Jump.

If you’ve been following along, you might remember that I’ve been told to “jump.” Jump in. Both feet…get them wet.

So, a couple of years ago, I heard of the very well-known Sarah Cornish of My Four Hens Photography. I heard some time after that via other friends who are photographers of this thing called M4H P52. Had no idea what it was. And when I would see posts or images about it, of course I would compare what I knew at the time to what I was seeing. What was the resounding voice that I heard? “You aren’t good enough. Sharing your work will just be laughable, compared to [xxxxx’s] work.” Well after jumping in and joining the group, I’ve decided to jump in, both feet, and start participating in the M4H P52 project. So, what is it? And why join?

First of all, it’s an inspiring group of both newbie and seasoned photographers that are choosing to challenge themselves to take and submit an image a week, every week, for 52 weeks, guided by a suggested theme. That’s what I’ve gotten from it, but I will post the link to Sarah’s M4H P52 group here so you can read all about it. From what I gather, Sarah Cornish is truly an inspiring artist and motivator. She’s not someone who is keeping her secrets and talents all to herself, but rather a photographer who knows she has a gift to share which will ultimately help others grow in this photography field as well. Believe it or not, a lot of photographers are not open with sharing their talent [as far as teaching or guiding] but thankfully, this group seems to be a great source of inspiration and guidance. A truly great find.

So, why jump? If you are an aspiring photographer, be it hobby, amateur, pro, or like me, a work in progress, go check this group out. Seriously. You’ll find inspiration. You’ll find that people do want to support you and your goals with photography. And moreover, you are challenging yourself to commit to a photography project that will likely better your skills. And, although I am personally taking this commitment seriously and hope to do it every week, life does happen. If you forget a week or something comes up, it’s not something you need to worry about. Catch up on your time. Or just jump in wherever the group is. And if you don’t think you can capture something that fit’s the theme, create your own theme! The point is to jump in and DO IT!

Get used to these posts. Fifty-one more to go in 2015! And, that *might* keep me honest with my blogging!

Here it is, my post and image:

M4H P52, Week 1.

Theme: Fresh.

Post:

“Good morning, everyone! So excited about this project…it’s my first post for something like this but it’ s a year with all new challenges for me!

Below is an image representing a fresh start to 2015 on a day that I hope will change me forever! Starting the AdvoCare 24 Day Challenge today in hopes that I get my life back from fibromyalgia. I’ve been in so much pain and living with so much fatigue for over a decade, and I’m ready for a fresh start to my diet with good nutrition, my lifestyle, and my photography. After being introduced to this diet/lifestyle challenge, I decided to step out of my own way – my children and my husband are worth it. They can’t continue to see me living in pain and in bed any longer, if there’s even a remote chance that changing a few things can help. Challenging myself with a fresh start to not have anxiety over sharing who I truly am, both in life and photography.”

Personal caveat:  “Be still and know that I am God.” Psalm 46

I know God is here with me, watching me on this daily journey, and when the loud comes in, I need to be still and listen to what He is guiding me to do.