Pictures as Inspiration

Pictures inspire me, get me into the mindset of my character, and set the scene.

Before I write I find the photo I want, study it for a few minutes, and then rip into my latest WIP.

Here is one of the pictures I used as inspiration for my male lead character; Jake, the gruff yet honorable trail guide… 

Here is one of the many photos I used when I write from the POV of my female lead, Kate; the headstrong yet naive woman traveling along the Oregon Trail with Jake.

How about you? Do you use photos, music, or other props as inspiration for writing inspiration?

Writing Quote Friday (and a bonus)

Today’s quote comes from H. G. Wells…

Nothing leads so straight to futility as literary ambitions without systematic knowledge.

And to celebrate that there’s only four more months until Justified (hands down one of the best written, best acted shows out there) returns for a second season, here’s the last 90 seconds from the finale of Season One.

Seriously. Awesome. Writing.

And, check this clip out for a little humor to start your weekend :).

Screensavers, Puppies, and Justified

I’ve got nothing to write about today so let’s do an open thread in the comments section. Here’s some possible topics to get the ball rolling…

What is on the screen saver of your computer? (Mine scrolls the following…”If you’re reading this it means you’re not writing!”)

Why would a puppy eat rose bushes and how do I get him to stop? (Yes, I know he needs daily excercise, but seriously?! A rose-bush?! With thorns?!)

What is your favorite television show right now? (Since Castle is currently on hold for the Bachelorette, mine is an AWESOME show on FX called Justified. It is a modern-day western, complete with a lead character who is a US Marshall. I highly recommend. Plus, the photo you see when you click on the above link is an exact vision of my male lead character in my book.)

On to the comments!