Has it all been done before?

I often wonder, can we really create an original photograph, or is everything an imitation or copy of something that has been done before? There are few locations on the planet that haven’t been photographed, but are there any truly new concepts? It is said that in writing books there are seven basic plots. Is this true with visual arts? Are there really new ideas? I’m not sure of the answer but it isn’t likely to stop me from my attempt to create a unique look, after all, no one else has all my experiences. They may have similar experiences but not the same. This is why I believe it is important to put your own style into your art and not merely attempt to copy the work of someone else, regardless of how good and creative that work may be. I don’t believe there is shame in getting inspiration from the work that was created before our own as long as we put a bit of our personality into it.