52 Weeks with C.London : 2023 Edition
Welcome to the fifth iteration of my 52 week challenge!
I’m thrilled to bring my annual 52 Weeks Photography Prompt challenge to you! This year I’ve made a pretty substantial adjustment. Feedback from participants has often revolved around how difficult it is to stay engaged throughout the year, and if one week is missed, it’s easy to get overwhelmed and fall behind. While we’ve never been very strict with “due dates,” I found this to be a reasonable place to make an adjustment. Here’s how it works this year:
Instead of there being a specific prompt for each week, there will be an overarching theme for each month, and four or five prompts to complete at your convenience within that month. As always, you are expected to make a new photo for every prompt.
While it is a major adjustment, the overall spirit of the challenge is unchanged. We’re still here to encourage each other and to flex our creativity muscles. While not due on any particular day, the prompts are written in a suggested order.
Those who participated in years past will also notice that the entire year is not published preemptively. Instead, each month will go live on this blog post and social media on the first of the month. The idea behind that is to keep everyone focused on each month as they come.
In addition to the normal communities, we’ll also be adding monthly scheduled video conversations and feedback sessions on the discord server. I also plan to bring in other photographers to lead conversations on different topics. Overall, the community will be as strong as those participating, and I highly recommend joining our discord server where it’s much easier to have fluid discussions about the project, photography, or whatever is on your mind.
So, how do you submit? That’s up to you! Here are the options:
Discord. This is the best way to partake, as we have real-time conversations throughout the year. Join via this link.
Instagram. Use the hashtag #clondon52 and #clondon52_01 (where ‘01’ equates to the month we’re currently working through.)
Flickr. Join the group 52 Weeks with C. London. Be sure to title or subtitle your image with the month and name of the prompt we are currently working through.
Reddit. Join the subreddit r/clondon52. Be sure to title with the month and name of the prompt we are currently working through.
Facebook. Join the group 52 Weeks with C. London. There will be a dedicated album for each month’s prompt to which you will add your photos.
Email. Don’t do social media? No problem! Email me your submissions to chelsea@clondon.me. Please put 52 Weeks in the subject headline.
THAT’S IT! COME JOIN IN AND IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS, FEEL FREE TO REACH OUT TO ME IN WHATEVER MANNER IS CONVENIENT FOR YOU.
December: Wrapping up and next steps
So here we are. The last month of 2023. How did you do? Were you able to complete all the prompts from this year? If not, what happened to derail you, and were you able to come back and revisit the project. Either way, the goals of this project is just to get you out and making photographs. Hopefully at the very least you’re finishing up with some new inspiration, skills, or knowledge. While we’re at the end of 2024, don’t feel like this is The End (TM). Whether you’re joining us again for 2024 or not, I sincerely hope this project inspired you in some way and got you feeling excited about your own work. See you all in 2024!
Recreate a photo from the challenge. Let’s look back on what you’ve produced this year. Choose a photo that you feel was a good concept, but would like to have another go at. Try and focus on what works about the photo, and where there is opportunity for improvement. When posting the new photo, include the original so you can see the difference side by side.
Challenges. Looking back on the whole of 2023 in terms of this challenge, where did you find yourself struggling? Was there a certain prompt which was most difficult for you? For this week I want you to address your challenges head on and make a photo that utilizes that challenge.
Successes. Now we all know this year hasn’t all been challenges. There have ben some major successes as well! Where did you find yourself thriving? Were there any ‘ah-ha!’ moments? Have fun with this one and go all in on your newfound skill and showcase it proudly in this week’s photo.
Revisiting goals. Back in January we set goals for ourselves for the year, and then we resisted them in July. How do you feel about those goals? Were they achieved, or altered? If they weren’t achieved, what made it difficult for you to hit that mark, and do you want to continue working on that goal? For this week, consider all those questions, and make a photo that addresses where you are with your goals.
SEE YOU ALL IN 2024!
November : Inspired By
At this point in the challenge, you may have found that you’re finding your own voice. You may also have found that you’re stagnant. Welp, what helps with refining or finding your voice, or better yet, challenging it? Drawing from inspiration. I’m a big believer in the study of other media in order to grow within your own, so this month, we’re doing exactly that.
What are you watching? Use a film or TV show that you’re watching or have watched this month as a source of inspiration. Is it the quick cuts of Edgar Wright, or the color palettes of Wes Anderson? Maybe you like the visual storytelling seen in La Jetée. Or maybe it’s Elle Woods’s pink vibes that do it for you. Whatever it is that speaks to you, use it to inform your photo this week. No need to do a carbon copy or a send-up of your inspiration, just focus in on one element that speaks to you.
What are you reading? Whether a news junkie or a fiction fan, what we consume through reading informs our opinions on the world. A good book can change our mood and make up see our environment in a new light. Read something (!!) this month and draw from it. You could even go as far as recreating a scene you’ve only seen in your mind’s eye, or even making a new book cover with your own photo.
What are you listening to? Let music inspire your lens this week. Whether it's the passion in a singer's voice, the harmony of instruments, or the rhythm of everyday sounds, capture the essence of your favorite music in a photograph. Focus on a specific element that resonates with you, translating the auditory magic into a visual masterpiece that speaks volumes.
Inspiring photographer of your choice. Choose an inspiring photographer to guide your creativity. Whether you're drawn to intimate portraits, powerful visual stories, or innovative play with light, let their style influence your own work. Infuse your unique perspective, capturing subjects with depth and authenticity. Create a photograph that pays homage to your chosen photographer's legacy while showcasing your distinct artistic vision and creativity.
October : Timing
Timing is everything, as they say. This month we’re going to be approaching timing from different angles with an aim of getting us in the mindset to always be ready regardless of the photographic situation.
Same location three times: This practice asks that you visit the location at three very different times of day and notice the changes timing and light have on a space. Take the time to notice small details that have shifted in the changing light, and photograph what they bring out in the location. You may make all three photos in the exact same framing, or explore the space in its changing variances.
Time Traveler: Your mission is to recreate a picture you captured at least two years ago, delving into the realms of memory, creativity, and personal growth. By revisiting your past work, you'll not only witness your artistic evolution but also breathe new life into cherished moments through your lens, creating a powerful visual narrative of your journey as a photographer.
Waiting: Freeze moments charged with anticipation or quietude, accentuating the profound impact of time on our existence. Through your lens, you can reveal the rich tapestry of human emotions and stories woven in these still instants. This prompt invites you to explore the powerful narrative potential hidden in the seemingly mundane moments of our shared human experience, using time as your guiding thread.
The Definitive Moment: "The Definitive Moment," inspired by Henri Cartier-Bresson's iconic photography philosophy, challenges photographers to emulate his mastery in capturing fleeting moments. Cartier-Bresson, considered the father of modern photojournalism, emphasized the importance of seizing that decisive moment, where composition, timing, and emotion harmonize to create timeless images. This prompt invites photographers to channel Cartier-Bresson's spirit, seeking out those instants where life's narratives unfold naturally, freezing them in captivating frames for viewers to experience and appreciate.
September :Exploring Genres
This month, let's dive into exploring different photography genres. From landscapes to wildlife, documentary to sports, we're about to broaden our skills and capture amazing stories. Who knows, maybe you’ll find a new passion. Or whatever the opposite if passion is.
Landscape: The ever challenging landscapes! It’s all about that light, and composing for those gorgeous views. Let’s see what you can do with the world around you. Your challenge is to master the nuances of composition, lighting, and perspective to create images that transport viewers into the heart of stunning landscapes. From majestic mountains to serene seascapes, let your lens capture the essence of nature's grandeur and tell a visual story that leaves a lasting impact.
Documentary/Photojournalism: In this exploration, your lens becomes a powerful storyteller. Your mission is to capture candid moments, authentic emotions, and real-life narratives that resonate with viewers. Whether it's on the streets, at events, or in everyday life, your camera becomes a tool to document stories that matter. Embrace the challenge of capturing the essence of the moment and crafting images that hold the power to inspire, inform, and provoke thought."
Wildlife: Calling all birders! (I know you’re out there.) Your task is to master the art of patience and observation, capturing the wild inhabitants of our planet in their natural habitats. From majestic predators to delicate insects, let your images tell stories of survival, connection, and the wonder of life in its rawest form.
Sports/Action: This exploration is all about freezing dynamic moments that embody athleticism, determination, and the human spirit in motion. From fast-paced competitions to adrenaline-fueled feats, your challenge is to master timing, focus, and composition to create images that convey the excitement of the moment.
August : Mise-en-Scene
This month, we'll be diving deep into the captivating world of mise-en-scène. In simpler terms, it's all about arranging and capturing everything visible within a frame, from sets and props to lighting and subjects, to convey meaning and create a specific atmosphere. We'll explore four main elements: setting, decor, lighting, and depth of space, which will all play a crucial role in crafting a four (or bonus five!) photo story. The challenge is to ensure these images work cohesively, even if they're taken on different days or places. That’s right! This month, I want all the photos to be able to be presented together as one cohesive story. That doesn’t mean they need to be taken at the same time, or even the same place. There should just be at least one element of cohesion threading them together.
Setting: Prepare to master the art of "setting" as a pivotal aspect of mise-en-scène. Skillfully arranging backgrounds, locations, and surroundings will infuse your photos with depth and meaning, creating captivating visual narratives that leave a lasting impact on viewers. Get ready to elevate your photography skills and command attention with compelling stories through strategic use of setting!
Decor: In the context of mise-en-scène, "decor" refers to deliberately arranging various visual elements like props, furnishings, backgrounds, and surroundings within your photographs. By skillfully utilizing decor, you'll bring depth, meaning, and atmosphere to your images, crafting captivating visual narratives that leave a lasting impact on your audience. Mastering the art of decor will elevate your storytelling and create compelling, meaningful compositions that demand attention and admiration.
Lighting: Let's shift our focus to the art of lighting within mise-en-scène. We're going beyond relying solely on available light. Your task is to manipulate light creatively and strategically, crafting captivating visual stories that add depth, drama, and mood to your images. Take control of the lighting and watch as ordinary scenes transform into intentional works of art.
Depth of Space: It's time to break free from the flat surface and immerse viewers in multi-dimensional visual narratives. Masterfully arrange elements within the frame, manipulating foreground, middle ground, and background to add depth and intrigue to your photos. Dive into the world of storytelling through space and create mesmerizing compositions that draw viewers into the heart of your captivating visual tales.
[Bonus] Personal Style and Aesthetics: Bonus prompt!! Infuse your images with your artistic vision and creative flair. Experiment with different elements, lighting, props, and settings to craft compositions that reflect your personality and artistic identity. Embrace your creativity and turn the world into your canvas, creating visually stunning masterpieces that truly embody your unique personal style and aesthetics.
July : Check In
We’ve made it to the halfway mark. How have you been doing thus far? On track with your goals, or do you need some time to reset and recollect? This is the month for just that! Take the time to assess where you are in your goals and either reevaluate or pat yourself on the back. Either way, you’re doing great, keep it going!
Check-in: We’re coming up on the middle of the year. How has it been so far? Have you been able to keep up? If so, color me impressed! I know just how difficult this challenge can be and how easy it is to let the weeks slip by.
For you, the ones who are all caught up, your prompt this week is to go back and find your one favorite and your one least favorite images from the challenge so far. Break down what it is that you like about the favorite, and what challenges you faced with the least favorite. Try and be extra critical, and if you’re open to it, share them on our subreddit, discord, flickr discussion board, or facebook group and ask for feedback from your peers. You now have the option of recreating the least favorite with your critical eye in mind. While you may not be able to recreate it exactly, use it as an inspirational jumping off point and focus on what you’d like to improve about it.
For those who haven’t been able to stay on top of the challenge, don’t get down on yourself! Life happens, and priorities shift. Use this week as a catch up week. Go back and look at the prompts you’ve missed - get caught up on one or all of them, and continue on with the next week’s prompt, missing previous weeks or not.
Reevaluating Goals: How are you doing on your initial goal from week one? Often times challenges like this one will lead you off your initial track and make you reevaluate what your goal is. On the other hand, you may have become even more dedicated to your original goal. Both are okay!
The image this week should be a revisit of that original goal. If you want to do a full-on remake of the original, that’s great! If you’d prefer to start over with a whole new vision, also great!
Reimagine a previous submission: I want you to look back on your submissions thus far and find one that you can revisit. Find a way to use it as inspiration, but reimagine it to create something new. Think about what you like about that image and use that as a jumping off point. Is it the lighting, color, subject, ambiance, etc. When posting, post your inspiration photo along with the new one.
Compositional Guidelines: There are many compositional guidelines that photographers use to highlight different aspects of their images. Like color theory, in years passed, we dedicated multiple weeks to individual guidelines, but this year I want to give you a little more freedom. Start with this blog post about compositional guidelines and choose one which you'd like to try out for this week. Bonus points to anyone who also incorporates a specific color scheme.
June : Portraiture
It’s everyone’s favorite (ahem) month: Portrait Time! I know this month can be intimidating for many reasons, but it’s also a good opportunity to get out of any comfort zones, and find ways to include your genre of choice. If you’re a landscape photographer, find a way to incorporate a portrait into your scenes, etc.
Self-Portrait. A self-portrait is a wonderful opportunity to capture your unique essence through the lens of your camera. It's a chance to express your individuality, emotions, and experiences in a visual form, showcasing the beautiful person you are. Don't be shy or hesitate to experiment with different angles, lighting, or settings—this is your chance to shine and tell your story through the art of self-portraiture!
Portrait of a Friend. This prompt is an exciting opportunity to capture the essence of your beloved companion through the lens. Take this chance to showcase their unique personality, quirks, and the deep bond you share. Remember, your friend will feel most at ease when you create a comfortable environment, so let their true self shine by bringing out their natural smiles, laughter, and moments of pure joy.
Portrait of a Stranger. For this prompt, I’m going to encourage you to step outside your comfort zone and connect with new people through the lens of your camera. Embrace the unknown and find something about a stranger that you find to be interesting, and try and highlight that in your image. You can do this through setting, posing, etc. Remember, every stranger is a potential friend and a fascinating subject waiting to be discovered, so let your creativity shine and create heartfelt portraits that celebrate the diversity and beauty of the world.
Candid Portrait. A candid portrait captures the true essence of a person in their most natural and unguarded moments. It's all about embracing spontaneity and capturing genuine emotions, expressions, and interactions. So go ahead, grab your camera, and capture the beauty of authenticity, letting your subjects shine in their own candid way!
May : Abstract
As a photographer, I often find myself drawn to images that leave interpretation open, and this prompt encourages just that. Whether it's using color, texture, or form, abstract photography challenges you to experiment with different elements and create images that are open to interpretation. It's an opportunity to let your creativity run wild and see where it takes you. I can't wait to see what kind of abstract images we can come up with!
Movement. For this photo prompt, you are encouraged to capture movement in your photos. Whether it's a person running, an animal leaping, or a vehicle speeding by, this prompt invites you to experiment with techniques such as panning, long exposures, or double exposures to convey a sense of motion and energy in your images. Don't be afraid to get creative and explore the beauty of movement in all its forms!
Light and Shadow. This photo prompt invites you to play with light and shadow in your images. Explore how light interacts with objects and casts shadows, or experiment with different sources of light to create dynamic and dramatic effects. Whether you choose to photograph indoors or outdoors, challenge yourself to work with the interplay of light and shadow, and to capture it in a way that resonates with you.
Human Emotion. This week you are encouraged to capture human emotion in your images. From joy and laughter to sadness and contemplation, the range of emotions humans experience is vast and expressive. This prompt challenges you to explore the depths of the human experience through your photography, and to convey the emotions you capture in a way that resonates with you and your audience.
Patterns and Texture. Let’s explore patterns and textures in your images. From the intricate patterns of a stained glass window, to the rough texture of a tree's bark, the world around us is full of fascinating details that are waiting to be captured. Use your creativity to highlight these patterns and textures, and experiment with composition to create striking and visually compelling images.
April : Color
Anyone who’s been around in the past knows that color theory is one of my main focuses and passions. As such, you are all subject to my obsession, and April is all about color! If you need a starting off point on Color Theory, I have a blog post, Color Theory for Photographers: An Introduction. I will also be hosting a totally free color theory workshop this month on the challenge’s Discord. Stay tuned for the exact day and time. In the meanwhile, have a colorful month!
Color Blocking. Color blocking is a technique which involves using distinct and contrasting blocks of color to create a strong visual impact. When approaching this prompt, first look for a subject that features distinct and contrasting colors. The subject could be anything from a colorful building to a piece of clothing or a still life arrangement. Once a suitable subject is found, choose a composition that emphasizes the colors and creates clear blocks of each color in the frame.
One way may be to frame the subject in a way that isolates the different colors or using a shallow depth of field to blur the background and make the colors pop. Lighting is also important for color blocking, as it can help to enhance the saturation and contrast of the colors. By paying attention to these elements and experimenting with different compositions and lighting, you can create a striking image that effectively showcases the beauty and power of color.
Color Temperature. Colors on the warm end of the spectrum tend to read as energetic and passionate, conveying a sense of vibrancy and intensity to the viewer. They can also create a sense of warmth and intimacy, evoking feelings of comfort and coziness. On the other end of the spectrum, cool colors tend to read as calm and soothing, creating a sense of tranquility and relaxation for the viewer. They can also convey a sense of distance or spaciousness, making them ideal for creating a sense of depth and dimension in an image.
For this prompt, choose whether you’d like to focus on warm or cool colors, and create an image that entirely sits within that side of the color wheel. When making the photo, think about how the warm or cool colors enhance the scene and subject, and how the image may read differently if on the opposite side of the spectrum..
Color Symbolism. Color symbolism is the use of color to represent different ideas, emotions, and concepts. Different colors are often associated with specific meanings, such as red for passion or danger, blue for calmness or sadness, and green for nature or growth. Color symbolism is commonly used in art, literature, and design to convey deeper messages and create specific moods or atmospheres.
To start this prompt, read up a bit on how different colors have different meanings. (This Wikipedia article can get you started.) Keep in mind that these vary by culture. Once you’ve chosen a color to work with, find a way to showcase what the color represents. For example, blue can represent calmness - like that of a still body of water.
Desaturated. Sometimes the best color is little to no color. I know, I know, it’s weird to hear me, a self-described color maven, say that, but it’s just the reality. There are times when color can distract from the subject, or overall intended meaning of an image.
For this prompt, you should make an image that is early, or entirely devoid of color. You could wait for a foggy grey evening, or go straight with black and white. If you have the ability to shoot with black and white film, or change your viewfinder to greyscale, I’d recommend to do so as it can help you to focus in on the composition without the distraction of color.
March : Community
A big part of this challenge is the community we’re building together. This month we’re focusing on that in attempts to really strengthen it. Some of us are still strangers, so let’s take the time to change that. We’ll have weekly voice chats on the discord and various times that hopefully are suitable for most, and I’m going to ask you to reach out to other members of the community for help with this month’s prompts.
Feedback to and from a peer. Giving and receiving feedback is a valuable skill for any creative. For this challenge, we’re asking that you engage with another participant of the challenge to both ask for and give feedback. The photo you create should be made with feedback you received in mind. When giving feedback, remember to make it constructive and with actionable things which can be done. Saying “I love this!” is a nice sentiment, and by all means add it in there, but growth comes from learning about what specific changes can be made. The way you see an image is different than how your parter saw it while making it, so your eye and thoughts are valuable. This FStoppers article outlines how to give meaningful critique.
Recreation of a peer’s photo. Choose a photo from a peer that you find interesting and inspiring and use that as a launching off point for your photo for this week. It doesn’t necessarily have to be an exact replica, but more inspired by. You can look at other participants’ submissions on the discord, reddit, flickr, and facebook. It’s encouraged to reach out to the original creator to show them what you’ve made.
Your community outside photography. We’re spending this month really solidifying the community within the challenge, and one way to do that is to bring what you value in a community to the group. For this prompt, focus on another community you are a part of - what makes it valuable to you? What do you give it and what do you take from it? Share that through your photography with this community.
Your neighborhood. Step outside your home and walk no more than a half mile (800m to the non-imperial unit users) documenting your surroundings. These are things you see every day, so I’m asking you to look at the familiar with new eyes. Put yourself in the shoes of someone from a completely different background. What may the find interesting? Don’t be afraid to over shoot during this exercise. The culling will be part of the exorcise. We’re looking for one final image that you feel best represents your neighborhood.
February: The Everyday
Now that goals have been sorted out, it’s time to work. All the prompts for the month of February can be done from the comfort of your own home. This will allow you to find your rhythm and explore the space in an environment you’re relaxed in.
One object. For this prompt, we’ll be exploring a single object in various ways. Try out different angles, various lighting, maybe even placement in a larger scene. Your end goal is discover how you can approach the same subject from many different perspectives. Feel free to submit one photo, or a curated diptych or triptych.
What’s in your wallet bag? Here we're going to look at the things we carry with us on a daily basis. Use this as an opportunity to try out staging your items. Some ideas may be placing the items in a traditional still life setting, a top-down shot, cascading from your bag, etc.
Your home. “Home” has different meanings to each of us. Is it the space in which you live? Is it with those with whom you feel most comfortable? Is it being engaged in something you love and are passionate about? Think about what “home” means to you, and tell us through your photography.
A Day in the Life. This one needs a little explanation, and is one of my all-time favorite exercises. It’s a bit involved, so stay with me. Choose one day this month where you will document the entire day - from the moment you wake up, to the moment you go to sleep. Aim to take at least one photo every hour. At the end, cull it down to no more than 10 photos which tell the story of your day. Then, choose just one hero photo which sums it up in its entirety.
We will also be hosting an AMA with Michael Yuan on February 15th at 20:00 UTC. The AMA will be held on the discord. If you are not a member of the discord, use this link to join.
Michael is a Bay Area-based photographer whose project; The Bridge, Reconstructed, is a studied look at the Golden Gate Bridge. Michael showcases the iconic landmark in an unseen way through detail and thoughtful compositions, and will serve as inspiration and guidance to the “one object” prompt.
January : Setting Goals
Each year we start out by considering why we’re participating in this project. Whether personal or professional, identifying goals makes the following year more meaningful and intentional. For this month, the prompts are all focused on helping you to identify how to make the most out of the project.
Past experiences with photography. Every participant comes to this challenge at a different stage in their photographic journey. Show us where you are - in whatever manner you prefer.
Another hobby or passion. One of the best ways to get good at photography is to join it with something else you’re passionate about. Use your other hobbies as inspiration for this photo.
Artistic fears. A huge hurdle to get over is identifying what scares you about your art. Take this as an opportunity to face one of those fears.
A main photographic goal for the year. What do you hope to get out of this challenge? Make a photo that illustrates what you hope to achieve photographically in 2023.
DECEMBER
