Feeling the fear

‘The Only Thing We Have to Fear, Is Fear Itself’

As creatives we are constantly in the public eye. But unlike many others who face scrutiny, it is much harder for us to accept when we put our deepest emotions into our work. Our work is a culmination of our thoughts, feelings and attitude and it takes great strength to place it where it is open to other’s opinions.

Sometimes we find ourselves seeking shelter by treading the ‘Known Path’ something that conforms or makes us feel safe or at ease. As photographers that might be a go to food, set, composition or colour scheme. But what is the result? Yes, we have continuity…. but are we really standing out from the crowd? Are we challenging ourselves to grow and develop?

In the Words of Jack Canfield

“Everything you want is the other side of Fear”

It’s true, when we challenge ourselves, many will object as it isn’t what they expect from you, but so many will rejoice that they can visualize a true part of yourself and your character. In life, we are all so different, with different tendencies, if we all migrated towards the same things, life would become monotonous and dull. Never has there been a saying truer than “Variety is the Spice of Life”. How often have you come across a home, painting, or photograph which you whole heartedly appreciate but wouldn’t necessarily have yourself?

Beyond that, creativity is to feed your own soul, aside from client work, which has its boundaries, your own work is boundless…. It’s your chance to show who YOU are regardless of others’ opinions.

Foe me, sharing my Peanut Story, which you can find linked here

https://www.instagram.com/p/Cm4A7INI7jt/?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=

Was something so cripplingly difficult that I almost didn’t commit. It tied me emotionally and was such a raw subject. But the response was so overwhelmingly positive, I was speechless.

Which brings me to my next subject. Putting yourself the other side of the camera. For me, nothing fills me with dread more than being in frame. You can probably gather from my photography and videography that a hand or back view is just about acceptable but anything more is taboo.

So, for a recent project, I decided to face my fears and embrace my scars and situate myself in frame, flaws, and all.

The result is me, take it or leave it. The funny thing, it feels as if a burden has been lifted, as if when I eventually post it, it has set a benchmark that is who I am and I won’t have to hide anymore.

So, I Guess my message is to do what you never dared you could do. You have literally nothing to lose as only YOU are your biggest critic.

“Courage is the Resistance to Fear, Mastery of Fear, Not the Absence of Fear” Mark Twain

I can’t wait to see your creations.

Hugs as Always

Suze