No matter how mundane and overdone you think blogging is… Fact is if you’ve never done it, you have no idea the kind of value it offers. [My blog story here & more on the journey here.] I wanted to share a little more for those who are wondering…
#1 A BODY OF WORK TO CRITIQUE
Blogging regularly means you have a massive archive of work as the years pass. Although something I shot or wrote yesterday may not have a direct impact on me, something I’ve shot or written two years ago very well does. This means I’m constantly pouring through old work and critiquing myself… Why does the light work here, but not here? Why did I choose these words when I could have chosen something else? What makes one image more impactful than another? This type of constant analyses and critique becomes the primary driver of your growth.
#2 REFINED EYES
In the past, looking through the viewfinder was simply looking through the viewfinder and culling images was a simple process of “this one will do!” Today, looking through the viewfinder is all about, intense analysis. The horizontal and vertical lines must be straight… My model’s hair and facial expression need to make sense… Headspace, background, and foreground must be balanced. I’m far less forgiving than I used to be. If a shot is just “good enough”, it isn’t good enough. If an entire set doesn’t make the cut, I re-shoot it. I’m ruthless in the selection process because I have to be. There’s no room for lukewarm in this business.
#3 MOTIVATION
Blogging means you’re paying attention to other bloggers. You will always find that one blogger or influencer who drives you to do better work because they’re so damn good. It isn’t about being a sore loser in a competitive environment, but letting the competition be your benchmark for growth. I love and support so many other bloggers because I’m passionate about this industry and really appreciate the kind of work I’m able to do. I find the motivation healthy and beneficial.
#4 BUILDS CONFIDENCE
For any creative, publishing your work online makes you vulnerable. Some will love it and others won’t. You’ll find that when others resonate with your work, it reinforces everything that you do. It’s like a burst of energy that reminds you to keep moving forward. Although the confidence that comes from blogging is only icing on the cake, there’s no denying that amazing things bloom when that ounce of confidence rises from within.
#5 MEANINGFUL FRIENDSHIPS
Anyone who has ever blogged knows that it’s a one-person show, which means it’s an endeavor that can often make you feel lonely. No one gets what you’re doing or why you’re plummeting perpetual hours into a hobby that ultimately seems meaningless. However, you’ll meet plenty of people who remind you why personal work is so important. Internet friends who support you and cheer you on. Blogging has really allowed us to connect with the likeminded when they’re nonexistent in our neck of the woods!
If you’ve ever contemplated starting a blog, I’d urge you to! I really can’t say my life would be the same. Blogging helped me grow to heights I’d never perceive possible.
