How can you use creative problem solving to create unique and memorable images for clients?

As a photographer, you may face various challenges and constraints when working on a project for a client. Whether it is a tight deadline, a limited budget, a difficult location, or a demanding brief, you need to find ways to overcome these obstacles and deliver high-quality images that meet or exceed the client's expectations. How can you use creative problem solving to create unique and memorable images for clients? In this article, we will share some tips and techniques that can help you unleash your creativity and find innovative solutions to any photographic problem.

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1 Define the problem

The first step in creative problem solving is to clearly define the problem you are trying to solve. What is the goal of the project? What are the requirements and specifications of the client? What are the limitations and challenges you face? By answering these questions, you can narrow down the scope of the problem and identify the key aspects that need your attention. You can also use tools such as mind maps, SWOT analysis, or SMART goals to organize your thoughts and visualize the problem.

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Lara Reden

Writer, Photographer, Designer
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A problem is at the root of every impactful story. I find it helpful to talk to my clients before setting up the photo shoot. Take time to learn as much as you can about your subject so you can accurately convey who they are and what they are trying to accomplish. Creating memorable images is a collaborative project (at the very least) between you and your subject.

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2 Generate ideas

The next step is to generate as many ideas as possible to solve the problem. You can use various brainstorming techniques, such as free association, word lists, SCAMPER, or reverse brainstorming, to stimulate your imagination and come up with different angles and perspectives. Don't judge or filter your ideas at this stage, just write them down and keep them in mind. You can also seek inspiration from other sources, such as books, magazines, blogs, or social media, to see how other photographers have solved similar problems or created stunning images.

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Lara Reden

Writer, Photographer, Designer
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Once you and your subject agree upon the concept, it is time to brainstorm. Create possible shot lists; at this stage, write down every idea. Research can be helpful as you generate these ideas. Look at what others have done and analyze what works and what doesn't. To visualize, put together some mood boards.

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3 Evaluate and select ideas

Once you have a list of ideas, you need to evaluate and select the ones that are most feasible, effective, and suitable for the problem. You can use criteria such as cost, time, quality, originality, or impact to rank and compare your ideas. You can also test your ideas by creating sketches, mockups, or prototypes to see how they would look in reality. You may need to combine, modify, or discard some ideas based on the feedback and results you get.

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4 Implement and follow up

The final step is to implement your selected idea and execute the project. You need to plan and organize your resources, equipment, and time to ensure a smooth and successful delivery. You also need to communicate and collaborate with your client and other stakeholders to keep them updated and involved in the process. After you finish the project, you need to follow up with your client and evaluate the outcome. You can ask for feedback, testimonials, or referrals to improve your skills and reputation as a photographer.

Creative problem solving is a valuable skill that can help you create unique and memorable images for clients. By following these steps, you can overcome any challenge and find innovative solutions that will make your work stand out and impress your clients.

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5 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

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Ho Bao

behance.net/baoho1993
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I stop at General Ideas and get all the articles want to talking about. It is simple advice you making a list of ideas based on requirements from clients or your senior level and then check the list carefully filter and creating a check box list after all … it’s so “industrial “ sound like a professional way but they forget we are in creative fields. The writter may didn’t know about mood boards or artboards. It’s just a process from another process applied to all

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How can you use creative problem solving to create unique and memorable images for clients?

1

2

3

4

5

1 Define the problem

2 Generate ideas

3 Evaluate and select ideas

4 Implement and follow up

5 Here’s what else to consider

Photography

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How can you use creative problem solving to create unique and memorable images for clients?

1

2

3

4

5

1 Define the problem

2 Generate ideas

3 Evaluate and select ideas

4 Implement and follow up

5 Here’s what else to consider

Photography

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