I am not always a photographer.
I worked in financial sector for most of my career, and became a housewife before my son was born. After being very occupied domestically for two years, I thought of the things to make me (even) happier, and made a "To-do list".
It was a silly list consisting of things like, "to wear very high heels again", or "to eat a four course meal without interruptions". It also included "to learn to take good photos". Looking back on my list, the "high heels" and the "meal without interruptions" are still a dream to me. But "to take good photos" is no longer a dream. And I am really a lot happier (and even busier).
I was a Toastmaster. If you knew Toastmasters (a public speaking club), you would know the project 1 is to "Break the ice"--to let others know more about you. My Project 1 topic was "Kodak Family and Camera Gal".
My dad worked for Kodak. He later opened his own commercial labs. My father and mother and me are all big photo fans--when they come to visit, my husband's biggest nightmare is to hear the shutters WHEREVER he goes. Poor guy.
I have always wanted to learn in NYIP (New York Institute of Photography). I read their translated course materials when I was in high school and became a fan. Moving to NYC gave me the chance to actually take the course. The course helped me tremendously.
A hobby and a course do not make a dream. As I take more and more photos, I began to see the world in a different light. And I realized this is something that I would like to pursue.
It was not easy. Before I didn't understand why mothers with their own businesses are so driven. Now I understand. It is hard to make the time when you are juggling so many things at once. But if you love it and want to do it right, you will not give up easily. Just as the late great photographer Monte Zucker said, "It is wonderful because it is hard. If it is easy, then everyone will do it. But if it is hard, and you still do it, it is wonderful."
So here I am, walking towards my dream, one small step at a time. I also encourage you to step out of your routine, take a risk and follow your dream.
It is wonderful.
I worked in financial sector for most of my career, and became a housewife before my son was born. After being very occupied domestically for two years, I thought of the things to make me (even) happier, and made a "To-do list".
It was a silly list consisting of things like, "to wear very high heels again", or "to eat a four course meal without interruptions". It also included "to learn to take good photos". Looking back on my list, the "high heels" and the "meal without interruptions" are still a dream to me. But "to take good photos" is no longer a dream. And I am really a lot happier (and even busier).
I was a Toastmaster. If you knew Toastmasters (a public speaking club), you would know the project 1 is to "Break the ice"--to let others know more about you. My Project 1 topic was "Kodak Family and Camera Gal".
My dad worked for Kodak. He later opened his own commercial labs. My father and mother and me are all big photo fans--when they come to visit, my husband's biggest nightmare is to hear the shutters WHEREVER he goes. Poor guy.
I have always wanted to learn in NYIP (New York Institute of Photography). I read their translated course materials when I was in high school and became a fan. Moving to NYC gave me the chance to actually take the course. The course helped me tremendously.
A hobby and a course do not make a dream. As I take more and more photos, I began to see the world in a different light. And I realized this is something that I would like to pursue.
It was not easy. Before I didn't understand why mothers with their own businesses are so driven. Now I understand. It is hard to make the time when you are juggling so many things at once. But if you love it and want to do it right, you will not give up easily. Just as the late great photographer Monte Zucker said, "It is wonderful because it is hard. If it is easy, then everyone will do it. But if it is hard, and you still do it, it is wonderful."
So here I am, walking towards my dream, one small step at a time. I also encourage you to step out of your routine, take a risk and follow your dream.
It is wonderful.
