Self Analysis
>> Thursday, June 10, 2010 –
Photography
(My kids adore the computer's camera...and it's about the only way I end up in photos these days!) :-)
I've spent the morning trying to figure out what I want to be when I grow up.
In particular, I'm trying to decide where I'm supposed to go with this photography thing I've started. Weddings? Fine art? Babies only? Seniors? Family portrait? Traditional? Photojournalism style?
How much time should I be putting into this business...more importantly, how much time CAN I put into it while still being a good wife and, oh yeah, mom to 4 young children.
Come to think of it, should I be doing this at ALL?
{sigh}
It's a romantic idea, this being my own boss thing. I've always wanted to own my own business. It's nice that there's no one telling me what to do next. The problem?
There's no one to tell me what to do next.
I love it, yes. I fantasize about opening an actual studio someday, yes. I get an indescribable jolt of joy when I see my work hanging in someone's home, yes. I dream that someday I'll be doing what I love AND making some real money.
And then I wonder...am I even good at this? Am I doing anything unique or special? My "tag line" since I sat down and worked out in my mind what I want my photography to be is "Fresh. Unique. Beautiful." Am I living up to it?
I don't know.
I know the point of your question wasn't necessarily for us to answer, but more for you to figure out for yourself. But I'm putting in my two cents anyway. I think you are REALLY good at photography. You have a talent for it, and I love your work. You and I have never met--I only know of you and your blog through Becky--but you were on the short list of people I really wished I lived near so I could have you do my family portraits. (I had a very hard time finding someone local whom I liked.)
But of course, only you can decide how and to what extent you do professional photography now. I always say there are a lot of GOOD things in the world that are worth devoting one's time to...but none of us can do all of them. We have to figure out what good things God has chosen for us to do, and focus on those things. I'm struggling to figure out my limit right now as well, because there are a lot of good ministries I could participate in,,, but I'm pretty sure God's not calling me to all of them.
Oh, I LOVE your photos. Crisp, clean lines, striking center of interest, you capture both the moments and the between moments. Keep going, girl (business or not)! And for the record, your smile has the most becoming dimples. :) Go ahead and smile LOTS!
Love out to you and your family,
Bethany
I read your post and then the very next post in my reader was this "When you wonder if what you create is any good". God is amazing and he believes in us even when we don't believe in ourselves. Read this and be blessed: http://www.aholyexperience.com/2010/06/when-you-wonder-if-what-you-create-make.html
Jen
I am there with you right now! I am in the process of using my nursing experience to become a legal nurse consultant. It is something I will do from home, with the occasional meeting with an attorney. Going through my mind are dreams of dressing up in the business suit, seeing the attorney's, bringing home the work, working the case and then returning it for that big paycheck. BUT, I am still in the process of learning the field and then what? Where do I go from there? It is a pipe dream? Am I even up for the challenge? Anyway, I will pray that the Lord will bless you with the knowledge and confidence you need to get out there and get that business going! You can do it!
from Julie @ oatmealonthewall.blogspot.com