Photographer John Enman Shares Inspiring Resolutions for 2026

As the year draws to a close, photographer John Enman reflects on the fleeting nature of time and the excitement that the New Year brings. With 2026 just around the corner, he revisits the tradition of setting New Year’s resolutions. Enman’s insights, drawn from his past experiences and conversations with fellow photographers, offer a fresh perspective on how to enhance one’s craft in the coming year.

Looking back to 2015, Enman recalls a time filled with optimism for new opportunities. He had surveyed various photographers, gathering their resolutions, which often included practical goals: using a tripod more frequently, turning off auto mode, or investing in new equipment. However, this year, he aims for something more profound—resolutions that inspire creativity and personal growth.

Setting Creative Goals for 2026

Enman emphasizes the importance of focusing on creative evolution in photography. He believes that 2026 could be a transformative year, urging photographers to pay closer attention to their creative ideas. This shift in mindset encourages photographers to explore beyond conventional techniques and embrace their unique artistic voice.

Another significant point raised by Enman is the tendency to obsess over equipment. He asserts that spending too much time worrying about the “best” camera detracts from the core of photography: storytelling. “We should be concerned with making images that tell a story,” he advises, reminding photographers that the essence of their work lies in the narratives they weave through their images.

Encouraging Risk and Experimentation

Enman also advocates for taking risks and moving away from the desire to please followers on social media. He encourages photographers to embrace their individuality, suggesting that 2026 could be the year to put their personal touch into their work. The notion of stepping outside one’s comfort zone is vital for growth, and Enman emphasizes that this could lead to more authentic and impactful photography.

Learning new techniques is another resolution that Enman highlights. He suggests that photographers should make it a priority to experiment and familiarize themselves with different methods. “It’s as simple as reading up on some technique and then giving it a try,” he notes. This commitment to continuous learning not only enhances skills but also keeps the passion for photography alive.

To improve the quality of their work, Enman advises photographers to adopt a more disciplined approach. He warns against the “spray and pray” shooting style, which often results in a large number of mediocre images. Instead, he emphasizes the importance of making every shot count, focusing on quality over quantity.

Post-production is also an area where photographers can refine their skills. Enman encourages a more ruthless approach to editing, suggesting that learning to discard subpar images is essential for improvement. “Conditioning oneself to throw out the crap is the best way to keep improving,” he states, reinforcing the need for critical evaluation of one’s work.

As 2026 approaches, Enman concludes with a thought-provoking quote from acclaimed author Neil Gaiman: “I hope that in this year to come, you make mistakes. Because if you are making mistakes, then you are making new things, trying new things, learning, living, pushing yourself, changing yourself, changing your world.”

In sharing his resolutions, Enman hopes to inspire fellow photographers to embrace creativity, take risks, and continuously evolve in their craft. As the New Year beckons, he wishes everyone a fulfilling and creative 2026.

For more insights and discussions, contact John Enman through his website at www.enmanscamera.com or via email at [email protected].