The only way one gets good at something is by practicing it. One way I keep in practice with my photography is to make assignments for myself. Some ideas I have developed are to:
1) Create areas of photography that I'd like to get better at or fine tune areas that I already excel in ;
2) Come up with creative and fun project ideas for no other purpose other than to have fun;
3) Set deadlines for these projects so that they are not opened ended and I get bored when they are never finished. I try to do one new project a week. Unfortunately, I've been way too busy lately to keep on task with this goal. But I highly advise you try it. Not only does setting goals help you to become a better photographer, it can be a lot of fun too!
Sometimes it is even more enjoyable and motivating to have someone to go on a "photo shoot" with you. Especially when shooting at night I suggest you always go with another person. Not only does it help to have a second pair of eyes, you have someone else making sure you don't get hit by a car while trying to take a photo.
My most recent project was to shoot Austin by night. I went out with my fellow photographer friend, Lauren. We wondered around South Congress and then up to the State Capitol. Here are some shots I got from this project.
These photographs may or may not be used but I definitely learned a lot about shooting in low light, how to use new functions and most of all I enjoyed doing it! Keeping your enthusiasm and spontaneity as a photographer is very important whether you have assignments going on or not.
