can transform an ordinary scene into something extraordinary.

Use Unconventional Equipment: Utilize unconventional tools and equipment like lens filters, prisms, mirrors, or even your smartphone to add creative effects to your photos.

Play with Light and Shadow: Experiment with natural light, artificial light sources, shadows, and reflections. Light and shadow can dramatically enhance the mood and atmosphere of your photos.

Focus on Composition: Composition plays a crucial role in photography. Learn about the rule of thirds, leading lines, symmetry, framing, and negative space. Break these rules intentionally for unique compositions.

Post-Processing and Editing: Learn basic post-processing techniques to enhance your photos. Software like Adobe Lightroom or Photoshop can help you bring out the best in your images.

Step Out of Your Comfort Zone: Challenge yourself by trying new things or photographing subjects you haven’t considered before. Pushing your boundaries often leads to breakthroughs in creativity.

Seek Feedback and Inspiration: Share your work with others, whether online communities, photography clubs, or friends. Constructive feedback can provide fresh perspectives and ideas.

Keep a Photography Journal: Maintain a journal where you jot down ideas, sketches, or notes about potential photo projects. This helps in organizing thoughts and planning future shoots.

Practice Regularly: Like any skill, creativity in photography improves with practice. Make a habit of taking photos regularly, even if it’s just in your everyday surroundings.

Stay Curious and Inspired: Stay curious about the world around you. Inspiration can come from anywhere – nature, art, literature, movies, or everyday life. Stay open to new ideas and experiences.

Develop Your Own Style: While learning from others is essential, aim to develop your unique style and vision. Your personal style sets your work apart and defines your artistic identity.

Remember, creativity in photography is about expressing your unique perspective and emotions through images. It’s a journey of self-discovery and continuous learning. Enjoy the process and let your creativity flow!

Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?

I am accomplished photographer based in the heart of Kansas City, Missouri, renowned for my striking architectural photography and vibrant cityscape compositions. Growing up surrounded by the city’s rich history and modern skyline, I developed a deep appreciation for capturing the essence of urban landscapes.

My journey into photography began as a hobby, capturing local landmarks and street scenes with a film camera gifted by my father and mother. Inspired by the interplay of light and shadow,I quickly refined my skills, mastering techniques that showcase the dynamic energy of Kansas City’s bustling streets and iconic landmarks.

My distinctive style blends meticulous attention to detail with a keen sense of timing, creating images that resonate with viewers on both an aesthetic and emotional level. My portfolio includes collaborations with local businesses, architectural firms, and city planners, highlighting the evolving urban landscape and cultural diversity of Kansas City.

I continue to push the boundaries of my craft, seeking new perspectives and challenges that elevate my work. Whether capturing the rhythm of daily life or the grandeur of architectural marvels, I remain dedicated to sharing the beauty and spirit of Kansas City through my lens.

There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?

3 areas. Take pictures, take pictures and take pictures.

Here’s some advice for young photographers who are just starting out:

Master the Basics: Start by learning the fundamental principles of photography such as aperture, shutter speed, ISO, and composition techniques like rule of thirds and leading lines. Understanding these basics will provide a strong foundation for your photography journey.

Practice Regularly: The more you practice, the better you’ll get. Take your camera with you everywhere you go and experiment with different subjects, lighting conditions, and angles. Practice helps you understand your equipment and develop your own style.

Seek Inspiration: Explore the work of established photographers whose style resonates with you. Study their compositions, use of light, and storytelling techniques. This exposure will broaden your understanding of what is possible in photography.

Experiment with Different Genres: Try out various genres of photography, from portraits to landscapes, street photography to macro. Experimenting with different styles and subjects will help you discover where your interests and strengths lie.

Don’t Fear Failure: Understand that not every shot will be perfect, and that’s okay. Mistakes are part of the learning process. Embrace them, learn from them, and use them to improve your skills.

Develop Your Eye for Detail: Pay attention to the small details that can make a photograph exceptional. Whether it’s a play of light, an interesting texture, or a unique perspective, train yourself to notice and capture these elements.

Network and Collaborate: Connect with other photographers, both online and offline. Join photography clubs, forums, or social media groups where you can share your work, receive feedback, and learn from others. Collaboration can also lead to new opportunities and inspiration.

Invest in Learning: Take advantage of workshops, online tutorials, photography books, and courses to continue learning and improving your skills. The photography field is constantly evolving, so staying updated with new techniques and technologies is important.

Build a Portfolio: As you gain more experience and capture compelling images, create a portfolio to showcase your best work. A portfolio is essential for applying to jobs, entering competitions, or attracting potential clients.

Stay Passionate and Patient: Photography is a journey that requires dedication and persistence. Stay passionate about capturing moments and telling stories through your images. Be patient with yourself as you develop your skills and find your unique voice as a photographer.

Remember, photography is both an art and a skill that evolves over time. Enjoy the process of learning and growing as a photographer, and let your creativity guide you towards capturing images that resonate with you and your audience.

What do you do when you feel overwhelmed? Any advice or strategies?

When feeling overwhelmed, it’s important to take steps to regain clarity and calmness. Here are some strategies that can help:

Take a Break: Step away from whatever is causing overwhelm. Engage in a different activity that you enjoy or find relaxing, such as going for a walk, listening to music, or practicing deep breathing exercises.

Prioritize Tasks: Make a list of everything that needs to be done. Identify tasks that are urgent and important, and focus on tackling those first. Break down larger tasks into smaller, manageable steps to avoid feeling overwhelmed by the scope of the work.

Practice Mindfulness: Bring your attention to the present moment. Mindfulness techniques such as meditation or mindfulness exercises can help reduce stress and improve focus.

Reach Out for Support: Talk to someone you trust about how you’re feeling. Sometimes simply expressing your emotions can provide relief. Seek guidance or advice if needed, whether from a friend, family member, or mentor.

Limit Distractions: Minimize distractions that can add to your overwhelm, such as turning off notifications on your phone or finding a quiet space to work.

Delegate or Ask for Help: If possible, delegate tasks to others or ask for assistance. Sharing responsibilities can lighten your load and provide relief.

Set Boundaries: Learn to say no to additional commitments if your plate is already full. Setting boundaries allows you to focus on what is most important and manageable.

Practice Self-Care: Take care of your physical and emotional well-being. Ensure you’re getting enough rest, eating nutritious meals, and engaging in activities that recharge you.

Break Tasks into Manageable Chunks: If a task seems overwhelming, break it down into smaller, actionable steps. Focus on completing one step at a time, celebrating small achievements along the way.

Seek Professional Help: If feelings of overwhelm persist and affect your daily life, consider talking to a therapist or counselor who can provide strategies to manage stress and anxiety effectively.

Remember, feeling overwhelmed is a common experience, and it’s important to prioritize self-care and seek support when needed. By taking proactive steps to address overwhelm, you can regain a sense of control and clarity in your life.

Contact Info:

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