1 year past and a new one on the way, What I've learned.

It seems strange that one year ago I knew I loved photography, I knew I could take good pics, and I had taken some great ones with my little point and click. My husband had been wanting to buy me my camera for about 3 years and I had always told him NO.
but he finally did it. One year ago I could have never taken this photograph.



This year has been a journey for me. Suprisingly emotional, as I poured a lot of effort into learning, and growing. I think I have tried to cram years worth of knowledge and practice into this year. I had a new baby this year too. So to say the least a lot of other things in my life have been neglected. {mostly laundry, but who needs clean clothes anyway!! LOL} I have been filled. I wanted something for myself, I wanted to do something I was good at. I wanted to excell at something, and feel proud of my creations because I love the arts, I love to Dance, and to paint and draw and create. I suprised myself at how much I devoured this. I have not felt passion for something outside of my kids for a LONG time.

BUT, as this new year is aproaching I find that I need to reflect on where I go from here. I am FAR from as good as I want to be. I still have so much to learn.
This year will be different for my photography, It will be slower, I will kick my business of the ground officialy, but not do as many sessions. My goal is to create unique custom images. I have found I can only do this if I have time to get to know the client, focus on the session, and put a lot of effort into the post processing.

I also want to get to know more photographers in my area and grow as I learn. My goal is to do a couple workshops this year so anyone who wants to do some with me:
lets find some kick but workshops and go to them. I will probably have to travel for them so I can meet up with anyone who wants to go too! I have been amazed at the amount of support and what I have learned from the photography community. I have made a TON of friends.

I have been inspired by many photographers through the years, starting in highschool as I looked at the many photojournalism photos done in the great depression and times of WAR. And there are so many breathtaking images out there. I feel inspired by light, and by the connections of the people I meet. I want to experiment more with self expression, and other kinds of photography besides portraits as well.

...so I guess we will see what this next year will bring, how I will grow and I am excited to see how my images and style change as I learn. I know this is long, and if you have read the whole thing....thanks! I hope this coming year brings great things to you. Grab life and soar with it.