Yup, I’m still here taking photos- thanks for dropping by! I’m sure the neighbors wondered what I was doing on the front porch with a tripod this morning, but I think I’m getting past being self-conscious about my photography.
For the last month or so, I’ve been thinking about my photography goals for 2013. I listened to a great video about becoming a better photographer on Scott Kelby’s The Grid last week which pretty much reaffirmed what I’ve been thinking about. The first step was to decide what kind of photographer you want to be- that you can’t be good at everything. I’m still thinking about that one, but know I love to photograph my grandsons, do portraits of my friends and family, and shoot flowers, macros, and “arty” shots. I like landscapes, but don’t think that will ever be my niche; I don’t like the idea of getting up a zero-dark-thirty for good light! I will of course keep taking those landscape photos, but I know my limitations. And I know that event photography is definitely not for me; my worst nightmare would be shooting a wedding! So. . . I intend to improve my skills in the areas where I know I do well.
I’ve also been inspired by the books of David duChemin, who writes about photography in terms of finding your vision. His books and website are amazing. He is making me a bit more intentional in how I take photos; I’m trying to stop my tendency to just keep snapping away.
This year I’m participating in a Clickin Moms’ monthly challenge group and for the first time have submitted some photos to their website (I’ve always been too intimidated by the level of expertise in this group). I will continue to participate in Flickr and Kim Klassen’s Texture Tuesday, and, now without the pressure of producing a new photo daily, I can hopefully take the time to work on the quality of what I do photograph.
Happy New Year- and to my photography friends- Happy Shooting!
melinda anderson photography 
Wow! What an adorable shot! You’re really becoming a great portrait photographer. I’m impressed. And I am also impressed by your goals and your constant quest for improving. I’m so glad you’re always looking for and finding photographic challenges because then I can follow along in your footsteps. I owe my current passion for photography completely to you, so thanks, Melinda, for not only being my dear friend but for being my inspiration as well.
Nice picture , and I know you will figure out what you want to focus on , (no pun intended ). I have enjoyed the last two years of pictures……keep shooting and keep us updated.
That is a perfectly gorgeous selfie. I listened to the same video and it got me thinking too. I decided against a 365 project in favour of some more focused technique improvement and experimentation. I love your photography and wish you all the best in the New Year. Look forward to stopping by for some inspiration!
That’s a really good picture of you.