How Reshooting Old Photos Showcases Growth.
As photographers, we often chase new locations, fresh perspectives, and unique compositions. But what happens when we go back to where we started? Revisiting past locations and reshooting old photos can be a powerful way to measure growth, refine our vision, and see just how far we’ve come. Recently, I did just that—returning to two familiar spots to reshoot images I first captured years ago. The experience not only highlighted my technical improvements but also reminded me why I fell in love with photography in the first place.
The Blue and Yellow Cottage – Then & Now
One of the first images I ever took was of a small blue and yellow cottage near Kingston Mills. It was during my first week of owning a camera, and I remember being drawn to how the bright colors stood out so vividly against the winter snow. At the time, I framed the shot instinctively, relying on my eye rather than technical knowledge.
Looking back, my original image captured the essence of the scene but lacked refinement. The composition was slightly off, the exposure wasn’t quite right, and the overall image lacked the depth and clarity I strive for now. So, I returned to the location with a fresh perspective and improved skills. This time, I paid close attention to composition, ensuring stronger framing and balance. I adjusted my camera settings to properly expose the bright snow without losing detail in the shadows. The result? A much more polished and striking version of the image that still retains the charm of that first capture.
The Highway 401 – A New Perspective
Another image I revisited was one I took from a bridge overlooking Highway 401. Years ago, I snapped a photo of the highway below, capturing a symmetrical yet uninspiring scene. While technically balanced, the image lacked energy and a clear focal point—it felt like something was missing.
This time, I approached the scene with a different mindset. Instead of a simple snapshot, I set up for a long exposure to capture the movement of cars below. As their headlights and taillights streaked across the frame, the composition transformed into something far more dynamic and captivating. The light trails added a sense of motion and storytelling that my original image lacked. It was a perfect example of how experience and creative thinking can turn an ordinary shot into something extraordinary.
Lessons Learned from Reshooting Old Photos
Revisiting these locations reinforced an important lesson: growth in photography isn’t just about acquiring better gear—it’s about refining your vision, mastering techniques, and learning how to tell a stronger visual story.
Here are a few key takeaways from the experience:
Technical Skills Improve Over Time – Understanding composition, exposure, and lighting can dramatically change the quality of your work.
Perspective Matters – Seeing a familiar scene through fresh eyes can unlock new creative possibilities.
Experimentation Leads to Growth – Trying new techniques (like long exposure) can elevate an image from ordinary to compelling.
Photography is a journey, and looking back at where we started can be just as valuable as pushing forward. Revisiting old locations and reshooting past images is a great way to track progress, challenge creativity, and rediscover the excitement of capturing a great shot. If you’ve ever felt stuck or uninspired, I highly recommend giving this a try—you might be surprised by what you create.
