Why Sharing My Creative Process Matters

Ramon Trotman
Apr 26
4 min read

Sharing my creative process isn’t about showing off polished images. It’s about pulling back the curtain and letting others see what goes into making the work. For me, the value comes from opening up about the decisions, experiments, and even the missteps that happen along the way.

I’ve found that when I share the rough parts, like early drafts or ideas that didn’t quite land, I create a space for conversation. People respond with thoughts, suggestions, and sometimes ideas I hadn’t considered. I remember posting a shot I thought needed a tighter crop. Someone suggested a mid-frame instead. I gave it a shot and ended up liking it way more than my original plan.

Letting People In Creates Real Dialogue

There’s something powerful about showing work in progress. It opens the door for feedback, but more importantly, it creates a human connection. People relate to the process because they’re in their own version of it. I’ve had conversations with other artists, designers, and even clients that started with, “I never thought to try it that way.” Those moments remind me that I’m part of a creative community that thrives on curiosity.

I'm Still Evolving, and That’s Part of the Story

Lately, I’ve been experimenting with wider shots. I used to stick to tight crops, but shooting a little wider has helped me see compositions differently. With the resolution I get from my 33MP camera, I can crop in during post and still keep the quality sharp. It’s a simple shift, but it’s changed how I approach my studio sessions. I’ve started seeing the full frame first, and that gives me flexibility to recompose if something isn’t landing the way I hoped.

Documenting the Journey Keeps Me Grounded

Recording my thoughts, sketching ideas, and sharing behind-the-scenes moments help me see how far I’ve come. It’s like having a running conversation with myself about where I’ve been and where I’m headed.

Reflection Brings Clarity

When I’ve felt stuck, writing things out or recording a quick voice note has helped me process what wasn’t clicking. One time, I was spinning my wheels on a project. After scribbling out my thoughts, I found a simple way forward that had been right in front of me. That kind of reflection gives me a better understanding of how I work and what helps me move through challenges.

It Builds Accountability and Encourages Community

Posting updates or thoughts online helps keep me focused. If I tell my audience I’m working on something, it motivates me to stay on track. But it’s not just about the pressure to finish. It’s also about the conversations that come out of sharing. Someone might comment with a technique they’ve tried or a different way of looking at the same problem. That interaction creates a space where ideas can grow.

Managing Time and Tools With Intention

One of the most important lessons I’ve learned is how much time influences creativity. If I don’t set boundaries around my time, distractions creep in and productivity slows down. So I try to work in short, focused sessions, using something like the Pomodoro method to break up the day. That way, I get into a rhythm without burning out.

Making the Most of the Tools I Use

Finding the right tools has helped me move more efficiently. Whether it’s a lightweight tripod for outdoor shoots or software like Lightroom and Photoshop for post, each tool plays a role in how I work. I don’t aim for perfection in-camera, but I do want strong foundations. Editing then becomes about refining, not rescuing. That balance saves time and keeps me creatively engaged.

Embracing Tech While Staying Creative

Technology has added new layers to how I approach photography. Good gear doesn’t replace vision, but it can support it. High-quality cameras, versatile lenses, and smart editing tools all give me more control over how I bring ideas to life.

Using Tech With Purpose

I’ve started using drones to explore different perspectives in my landscape work. I’ve also leaned into AI-powered tools to handle repetitive tasks, which frees up more time for the creative side. The goal isn’t to automate everything. It’s to let the tech handle the routine parts so I can focus on the moments that matter most in the image.

Creativity Grows in Community

Some of my biggest creative breakthroughs have come from conversations with others. Whether I’m chatting with another photographer in the comments or sharing a behind-the-scenes moment on Instagram, those small interactions often lead to big shifts in perspective.

Talking Through the Work

When someone comments on one of my posts and asks a question, I do my best to respond. It’s in those back-and-forth exchanges that real insight shows up. One time, a color-grading question turned into a whole project idea. That kind of unexpected inspiration is why I make space for connection.

Sharing What I've Learned

I like hosting casual live streams or Q&As where I walk through a project or talk about things I’ve been experimenting with. It’s not about giving answers. It’s about trading ideas. When I talk about what worked—and what didn’t—it invites others to share their own experiences too. That kind of openness keeps the creative energy flowing.

Keep Learning, Keep Evolving

When I look at old photos, I see every step that brought me here. The awkward compositions and over-edits are all part of the journey. They’re reminders that improvement happens gradually and that every attempt teaches something new.

Staying Curious About the Work

These days, I’m more intentional about seeing the whole frame. I’ve even caught myself using my hands to frame a scene before lifting the camera, the way film directors do. It sounds simple, but it helps me visualize the shot more clearly. That kind of awareness didn’t come from watching tutorials. It came from doing the work, reviewing it, and staying open to change.

Let’s Talk About It

If you’re in a similar space with your creative process, I’d love to hear how you’re thinking about it. What are you experimenting with right now? What lessons have you learned lately? Drop a comment or reach out. These conversations are what keep the craft alive for me.

Thanks for spending time here. I know how valuable that is, and I appreciate you being part of this journey.