It may seem unusual, but many inventors are also avid photographers—and vice versa. In the accompanying video, Gary Shuster shares his observation that innovators often gravitate to photography, while photographers can find themselves inventing. Below, we explore some reasons why these two creative pursuits go hand in hand.
1. Immediate vs. Long-Term Gratification
- Photography
- Offers instant results: You snap a picture and see it immediately.
- Satisfies a desire for quick feedback, which can be refreshing for individuals immersed in lengthy invention processes. It can often be the difference between seconds and years.
- Invention
- Takes years: Moving from idea to patent to potential commercialization can be a marathon.
- Requires sustained focus, patience, and resilience.
2. A Shared Creative Mindset
- Observation Skills
Both photographers and inventors must keenly observe their surroundings, whether it’s framing a shot or spotting a gap in existing technologies. - Problem-Solving Approach
Innovators often experiment with different angles and perspectives—just like a photographer adjusts lighting or composition to get the perfect shot.
3. Balancing Creative Outlets
- Rewarding Hobbies
Many inventors pick up photography to balance the slow pace of inventing with a faster form of artistic expression. - Practical Synergy
Photographers looking to expand their creative process might dabble in invention, applying their visual imagination to solve real-world problems. Photographers regularly have to solve problems in order to get the perfect shot, so they have the background they need to adopt an inventor’s mindset.
Want More Details?
Watch the accompanying Innovation Cafe video to hear Gary Shuster’s personal take on why so many people straddle both worlds