I am in the process of looking back to move forward. I am finally in a place and space in my life where I can put energy and focus toward re-branding who I am as photographer and it has brought plenty of unexpected challenges.
I did not have any illusions when I began the process that it would be easy or happen over night. I knew it would be time consuming, frustrating, a bit depressing and definitely not straightforward.
I have a long check list of things to be done; design a logo, write my “about me” statement, collect portfolio images, build a website to name a few. All this seems relatively tangible but it hasn’t been. I am not sure if it because of my shift of focus to another genre of photography photojournalism to lifestyle portraiture or straight up indecision with a healthy does of ADHD.
I do have a new acceptance and understanding of the process after the last month of pushing to meet self-imposed deadlines.
Coming to terms with where I am, how I got here and where I hope to go has given me plenty to think about day and night.
I try not to beat myself up about where I wish I was— (the Pulitzer really isn’t in the cards anymore) and focus more on what I want out of life. How do I want to spend my days?
The short answer is: being present, not living to complete a “to do” list and having no regrets.
We have all heard the famous quote “Life is a journey, not a destination.”
and if you are like me you may have wanted to throw up a few times when some wise sole laid it on me at the peak of a stressful situation, well now I truly get the meaning.
I plan on am making room in my life to enjoy this process. I am not running a race.
I am off to Imaging USA- one of the largest photo conferences I have ever been to; an expected 12,000 attendees. I am guessing there will be a major focus on defining who you are throughout the weekend.
I am ready and plan on being able to answer with confidence and excitement about the future.
