Finding inspiration doesn’t always come naturally. For me, it was something I didn’t even realize needed to be practiced. Like most people, I used to come across something interesting, admire it for a moment, maybe even think about what it meant, but then I’d move on and forget about it completely. I never really held onto those moments or used them in any meaningful way.
That started to change when I began the Visual and Digital Media Arts program at Georgian College in 2024. One of the biggest things my professors emphasized was the importance of documenting everything—paying attention to the world around you and capturing the things that stand out. At first, it felt a bit forced, but over time it became second nature. My camera roll slowly filled up with photos of nature, interesting textures, shadows, moody lighting, and small details I normally would have overlooked.
What made the biggest difference wasn’t just taking the photos, it was going back and reflecting on them. I started to notice patterns in what I was drawn to and the kinds of feelings certain images gave me. Some felt calm, others felt heavy or mysterious, and some just had a certain energy I couldn’t fully explain yet. That process helped me realize that inspiration isn’t just something you stumble upon, it’s something you build by paying attention and being intentional. It pushed me to slow down, observe more, and find meaning in everyday things.
These are some of the photos I have taken and used as inspo for some of my pieces!
Colour has also become a huge part of how I find inspiration. I’m constantly noticing different colour combinations, whether it’s in design, nature, or even random moments throughout my day. Sometimes it’s the contrast between tones, and other times it’s how certain colours work together to create a mood. For me, colour is often the starting point of an idea. It sets the tone for the entire piece and helps guide the direction of the design. Every colour carries a feeling, and tapping into that has helped me create work that feels more intentional and expressive.
Looking back, learning how to find inspiration has completely changed the way I see the world around me. It’s no longer just about waiting for ideas to come, but about paying attention, collecting moments, and understanding what draws me in. The more I practice it, the more natural it feels, and the more confident I become in my creative decisions. I’m still learning and evolving, but that’s what makes the process exciting. knowing there’s always something new to notice, capture, and turn into something meaningful.