If photography is not fun, you’re not doing it right.

Army figurine soldier shot with LensBall [Fuji X-E3. 10-24mm, ISO 12800, ƒ/4, 1/150 – Flashpoint Zoom Li-on R2 TTL & Flashpoint R2 TTL transmitter]

Consider taking a break by going on a retreat or traveling somewhere new. Being away from the content of your everyday life helps you get out of the rut and gives you space to clear your mind. New faces and fresh experiences do wonders for gaining perspective. Take time to drop in, reflect and enjoy yourself.

I bought a Lensball for something to play around with for fun. My idea was that this could stretch me in some way.

[Fuji X-E3. 10-24mm, ISO 12800, ƒ/8, 1/25]

To use the Lensball effectively, you must find that spot between the subject and the camera that puts everything in focus and is compositionally pleasing.

[Fuji X-E3. 18-55mm, ISO 2500, ƒ/8, 1/100]

I also discovered it works best when the subject has more light on it than the Lensball. I learned there is a different focal point than shooting without it. I also learned to use a small focal point in the middle of the Lensball.

Figurine Harry Potter portrait using the LensBall. [Fuji X-E3. 10-24mm, ISO 12800, ƒ/4, 1/40 – Flashpoint Zoom Li-on R2 TTL & Flashpoint R2 TTL transmitter]

The objective for buying the Lensball is being achieved. I have to think differently. Choosing the right subject for the Lensball is quite challenging.

[Fuji X-E3. 10-24mm, ISO 200, ƒ/4, 1/3000]

I also learned that the Lensball really concentrates the sun’s power and will burn you when outside. You have to watch where the concentration of light is going. I played with it and discovered you could start a fire with it if you were not careful.

[Fuji X-E3. 10-24mm, ISO 12800, ƒ/4, 1/90]

If photography is not fun, you’re not doing it right.

If you do photography or anything for a job, you need to be having fun doing it, or you are not doing something right. Look for ways to put some fun back into your profession.