…is not one who makes a faithful attempt to put on to canvas what is in front of him, but one who tries to create something which is in itself a living thing.”
William Dobell
I grew up surrounded by talented people.
Artists, musicians, athletes and writers. I was not graced with great intelligence, I am not a writer, I don’t have any super athletic talents, and I can barely draw a stick figure. I was just an average girl with average abilities. I always told myself I wasn’t good enough, and I never would be. I’m not sure who I thought was taking the measuring stick and comparing me to all the amazing people in my life, but I knew I fell short.
Becoming a mother was the first moment that I felt as if I was doing what I was “made” to do. It fit. I had to capture everything they did. I did not want to forget all the little moments and expressions on their little faces. The camera became an extension of me.
Little did I know how much photographs would become the most treasured things I have. When I lost my Daniel, my children’s father , all we had left of him were the boxes of photographs of our lives together for 9 short years. Snaps of our moments in time.
Throughout the healing process, it was revealed to me what an amazing tool the camera is. It was all I could do. I was absolutely enamored with all things photography. I had this strong passion birth within me to learn and master my craft. I truly appreciate what a photograph can mean to someone.
My intent was never to start a business, but my shooting for fun evolved. This past couple of years have been crazy busy, and I am blown away by the blessing of being able to capture peoples lives. Running a business is the tough part of doing what I love. I have been submerged in books, and webinars, and forums trying to absorb from the successful artists.
I have been feeling as if the flame of passion is slowly being extinguished. I am not even close to being satisfied with my work when I am shooting for a paycheck, or to be “featured”. Are my clients happy?? When they look at their images, does it take them to a happy memory? Or are they just “satisfied”. Am I shooting for other photographers, or am I truly fueled by capturing memories for my clients.
I needed to do a little soul searching. I was looking for inspiration. For direction. So, I signed up for a workshop in Banff, Canada that was being taught by my favorite wedding photographers Richard and Amy with Red Leaf Studios. I was so excited to room with one my other favorite photographers Rosie of Simply Rosie.
Rosie and I did alot of talking, and even though we are in very different stages in our lives we could relate on so many levels. It was SO amazing to have another artist to talk to that could completely relate. We fueled each others passion. She fueled mine at least.
Richard and Amy exceeded my expectations as speakers, teachers, and artists. They are true craftsmen. I came away completely refreshed and re-ignited. I am reminded that I have a gift. A camera. And I want to tell your story.
On our way home, we decided to stop and do a little shooting for fun. For fun?? That’s a concept I have forgotten all about. We walked around and shot some silly shots of each other, and noticed this gorgeous little girl playing in the lake. She was all muddy and as happy as could be. Rosie and I seized the moment and asked mom for permission to capture her. It was only 15 minutes. But those 15 minutes was exactly what I needed to inspire me. It took me back to my first love. She was our Muse.
A girl, her dog, and a stick.
Joy in it's organic form. We did not pose her for any of these shots, we just captured 15 minutes of her life.
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