As 2025 dawns, I’m setting my sights on pushing boundaries, both creatively and geographically. My photography has always been about storytelling—capturing moments that resonate with depth and meaning. This year, I’m doubling down on my craft with a mix of goals to challenge myself and resolutions to keep me grounded. It’s time to step it up, no excuses, no distractions. Let’s dive into what’s on the horizon for me in 2025.
The Goals: Making 2025 Count
1. Explore One New Location Every Quarter
It’s easy to stick to the familiar, but familiarity breeds stagnation. This year, I’m making a promise to get out of my bubble. Whether it’s a hidden corner of Ulsan I’ve yet to uncover or an entirely new city, each quarter will bring fresh perspectives. New places ignite creativity—it’s time to get inspired, step by step.
2. Witness the Yamakasa Festival in Fukuoka
The Yamakasa Festival has been on my radar for years—a whirlwind of raw energy, vibrant traditions, and cultural pride that every photographer dreams of capturing. Yet, despite all the times I’ve said, “This is the year,” I’ve never made it happen. But 2025 is different. This year marks a personal milestone that gives this goal even greater significance.
In 2004, my late friend Dave Harvey and I traveled to Fukuoka, immersing ourselves in the city’s culture and dreaming about returning one day to photograph the Yamakasa Festival together. We talked endlessly about the challenge and beauty of capturing such a dynamic event—the runners, the sweat, the adrenaline, and the sheer celebration of tradition.
Dave was more than a friend; he was my true brother and someone who pushed me to see things differently. He taught me to embrace life’s fleeting moments with a camera in hand. Sadly, in 2015, Dave bravely lost his battle with cancer. In December, it will be 10 years since then, and I still think about those conversations and the plans we made.
This year, I want to honor his memory by finally making it to the festival. Heading back to Fukuoka, a little older but with a better camera, feels like the perfect way to pay tribute to our shared passion for photography and adventure. It’s not just about the photos—it’s about revisiting a place that meant so much to both of us and capturing the spirit of an event we always dreamed of shooting.
2025 isn’t just another year for me. It’s a chance to reconnect with a part of my journey and someone that shaped who I am today. While celebrating Dave’s legacy through the craft we both loved, it will help me remember all those long talks, walks and photo adverntures. This one’s for you, Dave.
3. Experiment with Different Lenses
Wide-angle, macro, tilt-shift, whatever—this year, I’m stepping out of my comfort zone. Photography is all about perspective, and what better way to explore that than by experimenting with lenses I don’t typically use? The goal isn’t just to try something new but to see the world differently—maybe even upside down if I break out a fisheye!
4. Refine and Master My Technique
Here’s the deal: no more excuses about “good enough.” 2025 is the year I dig deep into the nuances of my craft. From nailing exposure in tricky lighting to perfecting post-production, it’s time to level up. Great photographers aren’t born—they’re forged in the grind. Let’s get to work.
5. Run 3 Photography Workshops
Sharing my passion for photography has always been one of the most rewarding parts of my journey. Whether it’s through teaching at the foreigner center, hosting my podcast, or leading photowalks, I love watching others discover the magic of storytelling through their lens. In 2025, I’m committing to running three workshops that go beyond just technical skills—they’ll inspire photographers to find their unique voice and tell the stories that matter to them.
The first workshop is already on my radar: a spring cherry blossom session in Gyeongju. There’s something truly magical about the delicate cherry blossom petals framing the ancient sites of this historic city. It’s the perfect backdrop for teaching composition, light management, and storytelling. Afterward, I’m considering hosting another workshop in Busan, a city that offers an entirely different vibe with its bustling streets, seaside charm, and urban landscapes.
Finally, as the year winds down, I’ll bring it full circle with a fall workshop. Autumn in Korea is nothing short of spectacular, and I want to create an experience that captures the fiery reds, oranges, and yellows that transform the landscapes. This time, I’ll refine my approach even further, offering participants not just a workshop, but a deep dive into the art of capturing seasonal beauty.
These workshops aren’t just about teaching photography—they’re about building a community, sharing experiences, and helping others see the world in new ways. Watching someone light up as they capture the perfect shot? That’s the kind of magic I live for, and 2025 is going to be full of it.
The Resolutions: Stay Grounded, Stay Focused
1. Sell My Framed Prints
I’ve poured years of work into creating images that capture stories, but they don’t belong stuck in my archive. This year, I’m committing to showcasing and selling my framed prints. It’s not just about the money—it’s about sharing those moments with people who connect with them… or just getting them out of my apartment.
2. Invest in New Gear
My old setup has served me well, but it’s time for an upgrade. A new Mac Mini and monitor are on the list, ensuring I can handle edits with precision and speed. Because let’s face it—great tools make a difference when you’re striving for excellence.
3. Focus on Storytelling in Ulsan
Ulsan has been my home for over two decades, and yet I often feel like this city flies under the radar. To many, it’s just a hub of industry and shipyards, but those of us who live here know it’s so much more. Ulsan has depth—a quiet beauty that reveals itself in its mountains, beaches, and the stories of its people. It’s a city that deserves to be celebrated, not overlooked.
Last year, the glowing responses to my images at the gallery reaffirmed this belief. People connected with the photos in ways I didn’t expect—they saw the charm and character of Ulsan through my lens, and it made them pause and appreciate this city a little more. That reaction lit a fire in me.
In 2025, I’m doubling down on storytelling. My goal is to dig deeper into Ulsan’s hidden narratives, whether that’s the resilience of its workers, the serenity of its coastal paths, or the vibrant community spirit in its markets and festivals. It’s not just about capturing beautiful shots; it’s about creating an emotional bridge between the viewer and the city I’ve called home for so long.
Ulsan might not always scream for attention, but it has stories that deserve to be told. This year, I’ll make sure those stories are heard loud and clear.
Final Thoughts
2025 isn’t going to be a year of playing it safe. It’s a year of action, of risks, and of stepping boldly into new challenges. As Henry Rollins might say, “Get out there and do something. Do it better than anyone else ever did it.”
The road ahead is clear. New locations, new techniques, new stories—this is the year I prove to myself what I’m capable of. Here’s to pushing limits, breaking barriers, and creating work that truly resonates.
What are your goals for 2025? Share them in the comments, and let’s make this year unforgettable—together.
Colin Corneau
I love the spirit here – I haven’t even posted my best of the last year, let alone look ahead to the year in front of us. So, you’re ahead of the game already.
For me, I’d say mainly I want to follow up on paid commercial work and try to increase that. And on the other end of the spectrum I’d like to just DO photography a lot more and get in touch with the interior, personal, creative.
I’ve been reading a lot about David Lynch lately, with his recent passing, and his thoughts about creativity, a life in art and meditation really stick with me.
Here’s to the year ahead!
Jason Teale
I hope that you have an amazing year ahead Colin! I have really enjoyed your travel photos. That are some of the most inspiring images that I have seen in a while. They really make me want to get out and explore again.
Katya Bulgakova - Photographer and Makeup Artist
Jason, I love how intentional and reflective your goals for 2025 are. Your focus on stepping out of your comfort zone, especially with new locations and lenses, is inspiring. It’s easy to fall into routine, so I appreciate your commitment to keeping your creativity fresh. The tribute to your late friend Dave is so heartfelt, and it’s incredible that you’re honoring his memory through the Yamakasa Festival. Your storytelling approach to Ulsan also resonates with me. Sometimes, the quiet beauty of a place gets overlooked, and your dedication to capturing it is truly admirable. It reminds me of how we, as photographers, have the power to uncover and share the hidden stories of the world around us. I’m excited to see how you’ll push boundaries this year!