Choosing a subject that speaks to you
Regardless of what genre you shoot, you should always look at choosing a subject that โspeaksโ to you. That way you are more likely to study it and unlock its secrets.
If it is a location you enjoy visiting often, you are only too happy to explore and find great ways to capture the essence of the area. Whether it is the beach, a mountain or city streets. Even with portraits, I believe that finding out a little about that person often makes for a better portrait, capturing their real persona and identity, whether you have known them for five minutes or a lifetime.