Have you ever been lost on your way?
A dear friend and I reconnected. Life sometimes carries us along different paths until we meet again. Some things had changed and some things were the same. When she saw my latest photography work, she asked if I would be available to photograph one or three dressage schooling shows. WOULD I?!! As the date of the task drew near, I began to question the enormity. There were now THREE rings, instead of two, and I didn't have help. I had quickly devised a price sheet based off a previous photographer whom I assume lived locally. I wanted to make the most of my time. I already knew I would enjoy it and also needed to make money as a business.... This was one of my first official business ventures!
I don't know if you have ever dealt with imposter syndrome, but it is a lot like a little devil sitting on your shoulder asking you, "who do you think you are?! You can't do this. You will fail." I have to honestly answer and remember who I am and what got me here. I am a photographer. Why? Because I chose this profession. I have no degree. I study every day. I am mentoring with a friend who holds a fine art degree and encourages my talent. I have known in my heart for a long time that what my eye sees is different than most people. And most everyone has a camera these days on their phone. So why hire me? I will tell you why, little devil, says the angel of my hard work sitting on my other shoulder...
I care about the job I am doing. I have spent time, money and energy on a passion, yes, that is hard work. I stay up late at night trying to edit hundreds of pictures to find the best one and enhance its natural beauty. I am not paid to click a button. I paint the beauty I see as honestly raw in-the-moment as I can. And I am always seeking ways to do that BETTER. It happens by where I stand, my understanding of my magical camera that manipulates light, my commitment, my timing, my understanding of horses and my goal to capture that joy you feel in that moment.
I want you to keep that moment forever!
I had forgotten how much I love Vermont. It is wild yet so uniquely civilized in its passion for life. Dinner is not only nourishment but a joyful celebration and experience. It would be easy to get lost in the mountains without GPS at night or a friendly face to welcome you. I'm glad to have reconnected with my dear friend. I'm happy to have done my best at a show where sportsmanship and kindness were paramount - plus GORGEOUS horses!!!! At the end of the day, I had made some minor rookie mistakes that I can build on. I was tired and achey and had a two hour ride home but I was supremely satisfied. This is my life. I am a photographer and an artist, a horsewoman, business owner and a friend.
My sincere gratitude and appreciation to all the competitors at CVDA at Green Mountain Horse Association on May 8th, 2022. Thank you for having me!
Always appreciate your adventures, use your heart as a compass, and be willing to get lost in the wild -- all you need is a map to find some new friends at your chosen destination.
