Who wasn’t happy to see the end of 2020? It changed most people’s lives and challenged us to find peace and joy in a much smaller space. Maybe that’s a good thing for a photographer. We like to be behind the lens, not in front of it.
I thought a lot about whether I would find another photo challenge to keep myself busy during the current lockdown. I suspect it will be extended and Ottawa will once again be included. But instead, I’ve decided to create my own monthly challenges to fine tune my photography interests, improve my technical skills and stretch my creativity.
The first recurring monthly goal will be to select three photos of our cat so that I’m not in a rush at the beginning of December to create his annual calendar. Here are my monthly photography goals for 2021, written to myself in the future.
January: creativity
Since we will be in lockdown for the month, think about transforming ordinary household items to something extraordinary. Use lighting, camera settings, composition and post processing to realize your image. Don’t be afraid to find those dollar store items in the drawer and turn them into something different. That container of bubbles could become the filter that changes a Q-tip into a rainbow of colours.
February: winter wonderland
Although winter may technically start in December, the best time for winter activities is in February. The first three weekends, Ottawa hosts its annual Winterlude festival, with skating on the canal, sliding on the hills and ice and snow carving in the parks. Showcase the beauty and thrill of winter activities in the area.
March: photo paintings
Have you ever seen a photo that looks like a painting? That is the goal for this month. By using lighting, composition and post processing techniques, transform a photo into a piece art. It could be a landscape, a portrait or macro photography that becomes abstract art. Get inspired looking at pieces of art in the National Gallery’s online collection.
April: black and white
Since April is usually wet and the spring colours are only just starting, the challenge will be black and white. No restrictions on the subject, but the camera setting has to be black and white. Architecture might be a place to start, but don’t be afraid to try portraits either.
May: macro photography and colour
The tulips that everybody planted in the gloom and doom of fall are going to be displayed this spring. The annual Tulip Festival is nearby and will be full of colour too. So this month capture the beautiful blooms. Try to capture all the colours up close. If you have too many photos to choose from, create a photo collage that brings them all together as a rainbow.
June: action
Hopefully by June, the coronavirus vaccination campaign will be well underway and life will be returning to normal. Get outside and document people doing things. Capture movement and sport. But also use props, like a folded Brompton bike in front of landmarks to show everyday life.
July: Canadiana
The month starts with Canada Day so use it to discover Canadian things, places and activities. Think beyond the flag and fireworks (hopefully there will be some!) and explore landscapes, urban environments, food, drinks or activities.
August: water
Ottawa has two rivers and a canal, and many small lakes near by. Whether it’s a bird by the water, a fish in the water, or a person moving on top of the water, get outside and capture the beauty and power of water.
September: wildlife
Once the mosquitoes are finished for the summer, it’s nice to get out into nature. Bring some bird seed or peanuts to attract squirrels, chipmunks and birds and have your camera at the ready. Mud Lake, Mer Bleue and Jack Pine Nature Trail are great spots to get close to nature.
October: Colours
Challenge yourself to take vibrant colour photos. Think about using tones to highlight a subject. A cool subject on a warm background or a warm subject with a cool background can make the most of a colourful scene. Use the peak of autumn leaves or the glow of orange pumpkins for inspiration.
November: street photography
Get outside and tell a candid story with some street photography. The Sony A-6600 is perfect for this because it’s smaller and less noticeable. Visit different locations and different times of day to see how the story changes. Don’t be afraid to ask permission and find out the story behind what you are seeing.
December: joy and anticipation
Hopefully by December, the world will have a new normal. Capture the joy of the season, the sparkling lights, pops of colour and smiles on peoples faces (assuming masks will be no longer required).
Sarah Poirier Photography 
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