Unlocking Creativity in Photography – My Talk at The Photography & Video Show 2026

I’m excited to be speaking at the SheClicks stand at The Photography & Video Show 2026 at the NEC in Birmingham this March. My talk, Unlocking Creativity in Photography: Seeing, Slowing Down, Trusting the Process, explores simple ways photographers can reconnect with creativity and develop their own visual voice.

I’ll be presenting the talk twice during the show:

Friday, 14 March 2026 – 11:00

Monday, 17 March 2026 – 15:00

Creativity in photography is something many photographers struggle with at some point. With so much inspiration online and endless possibilities in modern photography, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed or unsure where to focus. In this talk I will share a different perspective on creativity – one that focuses less on waiting for inspiration and more on developing a way of working.

Through a series of visual examples from my own work, I will talk about how creativity can grow from limitations and constraints. Instead of trying everything at once, working with fewer tools, a single subject, or a simple idea can often lead to deeper exploration and more personal results.

I will also share examples of how photographing the same location or subject repeatedly can open up new creative possibilities. Small changes in viewpoint, technique, editing, or timing can transform a familiar scene into something entirely different.

Snowdrop flowers photographed using creative techniques including intentional camera movement

Another important part of the process is slowing down. Creativity often appears when we spend more time observing, experimenting, and allowing ideas to develop naturally. Photography doesn’t always need to be fast or constant – sometimes stepping back and giving ideas space is exactly what helps them grow.

Reflection of trees in a puddle showing how everyday scenes can inspire creative photography

During the talk I will show examples ranging from nature studies and reflections to multiple exposure portraits, demonstrating how different techniques and creative decisions can shape the final image.

Creative multiple exposure portrait combining portrait photography with layered textures

Conceptual portrait created using a limited colour palette and simple studio setup

If you are visiting the show, please feel free to stop by the SheClicks stand (C66) and join the talk. I’d love to see you there and share some ideas about how small creative choices can lead to unexpected results in photography.

Olena Hastilow