Your “Just For Fun” Projects Are What Sets You Apart

By Chi Birmingham

Commercial and editorial photographer Thomas Dagg uses his personal projects to showcase his style of shooting and differentiate himself from others in his industry. In an interview with Explore Create Repeat , he explains the freedom that comes with full creative control and pure expression:

Personal projects are what I live for. I can’t explain the hunger I have to create. It’s just there, gnawing at the back of my mind. If I have any free time, you can bet that in some shape or form, my mind is focusing on a personal project. Commissioned work can be really fun with the right people, especially if you’re hired specifically for your own style of shooting and thinking, but completely personal work is just pure expression. I think it’s the one way you can really show who you are — it’s what separates you from other shooters. There are a lot of photographers who can take a beautiful image, so creative work helps you define yourself as an individual and not just a button pusher.

In his personal project the Star Wars Series, Dagg visually captures his imagination as an 8 year old when the modern day world and Star Wars were one in the same. Even though the series was based on early personal experiences, many viewers were able to relate to their own childhood through the project. In an environment where commercial jobs can begin to look all the same, personal projects set your work apart from the masses. They emphasize your personal style and way of thinking through pure expression. They also add character to a corporate portfolio and foster a stronger connection with your audience. Instead of pushing personal project to the back, maybe it’s time we made them a priority.

[via]

via 99U http://ift.tt/1AB6UKD