As a photographer, how does one use their images to inspire others, especially those affected by Coronavirus?

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There are a few ways I've found to inspire through images. Early on, I took images of people outside their homes, from afar/a safe distance, and I got quite a bit of feedback that these images moved people, reminding us that we're all in this together. I also have focused on dramatic light at home and this has given me a reason to pick up my camera. And finally, showing something of beauty, and sharing this on social media, like the blossoms of spring is a way to uplift others.

I've been posting a new image a day on social media - colorful abstract images which people seem to enjoy. I ask people to add their thoughts about them. Photos of nature can also be calming and a reminder that there is natural beauty that exists outside our homes. Travel photos can also serve as an escape.

 I enjoy posting my photographs on-line and many are outdoor settings where I've hiked in different parts of the world that are peaceful, visually quiet or tell a story. I have been doing this for years. The real pleasure is hearing from friends, family and many people I don't know tell me thank you for your photographs and how much they appreciate, like or love them. I continue to post with the hope some of my work brings a sense of calm to those who see my photographs. I just keep on, keep on. Grateful every day.


I have been creating front porch portraits for families in my neighborhood to tell the story of them under quarantine at home.  All images were taken from my car and far away from the families.

I'm also now booking One-for-one essential worker gratitude sessions.  Buy one, give one to a front line essential worker.  

I've also been busy leveling up my skills in other areas of photography including Macro work and re-editing some previous photos using new editing techniques.  So many great opportunities right now.  We just have to look for them.

I take pictures that inspire me and worry less about what other people think. That’s where you find true meaning first, because you can find a story there. If you want people to relate to your photos, you have relate to them first and see what kind of message you want to put out there. What inspires you about this project? Then take it from there and snap away

For me it's about connecting and engaging with my social media followers and my clients. I typically post lighthearted images that (hopefully) bring smiles to others. As a dog photographer I can post some pretty fantastic subjects. 

I use my images to show things all around us not affected by the virus.  Spring is here and all of the flowers are in bloom.  I'm out finding new images to share daily. 

Shooting in the advertising industry for 30+ years, I have hired and mentored (and reviewed portfolios of) literally hundreds of young photo assistants and students. And the surest advice I can offer is this: we best inspire others, by inspiring ourselves with the subject matter we choose, and the depth of our emotional connection to the work we produce. Our worlds are so inundated with millions of photographs every day, that only a very few give our eyes brief pause, and fewer still will stop us on our tracks for actual reflection. Those images that can were created from someone’s heart, with passion and purpose. Or may be so technically brilliant that we cannot help but stop to appreciate their beauty and complexity, which in itself signifies commitment, passion and purpose. So do that. Shoot from your heart those things you care most about and respond to deeply and emotionally, to create images with passion and purpose. And in creating THAT type of work, our core audience will find us. All other photographs are just ‘eye chatter’. Focus upon your own passion(s), to unlock the passion of viewers. Good luck, and happy shooting!

This is actually a time that people need added inspiration. I also think its a great time to show clients and others your skills other than portrait. I think now that they are not in a hurry to rush through their news feeds, ect. the will slow down and enjoy other images. 

Business from Southeast Calgary Calgary, AB
Answered on Apr 13th, 2020

Photographers can use their images to inspires others by reminding them there is still beauty and hope in the world.  Images of nature, of family, and activities they can look forward to doing when the quarantine is lifted. 

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