So, you’re itching to create something new. Maybe you’ve got your camera charged, an open weekend, a good coat, and zero clue what to shoot. You want more than a single image, you’re craving something with substance. But where do you even begin?
First of all: you’re not alone. Every photographer hits this wall. The truth is, inspiration doesn’t always arrive fully formed. It’s something we piece together, slowly, from the world around us. And luckily, there’s a lot of world to pull from.
So here’s a list of places (some obvious, some not-so-obvious) that can help spark your next photo series or essay. These are resources I turn to myself when I feel a bit stuck or need to dig deeper.
National Geographic
Let’s start with the classics. If you want to understand what visual storytelling looks like when it’s done really well, open any National Geographic feature. Their essays combine stunning photography with tight narrative structure and deep research.
Notice how the photographers don’t just shoot beautiful places. They ask questions: Why is this important? Who lives here? What’s changing? Let those questions seep into your own ideas.
Visit: www.nationalgeographic.com
Magnum Photos
If National Geographic gives you the polished story, Magnum gives you the raw edge. Their photographers aren’t afraid of tension, silence, or stillness. From war zones to everyday life, this is a masterclass in how to shoot real life without turning it into spectacle.
Explore their photo essays, dive into single image archives, or check out their photographer interviews. It’s a rabbit hole worth falling into.
Visit: www.magnumphotos.com
British Journal of Photography
BJP is where you’ll discover photographers you’ve never heard of but should absolutely know. Their features often spotlight up-and-coming artists, boundary-pushing photo projects, and interviews that dig into the why behind the work.
If you’re trying to find your voice or shape a long-term project, BJP is gold.
Visit: http://www.1854.photography
LensCulture: Global Talent, Bold Perspectives
LensCulture curates work from photographers all over the world—emerging, established, and everything in between. It’s especially valuable if you’re looking to see how others tackle themes like identity, migration, climate, or intimacy. They also run competitions with insightful feedback, which can be just as helpful as the inspiration itself.
Spend a bit of time browsing their project galleries and “Spotlight” sections. You’ll come away with at least three ideas and probably a new favorite photographer.
Visit: www.lensculture.com
PhotoVogue
PhotoVogue, run by Vogue Italia, is a creative playground where storytelling, experimentation, and visual identity intersect. Their platform supports artists with strong voices and bold aesthetics. If you’re aiming to push your visual style, this is a place to linger.
The “Curated by Vogue” section can teach you a lot about consistency, vision, and mood.
Visit: www.vogue.it/en/photovogue
The New York Times – Lens Blog (Archive)
Though no longer updated, the Lens Blog from The NY Times is an incredible resource. It’s filled with intimate essays, behind-the-scenes photojournalism, and reflections from legendary photographers. Great for anyone who loves slow journalism and images that say something.
Sometimes, looking back is the best way to move forward.
Visit: lens.blogs.nytimes.com (archive)
Women Photograph
This platform showcases work by women and non-binary photographers from across the globe, often highlighting underreported stories and overlooked perspectives. It’s an inspiring reminder of how many ways there are to see the world. And perhaps most importantly, how much is still waiting to be shown.
You can browse their public database or check out past grantees and published essays.
Visit: www.womenphotograph.com
Fisheye Magazine
If you’re craving something a little offbeat, experimental, or contemporary, Fisheye Magazine has you covered. Based in France but publishing in English too, it features quirky visual narratives and creative editorial work. Think art-school energy with smart storytelling chops.
Their “Stories” and “Portfolio” sections are rich with unexpected inspiration.
Visit: www.fisheyemagazine.fr/en
Feature Shoot
Feature Shoot blends high-concept art photography with real-world, applied imagery. Their curated series span everything from surreal self-portraits to quirky street scenes. They regularly host calls-for-submissions and contests you can apply to.
Bonus: Their “Projects” section often showcases highly focused series that can help you tighten the scope of your own.
Visit: www.featureshoot.com
Final Thought
Inspiration is a muscle. It strengthens the more you stretch it. These sites are libraries of human experience, technical mastery, and visual courage. Bookmark them. Return to them when you’re stuck. Let them guide you into deeper questions about what you want to say with your own work.
P.S. Got a site I didn’t mention that always gets your brain humming? Shoot me a message, I’d love to add it to the list.
MELISSA MARTINSEN 