The objective of a project 365 is to take a photo a day, for a year. It’s officially the one hundredth day since I challenged myself to start one. It is my second attempt, one that I don’t intend to stray from anytime soon. I first tried at the beginning of the year, but miserably failed within the first week. Such a project is a real commitment, takes time and dedication. I was missing some of that the first time around. One hundred days is quite a milestone. I thought I’d share my experience.
The first few days – or even weeks – were difficult. At times, it felt more of a constraint than something I could really enjoy. I wasn’t in it just to take a picture, I also wanted each of my shots to be meaningful, be backed by a real thought process. Unfortunately, inspiration doesn’t always come, you’ve got to find it. I sometimes spend upwards of an hour searching for the right subject. Something that I would not only be happy with, but that would be of interest to others. Something with enough substance to write about.
Since I love writing, a blog is the perfect platform to showcase my project. It combines those two passions of mine, photography and writing. It also invites comments from family, friends and peers, fellow photographers. This gives me enough pressure to want to outdo myself on a regular basis, which I believe is a necessity to keep readers involved. It is also a fantastic catalyst to my progress as a photographer. After only one hundred days, I can tell you that my efforts are paying off. Not only did I improve as a photographer, I also made connections, some of which are turning into friendships. And my readership is growing.
However, my life doesn’t revolve around this project. I have quite a few other endeavors to tend to. Unfortunately, time is not a bendable constraint. Many times, I am left to scramble with half an hour to midnight. This forces me to become more and more creative, look for subjects I would not normally take. As a photographer, I am always on high alert for the right shot. However, that right shot is usually framed within my own paradigm. Most often, I look for what already inspires me and tend to overlook the rest. When time is scarce, I no longer have that luxury. I have to open my eyes wider.
Searching for new subjects has been rewarding. I am discovering new types of photography I enjoy taking, such as food. Looking back at it, I am not surprised. After all, I come from a country where food is a culinary art, and I have enjoyed fine cuisine my whole life. Expanding my photographic horizons is naturally helping me become a more versatile photographer. It is also drastically reducing the time it takes for me to find inspiration.
Nowadays, I can’t imagine not carrying my camera around with me. It has become second nature and is probably the healthiest habit I took in a long time. In a way, the process of doing crossword puzzles is quite similar… it’s a great daily exercise for the brain. It doesn’t take long to reap the benefits either, fostering a virtuous circle. Creativity and perseverance are two values I am glad I found again. Yes, a project 365 is a commitment, but a commitment I gladly embrace. Each day, I get to do something I love. It doesn’t get much better than that.
Finally, I want to thank you. Family, friends, fellow photographers… you are my greatest source of motivation and inspiration. Seeing how I also inspired some of you along the way is an amazing feeling… this is not just about me anymore. Now, my goal is to continue to keep it real and work on contributing back to the community.
