The Words Behind the Pictures: Why I Started a Photography Blog + Tips to Launch Your Own

Writing a blog is like writing in a personal journal—except this time, you’re sharing your thoughts with the world. Blogs are informal, conversational, and a window into someone’s unique perspective. They entertain, inform, and, most importantly, tell a story.

When I first dreamed up the idea of creating a photography blog, I was at Boldt Castle in Alexandria Bay. I was snapping photos of the castle’s original structures when I stumbled upon graffiti from the 1920s and 1930s etched into the walls. Immediately, I thought, This has to be a story! I imagined how many people didn’t even know this historical treasure existed. That was the inspiration for my very first blog, “The Writings on the Walls.” A year later, it was published on my website, and sharing that story—combining the history behind the photos with my personal experience—was one of the most fulfilling moments of my creative journey.

Finding Inspiration Behind the Lens

You might wonder where my inspiration comes from. The answer lies in the stories behind the photographs. For me, every photo has two stories.

The first story is factual: What is this image, and what does it represent? For instance, a photo of Fort McHenry tells the story of its historical significance during the War of 1812.

The second story is emotional: What do I feel when I see this image? Take my sunflower photos from the Von Thun Sunflower Farm, for example. Beyond the vibrant blooms, they remind me of a hot summer day spent laughing with my friend, enjoying bagels and coffee before exploring the fields. The picture isn’t just of a sunflower; it’s a snapshot of happiness and friendship.

Inspiration also stems from my passion for photography itself. Sometimes I want my photos to raise awareness about an issue, like homelessness in “Under the Boardwalk, Out of the Sun.” Other times, I want to express how a subject—like the beach—makes me feel or share practical insights about my craft, such as why I organize my photos in folders. The possibilities are endless when using images to tell stories.

Tips for Starting Your Photography Blog

If your photographs have stories to tell, or you want to share your journey as a photographer, here are some tips to kickstart your blog:

• Let Your Pictures Guide Your Words

Your photos are your inspiration. Write about what you see and feel when you look at them. Be authentic and share what’s in your heart.

•  Vary Your Topics

Don’t limit yourself to writing about places you’ve photographed. Share insights about your equipment, your favorite techniques, or why you’re drawn to specific subjects. Let readers get to know you as a photographer.

• Stick to a Posting Schedule

Consistency matters. I write three blogs a week but only post one. This keeps my content flowing steadily and ensures I never run out of material.

• Make It Entertaining

Your blog doesn’t need to sound like a research paper. Be informal, crack a joke, and keep it light. An engaging tone encourages readers to stick around past the first paragraph.

• Include Photos

A photography blog without pictures is like a cake without icing. If you’re writing about your trip to Acadia National Park, include visuals! Whether it’s a stunning landscape or a close-up of a vibrant flower, pictures elevate your blog and help your audience connect with your story.

• Keep It Simple

Avoid overwhelming your audience with complex photography jargon. If you must use technical terms, include an easy-to-understand explanation in parentheses. This ensures your blog is accessible to everyone, not just seasoned photographers.



Final Thoughts

I hope these tips inspire you to start your own photography blog. Whether you’re sharing the history behind a photo, the emotions it evokes, or your personal journey as a photographer, remember that blogging is an extension of storytelling.

Keep an eye on my website for weekly posts featuring my favorite places to photograph, tips to improve your craft, and stories that bring my pictures to life. Happy blogging—and happy photographing!

📸❤️🌻