For me, 2009 has been “the year of photography”. I decided to take a step or two towards my ultimate goal of switching careers. I have heard of many people who have had more than one career in their lives and I would like to be one of them. My first career is in business, particularly software development. But eventually I would like to switch into a career in photography. But before I can make any money at it, I first have to become a great photographer and then I have to get some recognition for it.
This year I started taking a few online courses at BetterPhoto.com. Their instructors include world renowned photographers who have now given their input into my work. In April, I went to a photo workshop in Arizona given by LeRoy DeJolie, who was wonderful. Then I decided to take 4 months off work to put some time and effort into getting the photography going – it was good timing with the economy being so terrible and the weather being so good. In July, I went to a weekend photo workshop in Seattle. That turned out to be especially beneficial since one of my Seattle photos won first place in an international photo contest. In August I took my boat to Desolation Sound on the coast of BC where there were many great photos to be had. In September Ray and I went on a 2 week camping trip down the coast of Washington and Oregon, another great photo adventure. I am still processing those shots!
In addition to winning the photo contest in 2009, I also set up my online store. I have now sold two photo books (including one of my huge blurb books from Arizona), a large mounted print, a laminated print, 3 calendars and a few cards. I also started this blog.
Now it’s back to work, but I am looking forward to next year and hopefully getting closer to my ultimate goal. So far I have a course in stock photography planned and I hope to go on a trip to the beautiful Mono Lake in California. My goal for 2010 is to get at least one shot into a gallery. I would also like to get something published in a magazine and I am still trying to get photo of the day at BetterPhoto!
I hope everyone has a wonderful holiday and very prosperous new year. I leave you with some still life’s from this Christmas.
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