Thoughts

Today I purchased two more Groupon vouchers to use for photography classes at Gallery Arts!  (I bought one under my name and another under Martin's name--to be given to me as a "gift"--since only one is allowed per person.  I hope they don't mind!)  Now I can sign up for and take the intermediate and advanced photography classes!

I need to learn more about posing and lighting.  I need to learn how to use an off camera flash and work with softboxes and backdrops.  I need to figure out what props I like.

I want to interview photographers!  I want to find people that have volunteered for Now I Lay Me Down and talk to them about their photo sessions.  I want to talk to the families that have been a part of this (not sure how to find them) and find out the impact it has had on their lives.  I want to be a photographer's assistant to learn how things are done by the pros.

I want to go on a photo walk and make photographer friends.  I need a mentor that can take me under their wing.

I plan to contact specific people and volunteer to do some portrait sessions.  Today I sent messages to two friends and am awaiting responses.

At this point I do not feel like I should charge people or start a business.  It is a hobby that I love.  Maybe in the future when I learn more from the pros, I can figure out how to really make a business.  I hate self-promoting and sales.  I might need to find someone else to do my marketing!  But for now I just want to practice and learn.  I am not really interested in engagements or weddings, though if someone asked me, I might consider it.  I prefer maternity (maybe a bare belly but definitely not naked!) and infant photography. 

Tonight I spoke with a neighbor that used to own and run an art gallery in D.C.  She sold other artist's work and then started painting and selling her own art as well.  She said she is more familiar and comfortable with the business side of things and she praised my photography repeatedly, encouraging me to start an LLC and get my work out there.  She may help me find some galleries to display my photography here in SLC.  I don't know about that but maybe I will start going with her to exhibits and getting her ideas on the "business side" of things.

Photography is new and challenging.  But I feel a real passion coming alive inside as I study it.  I feel the need to have my camera with me at all times.  I see photo moments in life all around me.  I feel truly honored when friends and family give sincere compliments on my photos.  For the first time in my life I feel creative.