If you’re feeling stuck creatively or just looking for a new way to see the world through your lens (or phone), I’ve got a fun little photography experiment that might surprise you. Here’s your how-to guide for turning an everyday errand into a vibrant photo opportunity—with nothing more than a car, your camera, and a car wash!
Yes, really. All three of the photos in this blog were taken from inside my car while going through the car wash. What started as a routine stop turned into a magical moment of artistic discovery—and it’s something you can try, too.
1. Look for Beauty in the Ordinary
We often think we have to travel somewhere special or plan elaborate shoots to get creative photos. But beauty hides in plain sight. As I pulled into the automatic car wash and soap started dancing across my windshield, I saw it: swirling colors, abstract patterns, and unexpected light reflections. I quickly reached for my phone and started snapping.
The result? These three images, taken through layers of water, soap, and brushes, turned out like abstract art pieces.
2. Use Your Windshield as a Canvas
Your windshield becomes the frame—and the chaos of water, soap, and colorful brushes becomes your medium. Let the natural movement of the car wash guide your shot. Try focusing on the droplets, streaks, or textures as they form and melt away. You don’t need to overthink it—just shoot what catches your eye.
💡 Tip: Use burst mode or live photos so you can go back and choose the best frame later.
3. Play with Light and Color
The lighting inside car washes is surprisingly dramatic. From cool blues and purples to warm glows and sudden flashes, it’s a constantly changing light show. The soap and water act like filters, giving your images that surreal, dreamy quality.
Each of these photos showcases a different mood:
- The first image feels like an abstract underwater wave.
- The second has icy streaks of blue light, almost like the Northern Lights.
- The third captures the wild energy of a splash of liquid color, chaotic and mesmerizing.
4. Make Errands More Fun
Next time you’re heading to the car wash, bring your camera or phone and challenge yourself to find the art in the everyday. It’s a simple way to flex your creativity muscle without needing any special equipment, location, or setup.
So, here’s your creative challenge:
Take five minutes in the car wash and let your imagination run wild. Capture the chaos. Frame the foam. Zoom in on droplets. Look for the colors blending together like paint. You might be surprised by what you create—and who knows, your next favorite photo might be right there, on your windshield.
Want more unexpected photo ideas? Let me know in the comments or tag me in your car wash creations! 🎨🚗📸
