Monday, December 13, 2010

Dont give up.

Sometimes I am really hard on myself. I look at the skills and talents I have and I compare them to other people and I find myself coveting their creativity. I shouldn't do it. But I do.

I start to wonder, "Am I good enough? Should I keep going at this?"

Then darn it, I get a complaint or two (luckily it has only happened twice) and it tips the scale. I start to really believe that I should just sell my camera, put away all my ideas, hang up the "closed" sign and give up.

Today was one of those days. I felt utterly miserable about my creative outlook and photography skills. Frustration really blankets all other emotions, doesn't it?

Just as I am about to collapse and call it quits I receive a few morsels of "thanks" and a bright "You are amazing!" from pleased and happy clients. It was all I needed. Then I took a look back at a few pictures that I am proud of and I remembered. I HAVE to do this. Its a gift given to me and I am not supposed to just "hide it under a bushel." I need to let my light shine for all to see. I am commanded to do so.

So, Ill keep on truckin'. Taking pictures of things that make me and others happy.

Mostly because, its what I do!

9 comments:

The Owens said...

Oh my goodness! I would be so sad if you gave up photography! I LOVE your photos! Next year we are going to ask you to take ours for a pretty big moment on our life and there is no other photographer that I want to capture that moment but you. You truly are amazing and ONE of a kind!
(but I do know what you mean... too well)

Heidi said...

You honestly could have taken those thoughts right out of my head, Holly ... I am about ready to quit at least once a week :). But I truly think you are extremely talented.

Alycia said...

I feel that way pretty much every day actually. :) I always feel better about myself when I try to keep learning more and stop comparing myself to other people. It's a good feeling when we can take pictures we're proud of, and look back and see how much better we've gotten. You're pictures are so creative and always inspire me. Plus, if it wasn't for you we wouldn't have had family pictures the last 3 years. They're something I treasure and am glad to have decorating the walls of our home. :) We should edit together again after I get back from Utah too!

Sabs said...

not that it means anything coming from someone who can only dream of being a photographer or anything creative for that matter but seriously...i think you're amazing! You still wow all us "little people". keep it up girl!

Kickin' it Landis said...

I'm glad you're going to keep truckin' along. I NEED you!! Who else would shoot, so perfectly, my crazy and wonderful family. Besides Samantha likes you and I want yearly pictures. You've already been hired. I love you Holly. Call me if you need a pick-me-up!

ALIX said...

Oh Holly, if I had half the talent that you do, I would be totally happy with myself! I can't take a photo to save my life! I love your style and you have always been creative ever since I have known you... since I was what? 10? Come on girl. You are very talented!

Colton said...

You're ridiculous. Do you have Satan on speed-dial or something? I have no idea where you would even get the preposterous idea that you are not talented. Have you looked around your house lately? You're one of the few people that I know that even deserve to have a camera. Or a paintbrush for that matter.

Kristen said...

Preach it. :)

The Dillon 6 said...

seriously?! someone complained? did you tell them where to delicately place their beautiful portraits?