Photos from past adventures have helped me to imagine articles, blogs, and books that I might write. With regards to penning a novel, they spark ideas, assist in the creation of character profiles, setting descriptions, and general plot development.
Whenever I am exploring a new place, I tend to wander around by myself randomly snapping photographs of anything drawing my attention. I can best describe the process as a spontaneous intuitive response to my surroundings. Once I am settled back at home, I wait a period, review my collection and keep the pictures still holding my interest. I organize these in a trip album on my iPad recording the date, location, and specifics of each for future reference.
The photos in this blog are from a Caribbean vacation. I hope my comments help you with your writing.
I thought that this Weather Station Sign was a unique, effective, and humorous way to communicate weather conditions at the beach resort. I also viewed it as a great prompt with the potential to generate different story lines. What if a guest decided to ignore a windy warning and venture into the sea alone? An adventure gone bad or a hilarious escapade? Which scenario would you write about? A tragedy or a comedy? Uncertain? Draft a few hundred words for both and the answer might become clear.
The Lobster Claw is a tropical plant, and there were lush gardens of them at the resort. A character who intentionally stops and takes photos of the flowers versus another who hurries past oblivious to their presence is a subtle way for an author to reveal distinctive personality traits. Showing a character doing something is an effective way to engage your reader.
This small swimming pool was located in a secluded section of the resort. It was a comfortable walking distance from the larger pools favoured by guests who preferred social interaction. Some writers require solitude when working on their craft whereas others seek out a busier space such as a café. I have always needed a quiet place and, hence, spent many afternoons here making notes about my next novel. And on most occasions, I was alone. What is your ideal environment?
