Judy Garland once said,  “Always be a first-rate version of yourself, instead of a second-rate version of somebody else.”  It’s a hard mantra to maintain but we should strive every day for this in photography. I’m not writing this from the viewpoint of someone who is already there, but as a shared goal. Just like you, I’m always trying to be myself in a world which offers us much of the same. I believe the best work you can produce is when it comes from what you feel in your heart, not just what you see.

I recently received an email from one of my photographer friends.

She was feeling very deflated after a weekend Wedding and asked me for some advice. I think we all give ourselves a hard time as photographers. I did write this long response on my own experiences so far. I thought it would worth sharing in case there are others out there feeling like this sometimes.  I’m very grateful for all the support and friendship I receive in photography community so it’s great to give back anything I can. I love meeting up and sharing experiences, and scones too of course :) Working as a freelance photographer, there is alot of time spent indoors editing and album-making after the Weddings are over. That means alot of time on your own, with your own meddling thoughts.  If you are a photographer, just starting out on the road, or even well on the road, email someone who inspires you, or ask them for help and support. Or just say hello! The quiet road of  blogstalking and wondering is no fun. The chances are that photographer is sitting talking to themselves, or maybe the dog, and would love to make human contact ;)

Anyway, here is the letter I wrote back to her…