Creative Vision Newsletter, March 11, 2024

Embracing The Beginner's Mind

(Above) Gásadalur waterfall at sunrise on western Vágar, Faroe Islands (Denmark) 20mm, 1 second @ f/11, ISO 100

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During my recent conversation with National Geographic photographer, John Stanmeyer, we discussed the importance of the beginners mind - or the child’s mind in not only learning to be a better photographer, but a more creative one.

In the journey of mastering a skill or craft, be it photography or another discipline, embracing the concept of a beginner's mind is not just beneficial - it's essential. This concept, known as 'Shoshin' in Zen Buddhism, refers to the attitude of openness, eagerness, and lack of preconceptions when studying a subject, even at an advanced level.

At its core, a beginner's mind allows you to see the world through fresh eyes, fostering a unique perspective that is often lost when one becomes an expert. It's about maintaining that curiosity and wonder that drove you to pick up the camera in the first place.

When you adopt a beginner's mind, you're more open to experimentation. You try new techniques, explore different genres, and break away from the 'rules' of photography. This approach can lead to innovation and creativity, as you're not confined by the boundaries of what you know. It's about asking questions, seeking new knowledge, and being willing to fail, because failure is often the stepping stone to mastery.

For advanced photographers, returning to a beginner's mind can be transformative. It's easy to get comfortable, to stick with what works and what you know. However, this comfort zone is the enemy of growth. By fostering a beginner's mind, you challenge your existing knowledge and push the boundaries of your art. It's a humbling experience, but one that reignites passion and creativity.

This mindset also encourages lifelong learning, a critical component of any successful artist's journey. The world of photography is constantly evolving, with new technologies, techniques, and perspectives emerging all the time. A beginner's mind keeps you adaptive, eager to learn, and always evolving alongside your craft.

Embracing the beginner’s mind also enhances your creativity. With a beginner's mind, you're more likely to take risks, try unconventional methods, and develop a unique style. It's about seeing the beauty in the mundane, capturing the extraordinary in the ordinary, and always questioning, "What if?"

New Podcast: John Stanmeyer

National Geographic Photographer on the Power of 'I Don't Know' and the Beginner's Mind, Putting Down the Camera, and Perfect Travel Coffee.

John Stanmeyer is an award-winning photographer, filmmaker, and educator, dedicated to social, humanitarian, and political issues that define our times. For more than than 20 years, John has worked nearly exclusively with National Geographic Magazine, producing more than 18 stories, resulting in more than 14 covers. Between the years of 1998 and 2008, John was a contract photographer for TIME magazine. His years with TIME resulted in 18 cover images and 100 plus stories. 

John is the recipient of numerous honors, including the prestigious Robert Capa Award, Magazine Photographer of the Year, and the World Press Photo of the year, among others. 

Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Google Podcasts | Overcast

Topics Richard and John discuss:

• A start in fashion photography - a failure?
• Biggest lesson learned while working with National Geographic
• How much preparation and research is enough?
• The power of "I Don't Know"
• Seeing with a child's mind
• "I'm bored with photography"
• How to reset when not inspired
• Putting down the camera
• Meeting Mother Teresa
• The perfect travel coffee
• Travel accessories

And much more…

Listen To The Entire Episode on:

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Here’s to Truth, Adventure, and Passion…