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Thoughts While Waiting for the Train
I have not done much in the photography realm; before yesterday, the last thing I did was make photos of myself after I cut my hair. The truth is I have felt overwhelmed to the point of feeling uninspired.
I feel guilty for not doing more with my photography talent. I am not entering every contest whose call for entries crosses my inbox. Right now I am not updating my Etsy shoppe. I am not renting booths at craft fairs, pursuing commissions and clients, or advertising. I haven't given up on marketing my photography; I simply haven't felt driven to do any of that right now. As a result, I feel as though I am wasting my talent, because I am not doing extraordinary things with it. If this train of thought feels familiar, it is because I am in danger of doing the same thing with my photography that I've done in the past with my professional life.
That is the problem right there: my belief that I am supposed to transform myself into something "extraordinary". What is wrong with developing and enjoying and sharing my talent simply for the joy of doing so? I gladly accept whatever clients or commissions come my way, but why must I push myself to seek others and berate myself for not passionately pursuing fame? Why must I attempt to have a "voice"?
What if just being myself, doing my own thing, and allowing my own voice to come through is extraordinary?
The more I think about it, the more it seems that is what most of the independent artists/bloggers I enjoy are doing: expressing themselves in their own way. In some cases fame has found them, but they were just being themselves, not actively seeking fame. The ones who became famous became so, not because they were trying to rope in fame, but because someone appreciated their normal voice.
Yesterday I went with friends to Central Park. The weather was warm and sunny, and I took my camera. I promised myself I would enjoy my time in the park and make whatever photos I pleased. I did not worry about making a statement or finding a niche. I did not worry about making myself into some kind of "extraordinary" or making marketable photos. I simply relaxed and enjoyed myself, and that was not a waste of my talent at all.
Bicycle Taxi Driver in Central Park
no subject
Having said that...I don't know much about the photography field, but I do know alot about social media and marketing. Nowadays, you don't HAVE to beat your head against a wall to sell a product. If you haven't seen it already, I would suggest reading/subscribing to the Art of Nonconformity. http://chrisguillebeau.com/ He's got a great (free!) download about becoming an "overnight" blogging success (key - it's not really overnight!) ;) You probably have no idea how large your built-in audience already is...
Pick a theme that interests you and go for it - not with the idea of becoming "famous" or having a "voice". Something that simply brings you joy. Maybe you photograph EVERY parade in new york or coffee shops that start with the letter X or every cathedral built before 1910 or old women who live between 5th and 14th or...the possibilities are endless. What fascinates YOU? Chances are if it fascinates you, it will fascinate others as well. Your writing is clear, moving, and evocative and your photography is beautiful. If you want to do this, I don't think a person like you will operate from a project plan (I must do A, B, and C and here are the dates I must do them) I think you probably operate most successfully from an organic and creative space. Do what you love and the money will come - I do believe that. Work at making the money from something you love - and you will stop loving it. As tight as things are financially right now, if you can hold on and give yourself a chance to create without the pressure of making it "IT" - you might be surprised.
Geez. sorry for the small novel. Sometimes I get a little wordy. ;)
no subject
You are probably right. For example, I have no idea who you are and have had no idea you were reading me. :-) I'm flattered you have been though. Thank you.
I appreciate your small novel, though. You're absolutely right about me and project plans; as far as my creative pursuits go, I do better without them. And like the theme suggestions you gave. I'm going to think of some more. Thanks again!