Go back 20 years or more and most cameras came with a standard 50mm lens. One lens; one view of the world. Zoom lenses were relatively bulky and generally not as sharp as that trusty 50mm.

Computer aided design today gives us sharp, light, and compact zooms that can cover 18-70 or even 18-200. An unfortunate byproduct is that we photographers got a bit lazy. We flick the zoom a bit, get what we (supposedly) want, click and move on.

I’ve been shooting indoor basketball with a 50mm and 85mm lens. The fixed length has forced me really think about what I can and can’t shoot. I must plan where to stand and shoot only when the players are in my "shot zone". It’s been eye opening.

In order to reconnect with the creative process, I suggest the following.

On your next photo outing, use just one focal length. If you have a 50mm lens use it. If not, rubber band your zoom ring at 18 or 35 or 70. Force yourself to best represent your subject with that one focal length. And yes, you’ll have to zoom with your feet !

Ultimately, you’ll learn to "see" better. Do this a few times with different focal lengths. In the end you’ll be able to quickly evaluate your subject and choose the right lens for the shot.