westport

Staying Motivated as a Photographer: Finding Inspiration

Every photographer hits moments where motivation wanes. One of the best ways to reignite that passion is by exploring the work of other photographers. For me, Rodney Smith is a major influence. His elegant, whimsical images remind me that photography is more than just capturing a moment—it’s about creating a world within the frame.

The Saugatuck Railroad Bridge in Westport Connecticut.

Before the event at La Plage in Westport, Connecticut.

Portrait on location Bridgeport, Connecticut.

Texture. Westport, Ct

It is all about the hair. Westort, Ct

Before the triathlon.

Try new techniques. Stepping outside your comfort zone often sparks new ideas.The key to staying motivated is seeking inspiration from others. A single photo can reignite your passion and remind you why you fell in love with photography.

Build an inspiration library. Collect images that inspire you, whether online or in print.

Study photography masters. Explore the work of icons like Rodney Smith, Annie Leibovitz, or Henri Cartier-Bresson to gain fresh insights.

Connect with current photographers. Following creative, boundary-pushing photographers keeps your perspective fresh.

When I feel stuck, looking at Smith’s work pushes me to rethink my approach. Here are a few ways you can stay motivated by drawing inspiration from other photographers:

Fashionably Westport Photography

Hello, fashion enthusiasts and community supporters! Videler Photography is thrilled to bring you highlights from this year’s Fashionably Westport event, where style met philanthropy in the most beautiful way. As the official photographer, I had the privilege of capturing the essence of this special occasion, where fashion-forward Westport came together to raise funds for Homes with Hope.

The Westport Library

Maxx Crowley introducing everyone to the big event.

Dave Briggs was the MC for the evening.

Helen McAlinden president of Homes with Hope

Behind the scenes

Getting ready to walk.

The hairstylist were very busy.

So fun to see a library made into a fashion show.

Fashionably Westport isn’t just about showcasing the latest trends; it’s about making a difference. This year, the event outdid itself, with a runway show that not only highlighted the creativity of local designers and boutiques but also supported a great cause. Every twirl, every pose, and every outfit captured by my lenses represented a step towards helping Homes with Hope in their mission to assist people experiencing homelessness in our community.

First select woman Jen Tooker.

Andrew Colabella is the real deal.

This guy needed a little help.

Model Shoot

I had the unique opportunity to collaborate with my close friend Brian Sullivan on a special project. Photographing the next Victoria’s Secret model against the backdrop of the building he’s working on added an extra layer of creativity and challenge to the shoot. I enjoyed the experience, and having a beautiful and cooperative model likely contributed to the success of the project. Collaborating with friends on creative ventures can make the process even more enjoyable.

one main light.

A little fun with some plywood.

Weather worked out great.

Workers got involved, I loved it.

why not?

Aerials for homeowners

Michael the homeowner hired me to drone his home last week. His septic failed and he wanted images of the work that was being done to his yard. When I arrived, I was happy to see my friend Paul Lauterbach. We played college baseball together and my dad was good friends with his dad. He does great work and I was so happy to see him.

The drone is such a useful tool to show work that is being done to a property. You will never get a shot of this area open again and this shows the whole layout.

Here is Paul in action. Always a good friend.

Video is always a good idea to have it is invaluable. These shoots are nice and quick and not expensive. Well worth the return on investment.

I made Dan Woog’s Podcast!!

“Of course I will do the Podcast!” That was my answer after Dan asked me to do his 06880 podcast last week. He is a Westport treasure and his blog is my ” must reads” every day. I always said if it was not for him keeping up with town stories and sharing them, it would be a boring world. In retrospect I really should have given my father more credit for teaching me photography and helping me see things differently and as a photographer, try to make things “prettier”. Here is the podcast. Enjoy!!

Baseball Portraits

I grew up in Westport, Ct and I have a lot of experience photographing people. Groups, solo, on location…. you name it. My children now attend the same schools as I did growing up. So when I was asked to photograph the seniors for the Staples Baseball team, I was very happy. Happy to try out my new Godox 200 set up which allows me to control the settings from the camera. This is a game changer for me. No more pausing the shoot to adjust the flash settings. I can now talk with the client while I adjust my settings. Brilliant!!

The Staples Baseball seniors
Flash set to fill.
Nice Bokeh
don’t forget the mask shot
Here we go.