There are a few articles circulating at the moment discussing the pros and cons of repetition in photography. I thought I would weigh in for what it is worth, as I am a strong believer in practice and doing things over in an effort to improve.

No matter where you go, weather and light changes, seasons alter and human and animal patterns of behavior vary. Each time of the day presents something different, something new to see. I have seen places look relatively dull and disappointing at one point in time, only for conditions to change during the next visit. Every good wildlife and landscape photographer understands this.

Cameras are ubiquitous. Nearly every inch of our planet within easy reach has been photographed before. Unless you are prepared to do some serious back country hiking, the chances are that someone has already been to the spot you are visiting and photographed it. The result is that visiting and finding 'new' subjects and places is becoming increasingly difficult. When you do end up somewhere new, you walk away with something bland on your memory card because the weather wasn't great or you needed more time to plan out your images.

There are plenty of books on this subject, and it goes without saying, the more you practice, the better you become at something. Trying a different time of day, using a different lens and finding a different foreground all makes a difference to your photography. It also increases your chance of capturing something unique. It may not be a new subject, but it will be unique image. You can see this in the portfolios of good wedding photographers. Wildlife photographers know repetition is key because that one chance is fleeting (if you don't believe me, read the story behind this winning image).

Next time, give your old familiar place another visit. Photograph it not once, but twice, and then do it again.

You will see and capture something new.

Cheers,

Russell