I spent today at Toronto's "Doors Open" event - when public/private buildings are opened to the public for viewing all the areas normally not accessible. Needless to say, this also brought out all of Toronto's photographers - everyone from blackberry photo takers (eek!) to so many pro levels cameras, I started to get "gear envy".
But while I was being shuffled through these buildings, I did notice one trait that I strive really hard to work against - that is the gathering of photographers. My instinct when I see a cool shot, and a bunch of photographers grappling on top of each other for that perfect frame, is just to run.
Sure, I might miss that "postcard" shot, but in turn I feel I get a much better perspective and often better shots. I shot the above photo sitting on the ground, while photographers clamored in a corner to capture this whole place in one shot. It was a stunning place, but everywhere you looked there were opportunities for uniqueness (and places to hide from other shooters).
I think this is really important to keep in mind while photographing. Look for the unique perspective. Point out something that someone might miss. Take a moment to look at the detail. Breathe. And above all, if you see a group of photographer's gathering at one end of the hall, run as fast as you can to the other to get your shot.
