If you’ve ever put off picking up your camera because you weren’t “ready” or didn’t feel inspired

you’re not alone.

A lot of photographers, myself included, have fallen into the trap of waiting for the perfect moment, the right gear, or a big creative breakthrough before taking action.

But here’s the truth:

procrastination isn’t just laziness, it’s fear in disguise.

Fear of wasting time on a bad shot.

Fear of not being good enough.

Fear of putting your work out there and being judged.

And while that hesitation feels protective, it actually holds you back.

The best photographers in the world didn’t wait until they felt ready.

They just started.

So here is 4 ways to get rid of “procrastination”

1. Done is Better Than Perfect

How many photos have you not taken because the light wasn’t perfect?

How many projects have you not started because you doubted your skills?

Perfectionism is just fear dressed up in nice clothes.

The truth is, your early work won’t be perfect and that’s okay.

Your first 100 photos might suck.

Your first 10 client shoots might feel awkward.

Your first attempt at editing might make you cringe.

But that’s not failure—it’s progress.

Because the only way to take great photos is to take a lot of bad ones first.

So let go of the need to be perfect and focus on improving one small thing with every shoot.

2. Small Actions Create Big Momentum

Ever told yourself, “I’ll go shoot tomorrow”—only to push it off for weeks?

That’s the perfectionist’s trap. The longer you wait, the harder it gets.

Instead, lower the barrier to entry.

• Set a goal to take just one photo today.
• Give yourself five minutes to edit an old shot.
• Grab your camera and walk outside—no pressure, just shoot.

These tiny actions trick your brain into motion.

And motion creates momentum.

Because once you start, it’s easier to keep going.

3. Reframe the Story You Tell Yourself

Your thoughts shape your actions.

If you keep telling yourself:

“I’ll never be as good as other photographers.”

“I’m not talented enough.”

“I don’t have the right gear.”

You’ll find reasons to hold yourself back.

Instead, start flipping the script:

• Instead of “What if I fail?” → Ask “What if I actually pull this off?”
• Instead of “I’m not ready.” → Say “I learn by doing.”
• Instead of “I don’t have time.” → Find just 15 minutes to shoot or edit today.

If you wouldn’t talk to a friend that way, don’t talk to yourself that way.

4. Fear Will Always Be There, Shoot Anyway

A lot of people think confidence comes first.

It doesn’t.

Confidence comes from action.

Every great photographer you admire felt the same doubts, but they picked up the camera anyway.

Fear isn’t a sign to stop. It’s a sign you’re growing.

So today, take one small action outside your comfort zone.

• Post a photo you’ve been overthinking.
• Try a shooting style you’ve never done before.
• Reach out to a client or brand you’ve been nervous to pitch.

It doesn’t have to be big.

It just has to be something.

Because your future self, the one with better skills, bigger opportunities, and more creative confidence..

Is waiting on you.