As we start a new year, we are quick to dive into lists of resolutions, to-do's, and goals for the year ahead. However, we don’t always remember to stop and celebrate the life we’ve lived in the past year. With the start of this year, I challenge you to stop and reflect. Best place to start? Through your photographs.
The endless scroll of your digital photos can be daunting –I get it. Here’s a guide to help you find some of your most meaningful images from 2017.
PHOTO #1: Find a photo from the year's greatest adventure - big or small.
We were invited to the annual dinner of White House Correspondents' Association, which has been on my bucket list since I was a Journalism undergrad. Even though The President didn't attend (it is usually a roast of The President and he usually has a few choice words (in jest) for the press) a 1st Amendment nerd like me was very happy to hear Carl Bernstein (who broke the Watergate story) speak.
PHOTO #2: Find a photo of a significant moment.
This is my husband speaking after receiving an award & honor from Temple University (Go OWLS!), but it is significant to me NOT because of the award (although that is great) but because I have never seen him present and speak officially. Often, we never really get to see our partners in their work lives, to see them in their element. In a different arena and how they shine there. So that for me was significant.
PHOTO #3: What photo makes you feel the most alive.
This is a cheat for me - my daughter bungee jumping in Australia. Every parent can agree, nothing makes you feel more alive than when your child's is taking a huge risk (it certainly gets the heart pumping). And then the feeling of gratitude when you realize that they are happy and willing to put themselves out there.
PHOTO #4: Search for a photo of a morning you want to remember.
Many days I would see the beautiful morning light that played on and shone through the hibiscus tree that was on my front porch. It didn't hurt that yellow flowers are my favorite.
PHOTO #5: Find a photo that represents joy.
I try to have fresh flowers in the house always. And I just love the simplicity of white daisies.
PHOTO #6: Locate a photo of people that shaped your year.
This is my photography mentor Sue Bryce. She has shaped me into the photographer and business person that I am more than anyone else. She has also helped me to grow personally -- exponentially. My wish is that everyone can find someone that will help them become the best they can be. (She will be here next year as well, but there will be a photo of me photographing in her studio!)
PHOTO #7: Find a photo of you trying something new.
This is a photo of a goal I set for myself to do some public speaking (3X) in 2017.
2 lessons were learned here:
1. As a photographer I am always behind the camera. I need to ask people to take photos of me.
2. The Universe gives you exactly what you ask for- no more, no less. I asked for 3 and I got 3. Set your sights higher (or adjust if you find it's not a stretch, or you are just loving it).
PHOTO #8: Identify an image of something you are proud of.
For the past 5 years, I have photographed the holiday party at Gilda's Club in Warminster which is part of the Cancer Support Community of Philadelphia. BUT THAT is NOT what I am proud of. I am proud that this year I DID NOT HAVE TO PERSUADE even 1 parent to get into the photos. They have finally heard me and realized that it is important for EVERY FAMILY MEMBER to exist in photos. All the time. Every year.
PHOTO #9: What is a photo that you will want to pass down for the generations to come?
I can't say it enough. Get in those photos. Some day the successive generations will want to see their lineage. What will they find? That you did not exist for decades? And some day that photo of you will be priceless. It will be the most treasured thing they own. Give them something.
Celebrate you.
Not everyone's year looked the same. When we stop to look back at our photos, we are able to find celebration in the moments we've experienced —
both big and small.
Know that it is yours to celebrate.
Now that you have your 10 photos...
PRINT THEM
It's about shining from the inside...
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xoxo
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