A few days ago, after reading a poignant post over at Shutter Sisters, I made the decision to begin my own 365 project.
For the photographers who pop by and visit here, you’ll all know what a 365 project is, but for others here is the simple explanation of what it’s about. A 365 project involves taking at least one photograph each and every day of the year. It has different purposes, among them: incentive to take photos of your daily life or the life around you; to help photographers grow; to be sure not to miss recording important moments in your life; to keep the creative juices flowing, for some it’s a chance to begin building a body of work; and so on.
For me however, the main reason for commencing this project was something Meredith said, “There is something important and beautiful to remember and be grateful for every. single. day.” That statement, in particular, is what set off a spark in me. Although I don’t plan on limiting myself to only photographing that which I’m grateful for, the reason is truly worthy of embracing. And if I’m being truly honest, there was one other thing she said that nailed it for me. She said, “… if I were able to pick up the phone and call my mother each day to share one thing that happened that day I would. But I can’t.” Well I can’t either and I wish I could. This project then will be moment(s) in my day that I would share, if I could, whether they are moments worthy of celebration or moments of the mundane things we need to do during our day-to-day life. A snapshot within my day.
I’ve begun my project, though not on the first day of the year, as most photographers tend to commence this type of project. I also won’t be posting most of the images here (at least I don’t think so). For now, I’m posting them quite informally over at my Flickr account, though I will likely share an occasional one here. Since this is my business-related photo journal, I didn’t think it was the venue for my casual 365 project.
Have you taken on some form of ongoing project? What did you learn or how did you grow as a result of participating in that project?
Yes..that SS post resonated with me..as well. I’ve been doing a-photo-a-day now for almost 4 yrs. Always something..ONE thing in my day worth remembering. A really nice visual diary! And – I love this one of your sweet pup!
Gorgeous dog! I love the flicks of snow… Hats of to you and your 365!
Diane, I hope you have great fun with your 365. I tried last year and got as far as September…and then just pooped out. I think I put too much pressure for a “perfect” photo each day (not always succeeding) and I burnt myself out. I did try a bunch of new things, and I think I learned a thing or two along the way. This year, I’m trying a Project 52. 😉
This is a beautiful animal and shown so very well. Although not on a 365 project, I did shoot my table area at my daily coffee haunt. The idea of being more observant of our everyday moments is a very good one. Have a great weekend.
Does decorating my house count as an ongoing project?! It sure feels like it’s going on and on and on….
I’m looking forward to seeing the photos in your 365 project. Love today’s photo 🙂
So beautiful. My husband happened to see this one and loved it too.
That is great Diane! I managed to get to 91 days on my last attempt to do a 365 project and missed too many days to make it official. Good luck on this wonderful project and enjoy each day as it unfolds :).