The Photography Exercise That Actually Makes You Better

In this episode, I break down the single most effective photography exercise I’ve used to consistently improve my work—and the same one I teach in my workshops, one-on-one mentorships, and professional assignments. This isn’t about chasing viral images, trends, or quick wins. It’s about slowing down, building a multi-image story, and learning how to truly see. You’ll learn how to complete a 15-image photo story in one month, focused on one person, using one lens, with clear creative constraints that force growth. I walk you through how to choose the right subject, why accessibility matters, and how repetition builds stronger composition, light awareness, and narrative clarity. We’ll also cover the five essential image types every strong photo story needs: scene setters, details, moments, process, and portraits. This exercise is especially powerful for Leica photographers and anyone shooting documentary, street, editorial, or personal projects. It creates accountability, sharpens your editing skills, and teaches you how images work together—not just on their own. If you’re serious about improving your photography, storytelling, and intentional shooting, this assignment will change how you work behind the camera. Substack https://substack.com/@askmott? See the full photo story here https://www.justinmott.com/documentary-photography-projects/conservation-wildlife-photojournalism-sloths 👇 Explore my online mentoring, 1:1 coaching, and photography workshop in Vietnam. Limited spots available! Coaching, Workshops, Gear Reviews, Photography Tips https://www.askmottbyjustinmott.com Wotancraft Bags https://tinyurl.com/5cwvnxua Portfolio http://www.justinmott.com Commercial Portfolio http://www.mottvisuals.com My Ultimate Gear Guide https://www.askmottbyjustinmott.com/my-favorite-pro-photography-gear Presets https://www.askmottbyjustinmott.com/preset Join this channel to get access to exclusive content, access to my monthly photo competition/assignment, weekly members-only live streams and much more. https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4cwfSfapW2uLCXGGmQFR4g/join