Embarking on solo travel can be frightening to some. The idea of going somewhere alone, so far from home, can be an undertaking and a stress some may not want to undergo. It is a lot to consider, and for most, it’s not just about leaving home and enjoying a new destination; there are financial considerations and responsibilities, things that can’t be ignored or delayed.

It’s 2026, and a new year is upon us. So first, let me say, Happy New Year to all. I hope the year ahead for you is filled with all the great things you deserve, and that you reach your goals in everything you are working towards. As photographers, we have plans for our art and goals for our adventures.

We have all been there: the desire to make photographs, but our attempts to create come up flat; our inspiration continues to decrease. This can happen anywhere and anytime, but it is increasingly frustrating when our inspiration is lacking while travelling. When we travel, everything in front of us is new and fresh, but every scenic view seems uninspired; every landmark captured a thousand times before seems like another generic take.

Each year brings joy, heartbreak, triumphs, and challenges as we journey through life. With every experience, we are shaped and transformed by the world around us. When January arrives, we gaze ahead, wondering what the future holds while reflecting on the year just passed. Did we achieve what we set out to? Were there unexpected twists?

As we progress as photographers, reflecting on our past work is always interesting, especially as the years pass. I say interesting, but what I mean is partially nostalgic, a little bit of satisfaction, a good deal of considered deletions, and probably some choice words about previous creations. It’s a good thing no one will see these.