I was midway through my seventh year of taking and posting a photo every day when the process became too stressful. Panic would set in when I'd realize late in the evening that I hadn't posted a photo for that day. That is neither a learning nor a creative frame of mind.
When I began PADing in June 2003, I hoped to train my eyes to see possible compositions everywhere and hone my technical skills - in order to know what settings and lenses were best for the scene I was shooting. I think I've accomplished both goals. I know I now see photos everywhere. And my friends and family have become accustomed to me stopping to snap the odd or unusual... "Why is your mother taking a picture of grass growing between the cracks in the sidewalk?" "(son shrugs)That's my mom.". I keep at least one camera with me at all times. The dedication to the project has made me a better photographer on the whole. But it has not allowed me to narrow my focus and find my photographic center. I have so many photos in so many online galleries that the good ones.. the ones that truly are my best work, are lost in the barrage of 365 photos a year (not including the extras!). Like firing a machine gun, I have pointed my camera at anything and everything in an effort NOT TO MISS A DAY!
With the (self-imposed) pressure off, I can now focus my attention and my camera on making a photograph for the right reasons.
5 comments:
Ann said...
To stop something which has, in effect, become an addiction is admirable and I am sure that your photography will now grow in different ways. I am in my third year and cannot countenance the idea of giving up. It truly is an addiction which must run its course. I shall miss your daily photo but I'm sure I will enjoy all the more your work when you do post something. Good luck.
Thanks for your support Ann. I'm not expecting every photo from now on to be a masterpiece (lol), but I know it will be part of an experiment and/or learning experience and not just because I needed to post something that day. :)
Nothing good about self imposed pressure. I agree with your feelings of the pros and cons of PAD'ing. I too, have posted images just to post to accomplish the goal. It's made me reach inside and some interesting images came from that. I no longer have the need to post everyday. That's freeing!
I enjoy your images, Faye. You have a creative eye and wonderful vision. I hope you keep nurturing and listening to your creative muse. There is so much more for you to create and present to us.
Hope you have a wonderful week!!
I've never been able to do a true PAD for the exact reasons you state, Faye. I have a respect for those who are able to pull it off for one year, let alone seven.
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