Success comes in many forms. For the pro photographer, success might mean meeting a specific level of income or doing a certain number of paid shoots. For the enthusiast, it might be learning a specific skill or doing a 365 challenge.
No matter what success looks like for you, setting SMART photography goals can help you achieve it.
SMART is an acronym that was coined in the 1980s as a formula for business and project management, but it is a useful tool for pushing toward any objective.
S: Specific
In order to achieve a goal, you need to define what success looks like.
M: Measurable
In order to show progress and stay motivated toward your goal, you have to have some criteria by which to evaluate how far you’ve come.
A: Attainable
Make sure it is something you can reasonably accomplish in a specific time frame.
R: Relevant
Ensure that your goals align with your values and long-term plans.
T: Time-based
Give yourself a realistic, yet ambitious time frame in which to accomplish your goal.
SMART photography goals I’m setting for 2022
The past two years have put a damper on my creativity and I’m keen to rekindle my passion for travel and photography. Taking into account what I know about my schedule for next year, as well as the constantly changing rules and restrictions, I’ve decided on two relatively modest and attainable goals:
- Go out locally at least once a month just to shoot and be creative.
- Take a least one out-of-the-area trip in 2022 just for photography.
What are your SMART photography goals for 2022?
As you make plans for 2022, keep in mind your definition of success, and consider specific, measurable, attainable, relevant and time-based goals to have you achieve your objectives.
Once you’ve created your list, share your 2022 SMART photography goals in the comments below.
I want to do 244 Photo blog posts this year! I had 208 posts last year, and I want to up that a bit! Basically looking to average 2 posts per 3 days!
That’s a great goal, Marland! Best of luck!
Setting goals is desirable. But the process is useless unless it’s accompanied by a framework for pursuing them. Instead of setting SMART goals, how about …
HARD Goals are Heartfelt, Animated, Required and Difficult. Unlike achievable and realistic goals that leave you stuck in the status-quo, HARD Goals light up the brain and encourage great performance. A truly effective goal should push and challenge you to achieve great things.
GROWTH goals are Game-Changing; Reviewable; Optimized; Worthwhile; Trackable; and Healthy.
DUMB Goals, a little tongue in cheek, but provides insight. DUMB – Destiny Fulfillment; Uplifting; Method Friendly; and Behavior Driven.
Hi Walt – Thanks for sharing your thoughts. What HARD or GROWTH goals are you setting for 2022?
Use my film cameras at least one roll per month, publish a photo book using photos made in 2022 by Dec 31 this year, take at least one non-photography art class from the local community college this year.