Does anyone carry a notebook for shot ideas?

[AnnaV]

I just had an idea that I might carry round a notebook to put shot ideas in, then I can think about the settings I will need before the event.

I find I am OK at the technical stuff when I have a while to think about it, but when out shooting it all goes out the window!

Hoping that if I think about an event, for example a family gathering or holiday, I can do some pre-planning as I think that is definitely a downfall of my photography atm.

[candleman]

heck yes..
its saved my life at least once.
i'm not talking about technical stuff.. that should be a gimmie.. i'm talking about posing and other creative ideas for composition etc etc.

the technical stuff just comes with practice.. but if it works for your learning curve to write it down... knock yourself out

[AnnaV]

Yes, I was thinking creative stuff and then I could also use it for technical stuff - I am a newbie so unfortunately it doesn't come easily - yet

I need to get out of the point-and-shoot mindset of just taking my camera and hoping for shots to happen, and planning things a bit more.

[Nicole]

I've thought about using a notebook to write down creative ideas in when they strike me, but ummm... I'm really forgetful so I tend to forget the notebook. I have a few small bag size notebooks that might be perfect, but yeah... It's a great idea if you can remember the notebook and remember to write the ideas in it! lol

[Gonzo13]

An alternative that I have used is to use the voice recorder on my cell phone. I don't like to be bothered with carrying more stuff around than I already do. Carrying a notebook also requires carrying a writing utensil and a backup one incase the first one breaks, and remembering to bring all 3 of those. I rarely forget my phone.

~Gonzo13

[BryanC]

Absolutely whatever works for you. I have taken notes for all different reasons. Ideas, locations, and especially in the film days, settings. I would go out on a limb and say I would think the majority have taken notes of some sort. Again, whatever works for you.

Originally Posted by Nicole

I've thought about using a notebook to write down creative ideas in when they strike me, but ummm... I'm really forgetful so I tend to forget the notebook. I have a few small bag size notebooks that might be perfect, but yeah... It's a great idea if you can remember the notebook and remember to write the ideas in it! lol

I know what you mean...I need a note sometimes to remember the notebook. And the first thing written in the notebook is, "Don't forget something to write with either."...

[teedlepeep]

I always have a notebook with me and a P&S. You wouldn't believe how handy those both come in for the ideas

[zarquon]

I wish I kept a notebook with me. I keep one in the car, but I always forget to take it with me.

However, since i have a camera in my iPhone (albeit crappy), I use that to take a quick reminder shot of something I want to come back to. It's been a great tool, and an actual reason to use the camera on my phone.

I wish there was a photographers log application that you could snap a photo, and then tag it with ideas to come back to.

[Jim Bryant]

I've kept a notebook to jot down ideas in for going on 38 years. I've know other photographers who have done the same. Comes in handy when planning your shots.

[beth0b]

I use a note application on my phone, to limit the extra stuff I have to carry around