When I started Project 365 again this year I made a promise to myself… that was to be easy on myself. If I didn’t get the “perfect” shot or couldn’t come up with something creative I was going to just let it go. I would still try my best to post something, but this time around it could be just a shot of something I had done that day. I was going to do a lot less comparing myself to the others in the group. This is not an easy thing to do when the rest of the group seems to be so talented and a lot of times I think I’m just a hack.

This feeling came on strong the other day. The day was racing along without any inspiration whatsoever for a shot. I was in the car on the way home from class with Jeffery and we both noticed the sunset. It was stunning. I really wanted a photo of it. It pretty much was screaming “take my picture”! The whole time, however, I found I was arguing with myself. Things like, “Everyone else is going to get a picture of this,” and “You know, their shots will be much better so why even try.” Jeffery insisted we get out of the car so I could get the shot. I start framing and realize, of course, I have the “wrong” lens. It wasn’t wide enough to get what I wanted. It wouldn’t capture the full sunset. It wouldn’t be good enough. I took a few anyway, but got back in the car wondering what I should use for my photo for the day because these certainly wouldn’t work. Well, I got home, put the photos onto my computer, and found one that I wasn’t too ashamed of. My tapes were playing overtime that night.

After posting it I realized what an idiot I had been. I was going back to that old me that worries so much about what other people think, that I’ll never measure up. It’s not worth it. I may not be the best photographer in the world, but I am good enough. I can put my work up online and be proud that I did it. I don’t have to look at other people’s work in order to compare and pick myself apart. The point of this whole project is to just share… share who we are and what we do. So that is my goal and it should be yours as well. Just share who you are and don’t worry so much about what others think. Some people will like you and some won’t – that’s up to them, not you.

Always be a first-rate version of yourself, instead of a second-rate version of somebody else.
~ Judy Garland

I love walking. I don’t do it enough unless I’m forced to… like lately. I injured my leg while in Utah, something with my calf, and was pretty much off my feet for a few days. I am now back to walking, albeit slowly. My tendency is when I start to feel a little bit better to overdo things. I did go for a long walk yesterday (paying for it today with a little soreness), but it was well worth it. Just to get outside and enjoy the sunshine. Although I could go for it being a bit colder there is something about breathing the air outside rather than in a gym. Hopefully I’ll be out on a much regular basis soon.

After taking a two year break I have decided to join my friends at the Faded & Blurred community in another Project 365. It was a difficult decision to make. I knew what a commitment it would be. Some days it is just not fun at all and I know probably halfway through March I will be wondering what sort of an idiot I am for choosing to do this again. Right now, though, I am very excited about it. I need the accountability to keep the camera in my hands everyday. Here is the photo from today…

I won’t be posting them here everyday, just when I feel like it, but you can see the rest and keep up with my progress here: Flickr

And if you would like to join in on the fun we would love to have you: F&B 365

By the way, I don’t think I have mentioned it here, but Faded & Blurred has a new look and feel to it. I am so excited to be a part of this group. The site has a wonderful community of photographers; both hobbyists and professional; all more than willing to help, answer questions, and keep each other inspired. If you have even the slightest interest in photography (or web design or art or video) I would encourage you to come check it out and register (there’s no cost involved). Check it out here: Faded & Blurred

If you do decide to register, let me know and request me as a friend!