Since many of the stores already have Christmas stuff out, I
set a New Year Resolution. I know it is early, but it was on my mind, so I
wanted to share.
Over the past several years, my frustration with social
media has grown. I have joined, deleted, and rejoined Facebook, mainly to
follow photography groups.
I recently watched a video that struck a chord with me. The
author spoke of the purpose of purpose of sharing things on social media, and
in my case, my pictures. He talked about the desire to get likes, followers,
and comments. That in the beginning all people, no matter what genre, strive
for this. It is later that, as we grow in our work, those likes, follows and
comments lessen as we strive to find our authentic voice.
I have always prided myself on doing what I like and not doing
for others. This is apparent when one of my most photographs that now hand in
three different locations (two homes and an office) is a picture I don’t like.
I took it on a whim and almost deleted it when I got home from my hike and
began reviewing my shots for the day.
Like these blogs, I write what is on my mind and what I am
ruminating about now. My pictures are the same way. I admit I was from time to
time shooting for others to get praise, likes and comments, but that has
changed. I now shoot what I see and like. If others like it too, that is a
bonus.
My New Years Resolution will be to not post for a year
(maybe longer if this removes the stress and anxiety I feel) from Instagram or
Facebook. Let me clarify a bit. When I say post, I mean my photographs taken
with my camera. I might still ‘check-in’ or post an occasional selfie or shot
taken with my phone, but my artwork will not appear from January 1st.
Unlike before, I will not be deleting my accounts, just not
posting on them. I will still house my pictures on my 500px site and share
samples of them from my work email, but my daily posts will not happen for at
least a year.
I'll continue my daily Instagram posts for about 45 more
days, but then I'll take a break to concentrate on my work and capturing what I
enjoy. I will strive for a Happy New Year!
Until next time,
Tim
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